The Lamb

The symbol of the lamb

holds a significant place in the Catholic Church. This imagery, deeply rooted in biblical history, represents Christ's purity and innocence. In the Old Testament, lambs, often used for sacrifices in the Passover ritual, served as a temporary atonement for sin. In the New Testament, John the Baptist proclaims “Behold the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). This declaration identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of the Passover lamb. Jesus Christ, our 'sacrificial lamb', lived a sinless life and sacrificed himself for humanity's redemption. This symbol serves as a reminder of Christ's victory over death, enabling us to draw closer to God.

During the Last Supper,

Jesus transforms the Passover meal, instituting the Eucharist and offering Himself as the sacrificial lamb. "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19). In the Eucharist, we encounter the Lamb of God who takes away our sins and grants us eternal life. Each time we participate in the Holy Mass, we are invited to partake in the sacrificial meal, to receive Christ, the Lamb, who nourishes and sustains us.

The Book of Revelation presents a triumphant vision of the lamb, enthroned and worshiped by all of creation: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!" (Revelation 5:12). This victorious Lamb, once slain, now reigns eternally, signifying the ultimate victory of good over evil, of life over death.

Title: Agnus Dei

Artist: Francisco de Zurbarán (Spanish, Fuente de Cantos 1598–1664 Madrid)

Date: ca. 1635–40

Medium: Oil on canvas

“Francisco de Zurbarán transformed what first appears to be a simple still life into a powerful symbol of religious devotion. An innocent lamb tied in preparation for sacrifice represents the body of Christ, described in the Gospel of John as the "Lamb of God" who died in order to "take away the sins of the World.” (Citation: The Met Museum)

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