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Easter is a religious occasion to commemorate
the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This oldest Christian event is
widely observed by believers around the world and, closely associated
with it are Easter Eggs which symbolize new birth and the warm sunshine
of Spring. The Greeks like to paint the eggs deep red to represent
the blood of Jesus Christ. Some will pierce the shells with a needle
to drain the yolk and white to make hollow eggs. The shells are
then painted with colours and designs such as crosses, lambs and
image of Jesus Christ and then hung on trees inside the homes as
decorations.
Westerners like to hide the eggs inside their homes or in the
yard amongst the trees the day before Easter. Their children will
then go on an egg-hunt, bringing a lot of family fun to the occasion.
Aside from eggs, there are other Easter delicacies including cakes,
bread, ham, cheese and cream. Many people take these food along
on a family picnic to the countryside where they can enjoy the scenery
and the sunshine.
The endearing Easter Bunny derives from 15th century Germany.
Legend has it that wild rabbits could keep their eyes open all day
long and could even see at night in the dark. So people regarded
them as the moon in the deep, dark night. As Easter was calculated
on the basis of the full moon in Spring, the breeding season for
wild rabbits, these creatures were closely associated with the Christian
event. In later years, rabbits found their way to the United States
where they were given the cute name of Easter Bunny.
Today, many places around the world have chocolate Easter Eggs.
These beautifully designed items are well-loved gifts for the occasion.
There are also amusing looking bunny and chicken shaped candies
which are also popular presents for the Easter season.
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