Usury is a great evil 1645

Jacob Jordaens painted "Usury is a great evil" with oil on canvas. Notice the raised hand of the figure on the left, a gesture that transcends mere representation to become a potent symbol. The act of pointing has appeared throughout history, from ancient Roman oratory to Renaissance religious art. But in this context, the extended hand takes on a moral dimension, invoking divine law. Consider the history of the hand gesture, which we have seen in depictions of classical orators, biblical prophets, and now, a denouncer of usury. It speaks to the way such symbols evolve through time, passed down through history, and adapted to convey new meanings. This symbol speaks to the psychological need to establish hierarchy and order. This gesture becomes a powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Like a recurring dream, the raised hand persists, a testament to the cyclical nature of human experience.