The Deesis Mosaic

Byzantine mosaicists (13th century) — 1261 · Mosaic · Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

“And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” — Revelation 20:12 (KJV)

About

Set in gold in Hagia Sophia's south gallery in 1261, the Deesis shows Christ enthroned with the book of the Gospels, flanked by Mary and John the Baptist in the posture of prayer. It is among the most beautiful mosaics ever made.

The Meaning

Deesis means intercession: at the judgment, the church pictured the saints pleading beside the Judge. The instinct is right that we need an advocate — but Scripture names the Advocate: Christ Himself (1 John 2:1).

For Us Today

When conscience accuses you, do not look for a mediator besides the one God gave. We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous — go to Him, and go boldly (Hebrews 4:16).

Image: Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons — the file’s page. Tap the picture to open the full-size original there.