Jesus on the cross : a historical and theological perspective

Abstract

In this essay we will attempt to deal with the Passion Narratives of Jesus as narrated in the four Gospels, with special attention being given to the crucifixion of Jesus. In doing so, we will explore the historical background of the Roman tradition of the crucifixion which will lead us to examine the way how each Evangelist narrates the crucifixion of Jesus. This exercise will help us to illustrate how each Evangelist combines historical details with his own theological perspective on the meaning of this event. In turn, we will study the references to different phenomena which accompany Jesus' death on the cross.