It Happened in Hell – Chapter 8
Art and Liturgy: Visualizing the Victory
Introduction
In the realm of Christian belief, art and liturgy have long served as powerful tools to convey complex theological concepts in ways that are both accessible and profound. This chapter explores how the Harrowing of Hell, a central event in Christ’s victory over sin and death, is visualized through art and celebrated in liturgy, providing a tangible connection to this triumphant moment. We’ll see how these expressions reinforce the hope of universal redemption and Christ’s conquest, aligning with our journey in It Happened in Hell.
Art Depictions: Visualizing Christ’s Triumph
Artistic representations of the Harrowing of Hell are abundant in Christian history, particularly in Byzantine and medieval art. These depictions typically show Christ, often in a radiant form, breaking the gates of Hell and leading out Adam and Eve, symbolizing the liberation of all humanity from the bonds of sin and death.
One of the most famous examples is the mosaic in the Church of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo in Ravenna, Italy, from the 6th century. Here, Christ is depicted standing on the lid of a sarcophagus, with Adam and Eve on either side, rising from their resting places. This image encapsulates the idea that through Christ’s descent into Hell, he has conquered death and redeemed all who were held captive by it (Artistic depictions of the Harrowing of Hell).
Another notable depiction is found in the Chora Church in Istanbul, where a 14th-century fresco shows Christ pulling Adam and Eve out of their sarcophagi, with the devil lying defeated below. This visual narrative not only illustrates the event but also emphasizes Christ’s dominance over evil and his role as the redeemer of all humanity.
These artistic representations serve to make the abstract concept of Christ’s victory over sin and death more concrete, allowing believers to visualize and connect with this pivotal moment in Christian theology. They align with the book’s focus on universal redemption, showing Christ’s triumph extending to all, not just a select few.
Liturgical Celebrations: Remembering Christ’s Victory
In addition to art, the Harrowing of Hell is also celebrated in Christian liturgy, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox Church during Holy Saturday, the day before Easter. The Great Vigil of Holy Saturday includes readings and chants that recount Christ’s descent into Hell and his liberation of the souls held there.
One of the key elements of this liturgy is the reading from the Gospel of Matthew (27:62-66; 28:1-8), which describes the events leading up to and following Christ’s resurrection, implicitly referencing his descent into Hell. Additionally, the liturgy includes the hymn known as the “Troparion of the Resurrection,” which states, “Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life” (Orthodox Liturgy for Holy Saturday). This hymn encapsulates the essence of the Harrowing of Hell, where Christ’s victory over death brings life to those who were once dead.
In some Orthodox traditions, the priest will also process around the church with a candle, symbolizing Christ’s light penetrating the darkness of Hell. This act reinforces the idea that Christ’s descent into the depths of Hell brings light and redemption to all.
While the Western Christian tradition has somewhat de-emphasized the Harrowing of Hell in its liturgies, it was historically part of the Easter Vigil, and some churches still include it in their services. For instance, the Roman Catholic Church’s Easter Vigil includes a reading from Colossians 3:1-4, which speaks of being raised with Christ, indirectly referencing his victory over death (Roman Catholic Easter Vigil).
These liturgical practices not only remember and celebrate Christ’s victory but also invite believers to participate in that victory through their senses, reinforcing the narrative of redemption and liberation, aligning with the book’s focus on universal salvation.
Conclusion
Through art and liturgy, the Christian community has found ways to visualize and celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death, particularly through the Harrowing of Hell. These representations not only educate but also inspire, connecting believers to the profound truth that Christ’s conquest is for all humanity, offering hope and redemption to every soul. As we continue our exploration, may these artistic and liturgical expressions deepen our understanding and appreciation of this pivotal event in Christian history, reinforcing the hope of universal redemption.