Frequently Asked Questions about Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ

 Who is the child with Satan?
Satan is taunting Jesus.  This is a mockery of the mother/son relationship.  Gibson’s imagery likely refers to the verse in Genesis where God speaks of the enmity (feeling of hostility) that would exist between the Evil Serpent’s offspring and the Messiah – who was the offspring of a human woman (Genesis 3:15). For a more information see: The Satan Baby

 Why did Mary wipe up all the blood with towels?
Gibson's research showed that this was fairly common for the time.  It would not be peculiar to this situation.  Whether or not this happened in Jesus’ case is not included in the Bible.  It could have happened.  This is part of Gibson’s poetic license/interpretation, and helps to show the bond between Mary and Jesus.  For a more information see: Mary

 Was Mary Magdalene the women caught in adultery?
The Bible does not identify Mary Magdalene as a prostitute.  It does identify her as a sinner, and as one who wiped Jesus' feet with her tears.  Putting Mary Magdalene in the stoning scene poetic license.  It builds the story well, but can not be substantiated by scripture.  There is some evidence outside the Bible that Mary may have been this woman caught in adultery, but it is inconclusive.  For a more information: Caught in the Act , Mary Magdalene.

 What is the significance of the raven poking out the eyes of the thief?
According to the history books, this is something that often took place with victims, although usually not until they were dead.  The Romans often left bodies on crosses for days and birds would come and have their way with the corpses. 

 Would it have been more historically correct if  the nail went into Jesus' wrists rather than his hands?
Opinions are mixed on whether the nails went in the wrists or palms.  The Bible says they nailed his hands, but many think the language used could include wrists.  Those who think it was through the wrists point out that the palms would have torn.  Putting the nails in the palms for the movie is consistent with historic art on the subject, which seems to have been one of Gibson's objectives.

 Why did Jesus say “why have you forsaken me?”
This is a quotation from Psalm 22, a passage that gives a good description of what a person being crucified would have experienced.  It is believed that this was the moment in time when Jesus took on himself the sins of the world, every wrong of every person for all time, and "He [God] made Him [Jesus] who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him" [II Corinthians 5:21].  That being the case, God the Father turned His back on the Son and for a moment in time their eternal fellowship was broken, causing Jesus to utter these words in fulfillment of scripture.

 Is it appropriate for children to watch this film?
Generally, children under 12 or 13 probably should not watch the film.  It is too intense.  If parents have any doubt about whether or not it is appropriate for their children, it’s best if they see it themselves and judge if their child or early teen could handle it.  Parents are the best judges of their own child's situation.

 What about teens, or youth groups, should they see the film? 
Many youth groups are going to the film.  However, this is still a question that needs to be addressed on an individual basis.  Some teens will be okay to see the movie, others may not.  Parental permission slips are a good idea to ensure that parents are part of the decision to go or not go.  In areas where the movie carries a restricted rating, teens will not be able to see the film without consent.

 Where can I get a video/DVD of this movie?
You will have to wait until they come out in about 6 months’ time.  They will be available in all the usual outlets.

 Will the movie be released in English?
No.  The movie will remain in the original languages with subtitles appropriate to the intended audience.  Over time this will include all major languages.