Words from the Cross

In the Beginning

A man’s last words are among the truest marks of his character. Frequently they leave behind a legacy for his sorrowing loved ones—one of memories most treasured resting places, and a source of comfort and consolation in time of loss.

This was true also of Jesus of Nazareth. Dying with the incomparable agony of the cross, he uttered his last expressions, often called “The Seven Words from the Cross.” In fact, it is debatable whether there were six or seven different expressions, since the first of these—“Father, forgive them for they know not what they do”—is not found in several of the oldest manuscripts.

Whatever the value of that discussion, this issue of The Herald examines each of these expressions in detail. The seven last words have been condensed as follows:

·         “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”

·         “Verily, I say unto thee, thou shalt be with me in paradise.”

·         “Woman, behold thy son . . . behold thy mother.”

·         “My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me.”

·         “I thirst.”

·         “It is finished.”

·         “Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit.”

These final utterances of the Savior run the gamut of emotion from personal need, to thoughtful care for others, to a triumphant report that he had completed the work he was sent to do and was ready to commit the final judgment to his heavenly Father.

These final utterances of the Savior run the gamut of emotion from personal need, to thoughtful care for others, to a triumphant report that he had completed the work he was sent to do and was ready to commit the final judgment to his heavenly Father.

As once again the season comes around when Christians contemplate the life and sacrificial death or Jesus of Nazareth, these words are especially meaningful. We are pleased to submit them to our readers as an aid in the Memorial mediations.