Why is Matthew symbolized as an angel?
Traditionally, the four Gospel writers have been represented by the following symbols (as indicated in the question): St. Matthew, a divine man; St. Mark, a winged lion; St. Luke, a winged ox; and St. John, a rising eagle.
St. Matthew is represented under the symbol of a winged man, carrying in his hand a lance as a characteristic emblem.
The emblem for Matthew, the former tax collector, shows three purses recalling his former manner of livelihood. The battle ax by which he was killed is also represented. Peter’s emblem shows two crossed keys, symbolizing the confession of faith upon which the Church is founded: “You are the true Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16: 16).
Matthew the Evangelist , the author of the first gospel account is symbolized by a winged man, or angel. This represents Jesus’ Incarnation, and so Christ’s human nature and implies that we should use our power to reason to achieve salvation.
WINGED MAN (SAINT MATTHEW) – Matthew the Evangelist, the author of the first gospel account, is symbolized by a winged man, or angel. Matthew’s gospel starts with Joseph’s genealogy from Abraham; it represents Jesus’ Incarnation, and so Christ’s human nature.
They are often represented with their attributes: the Angel for Saint Matthew, the Lion for Saint Mark, the Ox for Saint Luke and the Eagle for Saint John. Sometimes these symbols stand in for the Evangelists. Saint Mark is also often shown with a book representing his Gospel.
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Tax collectorAccountant
Matthew the Apostle/Professions
Matthew the Evangelist, the author of the first gospel account is symbolized by a winged man, or angel. This represents Jesus’ Incarnation, and so Christ’s human nature and implies that we should use our power to reason to achieve salvation.
