Question:

Can you briefly explain what the crucifixion of Jesus is, aswell as the atonement (according to Christianity), and why these two concepts are so important to Christianity?

Answer:

Crucifixion is an ancient method of execution, in which the victim was tied or nailed to a large wooden cross (Latin: crux) and left to hang there until dead. Thus, crucifixion does not necessarily guarantee the death of a victim. It could also be a means of severe torturing.

The mainstream Christians today strongly believe in the crucifixion of Jesus. The standard account of what historically is claimed to have happened during the crucifixion of Jesus in today’s Christianity, is based on the accounts in the four canonical gospels, although their authors are generally regarded as anonymous. In these accounts, Jesus was crucified, died on the cross, and buried outside of Jerusalem during the thirty third year of his life. Then he arose from the dead and he was raised up to heaven.

The crucifixion of Jesus is not a mere historical event in today’s Christianity. It is of fundamental importance to the theology of most contemporary Christians. As a result the cross has become the primary symbol of Christianity. ‘Atonement’; the dogma of reconciliation between God and humans by the redemptive life and death of Jesus, lies under the cross of Jesus.  To them, Jesus died on the cross so that the sins of those who believe in him can be forgiven and thus they can gain salvation. They regard the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus with the conviction that all took place ‘according to the scriptures’. (1 Cor. 15:3-5)

According to the teachings of Paul (not Prophet Jesus) without crucifixion, resurrection of Jesus becomes irrelevant and without resurrection, Christianity itself is rendered meaningless. Paul in his first letter to Corinthians claims: “But if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching amounts to nothing and your faith is futile.” (1 Cor 15:14)

Sheikh Mansour Leghaei