Programme: Програма за научни изследвания и иновации

The use of images in Christian discourse is complex and multi-layered. Throughout history, certain places, figures, or events have been perceived as topoi or exemplars, attributed with a symbolic role. Visual images possess enormous potential to convey narratives, values, and norms across time, as well as beyond geographical and cultural boundaries.
IMAGO investigates the various contexts in which images “speak” about our relationship with the Divine and with one another. The project examines how images circulate as metaphors and symbols, and what presuppositions they carry when crossing religious, cultural, and linguistic boundaries.
The interdisciplinary research encompasses areas such as: Biblical and patristic literature, History of Christianity, Iconography and art, Cults and liturgical celebrations, Philosophical traditions, Reception in contemporary society
The dynamics of images are studied through three main categories:
 - Body images
 - Images from the living nature
 - Images from the non-living nature
Based on theories from the philosophy of language and new methodologies related to cognitive metaphor, hymnography, and iconography, the project traces the transformation of images—from biblical and patristic texts, through Byzantine art and contemporary theology, to their use in today’s secular contexts.
Images play a fundamental role in religion, culture, and society. While they strengthen individual and collective religious identity, they can also negatively influence interpersonal relationships—for example, through hate speech and manipulation.