Grade 5 Lesson 12 Draft
Textbook
Learning Outcomes
- G5.LO30 - Analyze Ascension through Scripture, Icons, and Liturgical prayers/hymns.
- G5.LO31 - Contrast the theology in the Icon of Ascension with that of the common Western painting.
Talmido Resources
- Vocabulary Words
- Sooloqo - Ascension
- Mandorla - In icons, the term is used to describe the almond-shaped enclosure depicted around Christ and the Theotokos.
- Resurrection - Christ’s rising from the dead
- Articles
- Podcasts
Lesson Reources
- The Ascension in Iconography
- The icon of the Ascension teaches us the theology of the Church in color. The icon shows Christ ascending in glory. In His left hand He holds a scroll and with His right hand we see Him blessing everyone which represents His love and teachings to us. In the icon, we see a mandorla which is a Greek word for the almond-like shape seen surrounding our Lord. It is important to notice that the mandorla is being carried by two angels showing that Christ was glorified all along His way to God. The icon reminds us that Christ continues to be the source of the teaching and message of the Church. He blesses and guides those to whom He has entrusted His work. One incredibly important teaching is seen only in the Icons by the mandorla. Scripture reads that Jesus ascended and a cloud hid Him, and using that alone one would think that Christ flew through the air until He was out of sight for those on the ground. However, the true teaching gives a much more powerful and deeper insight into the relationship between God and man.In the icon, we see a “mandorla” which is a Greek word for the almond-like shape that is seen surrounding our Lord. This special iconographic feature tells us that only those with eyes of Faith (i.e., only those within the Church) would be able to see. Simply stated, the non-believer at the Mount of Olives would not have seen the Ascension.
- Paintings and Icons
- The Holy Icon on the other hand is never intended for secular or modernistic accolades. The only intention and purpose of an Icon is to teach the Faith of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. As such, the icon teaches us about the event and to identify the figures. It was indeed the Theotokos who pondered all in her heart (St. Luke 2:9) and shared with the Apostles and disciples the events that have happened. After all, who else could explain to the Gospel writers (Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John) of the meaning and significance of all the events, especially from the birth of Christ! We can clearly make out the mandorla which gives another important teaching. A painting is meant to entertain whereas an Icon is meant to teach the Faith. An Icon is not painted but it is written. This again emphasizes the purpose of the icon, namely, teaching and enhancing the faith.
