Social Justice

Revisiting Sacred Imagery: Russia’s Revelation of Dark-Skinned Biblical Icons Challenges Historical Narratives

In a striking departure from centuries of traditional religious iconography, Russia has unveiled a collection of ancient icons that depict biblical figures with dark skin, prompting a global conversation about the intersection of faith, art, and history. These revelations, some dating back to the 14th century, not only challenge the pervasive portrayal of figures like Jesus Christ as fair-skinned but also beckon a reexamination of the diverse tapestry that constitutes our past. As these once-hidden treasures emerge from the vaults of history, they invite us to question the origins of our most enduring images and the stories they tell us about who we are.