History of Religion. PLOTform. CEREBRAL BOINKFEST: Easter Eggs. Colored eggs have been associated with Vernal festivals since ancient times.
Ancient Greeks and Romans used eggs as symbols of fertility, rebirth, and abundance. This pagan symbol of the rebirth of the earth in celebration of spring was adopted by early Christians as a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus. The egg had previously figured in the festivals of numerous resurrected gods, since it is dormant but has new life sealed within it. The ancient Zoroastrians painted eggs for Nowrooz, their New Year celebration which falls on the Vernal equinox, making it now a tradition of approximately 2,500 years. For the Passover Seder, also held in spring, hard-boiled eggs called Betzah are dipped in salt water which symbolizes the peace offerings sacrificed at the temple in Jerusalem. BngQGeGUdY.