The depiction of Jesus, particularly images of Jesus on the cross, has sparked debate within Christianity for centuries. This article explores the complex theological arguments surrounding this issue, examining both Old Testament prohibitions and the transformative impact of the Incarnation.
The Old Testament Prohibition of Images
The Second Commandment, as interpreted by some, prohibits the creation of images of God. Deuteronomy 4:15-16 clarifies this prohibition, emphasizing that the Israelites saw no form of God when He spoke at Horeb. Because they encountered only a voice, they were forbidden from creating any visual representation of the divine. This prohibition extended to both false gods and the true God, Yahweh. The absence of God’s image in the richly decorated tabernacle and temple further underscores this restriction. The Hebrew word temunah (תְּמוּנָה), meaning “form” or “likeness,” is central to understanding this prohibition. What the Israelites had not seen, they were not permitted to create.
Rembrandt’s depiction of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments, highlighting the importance of the divine word over visual representation.
The Incarnation: God Made Visible
The New Testament introduces a radical shift with the Incarnation. Jesus, described as “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), embodies God in a tangible, visible form. This challenges the Old Testament prohibition, as God himself chose to be seen and touched in the person of Jesus Christ. The Incarnation signifies that encountering Jesus, seeing his face, touching his hands, is to encounter God.
Perugino’s “Deposition from the Cross” depicts a poignant image of Jesus after crucifixion, highlighting the Incarnation’s emphasis on God becoming visible and tangible.
A Photo of Jesus on the Cross: A Visual Sermon
Therefore, A Photo Of Jesus On The Cross, like other artistic representations, can be seen not as a violation of the Second Commandment but as a celebration of its fulfillment. Such images serve as “visual sermons,” proclaiming the Incarnation and inviting contemplation on the sacrifice of Christ. They allow believers to connect with the divine in a tangible way, reminding them that God became human for their salvation. A crucifix, an icon, or even a photo of Jesus can point to the reality of God made flesh.
Detail from Giovanni Bellini’s painting, emphasizing the hands of the crucified Christ, a powerful visual reminder of God’s sacrifice.
The Commandment Fulfilled
The Old Testament prohibition against images, viewed through the lens of the Incarnation, can be understood as a prophecy anticipating the coming of Christ. The restriction prepared the way for the ultimate revelation of God in human form. The birth of Jesus, the icon of the Father, marks the fulfillment, not the violation, of the commandment. A photo of Jesus on the cross, then, becomes a powerful testament to this profound theological truth. It allows believers to visually engage with the core message of Christianity: God’s love manifested in the sacrifice of his Son.
