Introduction

The Vatican's art collection is a marvel of human creativity and innovation, dating back centuries. However, the question of whether Jesus, if alive today, would admire this collection or use it to help the poor remains a contentious one. This article explores the perspectives on wealth and compassion that are central to Jesus' teachings and how they might influence his actions regarding the Vatican's vast art collection.

Challenges of Selling the Art Collection

First, it is essential to acknowledge the sheer size and value of the Vatican's art collection. Paul Hoffman's Anatomy of the Vatican highlights that the collection is substantial, with many works in storage. Selling any portion of it would significantly impact the global market for fine art. In fact, the Vatican may not even consider selling the art; instead, it might continue to build and enrich the collection.

According to Paul Hoffman, Pope Paul VI preferred modern art over medieval and Renaissance works prominent in the Vatican. Just after his election in 1963, he had agents search for and acquire modern religious art. An exhibition in 1973 showcased works by notable artists such as Ben Shahn, Chagall, and Picasso, indicating a commitment to expanding and diversifying the collection.

Jesus' Views on Wealth and Compassion

Jesus' teachings emphasize the importance of compassion and helping the poor. From the historical accounts, it is clear that he valued people more than wealth. He famously said, 'It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God,' which underscores his disdain for wealth and a society obsessed with material possessions.

Given this perspective, it is plausible that Jesus would be more focused on addressing social and economic inequalities rather than admiring or selling the Vatican's art collection. As Luke 12:33-34 suggests, 'Sell your possessions, and give to the poor. Provide bags for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that never grows old, with interest and profit that grows.' This implies that Jesus would prioritize giving to those in need over accumulating wealth.

Modern Perspectives on the Vatican's Art Collection

Some people believe that the Vatican is incredibly wealthy and hoards its resources, while others argue that the Vatican's annual budget is around 260 million. In comparison, Harvard's budget is 1.3 billion, and Microsoft spends 4.7 billion on research and development alone. The Vatican's collection and the properties it owns are held in trust for humanity. The Sistine Chapel and the Pieta, among other treasures, are priceless and cannot be sold or seized without significant consequences.

The Queen of England, for instance, has 600 charities and receives considerable income from her wealth and tourism. Buckingham Palace, which attracts thousands of visitors, is 40 acres of history and beauty; it would be impractical and counterproductive to sell its contents. These cases illustrate the impracticality and potential negative consequences of selling valuable, irreplaceable art collections.

Conclusion

While admiring the Vatican's art collection is understandable, it is essential to consider the broader context and Jesus' teachings on compassion and wealth. Given the challenges of selling the collection and Jesus' emphasis on helping the poor, it is more likely that he would focus on spreading the gospel and addressing the pressing needs of the marginalized rather than appreciating or exploiting the Vatican's art collection. His actions would align more closely with his values of humility and generosity.