I was recently asked if we should celebrate the death of others, especially if they are considered evil, on the order of Stalin, Mao, Hitler, and similar evil figures from history?
This is a great question.
No. I don’t believe it is EVER justified in celebrating the death of someone else. I also believe that this position enjoys Scriptural support.
It is pretty obvious that scripture declares clearly that “judgment belongs to God”, not to us. In Romans 14:12, Paul reminds believers that each person will give an account of themselves to God. James 4:12 goes further, stating that there is only one Lawgiver and Judge—the one who is able to save and destroy, and then asks, “Who are you to judge your neighbor?” These verses reinforce the idea that final judgment is God’s domain, not ours.
Proverbs 24:17 cautions against rejoicing when an enemy falls, and warns not to let your heart be glad when they stumble. That principle reflects a deeper truth: even when justice is served, gloating over someone’s demise is not aligned with God’s heart. Scripture leans heavily toward mourning with compassion rather than rejoicing over loss. Ezekiel 33:11 reveals God’s own posture, saying He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather desires that they turn and live. This shows that even divine judgment is rooted in mercy and the hope of repentance.
The Psalms and the teachings of Jesus also emphasize mercy over vengeance, and compassion over condemnation. Matthew 5:4 blesses those who mourn, and 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 describes God as the Father of compassion who comforts us in all our troubles. These passages suggest that grief, even over the death of someone who caused harm, should be met with humility and reflection, not celebration.
Christians are tasked with the biblical call to humility, mercy, and reverence for life. Holding space for sorrow, even in complex situations, reflects the heart of Christ more than any triumphalism ever could.
David mourned for Saul, the one who was trying to kill him. We should follow that example, I think.
Between the Garden and the Garden City 