The finger bone commonly regarded as a saintly relic is attributed to Saint Thomas, famously known as "doubting" Thomas.
The Relic of Saint Thomas
This particular relic is believed to be the index finger bone of Saint Thomas. It holds significant religious importance as it is said to be the very finger that touched the wounds of Christ, as described in biblical accounts of his doubt and subsequent belief.
Here are key details regarding this significant relic:
- Saint: Saint Thomas, also known as Didymus.
- Specific Bone: The index finger bone.
- Historical Significance: Believed to have been used by Saint Thomas to touch the wound in Christ's side after the Resurrection, verifying the identity of Jesus.
- Current Location: The relic is housed in the Basilica Santa Croce in Gerusalemme in Rome, Italy.
Historical Context of the Relic
The journey and preservation of this relic span centuries. Some historical accounts suggest that this specific finger bone has been kept in the Basilica Santa Croce in Gerusalemme since as early as the third century. This timeframe coincides with the era of Saint Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine, and the period when the body of Saint Thomas was reportedly moved to Edessa, indicating the long-standing veneration and tradition associated with this sacred artifact.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Saint Identity | Saint Thomas (often referred to as 'doubting' Thomas) |
| Relic Type | Index finger bone |
| Biblical Connection | Believed to be the finger that touched the wounds of the resurrected Christ |
| Current Repository | Basilica Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, Rome, Italy |
| Earliest Mention | Some traditions suggest its presence in Santa Croce from the 3rd century, around the time of St. Helen |
