New Delhi: Good Friday is a religious event commemorated by Christians worldwide to remember the crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday and symbolizes the conclusion of Holy Week.

When is Good Friday this year?

Good Friday is a prominent day in the Christian calendar because it commemorates Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death. It is celebrated on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday as part of Holy Week.

Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday and Easter Friday, will be observed on April 7th, 2023, because Easter falls on Sunday, April 9th, 2023. Yet, the date of Good Friday fluctuates each year since it is determined by the lunar cycle.

History behind the day:

As stated in the Bible, Jesus was imprisoned and convicted of murder by crucifixion by Roman authorities under Pontius Pilate’s control, the ultimate form of criminal penalties at the time. The crucifixion of Jesus was a cruel and painful type of punishment whereby the person was nailed to a wooden cross and left to die slowly.

The four Gospels of the New Testament detail the incidents that led to Jesus’ crucifixion. The Gospels describe Jesus’ farewell supper with his disciples, arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, and trial before Pilate. They also record his crucifixion and burial in a nearby tomb.

Significance of the day:

Good Friday is significant because it is believed that Jesus Christ freely offered himself on the cross for the remission of sinners. Christians believe that Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection made it possible for humanity to be united with God and gain eternal life.

On Good Friday, many Christians engage in different forms of worship and reflection, including church attendance, fasting, and acts of repentance and self-denial. Certain traditions, such as the Stations of the Cross, also contain crucifixion reenactments.