What side was Jesus Christ pierced on?

As for the specific side on which Jesus was pierced, tradition has generally held that it was His right side. This detail is not explicitly mentioned in the Gospel accounts, but it is widely accepted in Christian tradition and artistic representations of the crucifixion.

The piercing of Jesus Christ on the cross is a poignant and significant moment in Christian theology, symbolizing the sacrifice and atonement for the sins of humanity. According to the Gospel accounts, Jesus was crucified, and one of the Roman soldiers pierced His side with a spear to verify His death and to fulfill the prophecies about the Messiah.

In the Gospel of John, we read about this piercing in detail. John 19:34-37 describes the events that unfolded at the crucifixion of Jesus: "Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: 'Not one of his bones will be broken,' and, as another scripture says, 'They will look on the one they have pierced.'"

The fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies with the piercing of Jesus' side holds profound symbolism. In Zechariah 12:10, it is prophesied: "And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on Me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son." This piercing of Jesus' side confirms His identity as the promised Messiah and serves as a fulfillment of Scripture.

Additionally, the piercing of Jesus' side serves as a powerful symbol of the sacrifice and atonement for sin. The sudden flow of blood and water from His side is believed to represent the shedding of His blood for the forgiveness of sins and the cleansing of humanity. This act of piercing was not a random act of violence, but a deliberate and purposeful act that underscores the redemptive work of Christ on the cross.

As for the specific side on which Jesus was pierced, tradition has generally held that it was His right side. This detail is not explicitly mentioned in the Gospel accounts, but it is widely accepted in Christian tradition and artistic representations of the crucifixion.

The piercing of Jesus' side is a powerful reminder of the depth of God's love and the extent to which He was willing to go to reconcile humanity to Himself. It serves as a potent symbol of the sacrifice and atonement made by Christ for the salvation of all who believe in Him.

.

Subscribe to Bible Analysis

Sign up now to get access to the library of members-only issues.
Jamie Larson
Subscribe