What does paschal mean?
Paschal is a formal adjective relating to Easter and, in some contexts, the Jewish Passover. It is especially common in theology, Christian worship, and references to the historical development of Christian observances. The best-known application is the Paschal season, the period of Easter celebration extending from Easter Sunday to Pentecost. Paschal feast may likewise denote a commemorative Christian feast connected with Easter, while the Paschal lamb has a well-established biblical and theological meaning. In Jewish usage, paschal can refer more generally to Passover and matters connected with that festival. The word is primarily religious and liturgical rather than conversational: most speakers would say Easter before choosing paschal. Its significance lies in its history. Through Latin and Greek, it ultimately derives from the same ancient linguistic root as the English word Passover, reflecting the relationship between the Jewish festival and the Christian celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.
adjectiveRelating to Easter or to the season and observances associated with Easter. In Jewish usage, the term can also relate to the Passover.
- Relating to Easter or the Easter season.
- Relating to the Jewish Passover.
"The congregation sang throughout the Paschal season."
"The Paschal vigil services marked the beginning of the Easter celebration."
"The scholar discussed the paschal themes of liberation and renewal in Jewish tradition."
From the same ancient root as Passover, “paschal” preserves the shared idea of the biblical festival that gave Easter its Christian meaning.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does paschal come from?
The English word entered Middle English through Latin paschalis, meaning “of Easter” or “of Passover.” Latin pascha was borrowed from Greek paskha, which in turn came from Hebrew, where the festival is called Pesaḥ, conventionally rendered in English as Passover. The same root underlies cognates in several European languages, including Spanish pascua and Italian pasqua.
How paschal is actually used
This is chiefly a formal, religious, or liturgical term. It is common in Christian theology and worship but is not normally used in everyday conversation.
Easily confused with paschal
“Paschal” is an adjective relating to Easter or Passover, whereas “Pascal” is primarily a given name or the name of the SI unit of pressure.