John 20

Doubting Thomas in Biblical Art

The encounter between Thomas and the risen Christ has given artists a powerful image of doubt meeting wounds.

Bible and Art Context

Caravaggio makes the scene bodily and immediate. Thomas does not receive an abstract argument; he is drawn toward the wounds of the risen Christ.

Caravaggio painting of Thomas examining the wound in Christ's side

Public domain

The Incredulity of Saint Thomas

Caravaggio, circa 1601-1602, Oil on canvas

Caravaggio makes faith confront the physical reality of the risen Christ.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Questions about Doubting Thomas in Art

Where is Doubting Thomas in the Bible?

Thomas encounters the risen Jesus in John 20:24-29.

Why is Thomas shown touching Christ's wound?

The wound makes the Resurrection concrete and connects faith to the crucified body of Jesus.

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