The Good Samaritan c. 1616

Jacob Jordaens painted this depiction of "The Good Samaritan," illustrating a timeless parable of compassion. Observe the Samaritan, distinguished by his turban, tenderly supporting the injured man. The act of carrying transcends mere physical assistance; it symbolizes empathy, a willingness to bear another's burden. This motif echoes through art history—consider images of the Pietà, where Mary cradles the lifeless body of Christ. In both, we witness profound human connection in the face of suffering. The white horse behind them is a symbol of purity, nobility, and salvation, and acts as a silent witness to the Samaritan’s act of kindness. This recalls ancient Greek and Roman art, where horses were associated with gods and heroes, conveying ideas of triumph and divine favor. These images touch upon our deepest emotional registers, reminding us of our shared humanity and the cyclical nature of suffering and redemption.