Gospel in Art: Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?

The Blind Leading the Blind, by Sebastian Vrancx, 17thC © Christie's London, 9 July 2014, lot 123

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 2 March 2025
Luke 6:39-45

At that time: Jesus told his disciples a parable: 'Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, "Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye", when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite! First take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother's eye.

'For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit, for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorn bushes, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.'

Reflection on the painting

Our painting, by the Flemish artist Sebastian Vrancx, depicts the well-known theme of The Blind Leading the Blind, which was popularised around fifty years earlier by Pieter Brueghel the Elder in the late 16th century. In this scene, we see the leader of the group already having fallen into the water, while the second man, precariously positioned on a narrow bridge, is about to tumble in as well. A small dog clings to the path, struggling to regain steady ground. The remaining figures, still on dry land, cautiously feel their way forward, but it is only a matter of time before they, too, fall.

Notice what the men are carrying: the first holds a beer pitcher, the second conceals a musical instrument beneath his cloak, and the third carries a purse slung over his shoulder. These objects may symbolise earthly distractions, pleasures, or attachments that can cloud our spiritual vision and lead us astray.

Jesus uses this vivid imagery of the blind leading the blind to remind us that we all have our own blind spots! Our weaknesses, temptations, faults, and sins obscure our vision of truth. Today, we pray for the grace to recognise our own blindness. Acknowledging the areas where we struggle, is already a significant step towards opening our hearts fully to Christ.

Saint Augustine said "It is no advantage to be near the light if the eyes are closed", warning us against spiritual blindness. I think it is such a beautiful quote, and maybe one that is worth reflecting on today.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/luke-6-39-45-2025/