The Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ: Foundation of Orthodox Christianity

The Resurrection (ትንሳኤ) of our Lord Jesus Christ is not just a historical event but a transformative victory that forms the foundation of Orthodox Christianity. This pivotal moment reshapes humanity's relationship with God, sin, and death, establishing core beliefs that guide the faithful in their spiritual journey.

The Importance of the Resurrection :

As narrated in the Gospels and emphasized by Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:17-19, the Resurrection holds profound significance in faith and salvation. "And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable."

St. John Chrysostom further underscores the essential nature of the Resurrection stating, "The Resurrection is the foundation of our faith. If Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty." (Homily 88 on the Gospel of John)

Implications of the Resurrection for Believers:

Victory over Death: Christ's Resurrection signifies victory over death, providing believers with the assurance of eternal life as stated in John 11:25-26, where Christ said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die."

Defeat of Sin and Evil: Through His sacrifice and Resurrection, the power of sin and evil is defeated, opening the way for a life guided by grace. Romans 6:4-8 reinforces this victory by highlighting that through Christ's Resurrection, the power of sin and evil is overcome.

Hope of Future Resurrection: The Resurrection of Christ serves as an introduction to the future resurrection of all believers, offering a glimpse of the eternal hope awaiting them, as illuminated in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22.

In conclusion, the Resurrection of Christ symbolizes victory over darkness, offering hope and illumination to believers. It serves as a testament to God's boundless love for humanity and indicates a future improved by Christ's victory. Pascha signifies, a season of restoration, joy, and decisive proclamation: “ክርስቶስ ተንሥአ እሙታን፤ በዐቢይ ኃይል ወሥልጣን፤ አሰሮ ለሰይጣን፤ አግዐዞ ለአዳም፤ ሰላም እምይዕዜሰ፤ ኮነ፤ ፍስሐ ወሰላም፡፡”

May the joy and blessings of the Resurrection shine upon you and your loved ones!