Why Does Easter Change Dates Every Year? Exploring the Lunisolar Calendar

Discover why Easter does not fall on the same date annually, based on the lunisolar calendar and the Council of Nicaea's method.

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Easter does not fall on the same date every year because it is determined based on a lunisolar calendar. Specifically, Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs on or after the vernal equinox (March 21). This method, established by the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, aligns the date with both the lunar cycle and the equinox, resulting in a variable date each year.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the Council of Nicaea and its significance? The Council of Nicaea, convened in 325 AD, was significant for establishing foundational doctrines of Christianity, including the method for calculating Easter.
  2. Why is the date of Easter linked to the full moon? Easter's date is linked to the full moon as it follows the lunisolar calendar, aligning with the spring equinox and lunar cycles.
  3. What is the vernal equinox? The vernal equinox marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring around March 21 and determining when Easter is celebrated.

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