The true meaning of Easter
With Easter upon us and many enjoying the long weekend, one cannot forget the religious significance this period has for some.
According to Christianity, Easter marks the time when Jesus the Christ rose from the dead after He was crucified for mankind’s sins.
Crucified on what we now know as Good Friday, Jesus’ death marked the end of living in sin and offered people the opportunity to find forgiveness by God.
Therefore the day is not seen as a day of mourning, but one of happiness.
Easter Sunday represents Jesus having risen from the dead and marks not only His victory over death, but mankind’s as well, as they would find eternal life after accepting Jesus as the son of God and their saviour and God into their lives.
Towards the build up to Easter, some Christians observe Lent.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, six weeks before Easter.
During this period, many Christians prepare themselves for the auspicious day of Easter Sunday through prayer, penance, repentance of sins, alms giving, atonement and self-denial.
Traditionally lasting 40 days, Lent is observed in commemoration of Jesus’ period of fasting in the desert, where he was tempted by the devil, before he started his ministry.
Easter therefore represents hope, love and mercy.
