For Christians, Good Friday is one of the most important dates in the year.
While non-believers in the UK may simply consider it a bank holiday to enjoy, its origins can be traced back to the Bible itself.
There are many traditions that go alongside the holy day, far more than just an extra day off work.
It marks the beginning of Easter, as it’s the first day of the Easter Triduum - the three-day event memorialising the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
What is Good Friday?
Good Friday is a Christian holiday that reflects upon and commemorates the death of Jesus.
As recorded in the Bible and believed by Christians, Jesus was crucified by the Romans after his disciple, Judas, betrayed him.
Christians believe Good Friday is the day Jesus died on the cross, only to be resurrected three days later on what is now known as Easter Sunday.
Where does the Good Friday tradition come from?
Its origins can be traced directly back to the Bible, over 2,000 years ago, in the Gospel of John, among other holy books.
Since then, Christian denominations have celebrated Jesus’ sacrifice, particularly Catholics who begin festivities during Lent, which starts 40 days prior to Maundy Thursday.
Different Christian groups may celebrate the day in other ways, but all use it as a time to reflect upon and celebrate the life of Jesus Christ.
Why is it called Good Friday?
The origins of the name Good Friday are debated, as there are many different meanings behind the name itself.
Essentially, the word “good” in this context means “holy” and according to the Oxford English Dictionary, good "designates a day on (or sometimes a season in) which religious observance is held".
The first recording usage of the term “guode Friday” was in 1290, in the text named The South English Legendary.
Good Friday isn’t the only name it is known by either, as it is sometimes referred to as Holy Friday or Great Friday.
What are the traditions of Good Friday?
Good Friday traditions can vary heavily, depending on the Christian denomination.
Overall, it is seen as a day of mourning and reflection.
Many countries and church groups reenact Jesus’ walk with the cross, while others opt to carry the cross on their backs, like Jesus did.
A more accessible tradition is enjoying hot cross buns on Good Friday.
This might seem like a non-religious tradition for the season, but it has everything to do with Lent.
The bun marks the end of the 40-day period of Lent, with the treat itself being highly symbolic for Christians.
The most obvious piece of symbolism of the cross itself, which represents the cross Jesus died on.
What might surprise you is the spices are symbolic as well.
They represent the spices used to embalm Jesus after his death and before his burial.
The spices chosen can vary on the exact recipe used, but orange peel is often added to represent the bitterness of his time on the cross.
