Nadab and Abihu are killed in the Tabernacle, Leviticus 1900

This illustration depicts a scene from the Old Testament, made by James Tissot, a 19th-century French artist known for his narrative paintings and illustrations of biblical scenes. Here, Tissot captures the moment when Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron, are struck down for offering unauthorized fire to God. The image offers a glimpse into the rigid social hierarchies and religious laws of the ancient world, reflecting themes of divine authority and the consequences of disobedience. Tissot presents their bodies as almost weightless, suspended between life and death. The artist’s choice to depict this scene reflects his own evolving spiritual interests and the broader cultural fascination with religious subjects during his time. The image invites reflection on the role of faith, power, and individual agency within historical and religious narratives. It serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in interpreting and representing stories that continue to shape cultural and moral landscapes.