Does the Bible say anything about halos?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

A halo is a shape, generally circular or rayed, usually above the head of a person and indicative of a source of light. Found in numerous depictions of Jesus, angels, and other biblical characters in the history of art, many wonder what the Bible says, if anything, regarding halos. Historically, halos existed in art before the time of Christ in a variety of religious settings. Halos have become one artistic expression used in religious art as a way of drawing attention or honor to Jesus or various other religious figures from the Bible and Christian history. However, the Bible does not directly speak of halos as observed in religious art. The closest expressions are found in examples of Jesus in Revelation described in glorious light (Revelation 1) or when He changed at the transfiguration (Matthew 17). Visual representations can be helpful, but we need to ensure that they enhance, rather than overshadow, the truths conveyed in Scripture. By grounding our faith in biblical principles, we can deepen our understanding of spiritual concepts in art and theology alike, coming to a greater appreciation of both.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Moses had a face that shone with light after being in the presence of God (Exodus 34:29–35). However, the light involved is not described as a halo.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• At the transfiguration, Jesus' "face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light" (Matthew 17:2). Similarly, in John's vision in Revelation Jesus is described as having a face that "was like the sun shining in full strength" (Revelation 1:16). But neither depiction speaks of a halo specifically.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

People have always come up with visual representations to reveal truths. These representations, like halos, give us tangible ways to remember important things. However, anchoring our beliefs in what the Bible actually communicates is paramount. While halos have been used throughout history to symbolize holiness or divine favor in religious art, it's crucial to recognize that the Bible itself does not explicitly mention halos as we see them depicted. Instead, biblical figures like Moses and Jesus are described as radiating with divine light in certain contexts, but not with a halo-shaped aura. This underscores the importance of knowing and respecting what Scripture affirms, while appreciating how visual symbols can enhance our understanding of and interaction with spiritual truths. Therefore, as we engage with art and its interpretations, let us always seek to align our perspectives with biblical truth, ensuring that our faith and expressions remain firmly grounded in God's Word.

UNDERSTAND

• The Bible does not directly speak about halos.
• Halos have been used in art to represent something or someone holy or important.
• The Bible does describe certain people as being surrounded by bright light, but there is nothing to indicate that they took the shape of a halo.

REFLECT

• How does the use of visual symbols like halos in religious art impact your understanding of biblical figures and their significance?
• How can we ensure that our visual representations accurately reflect and enhance, rather than distort or overshadow, biblical truths?
• Consider biblical instances where individuals radiate with divine light (e.g., Moses' glowing face). How does this inform your view on the symbolism of halos in art? What are the theological implications of Moses' shining face and Jesus' radiant appearance?

ENGAGE

• Art in both secular and other religious contexts utilized the idea of a circle of light above the head to indicate the holy nature or significance of the figures in the painting or other art form. The use of halos changed over the years. Variations include a halo with a cross in it to refer to Jesus, a triangular halo to indicate reference to the Trinity, square halos for those still living, and circular halos for saints. In the Eastern Orthodox tradition, the halo has traditionally been understood as an icon that offers a window into heaven to communicate with Christ and the saints.
• Halos have also been used in Christian art to distinguish good from evil. A clear example can be found in Simon Ushakov's painting The Last Supper. In it, Jesus and the disciples are depicted with halos. Only Judas Iscariot is painted without a halo, indicating a distinction between holy and unholy, good and evil.
• Historically, the concept of the halo has also been associated with a crown. As such, the halo can represent majesty and honor as with a king or victor in battle or competition. From this perspective, Jesus with a halo is an indication of honor, an honor extended to His followers and angels.