Jesus in the Temple

Pictorial Description:

Jesus is standing in one of the precincts of the Temple compound. Marble columns are in the background as this is the Temple as it was built by Herod the Great. Whatever ornamentation may appear on the stone walls or ceiling is strictly floral. Animal and human figures were forbidden in the Temple and its precincts.  Jesus is asking questions of the teachers of the Law and answering questions put to Him.

What’s Taking Place:

At the age of 12 a Hebrew boy of the first century A.D. was declared a “Son of the Law”.  This indicated his personal responsibility in religious matters. We have a view of Jesus at about what would be the time of His confirmation in modern day terms. He is dedicated to God's work. He is also properly and sinlessly subject to His parents and teachers.  This is important to note as part of Jesus’ act of obedience under the Law.

Symbol:

The “IHC” are the first three letters of Jesus’ name in Greek.  The three Greek letters are the Greek iota, eta, and sigma.

Scriptural Reference:

Luke 2:41-52