Easter bunny VS Chinese New Year of the Rabbit

In Chinese Astrology, 2023 is the Year of the Water Rabbit, also known as the Year of the Black Rabbit. In addition to the 12�year cycle of animals in the Chinese Zodiac, each animal is associated with one of five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water), which are associated with their own "life force" or "chi," and corresponding luck and fortune.

The rabbit is the symbol of

longevity, peace, and prosperity

in Chinese Culture, thus 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope.

Easter bunny seen as a symbol of a goddess A sign of new life

The origin of the celebration — and the Easter bunny — can be traced back to the 13th century, pre-Christian Germany, when people worshipped several gods and goddesses. The Teutonic deity Eostra was the goddess of spring and fertility, and feasts were held in her honour on the Vernal Equinox. Her symbol was the rabbit because of the animal’s high reproduction rate. (University of Florida's Center)

patience and luck.

According to Chinese Astrology, the rabbit symbolises 2023 will bring qualities that may have been lacking in the previous year, such as peace and success. We expect this year to be less dramatic or tumultuous than the last Year of the Tiger.

Spring symbolised new life and rebirth; eggs were an ancient symbol of fertility. According to History.com, Easter eggs represent Jesus' resurrection. However, this association came much later when Roman Catholicism became the dominant religion in Germany in the 15th century and merged with already ingrained pagan beliefs.

The first Easter bunny legends were documented in the 1500s. By 1680, the first story about a rabbit laying eggs and hiding them in a garden was published. These legends were brought to the United States in the 1700s when German immigrants settled in Pennsylvania Dutch country.

For several years now, IWA had the opportunity to partner with Hanuman Charity, providing food supplies and clothing donations, and only a few months ago, in November 2022, some of our members were able to participate in its Charity Walk. We were all really impressed by the tremendous work behind this daily activity, but mainly by the humanity and kindness shown by the organizers of these walks, so we have decided to share with the readers of the ItalianCham Magazine the lovely experience we all had.

Founded by Naveen Sadhwani along with his two daughters Samiha and Bianca in the midst of the pandemic, Hanuman Charity organises deliveries of freshly cooked vegetarian food and supplies to Hong Kong’s vulnerable population. Named after the Hindu deity whose mission is to protect and serve others, Hanuman Charity reaches those experiencing homelessness, as well as isolated elderly.