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About the Painting
Often understood as “auspicious,” the character “祥 (xiáng)” is traditionally displayed to usher in good fortune—left to the whims of fate. But the artist Tam invites us to see a deeper truth: that true blessing is not random, but revelation.
“祥” carries two parts: “羊 (lamb)” and “礻” (a derivative of “示,” meaning divine revelation). Together, they unveil a quiet mystery—of the Lamb revealed, and a God who longs to be known.
Through brave brushstrokes, Tam invites us to see the Lamb not merely as symbol, but as sacrifice—Jesus, the Lamb of God, laid upon the altar. To the artist, the shape of “礻” recalls a shepherd’s staff—an allusion to the Good Shepherd who tends to His flock and calls each by name.
In the red version, we see the blood of the Passover Lamb—Christ, who delivers us from death. In the white, we behold His righteousness that clothes us in purity.
This is the true blessing: not a charm for prosperity, but the presence of Christ Himself—revealed, near, and enough.
“I am the good shepherd…I lay down my life for the sheep.” (John 10:14–15)