Mystical and Celestial Depictions of Jesus Christ: A Semio-Cultural Analysis
摘要
This study aims to shed light on an underexplored topic in visual arts. Jesus Christ has served as a source of inspiration for numerous renowned Western painters. However, most, if not all, paintings of Jesus Christ by Western artists are based on religious themes, highlighting his sufferings and sacrifices. In contrast, the symbolic painting presented in this study, which is the work of a non-Christian artist, depicts Jesus joyfully dancing in the sky with the angels accompanying him. The painting’s significance lies in its inspiration from a famous poem by the renowned Iranian poet, Hāfez Shirazi. This unique painting showcases a rich tapestry that transcends conventional religious narratives (i.e., Christianity and Islamic mysticism), offering viewers a glimpse into a shared spiritual heritage and the beauty of artistic interpretation. This points to the importance of dialogue among nations with diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, which can promote peace and understanding in an era when conflicts and intolerance have created immense problems for the human race.