Ash Wednesday Observed: Reflections on Dust and Divine Breath
Across the United States and around the world, Christians marked today, initiating the Lenten season with a solemn reminder of mortality and a call to repentance. The day is characterized by the practice of receiving a cross of ashes on the forehead, accompanied by the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
The tradition draws its roots from the Book of Genesis, specifically Genesis 3:19, which states, “In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread till your return to the ground, for out of it you were taken. you are dust and to dust you shall return.” As noted by Fr. Thomas G. Weinandy, OFM, Cap., in an article published Wednesday, the passage highlights the creation of humanity from the “dust of the earth” and the divine breath that brought life. This combination, he writes, is what makes humankind a rational animal, created in the image and likeness of God.
The observance of Ash Wednesday isn’t merely a somber acknowledgment of human frailty, but also a recognition of the fall from grace. According to Fr. Weinandy, the sinful use of free will – specifically, the eating of the forbidden fruit – led to a tarnishing of that divine image. The ashes, serve as a visible sign of repentance and a commitment to spiritual renewal during the 40-day period of Lent.
The practice of applying ashes in the shape of a cross is deeply symbolic, connecting the current observance with the Passion and ultimate sacrifice of Christ. Creighton Online Ministries notes that the day marks the beginning of Lent, a season of preparation for Easter.
Notably, prominent figures were seen publicly displaying the Ash Wednesday mark. Former New York Mayor Rudy W. Giuliani shared the verse from Genesis 3:19 on social media, accompanied by the message, “A Blessed Ash Wednesday to all.” Images circulating online also showed Secretary of State Marco Rubio with the traditional ash cross on his forehead.
Christine Darg, writing on Substack, drew a connection between the Ash Wednesday practice and the Book of Revelation, which predicts a future marking of foreheads. While the Revelation speaks of a mark associated with the Antichrist, Darg points out the historical significance of marking the forehead as a sign of protection, referencing Ezekiel 9:4-6, where God instructs a person to mark those who grieve over the sins of Jerusalem, sparing them from judgment.
The White House also issued a statement acknowledging Ash Wednesday, extending “best wishes for a meaningful Lenten season” as the nation remembers the Passion of Christ.
For many, Ash Wednesday evokes childhood memories. Fr. Weinandy recalls a fondness among Catholic classmates for receiving a prominent cross of ashes, hoping it would remain visible throughout the day, a symbol they considered “sacrosanct.” This sentiment speaks to the enduring power of the tradition and its ability to resonate across generations.
As Lent begins, Christians are encouraged to engage in practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, reflecting on their relationship with God and striving for spiritual growth. The simple act of receiving ashes serves as a powerful reminder of the journey ahead – a journey of repentance, renewal, and resurrection.
