Baptism of our Lord Jesus Christ Icon – Engraved Arched Metal Frame

Description

The Baptism of our Lord Jesus Christ, also referred to as the Theophany or the Epiphany (in Eastern Orthodox Christianity), is a popular icon showing the baptism of Christ. During the baptism of Christ it was revealed to witnesses that Jesus was the Son of God. Those in attendance heard His voice confirm Jesus as His Son and witnessed the Holy Spirit descend upon Jesus. This is referred to as the Theophany, which means “Revelation of God,” as it was the event that revealed the Trinitarian nature of Christianity and God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

This icon depicts Jesus standing on the Jordan River with Saint John the Baptist standing to His right, performing the baptism. Above Him is the Holy Spirit, depicted as a dove, signifying the Revelation of God, or Theophany. Standing on the opposite bank of Saint John the Baptist are four angels, waiting to dress Christ after His baptism. In the water are fish and strange creatures, representing the River Jordan and the sea fleeing from Him due to Him being much larger and greater than them. This is noted in Psalms 76:15 – The waters saw Thee, O God, the waters saw Thee and were afraid; the abysses were troubled.

The Baptism of our Lord Jesus Christ is celebrated by Eastern Orthodox Christians on January 6, also known as the celebration of Epiphany.