Good Friday, the Friday before Easter, is the Christian holy day to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus and His death at Calvary. It is also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, Great and Holy Friday, and Black Friday. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum. From the early days of Christianity, Good Friday was observed as a day of sorrow, penance, and fasting, a characteristic that finds expression in the German word Karfreitag (“Sorrowful Friday”). This year, Good Friday is celebrated on Friday, April 15th, 2022.
Members of many Christian denominations observe Good Friday with fasting and church services. Good Friday is observed with fasting and praying by many Christian believers as they remember the judgment, passion, crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus Christ. Christians believe Jesus was crucified on Good Friday and rose again three days later – which is marked as Easter. There are several superstitions linked with Good Friday. It is believed that it is not good to handle any nails or iron tools, plant anything or break any ground, wash clothes, eat or drink anything containing vinegar or nettles or to eat meat.
Although the crucifixion of Jesus happened on this day, it is called Good Friday because it led to the Resurrection of Jesus and his victory over death and sin. While it is called Good Friday, it is a day of mourning for Christians. Therefore, people do not greet each other with ‘Happy Good Friday’ wishes just like they may do on Christmas and other events.
