The church, in spreading the word, would absorb and adapt pagan beliefs and practices into those of Christianity.
A lot of these practices were written into the seasonal celebrations of the church.
Since at least the 3rd Century, pagan cultures in Russia, Gaul (France), Prussia (Germany, etc.), and the Mongolian regions celebrated the Vernal Equinox; celebrating the renewed fertility of mother earth, where the plentiful presence of rabbits and eggs symbolizes her bounty.
Dig this:
The German surname Easterhausen (Easter Bunny) dates back to the 6th Century.
Since at least the 12th Century, this time of year has been celebrated as Easter, observing the death and resurrection of Jesus, the truth, light and way for those who believe in him, to ever lasting life.
A piece of the reflection of Easter is the shedding of his blood for the new covenant.
When the Spanish encountered the Aztecs, they were introduced to Chocolate, which the Spanish related to blood.
Go figure.
Chocolate is a sexual stimulant and the origins of giving chocolate were as an expression of sexual desire. These desires, if reciprocal, could lead to procreation.
Could even say they're fuc'n' like Bunnies…
Rabbits and older chickens were given as sacrifice to the goddess in ancient Europe during the Equinox period. The new chicks that were born were a symbol of rebirth.
Jesus gave himself for the sins of the world, according the church, shortly after the equinox.
Rabbits and chicks made of chocolate are given out as a symbol of the pagan traditions.Jesus shed his blood for our sins.
Folklore has a way of merging when cultures collide. So dig this metaphorical peanut butter cup when I say:
Chocolate is a sin.
Jesus is the Easter Bunny.
Could this be why marshmallow chicks come 12 to a pack?
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