Jesus Christ is believed to have spoken seven last words during his crucifixion, which are recorded in the four canonical Gospels of the New Testament. There has been some debate over what exactly his last words were before dying on the cross.
The Seven Last Words of Jesus
The seven last words, as they are commonly called, are quotes attributed to Jesus during his crucifixion. According to the Gospels, they were:
- “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)
- “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
- “Woman, here is your son.” (John 19:26)
- “Here is your mother.” (John 19:27)
- “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34)
- “I am thirsty.” (John 19:28)
- “It is finished.” (John 19:30)
These quotes give insight into Jesus’ thoughts and feelings as he was dying on the cross. The first three words were spoken while Jesus was being nailed to the cross. The next three were said in the hours between the crucifixion and death. The final word, “it is finished,” is considered by most scholars to be his last statement before dying.
What Was Jesus’ Very Last Statement?
While there is widespread agreement on the seven last words, there has been some debate over which one was literally the last thing Jesus said before he died. The two main candidates are:
“It is finished.” (John 19:30)
This statement, uttered by Jesus right before he “gave up his spirit,” is taken by many to be his final words. The Greek word translated here as “it is finished” is tetelestai, which also means “paid in full” or “accomplished.” This suggests Jesus was declaring that his work of salvation was complete by dying on the cross for the sins of humanity.
“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)
Luke’s Gospel records that after uttering this, Jesus breathed his last. This quote from Psalm 31:5 reflects Jesus entrusting his spirit to God. Some contend that Luke, writing after John, may have felt this a more fitting final statement for Jesus to make.
Conclusion
While we cannot know with absolute certainty which of these statements was the very last to come from Jesus’ lips, there are good arguments for both “It is finished” and “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” Perhaps they were spoken in quick succession. In any case, both capture pivotal truths about Jesus and his death on the cross. “It is finished” emphasizes the completion of his salvific work, while “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” shows his trust in the Father. Through his final words, Jesus revealed that his suffering was purposeful and that he remained committed to God to the very end.