Longinus, also known as Saint Longinus, is a figure mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, particularly in the accounts of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. He is traditionally identified as the Roman soldier who pierced the side of Jesus with a lance (referred to as the "Holy Lance" or the "Spear of Destiny") while Jesus was on the cross. This event is recounted in the Gospel of John, Chapter 19, verses 31-37.

 

According to Christian tradition, Longinus was a centurion serving in the Roman army stationed in Judea at the time of Jesus's crucifixion. He is depicted as a figure who, upon witnessing Jesus's death on the cross, became convinced of Jesus's divinity. In some versions of the tradition, Longinus is said to have been partially blind or afflicted with some form of ocular impairment, and it is believed that his sight was miraculously restored after coming into contact with Jesus's blood.

 

The Gospel of John describes how, after Jesus's death, the soldiers came to break the legs of those crucified to hasten their deaths. However, when they came to Jesus, they found him already dead and decided not to break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus's side with a spear, fulfilling the prophecy that "Not one of his bones will be broken" (John 19:36).

 

Longinus's act of piercing Jesus's side has profound symbolic significance in Christian theology. It is often interpreted as representing the piercing of Christ's heart and the outpouring of divine mercy and redemption for humanity. The blood and water that flowed from Jesus's side have been interpreted to symbolize the sacraments of baptism and the Eucharist, which are central to Christian faith and practice.

 

In Christian tradition, Longinus is venerated as a saint and martyr for his role in bearing witness to the crucifixion and his subsequent conversion to Christianity. According to legend, Longinus eventually left the Roman army, converted to Christianity, and became a monk. He is believed to have been martyred for his faith, although accounts of his martyrdom vary.

 

Longinus is commemorated in various Christian liturgical calendars and is often depicted in Christian art and iconography, particularly in scenes depicting the crucifixion of Jesus. He is revered as an example of faith, repentance, and the transformative power of encountering the person of Jesus Christ.