GOD

Mary as the Dalit Mother by Jyoti Sahi

1944

Oil

This painting has much symbolism. The word Dalit is the word used in the Indian caste system for untouchables. Mary is surrounded by wheat and on top of a grinding stone. In the Indian culture the grinding stone has two parts, the "mother stone" and the "baby stone". This could perhaps symbolize the relationship between Mary and Christ. Additionally, the wheat may refer to the brokenness of sinners.

I chose this painting because I have a deep love for Asian culture. I feel that oftentimes Christian art can become very Eurocentric and leave out a large amount of its Eastern influence. The painting is absolutely beautiful in the way it symbolizes Mary and Christ as normal and even untouchable. It further reminds me of Christ's humanity and how he chose to live his life on earth as normal. In looking at this I think about Nathaniel's response to Christ's birth, "Nazareth!" exclaimed Nathanael. "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" "Come and see for yourself," Philip replied. Something good indeed came from Nazareth, the greatest gift for humanity. Christ humbled himself to an untouchable position for us.

I believe this painting is very true. It speaks of Christ's humility and humanity and highlights the symbolism of Indian culture.