Holy Thursday

Things You Need to Know About Holy Thursday by Jim Akin

Holy Thursday was one of the most important days in all of history. It was a pivotal day in the life of Jesus Christ. Here are 10 things you should know about it and why we commemorate it today.

The Bible states, "on the night he was betrayed."

That night was Holy Thursday, and it is one of the most important nights in all of history.

Here are some things you need to know about that fateful night.

1. What happened on the original Holy Thursday?

This was one of the most pivotal days in the life of Jesus Christ. Here are some of the things the gospels record for this day (including events that happened after midnight).

Jesus:

Sent Peter and John to arrange for them to use the Upper Room to hold the Passover meal.

Washed the apostles' feet.

Announced that Judas would betray him.

Gave the "new commandment" to love one another.

Indicated that Peter had a special pastoral role among the apostles.

Announced that Peter would deny him.

Prayed for the unity of his followers.

Held all the discourses recorded across five chapters of John (John 13-18).

Went to the Mount of Olives.

Prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Was betrayed by Judas.

Stopped the disciples from continuing a violent resistance.

Healed the ear of Malchus, the high priest's servant, after Peter cut it off with a sword.

Was taken before the high priests Annas and Caiaphas.

Was denied by Peter.

Was taken to Pilate.

The gospel accounts themselves can be found in:

Matthew 26:17-75

Mark 14:12-72

Luke 22:7-62

John 13:1-18:27

2. Why is Holy Thursday sometimes called "Maundy Thursday"?

 

The word "Maundy" is derived from the Latin word mandatum, or "mandate." This word is used in the Latin text for John 13:34: "Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos."

Or, in English: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you."

Holy Thursday is thus sometimes called Maundy Thursday because it was on this day that Christ gave us the new commandment--the new mandate--to love one another as he loves us.

3. Why is foot washing often part of the Maundy Thursday service?

 

According to Paschales Solemnitatis:

The washing of the feet of chosen men which, according to tradition, is performed on this day, represents the service and charity of Christ, who came "not to be served, but to serve. This tradition should be maintained, and its proper significance explained.

Although some have interpreted the rite as being unique to the apostles, this interpretation is not found in official documents, such as Paschales Solemnitatis, which interpret it as a sign of service and charity.

The rite is optional. It does not have to be performed.