Introduction
On February 14, 2024, millions of Christians worldwide will commemorate the beginning of a momentous era.
This is because, in Western Christian denominations, Ash Wednesday signifies the start of Lent.
Many people choose to give up something they enjoy for Lent, such as social media use, chocolate, or candies.
Some may choose to commit to anything, such as increasing their household chore assistance or trying to do good deeds for their loved ones.
This year, Easter Sunday falls on March 31 while Lent begins on Wednesday, February 14.
What is Lent?
A lot of Christians observe 40 days of fasting called Lent to reflect on the events leading up to and including the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, whose life and teachings serve as the cornerstone of Christianity.
The 40-day season is known as Lent, which derives from an old English word that means "lengthen."
This is due to the season in which it occurs; as summer draws near, the days grow longer at this time of year.
At the very end of Lent, on Easter, Christians prepare to celebrate Jesus's resurrection with a feast day. It is a time for introspection, repentance, and prayer.
What is Ash Wednesday?
The day following Shrove Tuesday, often known as Pancake Day, is Ash Wednesday.
The exact date of Ash Wednesday varies each, as it coincides with Easter.
Ash Wednesday got its name from the unique ceremonies held in many churches on that day, during which attendees are marked with ash on their foreheads.
The ash is usually produced by burning special palm wood crosses that were used in church services on Palm Sunday of the previous year. Occasionally, it is combined with a unique oil.
How long is the Lent?
The 40 days of Lent, excluding Sundays, that precede Easter begin on Ash Wednesday.
Lent begins on February 14 and Easter Sunday falls on March 31, 2024.
Why do people give things up until Easter Sunday?
This is something that millions of people undertake as a test of self-control and a gesture of sacrifice during Lent.
Christians interpret this as a symbolising the 40-day fast and prayer period that Jesus Christ observed in the desert before his crucifixion.
In the New Testament of the Bible, Satan tempt Jesus to reject God and worship him instead, but he resisted. For this reason, humans may also give up something to test their own self-control.
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