Last Judgment

Cathédrale d'Amiens, façade - détail

Het Laatste Oordeel

John Martin - The Last Judgement - Google Art Project

Cathedrale Saint-Guy Prague facade sud mosaique Jugement dernier

Michelangelo Buonarroti - Jugement dernier

MHS Sad Ostateczny XVII w Lipie p

Last Judgment refers to the Christian belief in a final and eternal judgment by God of every person who has ever lived. This event is also known by other names such as the Final Judgment, Day of Judgment, Judgment Day, Doomsday, or the Last Day. It is a central and significant concept in Christian theology, encapsulated in the Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed, which are recited by millions of Christians around the world.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of the Last Judgment is rooted in various passages of the Bible. In the New Testament, the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 25:31-46) provides a vivid parable of the Last Judgment, where Jesus describes how he will separate the righteous from the wicked, likening them to sheep and goats respectively. The Book of Revelation, often attributed to John of Patmos, offers a more apocalyptic vision of the Last Judgment, detailing the final battle between good and evil, and the judgment of the dead according to their deeds.

Theology

In Christian theology, the Last Judgment is the final and ultimate act in the history of salvation, marking the end of the world as we know it. It is believed that at this time, Jesus Christ will return in glory to judge the living and the dead. The righteous will be rewarded with eternal life in Heaven, while the wicked will be condemned to eternal punishment in Hell.

Different Christian denominations have varying interpretations of the details surrounding the Last Judgment. For example, Catholicism teaches the existence of a particular judgment immediately after death, where each soul is judged and sent to Heaven, Purgatory, or Hell. The Last Judgment is then seen as a final revelation of God's justice and mercy to all.

Iconography

The Last Judgment has been a popular subject in Christian art, depicted in numerous frescoes, paintings, and sculptures throughout history. One of the most famous representations is the Last Judgment fresco by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel, which vividly portrays the drama and intensity of the final judgment.

Cultural Impact

The concept of the Last Judgment has had a profound impact on Western culture, influencing literature, art, and music. It has been a source of inspiration for countless artists, writers, and composers, who have explored themes of morality, justice, and the afterlife in their works.

Contemporary Views

In modern times, the idea of the Last Judgment continues to hold significance for many Christians, though interpretations and emphasis on the event may vary. Some view it as a literal future event, while others interpret it more metaphorically, focusing on its ethical and moral implications for how to live one's life.

See Also

• Eschatology
• Apocalypse
• Heaven
• Hell
• Second Coming