Unveiling the Subversive Meaning of Good Friday: A Girardian Perspective

Last year, a profound experience led a former agnostic back to a Good Friday service after decades. Amidst the familiar rituals, an unsettling realization stirred within him. The re-enactment of Christ’s Passion urged the congregation to partake in the shouts of ‘Crucify him!’ – a jarring call to identify with the hostile crowd.

Reflecting on this, the journalist delves into the unconventional views of Renu00e9 Girard, a Stanford polymath, whose theories challenge the prevailing narrative of cultural and religious similarities. Girard posits that while pagan myths often justify violence, Judaism and Christianity expose and condemn such acts, thereby subverting the societal norm.

Girard extrapolates his theories from biblical tales like Cain and Abel, emphasizing the foundational role of sacrificial violence in human history. He uncovers the intricate link between mimetic desire and societal violence, weaving a compelling narrative through Adam and Eve, Hebrew prophets, and ultimately, the sacrificial death of Jesus.

Furthermore, Girard’s nuanced interpretation of Original Sin transcends conventional notions. By highlighting the inherent violence and scapegoating present in societal structures, Judaism and Christianity strive to unveil the innocence of victims and challenge the status quo.

In a contemporary context, Girard’s insights shed light on the escalating political animosity, with factions on the Right and Left resorting to demonization. Echoing Girard’s concerns, the journalist expresses trepidation over the resurgence of antisemitism, fearing it as a potent indicator of resurging scapegoating tendencies.

As Girard’s profound analyses continue to resonate in a world grappling with deep-seated conflicts, the journalist grapples with the unsettling truth embedded in Good Friday’s narrative, reminding readers of the inherent duality of human nature.