Who is The Easter Bunny

The Easter Bunny probably began life in Germany where he was called Oschter Haws (or Osterhase). He arrived in America along with early German settlers.

As with the modern bunny, Oschter Haws would bring Easter treats of candy and chocolate to good children. German children would make up little "nests" for him, often using their bonnets, and in the morning these would contain their treats.

Today the making of nests for the bunny is less common, perhaps because less people buy Easter bonnets for boys and girls. Instead the bunny seems to have taken to hiding eggs around either the house or the garden for the children to find. For many families the egg hunt is a highlight of the Easter weekend.

Photo Credit: tomeppy (Creative Commons)

What is the relevance of a rabbit to Easter? In fact, what is the relevance of eggs?

It probably goes way back in history to the early pagan spring festivals. These were fertility festivals celebrating the renewal of life in the earth after the snows of winter.

It's been suggested that the word Easter may originate from a pagan fertility goddess called Eostre or Oestre.

In the Christian tradition, Easter is associated with the rebirth of Christ.

Eggs and chicks represent new life, rabbits are known for having many babies.

Photo Credit: greefus groinks (Creative Commons)

If the symbolism of the Easter bunny is that of new life and rebirth, why chocolate?

As a chocaholic I'm tempted just to say "Why not?" :-) However I've done considerable research on this, which has involved trying out a lot of chocolate Easter eggs.

Unfortunately I've not yet found an answer - chocolate seems to be simply a modern extension of the tradition of sweet treats.

But I'm not giving up the research - this Easter I'll eat more chocolate.

It's a tough job but someone's got to do it!

Photo Credit: Sanbeiji (Creative Commons)

There have occasionally been stories of an evil version of the Easter bunny - a bad rabbit that goes around scaring children and causing trouble.

In case any children are reading this and might have nightmares let me say that I have never seen an evil Easter bunny. He's just a scary story.

I hope.

Picture Credit: welovethedark (Creative Commons)

For more information about Easter customs, traditions and history, please visit Easter on Wyrdology