Learn more about Paschal

Introduction to Paschal

The term “Paschal” is derived from the Latin word paschalis, which in turn comes from the Greek pascha (Πάσχα), a transliteration of the Aramaic and Hebrew word Pesach (פֶּסַח), meaning “Passover.” In the Bible and Christian theology, “Paschal” refers to anything related to the Jewish Passover and, by extension, to Jesus Christ's death and resurrection, which are viewed as the fulfillment of the Passover. This term is foundational in understanding not only a significant Jewish festival but also central Christian beliefs concerning salvation and redemption.

Paschal Pronunciation

“Paschal” is pronounced as PASS-kuhl, with the emphasis on the first syllable.

Paschal in the Bible

The word “Paschal” itself does not appear frequently in English Bible translations but is commonly used in theological discussions, particularly regarding:

• Paschal Lamb: This refers to the lamb that was sacrificed during the Jewish festival of Passover. It was to be without blemish and its blood was placed on the doorposts of the Israelites’ homes in Egypt so the angel of death would “pass over” them (Exodus 12:1–30). This lamb is seen in Christian theology as a type or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ.
• Jesus as the Paschal Lamb: In the New Testament, Jesus is identified as the true Paschal Lamb whose sacrifice delivers humanity from sin and death. Paul explicitly states, “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). This theme is carried throughout the Gospels and the book of Revelation (John 1:29; Revelation 5:6).
• Paschal Feast: The Last Supper, which Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion, is considered a Passover meal. It is the basis for the Christian Eucharist or Communion, symbolizing the new covenant in Christ’s blood (Luke 22:7-20; Matthew 26:17-30).

Related Themes and Meanings to Paschal

The term “Paschal” is laden with deep theological and redemptive meaning. It bridges the Jewish celebration of liberation from Egypt with the Christian celebration of spiritual liberation through Christ’s death and resurrection.

• Redemption: Just as the Israelites were redeemed from Egypt, believers are redeemed from sin.
• Sacrifice: The Paschal lamb prefigures Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross.
• New Covenant: The Paschal sacrifice in Christ inaugurates a new covenant between God and His people (Hebrews 9:11-15).
• Eschatology: The Paschal Lamb also plays a prominent role in apocalyptic literature, especially in Revelation, where the Lamb who was slain is glorified and rules (Revelation 5:6–14).

Paschal in Christian Tradition

The term “Paschal” extends beyond biblical texts into Christian liturgical life:

• Paschal Mystery: A term used in Christian theology to refer to the passion, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ.
• Paschal Candle: A large candle used during the Easter Vigil in Western Christianity, symbolizing the light of Christ coming into the world.
• Paschal Triduum: The three-day period from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday, commemorating the suffering, death, and resurrection of Christ.
• Paschal Greeting: A traditional Christian greeting on Easter: “Christ is risen!” with the response, “He is risen indeed!”

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Paschal

- The English word “Easter” is often used in place of “Paschal” in some translations, though “Paschal” is more faithful to the original biblical and theological terminology.
- The Jewish Passover, and therefore the Paschal concept, is one of the most ancient and continuously observed religious festivals in the world.
- In early Christianity, controversies such as the Quartodeciman Controversy debated when the Paschal celebration (Easter) should be held, highlighting its importance in the early church.
- The Paschal moon refers to the full moon following the vernal equinox, used to calculate the date of Easter Sunday each year.

Conclusion

The term “Paschal” is a vital theological and liturgical term that encapsulates the heart of both Jewish and Christian narratives of deliverance. From the blood of the lamb on Israelite doorposts to the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross, the Paschal theme weaves through Scripture as a symbol of God's saving power and covenantal love.