Good Friday is observed during the holy week of Paschal Triduum ahead of Easter and is a Christian holiday that marks its importance to commemorate the crucifixion of Lord Jesus and his death. This day is also known as Great Friday, Holy Friday, and God's Friday. On this day, members of Christian denomination and Catholics observe fast and attend church to pray. According to the Gregorian calendar, the date differs from year to year, this year it is being observed today on April 10.
History And Significance of the Day
This day talks about how royal soldiers, under the leadership of Christ’s disciple Judas Iscariot, arrested Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus was believed to have his cross with him to the site of execution which is called “place of a skull".
It is said that Jesus suffered on the cross for six hours. And in the last three hours, the land turned completely dark, and he gave up his spirits with a loud cry. Later, Jesus’ body was wrapped in a clean linen shroud and was taken with Joseph of Arimathea and placed under his own new tomb. According to Matthew 28:1, “After the Shabbat, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb”. “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said….” (Matt 28:6)
Some people also believe that Good Friday is originated from the words “God’s Friday”. Others say “good” as “holy”. The day is also known as Black Friday or Sorrowful Friday.
The day marks its importance to remember the sacrifices made by Lord Jesus. For which Church services are done in the afternoon at around 3 pm. The Priest and the people who visit the church wear black as it is symbolic to mourning. Even the same black coloured cloth is used to cover the cross, and statues in churches to signify mourning. Even Christians avoid lighting a candle on this day. Christians refuse to eat meat on this day, and they traditionally bake hot cross buns.
Image Source: instagram/zinfogcodelabs