Uncovering the True Face of Jesus: Why Color Matters

The debate over Jesus' color has long been a contentious issue, with some arguing that it's irrelevant and others claiming that it's crucial to understanding his message. As Christians around the world celebrate Easter, it's a timely reminder that the true face of Jesus remains shrouded in mystery. Was Jesus a man of color? Why does his skin color matter, and what are the implications for our understanding of his message and legacy? The answer lies in understanding the historical context of Jesus' life and teachings. As a Jewish rabbi living in the 1st century, Jesus would have been surrounded by people of color. The Roman Empire, which ruled over Judea, was a multicultural society with people from all over the Mediterranean. Jesus' disciples, who came from various backgrounds, would have been exposed to diverse cultures and skin tones. Moreover, the New Testament reflects this diversity. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus is described as having a "dark complexion" (Mark 15:39), while in the Gospel of John, he is referred to as having a "burnished bronze" (Revelation 1:14-15). These descriptions suggest that Jesus was not a white-skinned European, but rather a Middle Eastern Jewish man with a darker complexion. So why does Jesus' color matter? For many, the image of a white Jesus perpetuates a narrative of European superiority and reinforces systemic racism. By depicting Jesus as a white man, we ignore the historical context of his life and teachings, which were shaped by his experiences as a Palestinian Jew living under Roman occupation. Moreover, the image of a white Jesus has been used to justify slavery, lynching, and other forms of oppression. In the United States, the image of a white Jesus was often used to reinforce racist stereotypes and justify the enslavement of African Americans. Similarly, in Europe, the image of a white Jesus was used to justify colonialism and the oppression of indigenous peoples. In contrast, a Jesus of color challenges these narratives and encourages us to rethink our assumptions about his life and teachings. It reminds us that Jesus was a man of the margins, a marginalized Jew living under Roman occupation. His message of love and compassion was not limited to one particular group of people, but rather was meant for all humanity. As we celebrate Easter, let us remember that Jesus' color is not just a matter of historical curiosity, but a powerful symbol of his message of inclusivity and love. Let us strive to create a more just and equitable world, where all people are valued and respected regardless of their skin tone or background.