Easter is the cornerstone of Christian faith, celebrated by billions of believers around the world. It marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, a miraculous event that is central to Christian theology, symbolizing victory over death and the hope of eternal life. But while many outside the faith simply call it “Easter,” Christians themselves use a rich variety of names and terms—each with deep historical, cultural, and theological significance. From “Resurrection Sunday” to “Pascha,” the diversity of these names reflects the global nature of Christianity and the layered meanings behind this sacred celebration.
This article seeks to explore in depth what Christians call Easter, unpacking the origins, meanings, and theological nuances behind each term. We’ll examine how these names are used across different denominations, languages, and cultures, from the Roman Catholic Church to Eastern Orthodoxy, from Anglican traditions to Evangelical communities. By doing so, we aim to offer a comprehensive understanding of how language reflects belief and why certain Christian communities may prefer one term over another.
The term “Easter” itself has sparked debate. Some Christians embrace the word readily, seeing it as synonymous with the resurrection of Christ. Others question its origins, noting that it may have roots in pre-Christian springtime festivals. These concerns have led many believers to adopt alternative names that they believe better honor the sacredness of the occasion. This article explores these alternatives, the scriptural basis for them, and the cultural shifts that have influenced naming practices over the centuries.
Language is powerful. It conveys not only meaning but also theology and devotion. For Christians, what they call Easter is more than semantics—it reveals how they relate to the resurrection event, how they commemorate the Passion of Christ, and how they express their faith. Whether through solemn liturgies, sunrise services, or joyful hymns, the names Christians use for Easter carry centuries of history, theology, and personal devotion.
To aid in personal reflection and deeper understanding during the Easter season, many believers turn to Easter Devotionals. These spiritual guides help Christians of all denominations focus their hearts and minds on the resurrection of Christ, often incorporating scripture, prayer, and daily meditations.
Each section will explore both the historical roots and modern usage of the various names used for Easter. The goal is to provide a balanced and respectful examination that honors the diverse traditions within the Christian world while pointing toward the shared core of resurrection faith.
The Origin of the Word “Easter”
The word “Easter” is commonly used in English-speaking countries and originates from Old English “Ēastre” or “Ēostre.” According to the Venerable Bede, an 8th-century Christian scholar, the term referred to a pagan spring festival honoring the goddess Ēostre. Over time, as Christianity spread throughout Europe, the celebration of the resurrection of Christ absorbed the date and some cultural elements of this earlier festival. While the name stuck in English and Germanic languages, many Christians question its appropriateness due to its pagan associations.
Resurrection Sunday: A Preferred Name
In response to concerns about the term “Easter,” many Christian communities—especially in Evangelical and non-denominational circles—prefer the term “Resurrection Sunday.” This name is rooted directly in scripture and focuses exclusively on the central event being commemorated: the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Calling the holiday “Resurrection Sunday” removes any possible confusion about its purpose and centers the worship experience on the empty tomb, not on cultural or secular traditions.
Pascha: The Ancient Christian Term
The term “Pascha” comes from the Hebrew word “Pesach,” meaning Passover. It is the original name used by early Christians, especially those in the Greek-speaking world, to refer to the resurrection celebration. This term highlights the continuity between the Jewish Passover and the Christian understanding of Jesus as the Paschal Lamb. For centuries, Pascha has been used in liturgies, writings, and theological reflections to underscore the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.
Holy Pascha in Eastern Orthodoxy
In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the term “Pascha” is still the primary and preferred designation for Easter. Orthodox Christians consider Pascha to be the “Feast of Feasts,” the most important and joyous celebration in the liturgical calendar. The entire structure of the Orthodox year revolves around the Paschal cycle, which includes Great Lent, Holy Week, and the bright Paschal season. The language used during the Paschal liturgy is exalted and poetic, filled with declarations such as “Christ is Risen!” and “Truly He is Risen!”—a call and response shared among the faithful.
The Catholic Understanding of Easter
Roman Catholics widely use the term “Easter,” but they also retain the term “Paschal” in liturgical language. For instance, Catholics speak of the “Paschal Mystery,” which encompasses Christ’s Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension. This theological term is foundational in Catholic catechesis and homilies. The Catholic Church observes a comprehensive Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday, including Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil—the most solemn liturgy of the year.
Anglican and Protestant Usage
The Anglican tradition generally uses “Easter” in both common and liturgical contexts, but also maintains a strong connection to biblical language, referring frequently to the resurrection and the Paschal narrative. Protestant denominations vary widely in their terminology, with some mainline churches following liturgical language similar to Catholicism, while others prefer “Resurrection Sunday” for clarity and theological emphasis. In all cases, the emphasis remains on the victory of Christ over sin and death.
Evangelical Preferences and Concerns
Evangelical Christians, particularly in the United States, often express concern about the word “Easter” due to its association with secular customs like the Easter Bunny and egg hunts. To maintain the spiritual focus of the holiday, many churches and believers prefer “Resurrection Sunday” and avoid non-biblical traditions altogether. Sermons, worship songs, and church bulletins during this time are saturated with themes of life, redemption, and resurrection.
Language Variations Around the World
Globally, most languages do not use a word similar to “Easter.” Instead, terms derived from “Pascha” dominate. For example, in Spanish it is “Pascua,” in French “Pâques,” in Italian “Pasqua,” in Russian “Paskha,” and in Arabic “Fas’h.” These linguistic roots highlight the close relationship between Christian and Jewish traditions and reinforce the scriptural context of the resurrection event. English and German remain exceptions in using a word with possible pagan origins.
Theological Implications of Easter Terminology
What Christians call Easter often reflects their theological priorities. Using “Resurrection Sunday” emphasizes biblical literalism and doctrinal clarity. “Pascha” speaks to continuity with ancient Christian and Jewish traditions. “Easter” may reflect cultural adaptation and historical development. Understanding these nuances helps believers engage more thoughtfully with their faith and the language they use to express it.
Contemporary Movements Toward Biblical Naming
There is a growing movement among modern Christian communities to return to scriptural and historical terms for holy days. This includes a shift from “Easter” to “Pascha” or “Resurrection Sunday,” not only in church services but in media, publications, and even family traditions. These changes reflect a desire for authenticity and a deeper connection with the foundational events of Christianity.
The Role of Easter in Christian Liturgy
Regardless of what name is used, Easter occupies the highest place in Christian liturgy. It is the climax of Holy Week and the launching point of the Easter season, which lasts fifty days until Pentecost. The celebration includes scriptural readings, hymns, sacraments, and communal gatherings that proclaim the resurrection as the defining truth of Christian life.
Spiritual Reflection on Naming and Devotion
Ultimately, the name Christians use for Easter serves as a doorway into deeper devotion. Whether one says “Easter,” “Resurrection Sunday,” or “Pascha,” what matters most is the heart behind the word. For believers, the resurrection is not merely an event in history, but a living reality that transforms daily life. Meditating on this truth through scripture, prayer, and Easter Devotionals helps believers internalize the power of the risen Christ and live in the light of His victory.
Conclusion
The question “What do Christians call Easter?” opens a window into the theological, historical, and cultural diversity of Christianity. From the ancient “Pascha” to the biblically grounded “Resurrection Sunday,” each name reveals something vital about how believers understand and live out their faith. While the term “Easter” remains dominant in many parts of the world, the growing use of alternative names reflects a desire to return to the roots of Christian worship and to express devotion with clarity and purpose.
What Christians call Easter may differ, but the heart of the celebration remains unchanged: Jesus is risen. This truth unites believers across denominations, languages, and continents in a shared declaration of hope and eternal life. Through thoughtful naming and sincere devotion, Christians continue to honor the greatest event in history—the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Related topics: