The Washing of the Feet (John 13)

  In the image of the “Washing of the Feet” is found the primordial metaphor of service:  The Divine rendering service to us as a model for our earthly sojourn.  This is a profound image of humility and service in the cultural language of the Middle East. To cleanse the feet of another in the culture of the Middle East was to address that part of the body that is most in need of purification and rejuvenation after the trials of the day’s journey.  Such was often the task of the hired servant.  In this icon, Christian theologians see the theology of “kenosis” become visible: 

  “He emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being made in the likeness of men; and being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death … even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:7-8).  In this mystical event Jesus unites the image of God and the image of the servant.     

            In the presentation of scenes prior to his death and resurrection, that is, scenes belonging to “the passion,” Jesus is depicted in red, the color corresponding to suffering, passion, etc.  Note the absence of the spherical illumination around the faces of the disciples at this disturbing moment prior to Jesus’ death and resurrection.  Their countenances, while still reflecting an unearthly character, are marked by looks of question and confusion.  Jesus is positioned lower than the disciples themselves … a strategic movement which highlights the theological truth of service.  Peter is pointing to his head and reflecting the confusion he feels in the moment:  “Then not just my feet, but my head and hands as well” (John 13:9b).

            The architecture in this icon plays a particular role.  The tall “tower-like” room is actually the “Cenacle” in which the event occurred (in the account). In iconography, however, the building never shuts off or distracts from the scene: it only acts as background. Hence, the attention is focused on the event, not on the room.  The event, therefore, looks like it occurs “in front” of the building. This is also portrayed as such because the very meaning of the event is not limited to this historical place since sacred events transcend space and time – surpassing the moment and place where they occur. The truth of an iconic event reaches out beyond the historical and temporal limitations of the original context to the viewer in his/her own place and time. They are, in a sense, “visual sacraments” or gateways to infinity. The architecture, therefore, frequently defies all human logic, both in its forms and details.  Proportions are absolutely neglected, the doors and windows are not in their proper place and, besides, are totally useless because of their dimensions. We are invited to step beyond the “finite mind” to the limitlessness of the Divine Mind which embraces all. All is focused on the eternal present of the moment in which the Divine Truth is communicated. Rationality is encouraged to abdicate in favor of an experience that transcends such limitations. Such is the case with the touching, eternal  moment  communicated through the “Washing of the Feet.”

Brent Michael Baum

ÓMarch 2000