Preparation for the Passover, from The Story of Moses, before the Exodus 1585

This engraving by Johann Sadeler I, dating back to around 1600, captures the preparations for Passover, a scene laden with profound symbolism. We witness the slaughter of the lamb, its blood destined to mark doorways, a ritual prescribed to protect the Israelites from the angel of death, and the start of the Exodus from Egypt. The lamb itself carries potent symbolism, echoed across cultures. In ancient Greece, sacrificial animals appeased the gods, while in Christianity, the lamb symbolizes Christ's sacrifice. Observe how the act of sacrifice evokes a powerful mix of hope and dread, resonating within our collective memory. The lamb, innocent and pure, becomes a vessel for redemption. Consider also the figure of the avenging angel, a motif that transcends religious boundaries. From ancient Mesopotamian demons to the Valkyries of Norse mythology, winged figures carrying out divine justice appear throughout history. These representations tap into our primal fears and desires, shaping our understanding of morality. This image serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of history, where symbols resurface, bearing traces of past meanings while adapting to new cultural contexts.