Depicting the Divine: Art as a Source of Religious Meaning and Connection

One of Leonardo da Vinci's most famous and most debated paintings is his late 15th century fresco "The Last Supper." Placed throughout the composition are various symbols with meanings that remain controversial and uncertain to this day. For centuries, scholars and art historians alike have tried to uncover what exactly Leonardo was trying to say to his audience in this exceptional work. In this first installment of Patheos' new series on Art and Religion, we look at various messages hidden within this popular piece, attempting to decipher what they are and what they mean about Leonardo, Jesus, the Last Supper, and faith.

Christians recognize halos as traditional symbols of holiness and divinity. But why did ancient Roman art also use halos in its depictions of its emperors? What is the unique meaning and intent of this common Christian symbol in non-Christian religious and non-religious art? And what should we understand about a figure sporting a halo in a portrait or sculpture?

For years there have been controversies swirling around irreverent cartoons of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad and the Muslim consternation over them. Yet, many non-Muslims are unaware of the fact that Muslims used to allow depictions of the Prophet but no longer do. Nor are many aware of what else practitioners of Islam are forbidden to depict. In this episode, we’ll answer this and other questions about art in Islam and explore the reverence practicing Muslims have for Allah and His Prophet.

What could be called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Leshan Giant Buddha in southwestern China draws millions of visitors every year to see this remarkable feat of 8th century art and engineering. In this video, we explore this famous statue's history, purpose, symbolism, and miraculous impact on the rivers and people of Sichuan.