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when is easter according to the bible ?

## Why Easter Doesn’t Have a Fixed Date: A Look at the Biblical Roots

Easter, a time of joy and celebration for Christians worldwide, marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While its modern significance is undeniable, a question often arises: when exactly did the Bible say Easter should be celebrated?

Surprisingly, the Bible doesn’t provide a specific date. Easter’s celebration date is a result of centuries of theological discussion and ecclesiastical decisions, a fascinating journey reflecting the evolution of Christian tradition.

**Early Observances & The Quartodeciman Controversy**

In the early centuries, Christians observed the death and resurrection of Jesus within the context of the Jewish Passover. This naturally led to confusion, as not all Christians agreed on the exact date of celebration. Some, adhering closely to Jewish custom, wanted to celebrate “Pascha” (the Resurrection) on the 15th of Nissan, the date of the Passover. Others, seeing Sunday as the day Jesus rose, favored celebrating on that day. This conflict, known as the “Quartodeciman controversy,” raged for decades.

**The Council of Nicaea and Easter’s Shift**

The tension reached a boiling point in 325 AD, when the First Council of Nicaea, a pivotal gathering of Christian bishops, intervened. They decided to decouple Easter from the Jewish calendar and establish a unique system. Easter, they declared, should be celebrated on the first Sunday following the **first full moon after the vernal equinox**.

This decision is what separates Eastern and Western Christianity’s Easter dates today.

**Easter’s Fluctuating Date & Spiritual Meaning**

Because of this unique calculation method, Easter’s celebration date shifts between March and April each year. This fluidity adds to its mystique and reminds us that, beyond the precise calendar date, lies the profound spiritual meaning of the resurrection.

Easter isn’t simply about pinning down a specific date. It’s about embracing the joy and hope that Jesus’ resurrection brings, understanding that faith transcends earthly calendars and speaks to the very core of our being.