Spotsylvania Courthouse VA
4-02-2026 8:06pm

The Origins of Maundy Thursday

Every Woman A Theologian

Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum and commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles. Its origins are rooted in biblical accounts and early  day commemorates three key events described in the New Testament:

  • The New Commandment: The name "Maundy" is derived from the Latin word mandatum (commandment). It refers to the "new commandment" Jesus gave his disciples during the Last Supper: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you..." (John 13:34).
  • Washing of the Feet: According to the Gospel of John, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples before the meal as a demonstration of humility and servant leadership.
  • Institution of the Eucharist: During this final meal—which synoptic gospels identify as a Passover Seder—Jesus blessed bread and wine, identifying them as his body and blood. Wikipedia +5

Historical & Liturgical Development

The formal observance of Maundy Thursday emerged gradually:

  • Early Church: By the fourth century, pilgrims like Egeria recorded specific Holy Week services in Jerusalem, including evening commemorations of the Last Supper.
  • Ritual Formalization: By the fifth century, rituals like the consecration of holy oils (Chrism) and formal foot-washing ceremonies became established in the Western and Eastern rites.
  • Medieval Traditions: In England, the day became associated with Royal Maundy, a tradition dating back to at least 1210 where monarchs distributed food, clothing, or specially minted coins to the poor as an act of charity. Medium +4

Alternative Names

  • Green Thursday (Gründonnerstag): Common in Germany; possibly refers to the practice of giving penitents a green branch or the tradition of eating green vegetables.
  • Sheer Thursday: An archaic English term meaning "clean" or "pure," referring to the ceremonial washing of altars or the cleansing of the soul through penance. Britannica +2

(From a variety of Sources) 

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