Is It Wrong to Have a Picture of Jesus? A Biblical and Theological Perspective

Various religious and theological debates revolve around the question of whether it is pertinent to depict Jesus in visual form. The Bible and certain religious texts provide guidelines regarding the worship of idols, but modern interpretations and practices often diverge from these ancient instructions. This article explores the central arguments surrounding this issue, drawing from biblical texts, religious teachings, and the perspectives of various Christian denominations.

Idolatry in the Bible

One of the primary concerns regarding the depiction of Jesus is the age-old prohibition against idolatry. Leviticus 26:1–2, as cited from the King James Bible, highlights a clear directive against the creation and worship of images:

No one shall make for himself an idol or a carved image, and no one shall bow down himself to them or serve them; for I the LORD your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.

This passage underscores the prohibition against creating images of deities, including Jesus, and the potential spiritual dangers of doing so.

Perspective on Jesus' Appearance

Contrary to the popular depictions of Jesus, biblical texts do not provide a specific description of His physical appearance. In fact, 1 Corinthians 14:11 states: “For you can barely discern a familiar voice, can you? So if I make aletic proclamations in a foreign language and they do not understand, how will they know what is being said?” This verse emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding descriptions of Jesus. Mircea Eliade, a renowned historian of religion, argued that the depiction of deities, including Jesus, is often based on human imagination rather than historical fact. Thus, any visual representation of Jesus is likely to be inaccurate and speculative.

Theological Debates on Worship

Given that there is no definitive description of Jesus in the Bible, modern Christian thinkers and theologians often approach this topic with varying levels of discomfort. Some Christians view the depiction of Jesus as idolatry, citing the direct prohibition against images as part of the second commandment. Others may have no issue with such depictions, viewing them as a personal and individualistic expression of faith rather than formal worship.

Biblical Commandments and Their Application Today

The second commandment in the Bible specifically addresses the creation and worship of images:

“Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them; for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.”

This commandment not only forbids the creation of images but also the bowing down or serving them, which highlights the potential risks associated with these depictions.

Modern Interpretations and Practices

While some Christians may be appalled by the depiction of Jesus, others find no issue with it, as it can serve as a personal and visual reminder of the teachings and faith. However, the spiritual and theological implications of such practices remain a subject of debate. For those who view these depictions as potentially idolatrous, the consequences can be severe, as per the Bible's teachings. Thus, the decision to have a picture of Jesus should be made with careful consideration and a thorough understanding of the biblical prohibitions and theological implications.

Conclusion

The question of whether it is wrong to have a picture of Jesus is complex and multifaceted. It involves a careful consideration of biblical commandments, theological interpretations, and personal theological beliefs. For those who hold a traditional view of idolatry, the depiction of Jesus can be seen as a violation of ancient religious prohibitions, while others may find them a valuable and personal form of worship. Ultimately, the decision should be made with an understanding of the spiritual and theological implications of these practices.