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Christians observe Good Friday, the day before Easter, to remember Jesus' crucifixion and death on the cross. Many other names have been proposed for this Christian festival: Black Friday, Great Friday, Holy Friday, and Holy and Great Friday. But what is the true meaning of Good Friday? Let’s find out!
What is Good Friday? Let’s explore the solemn event surrounding this holiday
Wondering about Good Friday meaning? Good Friday is a special day for Christians because it commemorates the beginning of what many consider to be the most pivotal period in human history. Christians have long held the view that Jesus' death on the cross and his resurrection marked the last chapter in the story of creation. According to the holy texts, By what God had foretold in the Scriptures, Paul deemed it "of first importance" that Jesus died on the cross, was buried, and rose from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3).
Good Friday's meaning in Christianity
On this holy day, we reflect on Jesus' selfless death on the cross, which he gladly endured to pay the price for our sins (1 John 1:10). After that comes Easter, the joyous commemoration of the day Jesus rose from the grave. This marks the end of his dominion over sin and death and the beginning of his promised resurrection for everyone who puts their faith in him.
Good Friday- the story behind the holiday
According to the Bible, his friend and disciple Judas betrayed Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. He was apprehended and brought to the residence of Caiaphas, the high priest, for an informal gathering of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish governing body, that took place in the late hours of the night. They intended to condemn Jesus to death. They failed to find any evidence to support His execution.
At last, the chief priest came to Jesus and said, "Tell us if you are the Messiah, the Son of God." Then Jesus said, "I am, and you will see me, the Son of Man, sitting at God's right hand and coming back on the clouds of heaven." “You have just heard His blasphemy! ” the high priest said afterwards. Just why are more witnesses necessary? Do you have a final decision? The crowd erupted with cries of "He deserves death!" They proceeded to begin scrubbing Jesus' face and then began to beat Him. They brought Him to Pilate after their fake trial found him guilty, despite the fact that they lacked the power to execute anybody according to Roman law. Falsely claiming to be king of the Jews and encouraging people not to pay their taxes, they accused Jesus of treason against the Roman Empire. Despite Pilate's knowledge that Jesus was innocent of any wrongdoing, the crowd insisted on crucifying Him. He thus did what the mob desired and turned a blind eye to the situation.
The most heinous crimes and slaves were punished with the most brutal type of execution at that time: crucifixion. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, was whipped and commanded to bear the cross upon which he would die. Following his crucifixion, Jesus was bestowed the title of "King of the Jews" and a crown of thorns. The two other crucified victims that day were sandwiched around the cross. The soldiers beheaded Jesus after nailing Him on the cross. For laughs, they mocked Jesus by placing a sign reading, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." on his crucifixion. According to the Bible, darkness descended upon the country when Jesus, after a tumultuous six hours of suffering on the cross, supposedly gave up his spirit.
How is Good Friday observed?
Various alterations have been made to the liturgical commemoration of Good Friday throughout the years. On Good Friday, the Roman Catholic Church does not celebrate mass but rather a liturgy. Traditionally, only the officiating priest would partake in the Holy Communion during the Maundy Thursday service; but, since 1955, laypeople have now been allowed to commune on Good Friday. Holy Communion, worship of the cross, and reading of the Gospel Passion account make up Good Friday's liturgy. The Three Hour Service, a contemplative prayer based on Jesus' "Seven Last Words on the Cross," was instituted into Catholic liturgy in the 17th century by the Jesuits in the aftermath of an earthquake in Peru. Midday to three o'clock is when it happens. Even though Eastern Orthodox Christians do not partake in Communion on Good Friday, they nonetheless have similar ceremonies.
Here are some of the ways Good Friday is observed:
- Fasting and refraining from drinks: In the days preceding up to Good Friday, many Christians practise penance and discipline by fasting and avoiding meat and other foods. In remembrance of Jesus' suffering for his people, many make resolutions to improve their own lives.
- Parades and historical reenactments: Some communities and churches commemorate Christ's crucifixion with processions and reenactments. Actors portray the trial, crucifixion, and burial of Jesus while dressed in biblical garments.
- Exploring the sacred texts: The primary goals of Good Friday include reading and reflecting on the Scriptures, especially those that relate to the apprehension, trial, crucification, and death of Jesus. In order to learn wisdom from these texts, many congregations and families meet together to study them.
- Helping others: Good Friday arrives in the same spirit as many other religions, which urge kindness and generosity. Good Friday is a time to reflect on how we might all follow Jesus' example and give something up for the sake of another person, just as he gave his life so that others could live free from sin. Charities and gestures of kindness towards the downtrodden are observed on Good Friday. Following the example of Jesus, numerous Christians visit the sick and elderly, provide food to those in need, and volunteer at shelters for the impoverished.