The Symbolism of Water in Early Christian Baptisteries

Olof Brandt

doi:10.37718/csa.2003.01

Abstract

The symbolism of water in the Early Christian baptisteries was not expressed in the architecture of the building but rather in its decoration. This article illustrates the references to water in the sculptures and inscriptions of the fourth and fifth-century phases of the Lateran baptistery in Rome. This decoration shows that the water was a symbol ofboth li fe and death: the death of the sinner and the life of God, to which baptism gave access.

Highlights

The symbolism of water in the Early Christian baptisteries was not expressed in the architecture of the building but rather in its decoration
An interesting example of the deep symbolic meaning which can be ascribed to water is the Early Christian baptistery, built as an architectural setting for Christian initiation through the ritual bath of baptism
It is difficult to trace the origin of the octagonal baptisteries to any specific building category because similar octagonal halls were built in the early fourth century as vestibules or dining rooms in the Imperial palaces, making it hard to see any particular symbolism in the octagonal shape

Summary

Introduction

The symbolism of water in the Early Christian baptisteries was not expressed in the architecture of the building but rather in its decoration. An interesting example of the deep symbolic meaning which can be ascribed to water is the Early Christian baptistery, built as an architectural setting for Christian initiation through the ritual bath of baptism.

Results

Conclusion