26 November 2014

Uncommon Commentary #435: An Unedifying Edifice

The actual name of what we call the “Statue of Liberty” is “Liberty Enlightening the World”, hence the fact that she carries a torch.  This landmark may be an “icon” of the USA, but, to be totally honest, it’s one in need of iconoclasm; those of us who are still Christians ought to know that it is not an abstract concept like political “liberty” but Christ that enlightens the world.  Moreover, since it’s thought to have been modeled on or at least inspired by the Colossus of Rhodes, which was a portrayal of the pagan god Helios, the statue may even qualify as an idol.  Had I the power to do so, I would officially rechristen “Lady Liberty” as the “Statue of Wisdom” (and the island where she stands as “Wisdom Island”), since wisdom, unlike liberty, is personified in Scripture and can truly be said to have an enlightening influence.