Why is Jesus portrayed like a white Western even though he was a brown Middle Eastern?

 The representation of Jesus as a white, Western figure despite his historical origins in the Middle East has deep historical and cultural roots. This phenomenon is often referred to as "Eurocentrism" or "Westernization" of Jesus' image. Several factors contribute to this portrayal:

1. **Cultural and Artistic Tradition:** Throughout history, Western artists have depicted biblical figures, including Jesus, based on their own cultural and artistic traditions. In many European paintings, sculptures, and other visual representations, Jesus is portrayed with European features, often reflecting the artist's perception of beauty and familiarity.

2. **Religious and Political Influence:** The spread of Christianity throughout Europe was accompanied by the emergence of powerful religious and political institutions. These institutions played a role in shaping the narrative and imagery of Christianity. As Christianity became dominant in Western Europe, the cultural representations of Jesus became ingrained in the collective consciousness.

3. **Colonialism and Missionary Activity:** During the era of colonialism and missionary activity, European powers spread Christianity to various parts of the world. The European representation of Jesus was often imposed on indigenous cultures, reinforcing the Eurocentric image. Missionaries and colonizers sometimes used religious imagery as a tool for cultural assimilation.

4. **Popular Culture:** Over time, these Eurocentric depictions of Jesus became deeply embedded in popular culture, literature, and media. The image of a fair-skinned, long-haired Jesus has become a familiar and enduring icon for many people, reinforcing the Westernized perception.

5. **Theological Interpretations:** Theological interpretations and debates within Christianity have also influenced artistic representations. Different Christian denominations may emphasize certain aspects of Jesus' identity, and these interpretations can be reflected in artistic depictions.

It's important to recognize that the historical Jesus, as a Middle Eastern Jew, would likely have had physical features characteristic of people from that region. However, the portrayal of Jesus varies across cultures and artistic traditions. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and efforts to depict Jesus more accurately in diverse cultural contexts, challenging the traditional Eurocentric representations.

Ultimately, the image of Jesus as a white Western figure is a product of complex historical, cultural, and artistic factors that have shaped the visual representation of this religious and cultural icon.