Why are icons of Jesus so important in Christian practice?

Icons of Jesus hold a significant place in Christian practice, serving not only as artistic expressions but also as profound aids in the spiritual life of believers. Their importance is rooted in both historical tradition and theological significance, providing a tangible connection to the divine that supports personal devotion and communal worship.

Historical Background

The use of religious imagery in Christianity dates back to the early Church. Initially, Christians were somewhat cautious about depicting Jesus Christ, due in part to the Second Commandment which warns against creating graven images (Exodus 20:4-6). However, as Christianity spread and developed, particularly after the legalization of the faith with the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, the creation of religious art became more prevalent.

By the time of the Byzantine Empire, icons had become integral to Christian worship. The Seventh Ecumenical Council, held in 787 AD at Nicaea, marked a significant turning point. It formally endorsed the veneration of icons, distinguishing it from the worship due only to God. This council declared that icons were to be honored, not worshipped, as they directed the faithful's thoughts to the person they represented.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, icons of Jesus are not merely decorative. They are considered windows to the divine, through which the mystery of the Incarnation is both seen and contemplated. The Incarnation—God becoming man in the person of Jesus Christ—is a central tenet of Christian faith, and icons serve as a visual affirmation of this belief.

John of Damascus, a key figure in defending the use of icons, argued that since God had taken a visible form in Jesus Christ, it was permissible and beneficial to create representations of Him. He wrote, "In former times, God, who is without form or body, could never be depicted. But now when God is seen in the flesh conversing with men, I make an image of the God whom I see" (John of Damascus, On the Divine Images). This theological rationale underscores that icons are not just representations but are meant to convey the very presence of Christ.

Spiritual and Liturgical Roles

In many Christian traditions, particularly within Eastern Orthodoxy, icons are not optional decorations but essential elements of spiritual life. They are used in prayer and worship, both in churches and in private homes. When Christians venerate an icon, they are not worshiping the wood or paint but rather honoring the one depicted. The veneration is directed towards the person of Jesus, with the icon serving as a focal point for prayer and contemplation.

The spiritual role of icons can be understood through the concept of theosis or deification, which is the process of becoming more like God. Icons help in this transformative journey by focusing the mind and heart on the divine. They act as conduits through which divine grace can flow. St. Basil the Great expressed this when he said, "The honor shown to the image passes on to the prototype" (St. Basil the Great, On the Holy Spirit). This means that through honoring the icon, the believer honors Christ Himself and receives grace.

Cultural and Personal Impact

Beyond their theological and liturgical significance, icons of Jesus also carry immense cultural and personal importance for many believers. They are often given as gifts for significant life events such as baptisms, marriages, or ordinations and are seen as spiritual heirlooms passed down through generations.

For individual believers, icons of Jesus serve as daily reminders of His presence and His teachings. They encourage a life of faith, prayer, and imitation of Christ’s virtues. In moments of doubt or struggle, the familiar image of Christ in an icon can be a source of comfort and strength, reminding the believer of the constant presence of God in their lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, icons of Jesus are not merely artistic representations but are imbued with deep theological, liturgical, and personal significance. They remind Christians of the Incarnation, assist in spiritual devotion and growth, and serve as meaningful expressions of faith across generations. As such, they continue to be an important and cherished part of Christian practice.

References

• Exodus 20:4-6 (NIV)
• John of Damascus, On the Divine Images
• St. Basil the Great, On the Holy Spirit
• The Seventh Ecumenical Council, Nicaea II (787 AD)

Icons, therefore, are a vital expression of Christian faith, serving as both a bridge and a guide towards the divine, enriching the spiritual lives of believers by bringing them closer to the mystery and majesty of Jesus Christ.