Poetry Quote by John Price
““Those who might assert that the Catholic Church is meant by these verses, due to its portraying Biblical figures and saints in paintings and statues miss the point. For most, these are symbols of faith, not objects of faith. Unlike ancient Israel, most worshippers today don’t believe that a statue itself performs miracles. Errant Israelites actually called on their idols to do what only God can do.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Religious Symbolism in Art, John Price, 2021
Statues and paintings are symbols of faith, not objects of worship; they point beyond themselves.
In simple terms: Statues symbolize faith, not worship.
Key Takeaway
Recognize symbols as pointers, not idols.
Themes
faith
symbolism
religion
art
Mood
reflective
contemplative
Type
theoretical
educational
When to use this quote
- church decoration
- personal meditation
- educational tours
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
iconography
theology
interpretation
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you treat any symbol as a source of power?
- How do symbols shape your belief?
A Different Perspective
Some may still treat symbols as objects of power, blurring the distinction.
