DR AMIT DIAS explores the deeper meaning of the season of Lent. How do people prepare for lent and how do believers reflect on Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection during this holy season. ALL this and more in this informative article on the significance of the season of Lent….
Why Forty Days? What is the significance of the number 40
Lent is a sacred season in the Catholic Church, observed for 40 days as a time of spiritual preparation for Easter. The number 40 holds great significance in the Bible:
• Jesus fasted in the wilderness for 40 days (Matthew 4:2) before beginning His public ministry.
• Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28).
• The Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years (Numbers 14:33-34) as a time of testing and purification.
• The great flood lasted 40 days and nights (Genesis 7:12), symbolizing a time of cleansing and renewal.
Lent mirrors these biblical events, serving as a period of spiritual discipline, self-denial, and drawing closer to God.
This year, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and ends on Maundy Thursday, April 17. The 40-day count excludes Sundays, as each Sunday is considered a “mini-Easter.” the dates may defer depending on the Christian denomination.
What is the significance of Ash Wednesday?
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, when Catholics receive ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross. This ancient practice signifies repentance and mortality, echoing the biblical phrase:
“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19).
The ashes remind believers of their need for conversion and the fleeting nature of earthly life. People need to die to their worldly desires. The ashes are gathered by burning the palms used on palm Sunday the previous year.
What is the Easter Triduum?
The Easter Triduum refers to the three holiest days of the liturgical year, beginning at sundown on Holy Thursday and ending at sunset on Easter Sunday:
- Holy Thursday – The Last Supper
- Good Friday – The Passion and Death of Christ
- Holy Saturday – The day of waiting before the Resurrection
What is the significance of Maundy Thursday ?
Maundy Thursday (derived from the Latin word “mandatum” (meaning “commandment”) commemorates Jesus’ Last Supper, when he instituted the Eucharist and washed his disciples’ feet, giving the commandment:
“Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34).
The washing of feet during the liturgy reminds Catholics of the call to humility and service.
What is Good Friday?
Good Friday marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus. Despite the suffering, it is called “Good” because Christ’s sacrifice brought salvation to the world. The liturgy on this day is solemn, focusing on the passion of Christ, veneration of the cross, and prayers for the Church and the world.
What is Easter?
Easter is the greatest feast in Christianity celebrating Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. It is the victory over sin and death, fulfilling God’s promise of eternal life. The Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night is the most solemn celebration, featuring the blessing of the Paschal candle, readings from salvation history, and the joyful proclamation of Christ’s resurrection.
What is the Liturgical Color of Lent?
Purple is the liturgical color of lent. Purple symbolizes penance, humility and preparation. It is also the color of royalty, reminding believers that Christ is the suffering king who triumphs through his passion and resurrection.
What are considered to be the Three Pillars of Lent?
- Prayer – Deepening one’s relationship with God through personal and communal prayer, including the Rosary, Eucharistic Adoration, and reading scripture.
- Fasting – A form of self-discipline that strengthens the spirit by giving up certain foods or habits. Catholics fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday and abstain from meat on Fridays.
- Almsgiving – Acts of charity, helping those in need by giving money, time, or resources to the less fortunate.
What do the faithful fast form during lent?
Some people fast all through the season of Lent and some on Fridays. Fridays are observed as a day of penance in remembrance of Jesus’ death. Meat was historically considered a luxury, so abstaining from it symbolizes sacrifice and devotion. The fact is that if we want to change lifestyle, perhaps forgetting alcohol, sweets and cigarettes is the way to go. I would add that if we can give up for 40 days, we can give it up all together and do ourselves a favor.
Pope Francis suggests that if we can’t change our heart, a harder fast is needed — much more than sweets or alcohol, we need to fast from indifference towards others. “Indifference to our neighbor and to God also represents a real temptation for us Christians. Each year during Lent we need to fast from anger, fast from complaints, hurting words, selfishness and pessimism.” Pope Francis. The main purpose is self-discipline and spiritual reflection.
What are the stations of the cross?
The Stations of the Cross is a devotional prayer that reflects on 14 moments from Jesus’ Passion, from His condemnation to His burial. Traditionally prayed on Fridays, especially during Lent, it allows Catholics to spiritually journey with Christ in His suffering.
The beginning in the end:
Lent is a profound season of conversion, reminding Catholics of the need for repentance, self-discipline, and renewed faith. It culminates in the joy of Easter, celebrating Christ’s victory over sin and death. Wishing everyone a meaningful season of lent.