Infant Jesus

Infant Jesus refers to the depiction of Jesus Christ in his infancy. This representation is a significant part of the Christian religious tradition, particularly within the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and Anglican Communion. The Infant Jesus is often depicted in art, literature, and music, and is the central figure in the Christmas story.

History

The depiction of Jesus as an infant has its roots in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. These accounts provide the most detailed descriptions of Jesus' birth and early life. The tradition of venerating the Infant Jesus grew in popularity during the Middle Ages, when the concept of Jesus' humanity was emphasized in Christian theology and devotion.

Depictions

In art, the Infant Jesus is often shown in the arms of his mother, Mary, in a scene known as the Madonna and Child. This is one of the most common depictions of Jesus in Western art. In Eastern Orthodox iconography, the Infant Jesus is typically shown in a more formal, symbolic manner, often with a halo and holding a scroll, symbolizing his divine wisdom even in infancy.

In the Nativity scene, another common depiction, the Infant Jesus is shown lying in a manger, surrounded by Mary, Joseph, and various other figures from the Christmas story, such as the Shepherds and the Magi.

Devotion

Devotion to the Infant Jesus is a significant aspect of Christian spirituality. This devotion often takes the form of prayer, meditation, and the veneration of images or statues of the Infant Jesus. One of the most famous of these is the Infant Jesus of Prague, a 16th-century statue located in the Czech Republic, which has become an international symbol of devotion to the Infant Jesus.

See also

• Christ Child
• Holy Family
• Nativity of Jesus in art