The Last Supper is one of the most iconic events in Christianity, commemorated by millions of believers around the world. But when was the Last Supper, exactly? Understanding its date involves a blend of biblical scripture, historical context, and even astronomical analysis.
In this article, we’ll explore the most accepted timeline for the Last Supper, its significance, and what modern scholars say about this pivotal event.
📅 When Did the Last Supper Take Place?
The Last Supper took place on the evening before Jesus' crucifixion, which most scholars agree occurred during the Jewish festival of Passover in Jerusalem.
✅ Most Widely Accepted Date:
Thursday, April 2, 33 A.D.
This date is based on a combination of Gospel accounts, Roman historical records, and astronomical data that place the crucifixion on Friday, April 3, 33 A.D. The Last Supper would have occurred the evening prior — which, according to Jewish tradition, would already be considered the beginning of Friday (Jewish days begin at sunset).
📖 What the Bible Says
The Last Supper is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels — Matthew, Mark, and Luke — and referenced in John's Gospel:
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Matthew 26:17-30
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Mark 14:12-26
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Luke 22:7-39
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John 13-17 (offers a theological, not chronological, account)
These texts describe the Last Supper as a Passover meal, where Jesus dined with his disciples, foretold his betrayal, and established the practice of Communion (Eucharist).
🕵️ What Historians and Scholars Say
The Synoptic Gospels vs. John’s Gospel
A point of debate among scholars is the apparent timing conflict between the Gospels:
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Matthew, Mark, and Luke indicate the Last Supper was a Passover meal.
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John's Gospel suggests Jesus was crucified before Passover began, implying the Last Supper happened a day earlier.
Despite this discrepancy, the consensus among most modern scholars is that the crucifixion occurred on Friday, April 3, 33 A.D., and the Last Supper took place the evening before.
🔭 Astronomy’s Role in Dating the Last Supper
In recent years, researchers have used astronomical data — including lunar eclipses and Jewish calendar reconstructions — to narrow down the possible years. A 2011 study by Cambridge University’s Colin Humphreys proposed that the Last Supper occurred on Wednesday, April 1, 33 A.D., to reconcile Gospel differences.
However, the more traditionally accepted date remains Thursday, April 2, 33 A.D., because of its alignment with both Roman and Jewish calendar systems.
✝️ Why the Last Supper Matters
The Last Supper is much more than a date in history. It marks:
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The institution of Holy Communion
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The fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy
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The beginning of Jesus' Passion (his suffering and death)
For Christians worldwide, it’s commemorated annually on Maundy Thursday, the day before Good Friday.
🔍 Conclusion: When Was the Last Supper?
While some scholarly debate exists, the most widely accepted answer to "When was the Last Supper?" is:
Thursday evening, April 2, 33 A.D., during the Jewish Passover in Jerusalem.
This timeline aligns with historical evidence, Gospel narratives, and astronomical data, offering a compelling view into one of the most significant events in Christian history.