The Holy Bible is said to be the most read book in the world and is estimated to have sold over 40 million copies in the last 60 years. But for those that couldn't read, it was the churches stained glass windows that told the biblical stories.
During the medieval period, specifically spanning the 10th to the 12th centuries, Europe bore witness to the creation of numerous magnificent church structures, each destined to become iconic landmarks within their local communities. This era posed a unique challenge for church leaders who presided over a predominantly illiterate populace. In response to this literacy gap, the ingenious addition of stained glass windows became a prevalent feature in these "new" ecclesiastical edifices, serving a dual purpose.
These exquisite stained glass windows emerged as potent theological instructors, imparting the profound narratives of the Bible to the laypeople. Given the prevailing illiteracy of the era, these radiant artworks were instrumental in conveying biblical stories and lessons. With their vibrant colors and intricate designs, these windows played a pivotal role in elucidating key passages from the sacred texts, spanning from the genesis of humanity to the apocalyptic revelations of the Book of Revelation.
In essence, these stained glass windows transformed the church into a visual scripture, allowing the faithful to connect with the divine narratives even if they could not decipher the written word. As a result, these windows not only adorned the sacred architecture but also served as a luminous bridge between the spiritual and the tangible, nurturing the religious spirit of the medieval European communities.
I took these photos of the stained glass at our recent visit to Felbrigg Hall in Norfolk. The outstanding beauty of these windows are quite breath-taking.
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