Greek Christian Holy Figures: "Theotókos" and Jesus

This Greek Christian diptych presents images of Theotókos and Jesus. Theotókos is the Greek title of Mary, the mother of Jesus used especially in the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and Eastern Catholic Churches. Its literal English translations include God-bearer and the one who gives birth to God.

The Christian faith is based on the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, commonly referred to as Jesus Christ or Jesus or Christ. Jesus, (7–2 BC/BCE – 30–36 AD/CE), is the central figure of Christianity. Most Christian denominations venerate him as God the Son.

The principal sources of information regarding Jesus are the four canonical gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The gospels declare that Jesus was a Jew born in Bethlehem, in the Roman province of Judea. At the age of 30, he began to preach throughout Palestine, which was then under Roman rule. The gospels describe miracles that Jesus performed such as raising the dead.

Most critical historians agree that Jesus was a Jew who was regarded as a teacher and healer. He was crucified in Jerusalem, on the orders of the Roman Prefect of Judaea, on the charge of sedition against the Roman Empire. Christians believe that Jesus then rose from the dead and ascended into heaven, from which he will return.

The Greek Orthodox Church traditionally conducts services in Koine Greek, the original language of the New Testament. Greek Orthodox Churches maintain many traditions practiced in ancient times, including the use of incense and a priesthood. They venerate the Virgin Mary and the Saints.
Source:
Source Citation (MLA 7th Edition) CARMODY, J. M. "Theotokos." New Catholic Encyclopedia. 2nd ed. Vol. 13. Detroit: Gale, 2003. 936-937. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 1 July 2013. Document URL http://go.galegroup.com.ezproxy.lapl.org/ps/i.do?id=GALE|CX3407711035&v=2.1&u=lapl&it=r&p=GVRL&sw=w "Jesus Christ." Children's Illustrated Encyclopedia. New York: Dorling Kindersley, 2010. 297. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 1 July 2013. Document URL http://go.galegroup.com.ezproxy.lapl.org/ps/i.do?id=GALE|CX1796500200&v=2.1&u=lapl&it=r&p=GVRL&sw=w http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theotokos http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_Orthodox_Church http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_in_Europe