Ascension of Jesus

Ascension of Jesus refers to the Christian belief that Jesus Christ, after his crucifixion, resurrection, and appearing to his disciples, ascended bodily into heaven. This event is said to have occurred 40 days after the resurrection. The Ascension signifies the end of Jesus' earthly ministry and the beginning of his heavenly reign alongside God the Father. It is a fundamental tenet within Christian theology, symbolizing both the physical departure of Christ from Earth and his elevation in glory.

Biblical Accounts

The Ascension of Jesus is primarily described in two New Testament texts: the Gospel of Luke (24:50-53) and the Acts of the Apostles (1:9-11), both attributed to the same author. In Luke, Jesus leads his disciples to Bethany, blesses them, and is then carried up into heaven. Acts provides a more detailed account, stating that Jesus was taken up "before their very eyes," and a cloud hid him from their sight. Two men in white (interpreted as angels) then appear and tell the disciples that Jesus will return in the same way he was seen going into heaven.

Theological Significance

The Ascension is crucial for several theological reasons. It marks the definitive entrance of Jesus' humanity into divine glory in God's heavenly domain, signifying that human beings also have the potential to enter into the divine life. It confirms Jesus' role as the mediator between God and man, as he is now physically present in heaven to intercede on behalf of humanity. Furthermore, the Ascension is seen as a precursor to the Second Coming of Jesus, where he will return to Earth in glory.

Liturgical Celebration

The Ascension of Jesus is celebrated as a major feast day in many Christian denominations, known as Ascension Day, Feast of the Ascension, or Holy Thursday. It occurs 40 days after Easter Sunday, on a Thursday. The day commemorates Jesus' ascension into heaven and is observed with special church services, processions, and, in some traditions, the extinguishing of the Paschal candle.

Iconography and Cultural Impact

In Christian art, the Ascension has been a popular subject since the 6th century. Depictions often show Jesus ascending with his hands raised, blessing the disciples, who are looking on. Sometimes, the Virgin Mary is present among the disciples, and angels are shown accompanying Jesus as he ascends.

Controversies and Interpretations

The historical and physical reality of the Ascension has been a matter of debate among theologians and scholars. Some view it as a literal event, while others interpret it symbolically, seeing the Ascension as representing Jesus' exaltation and the spread of his teachings rather than a physical ascent into the sky.

See Also

• Resurrection of Jesus
• Christianity
• Heaven in Christianity
• Second Coming