Tenebrae is a Christian tradition observed during Holy Week, particularly on the evenings of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. The name "Tenebrae" means "shadows" or "darkness" in Latin, reflecting the somber nature of the services. The liturgy involves the gradual extinguishing of candles, symbolizing the abandonment of Jesus by his disciples and the darkness of sin.
The service typically includes readings from the Psalms and the Gospels, along with hymns and prayers. The final candle, known as the Christ candle, is extinguished and then hidden, representing the burial of Christ. This ritual emphasizes themes of loss, mourning, and the anticipation of resurrection.