BYU ScholarsArchive

Article Title

“Behold the Condescension of God” A Scriptural Perspective on Three Nativity Scenes

Authors

Doris R. Dant
Richard G. Oman

Keywords

Mormon studies, nativity, Christmas, Gerd Sjokvist, Harrison Begay Jr., Lapita K. Frewin

Abstract

In the midst of the Christmas season's commercialization, frenzied preparations, and parties, families worldwide set aside time to arrange a nativity scene on a mantelpiece or table. More than any other traditional Christmas object, these nativity sets bid us heed the message of Christ's birth. What the nativities specifically say differs with the endless variations played out by their creators and those who arrange the scenes, but certain scriptural themes are common. To show how some of these themes are presented by nativity scenes, this article will analyze three world-class nativities created by Latter-day Saint Gerd Sjökvist, Harrison Begay Jr., and Lapita K. Frewin (see facing page for information on the artists).

Recommended Citation

Dant, Doris R. and Oman, Richard G. (2002) "“Behold the Condescension of God” A Scriptural Perspective on Three Nativity Scenes," BYU Studies Quarterly: Vol. 41: Iss. 3, Article 2.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/byusq/vol41/iss3/2