Faith & Reason Nexus

This account, attributed to Publius Lentulus, a resident of Judea during the reign of Tiberius Caesar, offers a detailed and poetic portrayal of Jesus Christ. It was first recorded in the writings of St. Anselm of Canterbury in the 11th century.

“There lives at this time in Judea a man of singular virtue, whose name is Jesus Christ. His followers love and adore him as the offspring of the immortal God. He calls back the dead from the graves and heals all sorts of diseases with a word or a touch.”

Jesus is depicted as a man of extraordinary virtue, capable of performing miraculous acts such as raising the dead and healing the sick, with His divine powers clearly manifesting.

“He is a tall man, well-shaped, and of an amiable and reverend aspect. His hair is of a color that can hardly be matched, falling into graceful curls, waving about and very agreeably couched upon his shoulders, parted on the crown of his head, running as a stream to the front after the fashion of the Nazarites.”

The description of Jesus’ physical appearance emphasizes His remarkable stature and beauty, with His hair described as uniquely graceful and symbolizing His Nazarite vow.

“His forehead is high, large, and imposing; his cheeks without spot or wrinkle, beautiful with a lovely red, his nose and mouth formed with exquisite symmetry. His beard, of a color suitable to his hair, reached below his chin and parted in the middle like a fork; his eyes, blue, clear, and serene, look innocent, dignified, manly, and mature.”

The portrayal continues with vivid details about Jesus’ facial features, highlighting His serene and dignified expression. His eyes, described as blue and clear, exude a sense of innocence and maturity.

“In proportion of body, most perfect and captivating; his arms and hands delectable to behold.”

This emphasizes the overall perfection of Jesus’ physical form, which captivates all who see Him.

“He rebukes with majesty, counsels with mildness, his whole address, whether in word or deed, being eloquent and grave. No man has seen him laugh, yet his manners are exceedingly pleasant; but he has wept frequently in the presence of men. He is temperate, modest, and wise.”

Jesus is described as a figure of majesty and wisdom. His demeanor is both noble and gentle, never laughing but often weeping for others. He embodies self-control, modesty, and profound wisdom.

“A man for his extraordinary beauty and divine perfection, surpassing the children of men in every sense.”

The description concludes with an acknowledgment of Jesus’ unparalleled beauty and divine perfection, elevating Him above all humanity.

This depiction of Jesus emphasizes not only His divine nature and the miracles He performed but also His unique physical beauty and moral excellence, which surpassed that of any other person. It presents Jesus as the ideal man, both in His appearance and character.