What is the meaning of Agnus Dei?

The term Agnus Dei is Latin for “Lamb of God,” and it encapsulates one of the most profound biblical images of Christ. This title expresses both the sacrificial and victorious nature of Jesus’ mission: He is the one who takes away the sin of the world and the one enthroned in glory, worshiped by all creation.

The foundation for this imagery is found in John 1:29, where John the Baptist declares, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Here, the lamb signifies Christ’s role as the perfect, unblemished sacrifice, fulfilling God’s plan for redemption. The New Testament consistently portrays Jesus as bearing the sins of humanity and offering reconciliation with God through His death.

The vision in Revelation 5:9–14 expands this understanding. The Lamb is depicted as slain, yet fully exalted, surrounded by ten thousand times ten thousand angels and living creatures praising Him: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” (Revelation 5:12). This imagery conveys that Christ’s sacrifice was not a defeat, but the inauguration of His eternal reign. The Lamb’s victory is inseparable from His suffering; His authority and glory are grounded in His atoning work.

Throughout church history, the concept of Agnus Dei has shaped Christian liturgy and art. In visual culture, Christ is often represented as a lamb bearing a cross or banner, sometimes with a halo, symbolizing both His sacrifice and His triumph. In worship, the phrase became a fixed prayer in the Roman Catholic liturgy:

“Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, miserere nobis. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, dona nobis pacem.”

Translated: “Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, grant us peace.” This prayer expresses devotion and dependence on Christ, acknowledging His mercy and the peace He grants to the faithful.

The theological meaning of Agnus Dei, however, is nuanced across Christian traditions. In Roman Catholic theology, the prayer is part of the ongoing rhythm of confession, penance, and grace. It is a plea for mercy, recognizing that God’s justification unfolds progressively in the believer’s life. In Evangelical understanding, the prayer reflects gratitude for the mercy already secured by faith in Christ. The believer, assured of redemption, offers thanks rather than petition, celebrating the peace granted through Christ’s atoning work.

Ultimately, Agnus Dei is more than a phrase, symbol, or liturgical element. It is a confession of faith in the Lamb of God: the one who was slain for sin, the one whose sacrifice reconciles humanity to God, and the one who reigns eternally in victory. Whether depicted in stained glass, sung in hymnody, or recited in prayer, the title Agnus Dei continues to point believers to the heart of the gospel: Christ crucified, risen, and glorified.