The video accuses Putin of changing Jesus.
Numerous TikTok videos allege that Russian President Vladimir Putin recently revealed historic icons depicting black versions of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and his disciples. However, reputable fact-checkers like Reuters and AFP have debunked these claims as false. The videos depict Putin unveiling a dark-skinned Jesus in one instance and proclaiming Russia under the guidance of “Black Jesus” in another. However, these clips were taken out of context, with the first originating from Putin’s visit to troops in Ukraine’s Kherson region and the second from his New Year’s Eve address, where he made no religious references.
Russian icons, traditionally painted on wooden boards, have a long history dating back to the 10th century and adhere to strict orthodox guidelines. Some icons depict religious figures with dark skin, similar to the “Black Madonna,” which scholars attribute to factors like local demographics, environmental effects, and artistic choices. However, these depictions have sparked debate over the ethnicity of historical religious figures.
Prominent figures like Evangelist Billy Graham have emphasized Jesus’ universal significance, rejecting the notion of him being exclusively white or black. Graham highlighted Jesus’ belonging to all humanity, regardless of skin color. This sentiment underscores the importance of viewing religious figures as transcending racial boundaries.
In conclusion, while TikTok may spread sensational claims about historical figures like Putin and depictions of religious icons, it’s essential to rely on credible sources and scholarly analysis to discern fact from fiction. The controversy surrounding the alleged black icons serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate over the representation of religious figures and the significance of their universal message.