Why Is It Called a Good Friday

Why Is It Called a Good Fridayの全体像を詳しく解説してご紹介します。

The most widely accepted explanation comes from the Old English term “Gōd Frīġedæġ.” In Old English, the word gōd meant both “good” and “holy.” So “Good Friday” was originally “Holy Friday.”

Over centuries, as language evolved, the “holy” connotation faded while “good” stuck. It’s a linguistic sleight of hand that left modern speakers scratching their heads.

Fun fact: In many other languages, the name makes the meaning clearer. In German, it’s Karfreitag (“Sorrowful Friday”). In Spanish, Viernes Santo (“Holy Friday”). Only English decided to go with the upbeat adjective.

Why “Good” Won Out

The change wasn’t random. Early Christians believed that the crucifixion, while horrific in the moment, was the ultimate good deed for humanity. It was a cosmic rescue mission.

Think of it like a surgeon cutting into a patient. The act itself is violent and bloody, but the intent and result are healing. The day is “good” because of what it leads to: redemption and, for believers, the resurrection on Easter Sunday.

This isn’t just theology; it’s a masterclass in reframing. It teaches us that not all good things feel good in the moment.