The invisible Son became visible
The Orthodox case centers on the one eternal Son who truly became human. An icon represents that person through his visible human appearance.
Perspective note
Comparative historical/source study. The original author's or church's reception is retained; inclusion does not make every claim Oriental Orthodox teaching.
Key points
- Before: God's invisible essence cannot be captured by lines, color, or a finite shape.
- Incarnation: The Son assumed real humanity and was seen and touched. His humanity is his own, not a separate human person.
- Depiction: The image refers to the incarnate Son without claiming that pigments contain his divine essence.
- This explains why depiction can be coherent. A further argument from tradition and ecclesial authority is needed for veneration as a norm.