Anonymous

The Temptation of Christ

illumination (26 × 18 cm) — c. 800 Trinity College Library, Dublin

This work is linked to Matthew 4:11

The black figure to the right, with the wings, is Satan. He failed three times in tempting Christ to leave his father and step into the dark side.

This complex image shows the moment when the Devil tries to tempt Jesus to jump from the temple roof. Angels will catch you anyway, says the Devil, referring to Psalms 91:11-12. Jesus replies that it is also written that thou shalt not tempt the Lord.

This illumination is in the Book of Kells, folio 202v.

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