Leiden University Student Repository

Sangers, Tamara (2024)

(How) can we find the perfect Jesus? A research exploring the factors contributing to the complexity of finding a perfect depiction of Jesus.

Master thesis | Religious Studies (MA)

This thesis explores the factors contributing to the complexity of finding a perfect depiction of Jesus, addressed through three sub-questions. First, the arguments for changing the dominant white depiction of Jesus reveal historical and contemporary social contexts as significant factors. Historical arguments highlight the importance of Jesus's story and social class, while contemporary arguments focus on societal impacts, such as racial attitudes. Second, the nature of powerful religious symbols is examined, showing how individual perceptions and the interplay of inner and outer worlds affect a symbol's power. Third, the responsibility of depicting Jesus's image is discussed, involving religious institutions, individuals, museums, and artists, emphasizing the collective responsibility to foster a meaningful and inclusive representation. The thesis concludes that the complexity arises from historical and contemporary arguments, individual symbolism, and the various entities...Show moreThis thesis explores the factors contributing to the complexity of finding a perfect depiction of Jesus, addressed through three sub-questions. First, the arguments for changing the dominant white depiction of Jesus reveal historical and contemporary social contexts as significant factors. Historical arguments highlight the importance of Jesus's story and social class, while contemporary arguments focus on societal impacts, such as racial attitudes. Second, the nature of powerful religious symbols is examined, showing how individual perceptions and the interplay of inner and outer worlds affect a symbol's power. Third, the responsibility of depicting Jesus's image is discussed, involving religious institutions, individuals, museums, and artists, emphasizing the collective responsibility to foster a meaningful and inclusive representation. The thesis concludes that the complexity arises from historical and contemporary arguments, individual symbolism, and the various entities involved in depicting Jesus. Highlighting the ongoing debate and collective responsibility, the thesis underscores the importance of continuous dialogue and awareness in shaping the image of Jesus, acknowledging the impossibility of a universally perfect depiction.Show less

Jesus, perfect depiction, unique symbolism, collective responsibility

Author

Sangers, Tamara

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

Religion and Area Studies

Supervisors

Boer, E. M. de

ECTS Credits

15

Language

en