Baptism of Jesus 

Maarten de Vos painted the Baptism of Jesus, capturing a pivotal moment with powerful symbols. At the heart of the scene, the dove, a universal emblem of peace and purity, descends—a visual manifestation of the Holy Spirit, connecting Heaven and Earth. The gesture of John the Baptist, pouring water, echoes across cultures, reminiscent of ancient purification rituals. Consider its parallel to the Egyptian practice of cleansing souls with water from the Nile, preparing them for rebirth. This act transcends mere physical cleansing; it speaks to a deeper, psychological need for renewal. Note how the act of cleansing, both physical and spiritual, engages with our collective memory. The symbol resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts.