Jesus "fell" beneath the load of the cross?

[LovebirdsFlying]

It is traditional Roman Catholic teaching that in carrying His cross to Calvary, Christ fell three times beneath its heavy load. I have also heard the same statement made by other denominations, including Baptist and SDA. It seems to be common knowledge that "Scripture says He fell."

But where does it say so in the Bible? I haven't found it.


EDITED TO ADD: Especially in light of the Scripture passage I use as a signature, I don't want anyone to think I'm trying to pick a fight over a petty issue. I'm not. I honestly wonder if the Scripture is there, and I missed it. Just because something isn't expressly said in the Bible, doesn't mean it isn't valid, doesn't exist, or whatever. For example, I've got relatives who won't have pet cats, because the Bible never mentions them. This, I think, is going a bit too far.

 

[EyesOnZion]

From a quick google, it sounds like this comes from the tradition of the church. A lot of what comes from church tradition is regarded as historically sound, but a lot of tradition is also "added in" to make a preaching/teaching point and just gets adopted.

I can't find where this tradition originated, or how far back it goes. I would think this would be part of how I determined it's veracity. If the tradition goes back to the 2nd-3rd century, I'd be more likely to trust it than if it popped up in the 10th century or later.

 

[LovebirdsFlying]

I've been googling too, since posting the question, and there doesn't seem to be a Scripture passage specifically stating that He fell. Chances are good that it is true, though, given that the synoptic Gospels have Simon of Cyrene forced to carry the cross, while John has Him carrying it Himself. A conclusion can be reached that after the beating and torture He had already suffered, He was not physically strong enough to bear the load, and Simon took over. I'm not saying He didn't fall, but I am saying the Scriptures don't come right out and say that He did.

 

[Svt4Him]

As they went out, they came upon a man of Cyrene, Simon by name; this man they compelled to carry his cross.

Normally one going to be crucified would carry their own cross unless they were unable. Some died simply from the whipping. Jesus needed help so it's inferred He fell.

 

[EyesOnZion]

Agreed, and the variance between John and the synoptics would certainly explain there the "room" for the tradition might have come from. You did get me curious as to when the tradition developed, so if you happen to discover anything about that, let me know.

Also, as to whether it happened or not (and whether it happened 3 times, or a different number), I would have no problem believing either way, but I'd be pretty slow to preach a spiritual lesson from this fact.

 

[exhortor]

The flesh is weak, but the spirit has the power to send devils running

 

[Svt4Him]

The catholic tradition is He fell three times, but the Bible is unclear on it.

The Stations of the Cross: A Devotional Guide for Lent and Holy Week