Why did Jesus say, “Eli, Eli, Lama sabachthani” that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

The phrase "Eli, Eli, Lama sabachthani" is attributed to Jesus and is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark in the New Testament of the Bible. In Matthew 27:46 (KJV), it states:

"And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, 'Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?' that is to say, 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?'"

And in Mark 15:34 (KJV), a similar statement is recorded:

And at the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, 'Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?' which is, being interpreted, 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?'"

This moment is commonly referred to as the "cry of dereliction" or "the abandonment." The meaning and significance of Jesus' words have been interpreted and discussed by theologians and scholars throughout history, and various perspectives exist. Here are a few interpretations:

1. **Identification with Humanity:** Some interpret Jesus' words as an expression of the profound agony and suffering he experienced during the crucifixion. In this view, Jesus, in his humanity, is feeling the weight of the separation from God that sin brings.

2. **Quoting Psalm 22:** The phrase is a direct quotation from the opening verse of Psalm 22 in the Old Testament. By uttering these words, Jesus may have been drawing attention to this psalm, which describes a situation of distress but also contains elements of hope and trust in God's ultimate deliverance. This interpretation suggests that Jesus was fulfilling the Messianic prophecies found in the Psalms.

3. **Spiritual Darkness:** Some theologians suggest that during the crucifixion, Jesus bore the weight of humanity's sins, and for a moment, he experienced a sense of separation from God, symbolized by the cry. This separation is seen as part of the redemptive process.

It's essential to note that interpretations of this statement may vary among Christian denominations and theological traditions. The understanding of the theological significance of Jesus' words at the crucifixion is a complex and deeply rooted aspect of Christian doctrine and faith.