13 February 2008

The Four Evangelists

Stunning mosaics of the Four Evangelists are found at the base of the magnificent dome in the Basilica of Saint Peter:

Saint John is represented by the eagle because the theology found within his Gospel is to said "soar above" that of the Synoptic Gospels (meaning seen through the same lens) of Matthew, Mark and Luke.

Saint Matthew is represented either by a man (and sometimes an angel) because his Gospel opens with the genealogy of Jesus.

Saint Luke is represented by an ox because his Gospel opens with the priest Zechariah.

Saint Mark is represented as a lion because his Gospel opens with Saint John the Baptist "roaring" in the desert. You had to know they'd be cleaning at least one of the mosaics...

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