Where It All Began

The Agnus Dei symbol comes straight from the Bible. In John 1:29, when John the Baptist sees Jesus, he says, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” In that moment, the symbol of Christ as the sacrificial lamb was born. Back in the Old Testament, lambs were sacrificed to atone for sins. But when Jesus stepped in, He became the ultimate lamb, sacrificing Himself for the sins of humanity. So, every time you see the Agnus Dei, it’s a reminder of Christ’s incredible act of love.

The First Use of the Agnus Dei Symbol

By the 6th century, the Agnus Dei symbol began showing up in Christian art—mosaics, altars, and, of course, vestments. One of the earliest depictions is found in the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy, where the lamb stands triumphantly, symbolizing Christ’s victory over death. By the Middle Ages, the Agnus Dei was everywhere. This wasn’t just a decorative piece; it was a visual sermon—a constant reminder of sacrifice and victory.

Why It Still Matters

The Agnus Dei isn’t just historical—it’s deeply relevant today. Every time you see that lamb, it’s a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice and His triumph over death. As St. Augustine said, “Christ was both the lion and the lamb: the lion to vanquish, the lamb to suffer.”That’s the power of the Agnus Dei: it’s Christ’s humility and strength, sacrifice, and victory, all wrapped into one symbol.

Where You’ll See It Today

The Agnus Dei pops up everywhere, especially during Easter. On vestments, altar cloths, or stained glass windows, the lamb holding a banner or cross symbolizes Christ’s resurrection and eternal victory. Want to add a deeper meaning to your church’s vestments? The Agnus Dei is the way to go. It’s a symbol that’s lasted through centuries for a reason.