From Mockery to Majesty: The Divine irony of Christ's Coronation

Certain historical moments resonate deeply, especially as we reverently commemorate the Elevation of the Venerable and Life-Giving Cross. Today, our reflection is drawn towards the dual-layered irony evident in the crucifixion of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. From afar, this event appears as a heart-wrenching betrayal, but upon closer examination, it unfolds as the divine coronation of the King of Creation.

The Holy Tradition, passed down through the ages and safeguarded by the wisdom of the Church, instructs us to approach the Sacred Scriptures with a discerning heart. While Scriptures undeniably recount actual historical events, they also carry a profound theological depth. This underlying significance persists, offering an understanding that transcends mere historical details. As affirmed by reflections and writings of the Church Fathers, these accounts should not be seen as mere historical footnotes. Instead, they emerge as timeless markers, each a guiding light illuminating the profound mysteries of faith and, in doing so, unerringly pointing humanity toward the path of salvation.

Chapter 19 of John's Gospel showcases the intricate interplay between human intent and divine will. In this chapter, Pontius Pilate, perhaps unwittingly, finds himself at the center of a celestial drama. As he condemns Jesus, the story moves beyond mere historical recounting.

Here, the moment's irony unfolds with uncanny clarity. To truly grasp its depth, let us juxtapose the crucifixion scene with the conventional images of a royal coronation. In customary ceremonies, an incoming monarch is draped in sumptuous robes, symbolizing their newfound authority. They are crowned, typically with a glittering diadem, representing the splendor and weight of their reign. A parallel, though twisted, coronation unfolds in the Passion of Christ. The robe of mockery mirrors those regal fabrics; the crown of thorns cruelly mimics the royal diadems. And the judgment seat where Christ stands, rather than being a pedestal of honor, becomes one of condemnation. While the Jews sought to craft an irony by mockingly crowning Him "King of the Jews," the ultimate irony lies in the divine orchestration: in their very act of ridicule, they inadvertently and truthfully crowned Him, not as a mere earthly king, but as the eternal King of Kings.

Christ the Bridegroom Icon (Courtesy of Damascene Gallery)

Language in the scriptures bridges the temporal and eternal. The term βῆμα, while commonly signifying the "judgment seat," resonates with undertones of authority and grandeur. The same term, found in 2 Corinthians 5:10, underscores more than just a linguistic parallel; it firmly establishes Christ's unsurpassed power and the eternal position of reverence He was destined to occupy.

The crucifixion, beyond being a moment of immense pain, tells a story of hope and redemption. It demonstrates that true triumph in the Divine realm is about love and self-sacrifice. To the untrained eye, Calvary might seem like a scene of despair, but to those attuned to the deeper spiritual narrative, it's the climax of a celestial symphony. The declaration, "Hail, King of the Jews," became prophecy fulfilled.

Russian Orthodox Icon of the Crucifixion by a painter of the Novograd School, 1360

The Passion is not a mere historical event. Rather, it is the centerpiece of a divine narrative, echoing themes of unparalleled love, authority, and the greatest sacrifice ever known. For every believer, the Cross isn't a symbol of bygone days. It stands as a beacon, casting its gentle light on the double-layered irony that unfolded on that fateful day — where a mock coronation heralded Christ's true and eternal enthronement and where the Creator became the Redeemer. As we reverently remember the Elevation of the Venerable and Life-Giving Cross, let these truths dwell deeply in our souls, fueling our journey towards our eternal home, where the King of Creation lovingly awaits.

"O Lord, save Thy people and bless Thine inheritance, granting to Thy people victory over all their enemies, and by the power of Thy Cross preserving Thy commonwealth."

-GP