Reflections on Jesus’ Depiction in Art and Worship
When we look at depictions of Jesus in religious art, literature, and films, it is not uncommon to see a predominantly European-looking Christ. This portrayal is often a reflection of the cultural and historical context in which these works were created. However, it is important to recognize that the Bible does not specifically describe Jesus' skin color or ethnicity. The idea that Jesus is “white” or “black” has more to do with modern interpretations and cultural biases rather than historical facts.
Christianity and Race
The teachings of Christianity emphasize that "in Christ there is no Greek or Jew, circumcision or uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free, but Christ is all, and in all" (Colossians 3:11). This statement by Saint Paul underscores the idea that in Christ, all people are equal and that race should not be a factor in their relationship with God.
It is the modern atheists who have sometimes ascribed racial significance to Jesus, promoting the unfounded notion that Christianity is tied to a specific skin color. This idea largely stems from an attempt to align religious identity with cultural or racial identity, which can be deeply problematic and against the spirit of the faith. Christianity was founded by individuals who were not of European descent, and throughout most of its history, the majority of Christians have been non-European. The majority of Christians today are what these racist atheists refer to as “non-white”.
Artistic Representation and Whitewashing
The depictions of Jesus as a white man in American and English art are deeply rooted in centuries of cultural and artistic traditions. This trend is sometimes referred to as 'whitewashing', which involves portraying historically non-European figures as white to align with a dominant cultural narrative. This practice has perpetuated a Eurocentric view of Christ and has overshadowed the rich multicultural heritage of Christian art and tradition.
There is no historical or archaeological evidence to support the claim that Jesus was black, white, or any other specific skin color. Jesus is described in the New Testament as a Jewish man who lived in what is now Israel during the 1st century CE. While the historical Jesus may have had a particular skin tone, this is not recorded in Scripture. He was a member of the Jewish community and would fit in well with today’s Sephardic Jewish community.
Educating Ourselves and Others
It is important to engage in informed discussions about race and religion. Those who make unfounded claims about the racial or skin color of historical figures often fail to present verifiable evidence. They may lack the capacity to imagine Jesus in a non-Eurocentric context or have hidden agendas related to race. It is necessary to distance ourselves from such individuals and find friends or mentors who are knowledgeable about the rich diversity of Christian history and theology.
Jews, for example, are also described in the Bible with a range of different skin tones and physical characteristics. It is a mistake to assume that Jesus must have been a specific skin color, as this can lead to shallow and harmful generalizations. The true essence of Jesus' message is one of love, inclusivity, and equality, which transcends racial and ethnic boundaries.
Conclusion
The depiction of Jesus in art and worship is a testament to the cultural and historical context in which these works were created. While modern interpretations often align Jesus with a specific skin color, this can be a misleading and harmful perspective. As believers, it is crucial to approach these religious symbols and narratives with an open mind and a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural context in which they were created. We should focus on the message of Jesus' teachings and the unity he sought among people of all backgrounds and colors.
In conclusion, the depiction of Jesus in art and worship should not be seen as a determining factor of one's faith. Rather, it is a reflection of the cultural influence and historical context. The true significance of Jesus lies in his teachings and the principles of love, compassion, and equality that he preached.