The Story Unfolds
Years after his call, God tested Abraham's faith in the most extreme way possible. He commanded Abraham to take his beloved son, Isaac—the child of God's promise—to the region of Moriah and sacrifice him as a burnt offering. Heartbroken but obedient, Abraham took Isaac, the wood, and the fire and journeyed to the mountain. Just as Abraham raised the knife to slay his son, an angel of the Lord called out from heaven, stopping him. The angel declared that now God knew Abraham truly feared Him, for he had not withheld his only son. Abraham then saw a ram caught in a thicket, which he sacrificed instead.
Story Summary
God tests Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac.
Masterpiece Showcase
Artwork Details
"Sacrifice of Isaac"
Caravaggio
c. 1603
Oil on canvas
Uffizi Gallery, Florence
Curator's Insights
About the Art
Caravaggio captures the climactic moment with breathtaking tension, showing the angel physically intervening to stop Abraham's knife.
About the Artist
Caravaggio revolutionized Baroque art with his intense realism and dramatic use of light and shadow (chiaroscuro).
Historical Context
This painting was commissioned by Cardinal Maffeo Barberini, demonstrating the Church's use of art for spiritual instruction.
Techniques Used:
Symbolism:
- Angel's firm grip shows divine intervention
- Isaac's terror represents human vulnerability
- Ram symbolizes God's provision
Interactive Art Adventure
Look Closer
- Look at the angel's hand grabbing Abraham's wrist
- Notice Isaac's expression of fear and confusion
- Find the ram that will be sacrificed instead
Creative Spark
This painting uses strong light and dark shadows. In a dark room, use a flashlight to create dramatic lighting effects on different objects.