Despite its association with the crucifixion of Jesus, Good Friday is called "good" for a few possible reasons. "Good" may be a corruption of "God Friday," or reflect the older sense of "holy." Alternatively, it may refer to the belief that Christ's death, while tragic, ultimately brought salvation to humanity, therefore making it a "good" event. Finally, some suggest "good" refers to the good deeds performed by Christ throughout his life, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice.
On the subject of the seemingly paradoxical nomenclature of "Good Friday," a day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the historical record reveals a tapestry of interwoven interpretations. While the suffering and death of a revered figure hardly seems a cause for celebration, the "goodness" attributed to this Friday stems from the theological significance ascribed to the event within Christian belief.
The article from History Extra meticulously dissects several prominent etymological theories. One postulates that "Good" might be a corruption or evolution of the term "God's Friday," reflecting a linguistic shift over centuries. This perspective emphasizes the day's solemn dedication to commemorating the divine sacrifice. Another compelling theory posits that "good" in this context retains its original meaning, albeit viewed through a prism of spiritual interpretation. The crucifixion, though undeniably tragic, is perceived as intrinsically "good" due to its perceived role in humanity's salvation. Jesus's death, according to Christian doctrine, atoned for the sins of humanity, paving the pathway to reconciliation with God. Therefore, the "goodness" of the Friday resides in the ultimate positive outcome stemming from this seemingly devastating event.
Furthermore, the article elucidates the rich historical backdrop surrounding Good Friday observances. From the somber liturgical traditions to the cultural practices that have evolved over time, Good Friday remains a day deeply embedded in the tapestry of Christian history. The very name itself invites contemplation on the complex interplay between suffering, sacrifice, and redemption that lies at the heart of Christian theology. The article implicitly argues against the notion that the term represents a misunderstanding or misnomer, instead presenting compelling arguments for its appropriateness within the context of Christian belief. The enduring use of the term "Good Friday," despite its surface-level contradiction, speaks volumes about the enduring power of faith and the profound meaning attributed to the crucifixion within Christian tradition.
Summary of Comments ( 48 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43724870
Several Hacker News commenters discuss the etymology of "Good Friday," with most agreeing that "good" likely derives from archaic usages meaning "holy" or "pious." Some suggest alternative theories, like "God's Friday," but these are generally dismissed. One commenter points out the irony of calling a day commemorating a crucifixion "good." Another highlights regional variations in how the day is named, citing "Great Friday" in some areas. A few commenters lament the increasingly secular nature of modern society and the declining awareness of religious terminology and traditions. There's also a brief tangent discussing linguistic shifts and the evolution of word meanings over time.
The Hacker News post titled "Why is Good Friday called Good Friday?" generated a modest amount of discussion, with several commenters offering their perspectives on the etymology and meaning of the term.
Several commenters focused on the linguistic evolution of the term "Good." One commenter suggested "good" might derive from older usages, meaning "holy" or "pious," similar to the German "Gottes Freitag" (God's Friday). This explanation resonated with others, who added supporting examples of "good" being used in archaic ways to signify piety or holiness. One commenter specifically mentioned the archaic use of "goodman" and "goodwife" as titles. Another added to this by pointing to similar archaic uses of "good" in other phrases, solidifying the notion that "Good Friday" likely referred to a holy or sacred Friday.
Another thread of discussion revolved around alternative names for Good Friday used in other languages and cultures. Some examples given were "Holy Friday," "Great Friday," "Long Friday," and "Silent Friday," each reflecting different aspects of the day's significance. One commenter noted the prevalence of names related to mourning and sorrow, highlighting the somber nature of the day in Christian tradition.
Finally, a few commenters expressed their appreciation for the explanation provided in the linked article, while others mentioned their own prior understandings or misunderstandings of the term. One commenter admitted having previously assumed it referred to the "good news" of the resurrection, which is celebrated on Easter Sunday, indicating a common misconception.
While the discussion wasn't extensive, it offered several interesting points regarding the etymology and cultural variations in naming Good Friday. The comments generally converged on the idea that "Good" in this context likely derives from an archaic meaning of holy or pious rather than referring to positive connotations of "goodness" as understood in modern English.