Christ the Teacher

In this image of Christ the Teacher, Jesus looks directly at the viewer, with his left hand holding the Sacred Word of God and his right hand raised in blessing. In the book are the Greek letters A and O, which are short for Alpha and Omega, representing the beginnings and ends. He is dressed in the traditional garb of tunic and cloak. His cloak will be dark blue, signifying the mystery of His divine life. His tunic is a bright crimson red, symbolizing the human blood shed for us all. The garments of the Messiah in (Isaiah 63:1-4) were red, as was the soldier’s cloak put on Jesus’ shoulders during his passion (Matthew 27:28).

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Around Christ’s head is a halo, an almost universal symbol of holiness. But Christ’s halo is not the same as the halos shown around other saints, nor even in the angels of this icon. Inside Christ’s halo is the Cross – the Cross of Salvation – although only three are visible: the three arms make up a Holy Trinity.

 

Christ is seated upon the stars, symbolic of his enthronement in heaven, and His feet rest upon the earth. Showing his reign over heaven and earth. The Sun and moon are at his right and left. Showing that He is king over all the universe.

 

The symbols of the evangelist flank Christ in all four corners. The books by which we come to know Christ.

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I chose the scripture passage “You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am” (John 13:13).

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