Ecclesia and Synagoga

The figure of Synagoga is a medieval allegory of Judaism and artistic expression of the substitution theology. According to the scheme of type and antitype it is used in combination and differentiation to the figure of the Ecclesia as an allegory of Christianity.

The Synagogue is usually represented with lying on the floor crown, symbolizing the overcoming of Judaism by Christianity, and with a bandage over his eyes, as an illustration that the Jews do not recognize Christ as the "true Messiah ". In addition, the Synagoga often has other attributes like a broken lance, from her hand slips her the Torah scroll or she holds a goat head ( scapegoat ). Often her face is turned away, and sometimes they will be displayed together with the devil. In contrast, the Ecclesia is usually depicted with a crown on her head and a banner and a chalice.

The representation of Ecclesia and Synagoga at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, at the Bamberg Cathedral, at the Freiburg, at the Strasbourg Cathedral, the Cathedral of Metz and the Basilica of Our Lady Trier is known.

Codex Bruchsal 1

The Codex Bruchsal 1, from the Bruchsal library of Speyer bishops, contains a sheet with the crucifixion scene, where the allegorical dichotomy Ecclesia ( Christianity ) and Synagoga ( Jewry ) is presented. On this illumination of the Gospel Lectionary, a body set up in 1220, handwriting, hovers the Ecclesia on a shell at the right hand of the crucified ( on the left) and begins with a cup of blood from his wound on. A banner symbolizes the victory of Judaism. On the other side of the crucified Christ, the shape of Synagoga wearing a blindfold and holding two instruments of torture of Christ, the crown of thorns and vinegar rod in their hands.