On astrology and spiritual TikTok, a lofty term has been trending as of late: People have been musing about their “Christ year” or “Jesus year.”
In one such video, artist Erica Helder talks about the anxiety she experienced when a friend reminded her she was coming into her “Jesus year” ― or, about to turn 33 years old ― and how she eventually took it in stride.
“Some people only get 33 years and some people live so long, they barely remember 33,” she said. “I don’t know if I’m late or early but I know that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.”
While “Jesus year” or “Christ year” isn’t specifically an astrological term, astrologists we spoke to said does offer a framework for understanding why age 33 often feels pivotal. The idea of 33 as a “Christ year” circulates in spiritual conversations because Jesus is traditionally believed to have been 33 at the time of his crucifixion.
“Symbolically, it marks a moment of culmination, purpose and spiritual maturity,” explained Celeste Brooks, an astrologer based in Oakland, California.
