NIÑA VENUS VILLELA
RIZAL 6081 / LESSON 15 ASSIGNMENT
1. Compare and contrast the familiar circumstances between Jose Rizal and Jesus
Christ's trial, execution and martyrdom.
Many people believed that there are some similarities in the life of Jose Rizal and Jesus Christ during
their trial, execution, and martyrdom. These are some of the familiar circumstances that made people
believe of its parallels:
While Jesus Christ is known as the Messiah of Israel, Jose Rizal is believed to be the Messiah of
the Philippines.
Both were born in a country under the colonial rule, Spaniards in the Philippines. with, they both
proceeded on their own ways of spreading their teachings to open the eyes of their people.
Both pursued their ideals and beliefs in the purest methods and intentions.
Both does not look at human status. Jesus Christ paid no attention whether one is poor or rich.
He treated everyone fairly and does not even think twice when helping the poor. Jose Rizal on the
other hand, treated his fellowmen with respect.
Both were healers. Jose Rizal was a doctor by profession, so it is his duty and responsibility to
heal his people. Jesus Christ, being the son of God, is send on earth to heal those in pain and
suffering and help his people.
Both did not pay attention to race, education, and they both believed that everyone is equal.
Both underwent mockery and trial for unjust charges. Jesus Christ during his trial was compared
to Barabbas who was a notorious prisoner that committed murder during the insurrection against
the Romans. The people made a choice n\between Jesus and Barabbas, and they chose and mock
Jesus for his deeds. During his suffering, the people would spit, shout and throw rocks at him.
Jose Rizal underwent unjust charges in the hands of the Spaniards. He didn't undergo to any fair
trials and were mocked by some of his fellow countrymen for being against the Spanish rulings.
Both have their own beliefs in contrary to the close-minded people during their time.
Both were executed by their enemies. Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross, and Jose Rizal was
shot to death by their enemies. But up until their last breath, they still stand on what they believed
in.
2. Read the provision of Article 3 section 4 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. What do you
think is the relevance of this law to the charges filed against Jose Rizal?
Article 3, Section 4 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that, "No law shall be passed
abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people
peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances."
Rizal was charged as being a traitor to Spain and the mastermind of the revolution. Even
though he pleaded guilty, he was still convicted of rebellion, sedition, and conspiracy, and was
sentenced to death. These charges completely neglect his freedom of speech and expression. It
was clearly unjust and unlawful. There is no circumstantial evidence that links Jose Rizal to the
events and the prosecution were clearly biased. Rizal believed in peaceful reforms devoid of
bloodshed and that the use of education is the most significant key towards liberating the people
of his country.
