Amidst the global pandemic, Rev. Kira Austin-Young and her husband, Michael Schupbach, crafted a unique Christmas tree topper — a biblically accurate angel. This striking creation, characterized by its six wings and numerous eyes, quickly gained attention online for its unconventional design.
The concept of a biblically accurate angel challenges the traditional Western depiction of angels as human-like figures with fair skin and wings. Biblical texts, however, offer a much more unusual portrayal, often describing these beings as having multiple wings covered in eyes or possessing animal-like features.
Rev. Austin-Young, associated with the Episcopal Church of St. Mary the Virgin, finds interest in these peculiar descriptions found in the Bible. She notes that the apocalyptic writings in Revelations and certain prophetic books describe angels as otherworldly creatures surrounding the throne of God. This understanding of angels echoes the bizarre and mysterious nature of biblical scriptures, which intrigues many people today.
A poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research highlights that around 70% of U.S. adults believe in angels. Despite this belief, there’s significant diversity in how people imagine these celestial beings. Social media platforms abound with varied interpretations of biblically accurate angels, influencing art, tattoos, and even makeup.
Esther Hamori, a Hebrew Bible professor, appreciates this trend, stating it prompts people to reconsider the often overlooked and stranger components of biblical narratives. Her work, “God’s Monsters,” delves into the eerie and formidable creatures mentioned in the scriptures, suggesting that the divine entourage consists of more than just angelic figures, but of distinctly monstrous beings.
Rev. Austin-Young’s preferred depiction of the divine messenger, Gabriel, in Christian art is by Henry Ossawa Tanner, who portrays Gabriel as a radiant shaft of light. This interpretation invites reflection on how one might truly perceive an angelic encounter — whether as an unfamiliar figure or a mere embodiment of divine communication.
In embracing the unconventional imagery of biblically accurate angels, individuals are exploring and appreciating the complexity of biblical narratives. This fascination reveals a broader curiosity about the mysterious elements within religious texts and challenges the traditional artistic representations of the divine.
Source: News4jax
