In Greek Easter tradition, what color are eggs commonly dyed to symbolize Christ’s blood?

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In Greek Easter tradition, eggs are commonly dyed red to symbolize Christ’s blood.

Red eggs are a prominent part of Greek Orthodox Easter, known as Pascha. The color is associated with the blood of Jesus Christ, while the egg itself can symbolize the sealed tomb and the promise of resurrection. Families may dye eggs on Holy Thursday, although practices differ between households and regions.

After church services or the Easter meal, people often play tsougrisma, an egg-tapping game. Each participant taps one end of an egg against another egg, and the person whose shell remains unbroken continues. The game is accompanied by Easter greetings and is a social rather than purely decorative custom.

Red-dyed eggs are not exclusive to Greece; related practices appear in several Eastern Christian communities. The exact shade, dyeing day, and accompanying rituals vary, so the tradition should not be confused with the brightly multicolored eggs common in many Western celebrations.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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