Ash Wednesday is a holy day when Christians pray and keep fasts. Before Ash Wednesday, people belonging to the Christian religion celebrate Shrove Tuesday. It falls on the first day of Lent, which is a 40-day period of preparation and fasting before Easter. It is important to note that, unlike Christmas, Ash Wednesday, and Easter are not celebrated on a fixed date. The period of Lent begins on the Monday of the seventh week before Easter.
Lent ends on a Friday that is nine days before Easter. You can take a look online to know the exact dates and details. Ash Wednesday 2023 is being observed on 22 February. People who follow Christianity must take note of the date. They should also know the Lent period dates for this year and other important details to stay updated.
Here is the history, significance, and importance of Ash Wednesday that you should read if you are unaware. Keep reading to know the details and celebrate Ash Wednesday on Wednesday.
Ash Wednesday 2023: Significance
People who believe in Christ across the world observe Ash Wednesday as a day for prayers, acts of charity, and fortifications. During this time, many people give up things they like as they fast.
They sacrifice their favourite food items, stop watching television, or use social media. It is a period when people practice good deeds and help the ones who are suffering such as the needy and the poor.
On Ash Wednesday, people and priests apply ash on the forehead before entering the church. While applying ash, they say, "Thou art dust and unto dust thou shall return."
Ash Wednesday 2023: History
Ash Wednesday began in ancient Rome, where people who committed sins wore sack clothes and covered themselves with ash. This was considered an act of public penance. Easter marks the end of the 40 days period of fasting, which is called Lent.
Holy Thursday and Good Friday are a part of the Holy Week which concludes on Easter Sunday. Earlier, the length of the Lent celebrations differed, however, eventually it began six weeks before Easter.
Since this provided only 36 days of fasting, in the 7th century, four days were added to make it 40 days of fasting. One should know these details about Lent and Ash Wednesday.
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