Spear of Longinus
The only lance capable of piercing the invincible shields of the Angels.
The Spear of Longinus is a legendary artifact within the Neon Genesis Evangelion universe, revered as one of the few weapons capable of piercing an Angel's Absolute Terror Field. Historically associated with the Roman Centurion Longinus in Christian tradition, it appears in the series as a massive, ornate lance discovered by the SEELE organization. It serves as a critical plot device throughout the narrative, representing both a means of defense against extraterrestrial threats and a tool for manipulating the fate of humanity.
- Status
- Retrieved from space by SEELE and used in the Instrumentality ritual
Lore & Background
The artifact plays a pivotal role in the climax of the series. In episode 24, Kaworu Nagisa retrieves the intact Spear from Terminal Dogma and returns it to space, not to use it against SEELE; Shinji kills him after Kaworu asks him to, and the Spear is not used by Kaworu against SEELE. However, SEELE later retrieves the original Spear from space and uses it in the Instrumentality ritual during The End of Evangelion, alongside a replica spear. Its presence dictates the flow of the Human Instrumentality Project, acting as an anchor that can either halt or facilitate the merging of all human consciousness. Ultimately, its fate is tied to the choices made by Shinji Ikari regarding his own existence.
In Their Own Story
The air inside Terminal Dogma tasted of ozone and ancient dust. Rei Ayanami stood before the massive structure, her eyes reflecting the cold light of the floating fragments. The two halves of the Spear hovered in a violent equilibrium, pushing against each other with a force that threatened to tear the bedrock apart. They were no longer just metal; they were the physical manifestation of a broken promise. As the red LCL began to rise around her ankles, she felt the hum of the lance vibrating through her very soul, a reminder that even divine weapons could be shattered by human hands.
Reader's Guide
The Spear of Longinus is central to the conflict between humanity and the Angels in Neon Genesis Evangelion. It is introduced as a relic held by SEELE, used specifically to neutralize threats that standard military force cannot touch. Its ability to pierce A.T. Fields makes it the ultimate countermeasure against Angel invasions. However, the Spear's true significance emerges when Kaworu Nagisa breaks it in half during his confrontation with Unit-01. This act splits its power, creating two opposing forces that repel one another. This fragmentation becomes a crucial mechanic in the final stages of the series, influencing the trajectory of the Human Instrumentality Project. Throughout the narrative, the Spear symbolizes the intersection of faith, science, and destiny. It represents the desperate measures taken by organizations like SEELE to control the future of mankind. Whether used as a weapon or a tool for ritual, its presence underscores the high stakes of the battle against extinction.
Did You Know?
- The Spear is historically linked to the Roman centurion Longinus in Christian tradition, but in Evangelion, it is treated as an ancient relic from the time of Adam and Lilith.
- The replica Spear, when broken into two pieces, possesses a repulsive force that prevents them from ever touching again unless specific conditions are met.
- Kaworu Nagisa retrieves the intact Lance from Terminal Dogma and returns it to space; Shinji kills him after Kaworu asks him to, and the Lance is not used by Kaworu against SEELE. SEELE later retrieves the original Lance
- The artifact is often depicted with a distinct golden color and intricate engravings, distinguishing it from standard NERV weaponry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Spear of Longinus?
This ancient relic originates from Christian myth but serves in the series as a divine artifact capable of piercing an Angel's impenetrable barrier. It is considered one of the few weapons powerful enough to harm the extraterrestrial threats facing humanity.
Who possesses the spear throughout the story?
While initially recovered and guarded by the shadowy organization SEELE, the lance is later wielded by Kaworu Nagisa during his confrontation with Unit-01. Eventually, the artifact shatters into fragments following its use in the final conflict against the Angels.
What specific abilities does it grant?
Its primary function is to breach the Absolute Terror Field, allowing direct physical contact with an Angel. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in triggering or halting the Human Instrumentality Project depending on how it is utilized.
Why is this artifact significant to the plot?
The spear represents a pivotal tool in SEELE’s grand design to force humanity into evolution through Instrumentality. Its existence shifts the balance of power between NERV, SEELE, and the Angels throughout the conflict.
What happens to the lance at the end of the series?
During the climax of the story, the weapon is destroyed and reduced to multiple shards scattered across the landscape. These fragments remain significant as they are later collected by various parties in the aftermath of Third Impact.