Maundy Thursday, also known for its respect as a holy Thursday or thin Thursday, is one of the most sacred observances in the Christian calendar. It is the system of the disciple's feet washing and the last night up, when two of the most humble and sacred events unfolded.
The mound Thursdays, which fall into Holy Week, are between Holy Wednesday and Good Friday. With the glorious celebrations of Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday, we follow in the last earthly footsteps of Jesus of Nazareth in recent years, leading to his crucifixion and victory resurrection.
What does “mody” mean?
The word mound comes from the Latin mandom, which means “command” or “duty” drawn from the words of Christ himself, as recorded in John 13:34. In the Latin word urgathe, this is rendered as novum mandatum do vobis. Therefore, Maundy Thursday reminds us not only of the events of that sacred night, but also of the divine command issued by the Savior, the sacred summons to fraternal love, born of service rather than emotion.
Washing the feet: Lord as a servant
Perhaps the most moving gesture of humility ever recorded, Jesus, the Son of God, and the righteous King of heaven and earth, leaned down to wash his disciples' feet. In the ancient Near East, such work was reserved for the lowest servants. Sandals and dusty roads required foot washing and hospitality demanded it. But to protect himself with a towel and cleanse the feet of his followers? This was more than just courtesy. It was a declaration: “If I have washed your Lord and your teachers, you should wash your feet one another” (John 13:14).
That night, in the upper room, Christ was taught not by the lightning or trumpet, but by the quiet and sacred symbols of water and towels. For centuries, Christians have understood that this act means more than mere service. It is a sign of spiritual cleansing that Christ offers, and a call to everyone who claims his name to mimic his humility.
Today, this ritual is being recreated in a Christian church. The priest kneels before the parishioners, before the faithful bishops, reminding them that they will not exempt them from their title, rank, station, or duty to serve Christ's followers.
Last Eve: Communion and Contract
That same night, together with the 12 people, Jesus smashed the bread and handed him a cup. This is a simple element that has become a lasting symbol of the new covenant. “This is my body, given for you… This cup is a new covenant of my blood” (Luke 22:19–20).
It was their last dinner, but it always became the first Eucharist: the sacrament of memory, sacrifice, and spiritual nourishment. From that night, Christians recall the lambs who gathered in solidarity to participate in bread and wine, giving themselves to life in the world.
Scholars discuss the exact date (the exact date that places it on April 1, 33 AD), but the importance of the event transcends the calendar. It is not just a historic moment, but a living monument that unites believers of all ages in a fellowship of grace.
Royal traditions and modern observance
In the UK, there is a clear royal tradition on mound Thursday. Since the Middle Ages, British monarchs have marked the day with the distribution of Moody money given to seniors in recognition of service and respect. Covered in silver, these ritual coins, comparable to the time of the monarchy at Pence, are not political power, but rather symbols of Christian charity, reflecting the ancient custom of washing the feet of the poor.
Modern monarchs no longer kneel to wash their feet, but the spirit of action remains. The king remembers the great king, not by order, but by generosity, who kneeled in the towel and in the basin.
The duty of love
Maundy Thursday brings all Christians back to the first principles, calling for humility, sacrifice and love. It is the day to remember that the command to “love each other” is not a proposal, but a mission sealed by God's example. It reminds us that true greatness is not in being served, but in serving. And it is a summon to the Lord's table, and bread and wine speaks of eternal truths – broken things, red, and broken kingdoms of this kingdom of the world.
Looking back on this sacred day, may we be stirred up again by the example of the Savior. Like the disciples in the upper chamber, take His commandments with respect and come out to make them happen – not just in words but in deeds.
