The accounts of Jesus's last moments on the cross are found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. While the specific details and emphasis vary slightly, here's a general summary of what they describe:
* Darkness: All three synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) mention a period of darkness that covered the land for three hours, from noon until three in the afternoon.
* Words from the Cross: Jesus is recorded as saying several things while on the cross, often referred to as the "Seven Last Words":
* "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34) - A plea for forgiveness for those crucifying him.
* "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." (Luke 23:43) - Spoken to the thief crucified beside him who asked to be remembered.
* "Woman, behold, your son!" ... "Behold, your mother!" (John 19:26-27) - Addressing his mother Mary and the disciple John, entrusting them to each other's care.
* "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34) - A cry of anguish, quoting Psalm 22.
* "I thirst." (John 19:28) - A statement of his physical suffering.
* "It is finished." (John 19:30) - Signifying the completion of his mission.
* "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" (Luke 23:46) - A final act of surrender to God.
* Death: After these words, the Gospels record that Jesus died. Matthew and Mark describe him as crying out with a loud voice before he breathed his last.
* Events After Death:
* The temple curtain tearing: The curtain in the temple is said to have torn in two from top to bottom. (Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45)
* Earthquake and resurrection: Matthew mentions an earthquake, rocks splitting, and tombs opening, with some saints being raised from the dead. (Matthew 27:51-53)
* Centurion's declaration: The Roman centurion who witnessed the crucifixion declared, "Truly this was the Son of God!" or "Certainly this man was innocent!" (Matthew 27:54, Mark 15:39, Luke 23:47)