holy saturday
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Definition
Holy Saturday (noun) The Saturday immediately preceding Easter Sunday. It is the final day of the Christian season of Lent and Holy Week, commemorating the day Jesus Christ's body lay in the tomb after his crucifixion on Good Friday.
Usage
Holy Saturday is observed as a day of solemn reflection, mourning, and anticipation within the Christian liturgical calendar. It marks the transition between the sorrow of the crucifixion and the joy of the resurrection celebrated on Easter.
Examples
- The church service on Holy Saturday is often quiet and meditative.
- Many Christians fast or maintain a somber attitude on Holy Saturday.
- The Easter Vigil, which begins after nightfall on Holy Saturday, inaugurates the celebration of Easter.
Advanced Usage
- Liturgical Observance: In many Christian traditions, Holy Saturday includes the Easter Vigil, a service held after dark that features the lighting of the Paschal candle, readings from scripture, baptisms, and the first proclamation of "Alleluia" since before Lent.
- The Harrowing of Hell: Some Christian theologies reflect on the concept of Christ's descent into the realm of the dead on Holy Saturday, an event sometimes referred to as the "Harrowing of Hell."
Variants and Related Words
- Easter Eve: A less formal term sometimes used synonymously with Holy Saturday, particularly referring to the evening.
- Black Saturday: An informal name used in some cultures and traditions, emphasizing the mournful nature of the day.
- Great Sabbath: A name used in some Christian traditions, highlighting the connection to the Jewish Sabbath and Christ's "rest" in the tomb.
Synonyms
- Easter Eve
- The Great Sabbath (in specific theological contexts)
Notes on Meaning
Holy Saturday is distinct from the Saturday during Lent (often called "Lenten Saturday"). It refers specifically and exclusively to the singular Saturday between Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
Noun
- the Saturday before Easter; the last day of Lent