American Relgious Text: Statue of Atlas in New York City by Desmond Djekovic

American Religious texts are embedded all throughout the United States, but as I walk to work in Midtown from the Grand Central Terminal, I realize Manhattan is a focal point for religious symbolism. On my expedition to 6^th Avenue, I came across a huge bronze statue embodying the power of a God, so I took a second to admire the religious text and learn about its purpose. Before getting into the meaning and positioning of the Statue of Atlas on 5^th Avenue in Midtown, I will begin by describing its appearance to give my audience a perspective on the subject.

            As I stand staring at this large bronze statue, I come to the conclusion that it must be a depiction of a God because it stands as tall as a couple story building. While the mere size of Atlas entails a Godly figure, the body language of the sculpture is what reveals the story behind the monument. The Godly figure, better known as Atlas, is in fact a Greek Titan, and is using his power to hold up the heavens on his shoulder. Although a Titan is a second order of divine beings in classical Greek mythology, the Statue of Atlas represents more American symbolism than one would imagine.

            While Greek mythological figures usually represent the origins of theology, the positioning of the Statue of Atlas offers contemporary meaning as well. In order for one to see this, one must take into account the location of the Atlas in relation to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The fact that Atlas in facing one of the most famous Churches in all of New York City shows the monuments significance to American Religion.  St. Patrick’s Cathedral is known for welcoming various nationalities and faiths in an effort to promote the Church’s message that God loves all his children. Moreover, the Church aims to invite people from different backgrounds and nationalities to open their hearts and let Jesus in.

            Trying to make the connection between the two, I stare at the Statue of Atlas in an attempt to find the significance of its positioning in front of the Cathedral. I may be going on a limb when I say this, but I believe the Statue of Atlas is somewhat of a depiction of humanity. To elaborate, I think the Statue of Atlas stands to represent the power we as humans possess in regards to our faith. Moreover, Atlas reminds us that we must use our individual minds, in combination with the feelings in our heart, when taking part in a particular faith. It brought me back to class when we discussed the Great Awakening and Revivalism. That new wave of worship reminded the population that we not only have emotions, but we also have the power to reach God and feel his power within ourselves. While St. Patrick’s Cathedral invites all people to let Jesus in their hearts, I believe the Statue of Atlas stands to remind humans that God gave us individual power to create our own path in life.  

It’s no surprise that this iconic image is situated on one of the busiest streets in all of New York City, but more importantly in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It stands to represent human’s individual power to guide their faith and live a holy life. As one exits Jesus’ home, they are faced with the reminder that if Atlas has the power to hold up the heavens, so to do we.