Bible Question:
What are your thoughts about Ash Wednesday and Lent. What does the Bible teach?
Bible Answer:
The Bible says nothing about Ash Wednesday and Lent. While it is true that some Old Testament saints put ashes on their bodies in times of mourning, the Bible never tells us to apply ashes to our body or forehead because Jesus died and subsequently returned to life. The application of using ashes, along with sackcloth, during periods of mourning (Esther 4:1-3; Isaiah 58:5; Jeremiah 6:26; Daniel 9:3; Jonah 3:6; and Matthew 11:21) was an ancient practice.
Ash Wednesday occurs on the first day of Lent. During Lent Roman Catholics and others will involve themselves in fasting, repentance, and various spiritual disciplines in preparation for Easter. Lent begins forty days before Easter – usually between February 4 and March 11.
Conclusion:
Some claim that Ash Wednesday has pagan origins. Whatever the origin, it is not based in scripture. Ash Wednesday was adopted by the Roman Catholic Church at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.