Daria Klemick, an active member in the Ukrainian cultural scene in the greater New York area, has been assembling Ukrainian Easter baskets for much of her life. This is a tradition that is enjoyed by the entire family and is a staple come Easter time. Ukrainian Easter baskets are composed of specific items, each with symbolic or religious meaning. The completed baskets are then brought to the church for the blessing of the baskets. The baskets are often woven and lined with decoratively embroidered towels called “rushnyky.” The first of many of said items put in the basket is the traditional Easter bread, or “babka.” It is probably the most universally included item. Each family tends to have their own recipe, all slightly different. However, it is a nearly always shared sentiment that the bread must be baked with positive thoughts for the best results. Another item in Ukrainian Easter baskets are Easter eggs known as “pysanky.” Ukrainian Easter eggs are covered in intricate and colorful designs. In addition to the many design patterns and colors, the actual process as to how the eggs are made varies as well. Also included in the baskets are dairy products. Traditionally, the milk products are enclosed in containers with crosses marked on their lids. The symbolism of the dairy products, such as cheese and butter, is said to represent gifts from Mother Nature and the goodness of God. The butter specifically is usually carved into the shape of a lamb or small cross to remind us of the goodness of Christ, which we should have towards all things. Horseradish also has specific symbolic meaning in Ukrainian Easter baskets. It is included in the baskets to represent the Passion of Christ and the strong human spirit that accompanies the sacrament of Confession. Salt is added to the baskets for a variety of reasons. The salt represents communication and duty to the community. In addition, it was common practice for Ukrainians to bring salt with them on trips as a protective amulet to keep them out of harm’s way. Evergreens are placed in the basket to decorate and finalize them before the blessings. The plants themselves differ by region, but the symbolic meaning remains constant: eternal life. Many themes that are ubiquitous in Ukrainian culture can be easily identified in the Easter baskets and have long been a major part of Ukrainian family traditions.
Related Articles:
-For more information about Ukrainian embroidery, please visit https://dariaklemick.blogspot.com/2021/01/symbolism-of-ukrainian-embroidery.html
-For more information about pysanky, eggs decorated using wax-resist method displaying folk designs, please visit https://dariaklemick.medium.com/designing-ukrainian-easter-eggs-pysanky-238a19e23aec
