Christians mark Good Friday by fasting, giving alms to the needy, and attending church services.
Digital Desk: As Easter approaches, Christian communities Worldwide get ready to observe Good Friday- a solemn day of reflection, mourning, and prayer. This year, Good Friday falls on 18th April, just two days before Easter Sunday.
Good Friday marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, which stands as a central belief in the Christian religion. As per Jewish religious leaders, Jesus was executed for blasphemy and handed him to the Roman judgment. During the time of Pontius Pilate Jesus he was publicly humililiated, beaten and mocked in addition to carrying his cross through city streets until his crucifixion at Golgotha, where Roman soldiers impaled him by His wrists and feet. Christians believe this act was a divine sacrifice, made to atone for the sins of humanity.
Traditionally, Good Friday stands as a period for fasting as well as penance and religious solemnity. Christians who observe this religious occasion practice abstaining from meat while attending special services and prayers at church, known as the Great Three Hours’ Agony which takes place from noon until 3pm, since it represents the time Jesus suffered on the cross.
The Day belongs to the Paschal Triduum that begins during Maundy Thursday (the Last Supper) before ending on Easter Sunday when believers celebrate Jesus's resurrection.
Some people believed Good Friday to be a holy day based on its divine nature, yet others suggest it derives from the word “God” or the idea that Jesus's sacrifice ultimately brought salvation.
Believers in Christianity see Good Friday as an occasion of both sadness and optimism that celebrates Jesus's loving, selfless offering and his promise to save humanity.
Marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection, it symbolizes hope, redemption, and faith. In India and the US, Good Friday affects various sectors:-
1)Stock exchanges and some banks will be closed.
2) In India, banks will be closed due to a gazetted holiday, especially in states like Assam, Tripura, and Rajasthan.
3) Online banking services will remain available.
4) Most educational institutions in India will be closed, with observance varying by state.
5) Assam will observe a dry day, prohibiting liquor sales.
Good Friday remains a profound spiritual moment for millions around the globe.
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