Holy Wednesday is observed on a distinct date each year, but in the United States on April 5 this year. Holy Week, according to Christians, begins on Palm Sunday and concludes on Holy Saturday, the day preceding Easter Sunday, which is celebrated by many to proclaim the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Holy Week is a time when the majority of Christians value and venerate their faith and religion due to the suffering, death, and resurrection of their god. This period is referred to as the “Great Week” in Greek and Roman literature because God performed many great exploits during this time.
The background of Holy Wednesday
Holy Week occurs during the final week of Lent, which begins with Ash Wednesday. Christians observe Lent as a time for reflection and repentance due to Jesus’ sacrifice and forty-day fast in the desert. During this Holy Week, Christians commemorate and perpetuate Christ’s sacrifice on Good Friday to save humanity. The theme of this week is typically gloomy, as Christians reflect on all the sacrifices Jesus made to save humanity.Holy Week commences on Palm Sunday and concludes on Holy Saturday, seven days before Easter Sunday. During this week, Christians engage in a variety of practises and traditions to reflect on Jesus until his resurrection on Easter Sunday, when they ultimately rejoice and celebrate the miracle and the saviour.
In the fourth century, St. Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria, and St. Epiphanius of Constantia used the term “Holy Week.” Originally, only sacred Thursday, Good Friday, and Black Saturday were observed as sacred days. The Pre-Nicene church consistently emphasised Passover as the central rite. By the end of the fourth century, Holy Week was classified according to the days and events of Jesus’ life.
Spy Wednesday is another term for Holy Wednesday, primarily because on this day Judas, a disciple of Jesus Christ, chose to betray the Lord for 30 pieces of silver. The Christian Bible, Matthew Chapter 26, Verses 14 to 16, states: “Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and asked, “What will you give me, and I will deliver him to you?” But they assigned him thirty silver pieces. From that point on, he looked for an opportunity to betray him.” It then demonstrates that Judas was a spy because he betrayed Jesus clandestinely and with intent and motive.
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5 FACTS ABOUT HOLY WEDNESDAY YOU NEVER KNEW
In Greece, the sacrament of “Holy Unction” or anointing of the ill is administered to church members.
The day is referred to as “Ugly Wednesday” or “Soot-Sweeping Wednesday” in the Czech Republic.
This day is referred to in Malta as Wednesday of Shadows, in reference to the liturgical gloom.
The adulterous woman Mary of Bethany anoints Jesus with oil.
On this day, the Tenebrae service is observed by Anglicans.
HOLY WEDNESDAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | April 13 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | April 5 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | March 27 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | April 16 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
