Longinus. The Roman soldier who speared Jesus.

Longinus is the name given in later Christian tradition to the Roman soldier said to have pierced the side of Jesus during the crucifixion with a spear, as described in the Gospel of John (John 19:34). The Gospel does not identify the soldier by name.

In the biblical account, after Jesus had died on the cross, a Roman soldier pierces his side with a spear, resulting in a flow of blood and water. This detail is unique to the Gospel of John and is interpreted in various theological ways within Christian tradition. However, no name or further biographical information is provided in the text.

The name “Longinus” appears in later Christian tradition and is not found in the New Testament or early historical records. It becomes more established in Christian writings from around the 4th century AD and later develops further in medieval hagiographical sources.

In expanded traditions, Longinus is often portrayed as a Roman centurion who witnesses the crucifixion events and subsequently converts to Christianity. Some versions of the story describe him as recognizing the significance of Jesus’ death after witnessing the events at the cross.

Later medieval legends further elaborate on his story. In some accounts, Longinus is said to have suffered from impaired vision, which was healed when he came into contact with the blood or water from Jesus’ side. Other versions of the tradition describe him as facing persecution after his conversion, including mutilation such as the cutting of his tongue, while still being able to speak or proclaim his faith. These details vary across sources and are not consistent within the tradition.

These narratives developed over centuries as part of saintly legend formation and are not supported by historical evidence or the canonical biblical texts.