Today marks Good Friday — a sacred day in the Christian calendar, commemorated across the globe with quiet reflection, solemnity, and reverence.
But how much do we really know about it beyond the crucifixion story?
Here are nine fascinating facts about Good Friday that might just surprise you.
1. It wasn’t always called “Good” Friday
Despite the tragic nature of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, the term “Good Friday” is widely used — and confusing to many. The word “Good” is believed to have evolved from “God’s Friday” or “Holy Friday.” In some languages, like German, it’s still called “Karfreitag,” meaning “Sorrowful Friday.” The “good” part reflects the theological belief that Jesus’ sacrifice ultimately brought salvation to humankind.
2. It’s not a public holiday everywhere
While countries like Ghana, the UK, and Australia observe Good Friday as a public holiday, others like the United States don’t have it as a national day off — though some states and territories choose to recognize it locally. In many predominantly Muslim or secular countries, it’s treated like any other day.
3. The date changes every year
Good Friday doesn’t have a fixed date. It’s observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday, which follows the lunar calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar. That’s why it can fall as early as March 20 or as late as April 23.
4. There’s a strange silence in churches
Unlike most Christian services filled with singing and celebration, Good Friday services are often quiet, somber, and stripped of music. Many churches don’t ring bells, and altars are left bare to reflect the grief of the day. In Catholic tradition, Mass is not celebrated on Good Friday — a rare occurrence.
5. Some countries ban dancing and drinking
Yes, you read that right. In places like Germany and Switzerland, laws restrict public dancing, loud music, and the sale of alcohol on Good Friday. These bans aim to preserve the solemnity of the day. Breaking these laws can even attract fines in some areas.
6. It inspired famous art and music
From Michelangelo’s paintings to Johann Sebastian Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, Good Friday has inspired countless artists and composers over the centuries. These works explore themes of suffering, sacrifice, and redemption — capturing the emotional weight of the day in unforgettable ways.
7. The crucifixion wasn’t on a Friday?
Some biblical scholars argue that Jesus may not have been crucified on a Friday at all. They cite certain Gospel timelines that suggest a Wednesday or Thursday. However, Friday has become the universally accepted day based on longstanding tradition and theological symbolism.
8. Pilgrims walk the “Via Dolorosa” every year
In Jerusalem, thousands of Christians retrace what they believe to be Jesus’ final footsteps along the Via Dolorosa, or “Way of Sorrows.” The route winds through the Old City, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be the site of the crucifixion and resurrection.
9. Good Friday once triggered a solar eclipse
According to historians, a solar eclipse occurred around the time of Jesus’ crucifixion — a phenomenon even referenced in the Bible. Luke 23:45 says, “The sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two.” Some scientists date a partial eclipse to 33 AD, adding eerie weight to the biblical account.
