 The fact that we have
a textile, a particular linen with an uncertain origin reproducing a more uncertain image
raises interest in the Holy Shroud. The image is a bit unclear, but when you get used to
it especially with the help of photography, it clearly shows the picture of a crucified
man who died and bears particular signs of torture on his body. These signs remind us of
an ancient story, the only story we know about in which all these particular signs are
present simultaneously. The story can be found in the narration of the passion of Jesus of
Nazareth in the four gospels.
After the second half of the 14th century, the Shroud's influence on popular beliefs in
the west increased. At this point we are faced with a basic problem: whilst keeping in
mind the nature and the history of the Shroud, we should ask if this belief is legitimate
or not. If today's man has to be respected and if he is to get involved when looking at
this image, then we must also set with great attention the vital reception granted to this
object and to its message.
The Shroud is sufficiently mysterious to arouse the scientists' curiosity; it bears such
an image of sorrow that it arouses pity in every sensitive heart: it's a sign of torture
which has characterized the history of ancient centuries and which can interest whoever
feels to have inherited that civilisation. It is very close to a particular moment in the
life of Jesus of Nazareth so that those who feel blood of the same blood get involved
iether because they belong to his people or because they have accepted the message of
faith. |
