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In Science, March Equinox, also called the Vernal Equinox, is also celebrated as the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere.
On this day, there are nearly equal amounts of day and night.
As a result, throughout history and all around the world, the March Equinox has been seen as one of the most spiritually significant times of the year. For example:
- In Christian tradition, Easter Sunday - the day Jesus Christ was resurrected - takes place on the first Sunday after the March Equinox.
- In Jewish tradition, Passover occurs on the first Full Moon after the March Equinox.
- In Hindu tradition, the celebration of Holi - the festival of colors - takes place on a specific day leading up to the March Equinox.
- In Buddhism, the Higan observance during the March Equinox uses seasonal change as a metaphor for Buddhists needing to change their lives in order to reach enlightenment.
- In Daoism, the March Equinox festival is used as a time to pray for growth, seek enlightenment and live in harmony with nature.
- In Mesoamerican tradition, the March Equinox is celebrated at the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, where the sun's rays create the illusion of a snake moving along the steps of the pyramid.
- At Stonehenge, the prehistoric monument in England featuring the remains of a circle of huge standing stones, druids and pagans would congregate to watch the sun rise on the March Equinox and welcome spring.
- March Equinox also marks the occassion of Nowruz, or Persian New Year.
Here are some ideas for how you can participate in this event:
