The Holy Fire, also known as the Holy Light, is an annual event believed to be a miracle that occurs on Great Saturday (the Saturday before Orthodox Easter) at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. It is considered the most ancient continuous miracle in the Christian world.
Here's a breakdown of what happens and what it is believed to be:
* The Ceremony: The Greek Orthodox Patriarch (or another Orthodox Archbishop) enters the Edicule (the small structure said to enclose the tomb of Jesus) after it has been inspected and sealed by Israeli authorities to ensure there is no source of fire inside. He is accompanied by Armenian Orthodox clergy.
* The Waiting: Outside the Edicule, a large crowd of Orthodox Christians, as well as pilgrims from other denominations, waits in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Prayers are chanted and expectations run high.
* The Descent (Believed): The Patriarch recites specific prayers. According to tradition, a blue light emanates from within the tomb, and the Patriarch emerges with candles lit from this light. This is considered the Holy Fire or Holy Light.
* Distribution: The Patriarch passes the Holy Fire to those gathered inside the church, and it is quickly spread throughout the congregation. Many believe the flames don't burn for the first few minutes.
* Transportation: The Holy Fire is then transported to various Orthodox countries, often by special flights, to be used in Easter celebrations.
Beliefs surrounding the Holy Fire:
* Divine Origin: Believers consider the Holy Fire a direct manifestation of God's grace and a symbol of Christ's resurrection. It is seen as proof of the true faith.
* Non-Burning Properties (Initially): Some witnesses claim that the Holy Fire doesn't burn them for a short period after it first appears, allowing them to pass their hands through the flames without harm. This is a key element of the miracle narrative.
* A Sign: The appearance of the Holy Fire is interpreted as a sign of God's blessing and a reminder of the power of faith.
Criticisms and Skepticism:
* Lack of Verification: The event has not been scientifically verified.
* Alternative Explanations: Skeptics suggest that the Patriarch uses a hidden lighter or other mundane means to light the candles.
* Religious Debate: Other Christian denominations, particularly Protestants, generally do not accept the Holy Fire as a genuine miracle.
In summary: The Holy Fire is a central event in Orthodox Christianity, considered a miracle that occurs annually at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It is believed that a divine light emanates from the tomb of Jesus, igniting candles held by the Patriarch, who then shares the Holy Fire with the gathered faithful. However, the event is also subject to scrutiny and skepticism due to the lack of scientific evidence and the possibility of alternative explanations.