The Depiction of “Proskynesis” Attitude as Intercessory Body Posture: An Application to Egyptian-Christian Art and Heritage

Intercession can be defined as “a prayer with, for, and on behalf of another person, group, or even the world, undertaken by an individual or a group.” In Biblical accounts of prayer, various body postures are mentioned. For instance, Abraham fell upon his face before God (Genesis 17:3, 17); Moses prayed with his hands outstretched (Exodus 9:27–29); King Solomon knelt in prayer (I Kings 8:54); and Jesus prayed looking up into heaven (Mark 6:41).
Proskynesis, encompassing gestures that range from bowing down to complete prostration, has been practiced before God, rulers, or revered individuals. This gesture has been employed in Coptic art since as early as the 6^th century AD. to convey the act of seeking intercession. The act of Proskynesis has been depicted in various scenes and on a wide array of materials, such as scenes of Christ’s miracles, depictions involving Coptic saints (seeking their intercession), and representations of the Holy Virgin Mary. In the context of Coptic culture, the concept of intercession was initially expressed in verbal forms before transitioning into artistic representations. This evolution is evident in some of the earliest Coptic manuscripts, such as those preserved in the Nag Hammadi library, dating back to the 4^th century AD.
In Coptic heritage, there is also a significant contemporary practice known as prostration, or metanoias (bowing). This physical act of reverence is deeply relevant to the concept of intercession. Through prostration, believers’ express humility and submission before God, seeking His intercession and guidance in their prayers and supplications.