Where is Jesus’ Crown of Thorns Now?
The Crown of Thorns, a symbol of suffering and sacrifice, has long been associated with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Made from the branches of a thorny bush, this crown was placed on Jesus’ head during his crucifixion, inflicting immense pain and suffering. Despite its profound historical significance, the whereabouts of the actual Crown of Thorns remain a mystery to this day. This article delves into the fascinating history and the current status of Jesus’ Crown of Thorns.
The origin of the Crown of Thorns is shrouded in mystery. Some historians believe it was originally a local crown made from the thorny branches of the Jerusalem thorn tree. Others suggest it was a more ornate crown, possibly made from gold and precious stones, which was later replaced with the thorny one. Regardless of its composition, the crown was undoubtedly a source of immense pain for Jesus.
After Jesus’ crucifixion, the Crown of Thorns was believed to have been recovered by Saint Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine, in the 4th century. According to tradition, she found the relic in Jerusalem and brought it back to Rome. The crown was then enshrined in the Basilica of St. John Lateran, where it remained for centuries.
In the 6th century, the Crown of Thorns was transferred to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. This transfer was made at the request of Empress Eudocia, who wanted to ensure the relic’s safety. However, the crown was once again returned to Rome in the 12th century, following the sack of Jerusalem by Crusaders.
The Crown of Thorns has since been a revered relic in the Catholic Church. It has been displayed on various occasions, including during the papal solemnities. However, the question remains: where is Jesus’ Crown of Thorns now?
In 2012, the Vatican announced that the Crown of Thorns would be displayed in a new, climate-controlled environment in the Basilica of St. John Lateran. This decision was made to preserve the relic, which has been exposed to the elements for centuries. The new display, which opened in 2014, houses the crown in a state-of-the-art case, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
While the Crown of Thorns is now safely housed in the Basilica of St. John Lateran, its journey through history is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the importance of relics. The mystery surrounding its whereabouts only adds to the legend and reverence associated with this sacred artifact. Wherever the Crown of Thorns may be, its significance as a symbol of Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice remains unchanged.
