Of Rabbits, Eggs and Fowls
Ever wondered why rabbits and eggs make up part of an Easter celebration in the western world?
I found out that the ancient Anglo-Saxons welcomed the spring season with a some sort of street party to celebrate Eostre, the goddess of offspring.
During that fiesta, the people offered rabbits and coloured eggs. Coincidentally, the festival of Eostre took place about the same time when the Christians were celebrating the Resurrection of Christ.
Now, the missionaries at that time were wondering, "How can we convert these godless people?"
"Excuse me, we are not exactly godless, you know. We have a host of gods at our beck and call.", said an Anglo-Saxon.
That did not dampen the missionaries' plans of converting the pagans. They got together and came up with a brilliant strategy to incorporate the ancient practices with the Christian celebration.
Hence, the over indulgence of chocolate bunnies and endless egg hunts on Easter Sunday in our time.
And speaking of eggs, this brings me to the topic of chickens. Did you know the bible answers the mystery of "which came first, the chicken or the egg?"
In the science of evolution, both chickens and eggs pre-date man so unfortunately there was no-one around to see, but according to the Bible, the chicken came first.
"And the evening and the morning were the fourth day. And God said, 'Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven'." Genesis 1:19-20. (Chickens are a type of fowl).
http://www.eggs.org.nz/egg_facts.php
http://www.eggs.org.nz/egg_facts.php
And speaking of fowls, did you know that the true name for the peacock is peafowl? Peacocks are the male of the species, and are the only ones with the magnificent-looking tail feathers. OK, you knew that already. I will assume you also know that the male will use his feathers and some deception to attract the peahens; much like their counterpart in the human species; with their good-looks, material wealth and what-have-you.
Look, if I did not bring up the topic about peafowls, then I won't be able to end my posting with this cartoon.
9 comments:
J.T,
i love reading -- about almost anything. a subject of deep interest is the history of christianity. ANd yes, I have read something about the origins of Easter.
anyway, thanks for sharing, J.T! and thanks also for visiting me.
take care.
and youi have a great knack for choosing really cool (and funny) strip.
Nuraina, your compliments are very much appreciated. I am motivated!
Jacqui.....keep blogging these gems. I found out last night that your brother(?) who stays in Monterez (golf club) has migrated to Australia.
Like Noraina says, your cartoons are great....can borrow ah?
On second study of the cartoon...thats how it went from peafowl to Peacock.
Zorro, I think that is my cousin you are talking about. What is his name?
I am glad that those cartoons have entertained you. I got them through e-mails. So, go ahead and help yourself to them. If you want more, I will forward you the rest that I received. Sure, can share-share one. hahaha
wow, we learn something new every day! thanks for sharing. and thanks for dropping by my blog JT!
JT,
Lady Patsy has such a lovely tribute for you in her latest posting.
Nuraina, Pat is a gem of a friend. I was moved to tears and speechless for a moment (very unusual for me to be like that). She has a beautiful way of expressing her thoughts. Pat is no "cubic zirconia" to me. She is as rare as a pink diamond.
hi JT :o)
Sharing information & knowledge, through blogging, this I LIKE :o)
Thank you, I've learned something new tonight.
Thanks for your comment. I'm planning to start the personal project soon, Writing Letters to My Unborn Child.
:o) Take care, Jacqui.
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