The Raising of Jairus' Daughter

In the New Testament, Jairus, a patron of a Galilee synagogue, asks Jesus to heal his 12-year-old daughter, who is dying. On the way a messenger arrives with the news that Jairus' daughter has died, and is advised not to trouble Jesus any further. However, Jesus responds 'Be not afraid, only believe.' (Mark 5:36) The delay in arrival is seen as a test of faith, and Jairus's daughter is not cured of illnes, but raised from dead.

The painting captures the moment before the girl is brought back to life, her pallor and posture revealing her lifeless state. In the background, an anxious and fascinated crowd gathers. The flame of the oil lamp in the foreground symbolises unextinguished life and hope. Jesus is figured in the Christian traditional as the 'light of the world'.