Holy Saturday, also known as the Great Sabbath, is observed in Samoa, among other countries across the world, with deep reverence. It is the day before Easter Sunday and marks the end of Holy Week, the last day of the Lenten season. This Christian holiday commemorates the day that Jesus Christ lay in his tomb after his death, according to the Christian bible. It falls between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, which are all part of the Paschal Triduum.
In Samoa, Holy Saturday is a public holiday, symbolising a day of solemn reflection and waiting. It is a day many spend quietly with their families in anticipation of the joyous celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the following day, Easter Sunday. As is common in all Christian communities, Samoans uphold religious traditions such as attending church services, which are often characterised by subdued tones and quiet prayers.
The Samoan culture combines its Polynesian heritage and Christian faith, thus the observance of Holy Saturday is steeped in respect and devotion. On this day, many individuals engage in fasting or sacrificing something they love to commemorate the suffering of Jesus Christ. The fasting is usually broken on the day of Easter as a symbol of Jesus' resurrection. Holy Saturday serves as a transition from grief to joy, from the somber reflection of Good Friday to the celebration of resurrection on Easter Sunday.