What happened on Good Friday to Jesus is a pivotal event in Christian history, deeply rooted in the religion’s sacred texts and the beliefs of millions around the world. This day marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity, and is observed as a day of mourning and reflection by Christians worldwide.
The events of Good Friday are chronicled in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. According to these accounts, Jesus was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, one of his twelve disciples, who handed him over to the Sanhedrin, the Jewish religious and political body. Jesus was then brought before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, who found him guilty of no crime but was pressured by the crowd to crucify him.
After his conviction, Jesus was flogged and beaten severely. He was then crucified alongside two criminals, one on each side of him. The cross was a common form of execution in the Roman Empire, and it was meant to be a public spectacle, serving as a warning to others against rebellion and crime. During his crucifixion, Jesus endured immense physical pain and suffering, as well as spiritual anguish, as he bore the sins of humanity according to Christian belief.
As the day progressed, Jesus’ strength waned, and he asked for help from God, crying out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). His final words were, “It is finished,” (John 19:30), which many believe signifies the completion of his mission on Earth. Moments later, Jesus expired, and his death was confirmed by the Roman centurion who was standing nearby.
After Jesus’ death, his body was taken down from the cross and laid in a tomb, as per Jewish custom. The next day, Sunday, is celebrated as Easter, the day of Jesus’ resurrection, which is considered the cornerstone of Christian faith. Good Friday, on the other hand, serves as a reminder of the suffering and sacrifice Jesus endured for the sake of humanity’s salvation.
Today, Good Friday is observed by Christians through various acts of penance, prayer, and reflection. Many attend special Good Friday services, which often include readings from the Gospels, hymns, and other liturgical elements. The day is a time for Christians to remember the love and grace of God, as well as the profound impact Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection have had on their faith.
