Millions of people throughout the globe observe Good Friday, a momentous day in the Christian calendar, with solemnity, prayer, and reflection. It is considered one of the holiest days of Holy Week and is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ.

‘Good Friday’: Its Significance
But what is ‘good’ about Good Friday, a day so closely associated with loss and suffering? – Good Friday is named “good” due to its religious significance in Christian thought, despite the fact that it is a sombre day. The term derives from the belief that Jesus’ death was a necessary atonement for humanity’s sins, which eventually brought about redemption and hope. Crucifixion of Jesus

In the past, “good” was synonymous with “holy” or “pious”. A pillar of Christian faith, Good Friday therefore serves as a monument to the sacred sacrifice made by Jesus on the cross. Similar to how the Bible is called the “Good Book”, this Friday is “good” because of what it represents—divine love, forgiveness, and redemption—rather than because of what occurs. Another theory suggests that “Good Friday” may have evolved linguistically from “God’s Friday” (Gottes Freitag in German), despite the conventional explanation linking “good” to its religious virtue. However, since there is no etymological evidence, most linguists and academics disagree with this notion.

The day is usually referred to in more solemn terms in various languages and cultures, such as Karfreitag (Sorrowful Friday) in German or Holy Friday in English-speaking Orthodox use, emphasising the sacrifice and grief involved.

How People Celebrate Good Friday
Christians see Good Friday as the pinnacle of Jesus’ earthly ministry, symbolising his unwavering care and love. It is believed that his death made peace between God and humanity, opening the door to forgiveness and everlasting life. The Easter story revolves around this noble act of sacrifice, culminating in Easter Sunday’s resurrection, which transforms the sorrow of Good Friday into celebration and hope.

Locations and denominations have quite different Good Friday customs. Typical customs include: • Scripture readings and solemn prayers at church sessions

• The veneration of the cross, when believers reflect on the crucifixion of Christ
• Abstinence and fasting, especially for Catholics who may refrain from eating meat

• Stations of the Cross reenactments, particularly in countries like Italy and the Philippines

• Charitable and serviceable deeds that show the compassion and sacrifice of Christ