Many Christians across the world share the same curiosity: How long was Jesus on the cross? Indeed, the Lord’s crucifixion is a very symbolic event in history. According to scholars, how long Jesus suffered reflects the nature of his sacrifice and many teachings. The duration of his crucifixion can actually be derived from various sources.
This includes the Gospel accounts, historical context, and symbolic meanings. It’s also important to understand how the Romans used to execute people. Stay tuned as the entire timeline of Jesus’ crucifixion is discussed ahead. This blog entirely revolves around the question “How long was Jesus on the cross?” and much more.
How Long Was Jesus On The Cross?
In the scriptures, it is directly mentioned that Jesus was on the cross from the 6th hour to the 9th hour. For Jesus Christ, the first hour of the day was at 6 AM. Therefore, the 6th hour would be 12 PM in the afternoon, and the 9th hour is 3 PM. Simply put, Jesus was on the cross from 12 PM to 3 PM. According to Matthew 27:45-56, a darkness spread across the whole land while he was being crucified. These bible verses represent many supernatural events that happened at the time, aside from the darkness in the afternoon. Jesus was on the cross for less time in comparison to other victims. This may be due to the physical trauma he suffered before the crucifixion.
Supernatural Events & Miracles During Jesus’ Crucifixion – Matthew 27:45-56
Jesus Christ was on the cross for 3 long hours in the afternoon. Although it was daytime, the entire land was covered in darkness. Similarly, numerous other supernatural events are represented in Matthew 27:45-56 Bible verses.
| Matthew 27:45 (Dark Afternoon) | From 12 PM to 3 PM, a supernatural darkness covered the entire land. Eliminating the light of the day, this darkness spread unnaturally. |
| Matthew 27:46-47 (Tears of Jesus) | According to this verse, Jesus was crying in the Aramaic language while he was on the cross. He said, “My God, why have you forsaken me?”. The people around him thought that Jesus was calling for Elijah. |
| Matthew 27:48-49 (Wine Offering) | Someone who was witnessing the crucifixion offered a sour wine-soaked sponge to Jesus Christ. However, the others told him to stop and wait for Elijah to save him. |
| Matthew 27:50 (Death of Jesus) | This Bible verse showcases Jesus crying out again and letting go of his spirit. This is the moment Son of God died on the cross. |
| Matthew 27:51-52 (Temple Curtain and Earthquake) | There was a temple near the crucifixion site. From top to bottom, the curtain of this temple was split into 2 halves. At the same time, the earth started shaking violently. The rocks were also torn and split apart. |
| Matthew 27:52-53 (Aftermath of Jesus’ Resurrection) | Soon after he died, Jesus Christ was resurrected, which was seen as a divine miracle. After Jesus’ Resurrection, many tombs opened and holy people were raised back from death. All of them started coming out of the tombs and appeared in the holy city. |
| Matthew 27:54 (Confession of the Roman Centurion) | The Roman Centurion (Commander of Soldiers) was guarding Jesus Christ, along with others. He witnessed all of the events and miracles mentioned above. The Centurion was filled with awe and started believing in the divine nature of Jesus Christ. Thereafter, he confessed and declared that Jesus was truly the Son of God. |
| Matthew 27:55-56 (Witnessing of the women) | Indeed, Jesus Christ was followed by many women from Galilee. These women witnessed the resurrection of Jesus Christ and all of the other events that took place. However, they were watching from a distance for safety. The witnessing women included Mary Magdalene, Mary (Mother of James and Joseph), the mother of Zebedee’s sons, etc. |
Method of Crucifixion & How Long Did It Usually Take?
The victims crucified by the Romans as criminals usually lasted for many hours and days on the cross before dying. In the case of Jesus Christ, he was on the cross for 3 hours from 12 PM to 3 PM. For the Romans, crucifixion was the main form of punishment. Many slaves, rebels, and criminals suffered from the same fate. The barbaric nature of crucifixion is undeniable. And, it’s also very humiliating as everything happens publicly. This brutal mode of punishment was meant to be a warning for others. Major causes of death while being were blood loss and dehydration.
7 Sayings of Jesus On The Cross – How Long Was Jesus On The Cross?
These 7 Saying of Jesus on the cross represent his emotions at the time of crucifixion. He was on the cross for a long time, and these sayings showcase his mindset. At the same time, these sayings also deliver important values and teachings. All of the 7 sayings are mentioned below:
| S. No. | Bible Verse | Sayings of Jesus Christ | Representation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Luke 23:34 | “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” | Almighty God’s forgiving nature |
| 2. | Luke 23:43 | “Verily I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with me in paradise.” | Redemption of humanity |
| 3. | John 19:26-27 | “Woman, behold thy son! And, behold thy mother!” | Significance of relationships |
| 4. | Matthew 27:46 | “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” | Jesus felt abandoned |
| 5. | John 19:28 | “I thirst” | Suffering and distress |
| 6. | John 19:30 | “It is finished.” | Victory |
| 7. | Luke 23:46 | “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” | Reunion |
Conclusion
It is hoped that this blog answered all of your questions. In conclusion, Jesus was on the cross for 3 hours until he died. From 12 PM to 3 PM, he continuously suffered while being crucified. This event showcases the Lord’s sacrifice for the salvation of humanity. Furthermore, Christians get to learn a lot of human values from this event and the Bible verses surrounding it.
FAQs
1. How long was Jesus on the cross?
To be specific, Jesus Christ suffered for around 3 hours on the cross before dying.
2. What led to Jesus’s arrest and crucifixion?
One of the biggest factors was the betrayal of Judas Iscariot. He received 30 silver pieces from the Romans as payment for the betrayal. Judas was one of the closest disciples, yet he became the reason for Jesus’ arrest and death.
3. Who declared that Jesus was truly the Son of God?
It was the Roman Centurion who commanded a designated group of soldiers.
Also, Read: Why Did Jesus Die On The Cross? | Why Did Jesus Curse The Fig Tree?
