Easter Sunday in Jordan is celebrated with great reverence and festivity as the country has a significant Christian population, primarily of the Eastern Orthodox denomination. The holiday, which marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, is typically celebrated with special church services, family gatherings, and traditional feasting. Various processions, illuminations, and ceremonies are carried out across the country, with Christians dressing in new clothes to mark the new life and hope represented by the resurrection.
The services on Easter Sunday in Jordan start with the Midnight Office, a divine liturgy that begins late Saturday night and concludes in the first hours of Easter morning. Orthodox Christians gather in their local churches where traditional hymns are sung and candles are lit, signifying the light of Christ illuminating the world. Following this, participants walk in a procession symbolizing their journey from mourning into joy.
One of the most intriguing traditions associated with Easter in Jordan is the Easter Egg Hunt, with eggs dyed in red to signify the blood of Christ. There is also a tradition of an Easter feast, where families gather to break their 40-day Lenten fast with an abundant meal, often featuring lamb and a rich dessert called 'Maamoul' filled with dates and almonds. Despite the cultural diversity, Jordanians exchange holiday greetings, gifts, and sweets, emphasizing unity and mutual respect during this special time of year.