Last Supper: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘Last Supper’ mean?
The idiom "Last supper" alludes to the final meal Jesus Christ had with his disciples before his crucifixion, which signifies a significant event or moment before a tragic or final outcome.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "lead up to" means to precede or prepare for something, typically an event or action. It implies a progression or sequence of events that culminate in the main event or action.
The idiom "last word" refers to the final thing that is said or done in a discussion or argument. It implies the idea of having the ultimate say or control over a situation, often in a way that asserts authority or dominance.
The idiom "last trump" refers to a final and decisive event or action, often used in religious or biblical contexts. It suggests a significant and ultimate occurrence that marks the end of something.
The idiom "last thing" means the final action or event that occurs before a particular time or event. It emphasizes the timing or order in which something happens. It can also refer to the least important or least desirable action or event in a sequence.
An idiom that means the final or last gathering or collection of something or someone, often used to express the end or conclusion of a particular event, activity, or period of time.
The idiom "last resort" refers to the final option or action taken when all others have failed or been exhausted.
The idiom "last nail in the coffin" refers to a final event or action that ensures the failure or death of something or someone.
The idiom "last minute" refers to the final moments before a deadline or event. It suggests that something is done or happens with very little time or notice remaining, often causing rushed or stressful situations.
The idiom "last hurrah" refers to a final attempt or effort, often undertaken just before the end of a person's career or a particular situation. It signifies a final moment of glory or excitement before things come to an end.
The idiom "last full measure" signifies giving complete and utmost effort or sacrifice, often in the context of one's duty or commitment. It implies going above and beyond what is expected, leaving no reserves, and giving everything until the very end.
Decoding Religious Meal
The idiom "Last Supper" has its origins in the biblical story of the last meal that Jesus Christ shared with his disciples before his crucifixion. This event is described in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels.
The Last Supper took place on the Passover night, a significant Jewish festival celebrating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, referring to them as his body and blood, and instructed them to do the same in remembrance of him.
The phrase "Last Supper" is used to represent a final gathering or meal. It often implies a sense of farewell or an ending, with a connotation of importance or significance. This idiom is frequently used in various contexts, not limited to religious or biblical references.
One common usage of the idiom is in the arts, particularly in literature, paintings, and other visual representations. Leonardo da Vinci's renowned mural painting, "The Last Supper," completed in the late 15th century, captures the solemn atmosphere of the biblical event and has become an iconic representation of the idiom.
The idiom "Last Supper" is also employed in popular culture to portray a final gathering or meal before a disaster, tragic event, or significant change. It can evoke a sense of anticipation, nostalgia, or urgency, depending on the context in which it is used.
It's important to note that the idiom has occasionally been misused or misinterpreted. Some may use it casually without recognizing its religious or historical significance, focusing solely on the notion of a final meal or gathering. This situational usage can minimize the idiom's deeper meaning.
The related idiom "last trump" refers to the final and decisive event or action that will conclude a series of events. It can be used metaphorically to describe a significant event or action that signals the end or outcome of something. In the context of the Last Supper, the idiom "last trump" can be applied to the looming crucifixion of Jesus, which marked the culmination of his earthly ministry and laid the foundation for his followers' continuing faith.
The idiom "last roundup" is a colloquial expression that refers to gathering or rounding up the final or remaining individuals or items. This idiom can be used to evoke a sense of closure or completion. In relation to the Last Supper, the idiom "last roundup" can be used metaphorically to convey the idea that Jesus' gathering with his disciples before his crucifixion was a final gathering and a rounding up of his devoted followers, preparing them for the challenges to come.
The phrase "last thing" is an idiomatic expression used to emphasize that something is the final or ultimate thing in a series of events or actions. It can connote a sense of urgency or importance. In the context of the Last Supper, the phrase "last thing" can be used to emphasize the significance of Jesus' final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion as the ultimate act of communion and sacrifice.
The idiom "last minute" is often used to describe something that happens or is done at the final moment or immediately before a deadline. It can convey a sense of urgency or a need for quick action. In relation to the Last Supper, the idiom "last minute" can be used to describe the urgency and immediacy of Jesus' gathering with his disciples before his crucifixion, highlighting the importance and timeliness of the event.
The phrase "last hurrah" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a final, often celebratory, effort or activity before ending or retiring from something. It can connote a sense of farewell or a final, memorable act. In the context of the Last Supper, the phrase "last hurrah" can be used to capture the essence of Jesus' final gathering and intimate moment with his disciples, highlighting the significance and lasting impact of this event on their lives and the course of history.
The idiom "Last Supper" originated from the biblical account of Jesus Christ's final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. It has evolved to encompass a metaphorical representation of a final gathering or meal, often conveying a sense of farewell or significance. Its usage extends beyond religious or biblical references and has permeated various aspects of art, literature, and popular culture. The profound symbolism of the Last Supper continues to resonate and captivate audiences, demonstrating the enduring power of idioms to evoke emotions and convey complex ideas.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "Last Supper" can be used in a sentence:
- After the disastrous meeting, the CEO declared it as their team's last supper, indicating that significant changes were going to be made.
- As the pandemic worsened, many families had an impromptu last supper, gathering together for a final meal before entering lockdown.
- The group of friends decided to have a last supper before their graduation, reminiscing about their college days and cherishing their final moments together.
The idiom "Last Supper" can be used to refer to a final meal or gathering, often indicating a significant change or a final farewell.
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