Good Friday is a Christian holiday that remembers the day Jesus Christ was crucified and died. It happens on the Friday before Easter Sunday. For many Christians, it’s a day to be quiet, reflect, and think about the pain Jesus went through for the sake of all people.
Even though it’s a sad day, it’s still called “Good Friday.” You might wonder why.
Why is it called “Good” Friday?
The word “good” in this case doesn’t mean happy or fun. Long ago, “good” could also mean “holy” or “sacred.” So, Good Friday means a holy Friday.
Christians believe it’s called “good” because Jesus died to save people from their sins. His death is seen as a loving act, showing God’s love. Even though Jesus suffered, his death made way for forgiveness, hope, and eternal life through his resurrection on Easter Sunday.
That’s why, even though it’s a serious day, it is still called “Good.”
Here’s a simple breakdown of the meaning:
- Sacrifice – Jesus gave up his life to forgive people’s sins.
- Journey’s End – This day marks the end of Jesus’s life before he rose again on Easter.
- Love – It reminds Christians of how much Jesus loved humanity.
- Forgiveness – His death brought people and God back together.
- Hope – It’s also about the hope of new life that comes with his resurrection.
Some people also believe the name came from “God’s Friday” (in old German, “Gottes Freitag”), but most language experts don’t agree with that idea.
Different Names and Traditions
Good Friday is also called:
- Holy Friday
- Great Friday
- Black Friday
- Friday of the Passion
It’s part of a special Christian week called Holy Week, which leads up to Easter.
How it’s observed:
- Christians go to church for special prayers and Bible readings.
- Some fast (eat little or no food) or avoid eating meat.
- In some places, people walk in processions and re-enact the events of Jesus’s death, known as the “Stations of the Cross.”
- Many spend the day thinking deeply, praying, or doing acts of kindness.
Conclusion
Good Friday is a very important day for Christians. Even though it’s a sad day, they call it “good” because they believe Jesus’s death helped bring love, forgiveness, and hope to the world.