Unveiling The Mystique Behind The Winged Lion Statue At The United Nations

In December 2021, a striking image of a winged lion statue emerged on social media, sparking debates and discussions across various platforms. Many users claimed that this artwork, prominently displayed outside the United Nations headquarters, represented an "End Times" beast as described in biblical texts. As with many internet phenomena, this claim led to a mix of fascination and skepticism among the masses, highlighting the power of perception and the influence of social media on public opinion.

The statue, officially recognized as a guardian of peace and security, symbolizes hope rather than doom. While some enthusiasts drew connections to the biblical beast described in the Book of Daniel, the statue was created with a different intent altogether. This situation illustrates how art can be interpreted in various ways, sometimes leading to interpretations that diverge significantly from the artist's original vision.

As we delve deeper into the story of this statue, we will explore its origins, symbolism, and the broader cultural implications of its interpretation. By examining the context surrounding this piece of art, we can better understand how historical and contemporary perspectives shape our views on such public installations.

Table of Contents

• The Statue: A Guardian of Peace
• An End Times Beast? Exploring Biblical Connections
• Not the Only Winged Cat: A Global Perspective
• Sources

The Statue: A Guardian of Peace

Installed outside the U.N. headquarters in New York, this magnificent statue depicts a jaguar adorned with the wings of an eagle. Crafted by artists Jacobo and Maria Angeles, it was intended to serve as a guardian symbol for international peace and security. The government of Oaxaca, Mexico, generously donated this piece of art in December 2021, coinciding with significant global discussions about migration and humanitarian support.

The artists expressed their mission through this sculpture, stating it embodies a commitment to protect and accompany Latin American, Mexican, and Oaxacan migrants seeking better opportunities in the United States. This narrative intensifies the statue's importance as a symbol of hope and solidarity among those facing challenges in their journeys.

An End Times Beast? Exploring Biblical Connections

Despite its peaceful symbolism, the statue has been controversially linked to a biblical passage from the Book of Daniel, where the prophet describes a vision of four great beasts. The first beast resembles a lion with eagle's wings, leading some to draw parallels between the statue and apocalyptic imagery.

However, many scholars argue that these beasts symbolize historical empires rather than foretelling doom. Safwat Marzouk, an Old Testament scholar, emphasizes that these representations are tied to the kingdoms of Babylon, Persia, Mede, and Greece. The interpretation of these beasts requires careful analysis of the historical and religious context, which often gets overlooked in popular narratives.

Not the Only Winged Cat: A Global Perspective

This statue is not alone in its depiction of winged cats. Statues resembling this theme can be found in various parts of the world, including Venice, Italy; Leicester, England; and Prague, Czech Republic. Each of these pieces of art carries its own unique stories and cultural significance, illustrating a global fascination with mythical creatures and their meanings.

By examining these installations, we can appreciate the diverse interpretations of similar themes in art and the ways in which cultures express their values, beliefs, and stories through public monuments.

Sources

The following sources provide additional insights and information about the statue and its historical context:

• “Bible Gateway Passage: Daniel 7 - New International Version.” Bible Gateway, link. Accessed 14 Dec. 2021.
• Guardians | Taller Jacobo y María Angeles. link. Accessed 14 Dec. 2021.
• “Monstrous Empires and the Kingdom of God: What Do Monsters Reveal about the Empire?” Columbia Theological Seminary, link. Accessed 14 Dec. 2021.
• “UN Sculpture Looks a Lot Like the End Times Beast Referred to in Daniel 7 and Revelation 13.” CBN News, 10 Dec. 2021, link.

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