The eagle is a majestic and powerful bird of prey that has been an important symbol throughout history. In Christianity, the eagle is sometimes used as a symbol representing Jesus Christ. This connection stems from a few key associations:
The Eagle’s Heavenly Abilities
The eagle is known for its incredible eyesight – able to spot prey from miles away. Additionally, the eagle is one of the highest flying birds, capable of soaring at elevations of 10,000 feet or more. For these reasons, the eagle epitomizes attributes like keen vision, foresight, and the ability to reach great heights. These characteristics have metaphorical parallels to Jesus’s omniscience and ascension into Heaven.
Renewal and Longevity
In the Middle Ages, the eagle was thought to have extremely long life spans, living for hundreds of years. The eagle also undergoes a renewal process, growing new feathers and claws over time. This renewal was likened to Christ’s resurrection and the promise of eternal life for those who believe in Him.
Kingship and Divinity
Throughout history, the eagle has been a symbol of kings, emperors, and rulers. This royal association stems from the eagle’s proud stature and dominance over other birds. As such, the eagle epitomizes leadership, nobility, and authority. For Christians, these attributes are reflective of Christ’s kingship and divine nature.
Use of the Eagle in Christian Symbolism
The eagle appears frequently in Christian art and architecture as a symbol of Christ and his divine attributes. Some key examples include:
Church Lecterns
Eagles are a very common motif for lecterns in medieval European churches. The lectern holds the Holy Bible, from which scriptures are read during mass. The eagle symbolizes the word of God that comes from above.
Tympanums and Portals
Cathedrals throughout Europe often feature tympanums – a semi-circular space above the entrance – containing relief carvings of religious symbols and narratives. Eagles are sometimes depicted here as a representation of Christ’s resurrection and ascension into Heaven.
In Heraldry
The double-headed eagle is used in the coat of arms for the Holy Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire, and Russian Empire, among others. This symbolizes the secular authority under divine protection.
In Paintings
In many religious paintings, Christ or holy figures may be depicted with eagles or with eagle wings, representing their heavenly links. Examples include paintings by Rubens, El Greco, and others.
| Artist | Painting Title | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Rubens | The Ascension of Christ | 1636-1639 |
| El Greco | Christ Carrying the Cross | 1580 |
Parallels Between Eagles and Christ
There are several symbolic parallels that explain why the eagle resonates as a representation of Christ in Christian iconography and art:
Vision and Omniscience
Eagles epitomize keen eyesight and vision. This parallels Jesus’s divine omniscience and ability to “see all.”
Ascension and Transcendence
The eagle’s flight elevates it above earthly realms, paralleling Christ’s ascension to heaven and transcendence of earthly limits.
Renewal and Resurrection
The eagle’s long life and renewal connects to Christ’s resurrection – the promise of eternal life through belief in Him.
Dominance and Majesty
As king of the birds, the eagle represents royalty and dominance. Christ is the King of Kings whose majesty and authority comes from the divine.
Protection and Guidance
Mother eagles protect and guide their young, carrying them on their wings. This parallels Christ’s protection and guidance over his followers.
Use in Other Religions and Cultures
Beyond Christianity, the eagle carries symbolic meaning in other religions and cultures as well:
Greek Mythology
Zeus, the king of gods in Greek mythology, was associated with the eagle and sometimes depicted in an eagle form. The eagle was a messenger of the gods and represented courage and strength.
Native American Cultures
Eagles feature prominently in various Native American religions and rituals as creatures of spiritual power and nobility. Their feathers are used in ceremonies and headdresses.
Ancient Egypt
The eagle was an important royal symbol in Egyptian iconography. The god Horus is depicted with a falcon’s head, representing divine authority.
Hindu and Buddhist Traditions
In Dharma traditions, Garuda is a giant, eagle-like bird who is the vahana (vehicle) of Vishnu. He symbolizes the human mind and soul’s ascension to spiritual heights.
Conclusion
While the eagle is a multifaceted symbol used in many cultures, there are some key parallels between eagle attributes and Jesus that explain its frequent use in Christian iconography. The eagle’s heavenly abilities, renewal, majesty, and guidance resonate with Christ’s divine nature, resurrection, kingship, and shepherding of believers. However, the eagle is also found more universally as a symbol of gods, kings, spiritualtranscendence, and wisdom. With keen vision that soars confidently above, this powerful bird will likely maintain its mythic status across religions, cultures, and ages.