Petrus, Johannes en Filippus zegenen gelovigen in Samaria before 1646

This engraving, by Christoffel van Sichem II, depicts Saints Peter, John, and Phillip blessing the people of Samaria. The dove, a prominent symbol at the top, represents the Holy Spirit, often depicted descending from heaven, infusing divine grace and power. Note the keys held by Peter. These aren't mere objects; they are the very keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, a symbol of Peter's authority and the power to bind and loose on Earth. We see this motif echoed in countless depictions of Peter throughout the ages, linking him directly to divine authority. Observe how the faithful kneel, heads bowed, awaiting the divine blessing. The act of kneeling is a primal expression of reverence. Across cultures and epochs, it manifests as submission, humility, and deep respect before a higher power. This gesture taps into our collective memory, evoking profound emotions of awe and spiritual yearning, a symbol of the enduring human quest for the divine.