The notion of the spirit of Easter carries multiple layers. For many, it is about rebirth and renewal. In Ireland, it will always bear a political and cultural resonance as the time of the Rising of 1916, a momentous event that transformed the focus of Irish nationalism, created its own mythology and ultimately led to the formal declaration of the Irish Republic at Easter 1949.
For Christians, the commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus is of paramount significance, but Easter is also a tradition that was born out of an ancient pagan festival of Spring, the name Easter a survival of Germanic mythology and derived from the Hebrew name of the Passover festival. Both Judaism and Christianity rest firmly on the stories associated with their respective spring festivals that emphasise rejuvenation and optimism.
Dovetailing with nature stirring out of winter, Easter is a time to take stock, for those of a religious or secular hue. At a time of self-inflicted climate change, we should renew a determination to protect and nourish the natural world, so vivid at this time of year, as captured by English poet AE Housman almost 130 years ago:
“Loveliest of trees, the cherry now
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Is hung with bloom along the bough,
And stands about the woodland ride
Wearing white for Eastertide.”
The liturgical colour of Easter is white, a sign of joy. Blossoms, candles and celebratory fires, the ringing of bells, spiritual uplift, decorated eggs, feasts and sport run through the centuries of Easter traditions, a spring enthusiasm embraced after the challenges and privations of dark winter.
But this Easter there are too many reminders of the sheer scale of the darkness that undermines transition and confident expectation. Brutal wars and assaults on democracy, dignity and freedom abound.
Those in a position to do so need to use their platforms to decry and challenge the dangerous narcissism and sense of defeat that prevails; to stand firmly for a modern spirit of Easter that gives meaning to the idea of it as a time of hope.
