Protecting Our Purity

In this installment of ‘Reaching Within,’ we look into the symbolism found in Hans Memling’s ‘Allegory with a Virgin.’

Amethyst crystals are an important symbol in the painting "Allegory of a Virgin." Sebastian Janicki/Shutterstock

Our culture is full of all kinds of things that appeal to our senses. Sometimes, we see a beautiful dance performance, a great painting, or a movie that moves us to tears because of its positive message.  

Yet there’s a caveat: Not everything we experience leaves us with a sense of catharsis. Sometimes, we experience something that leaves our soul feeling impure, and we ask ourselves: “Why did I even engage with this?” This question is important because it acknowledges our responsibility and discernment for what we “consume.” 

Hans Memling and ‘Allegory with a Virgin’

I was looking at a painting by Northern Renaissance artist Hans Memling called “Allegory with a Virgin,” and I thought about discernment. On the surface, the painting depicts three figures: a woman and two lions. The landscape is thought to be a later addition and will not be discussed here.