Crowning Wisdom: Papal Tiara

This model crown is a papal tiara or triple tiara. This is the 1804 version, though the Popes possess a great many, though none have deigned to wear one since 1963. It is effectively a beehive-like object with three crowns upon it. Many have speculated regarding the symbolism of the three diadems. It might be, as the Popes claim to be Christ’s earthly representative, symbolic of the offices of priest, prophet and king. Or it might refer to the papal authority over purgatory, earth and heaven; alternatively, papal power over Church, state and private morality. Whatever the explanation, it is a deeply blasphemous object, for God and God alone has such a sweeping authority. Modern popes might eschew this obvious show of grandeur, though the tiara is still employed on their coats of arms and Vatican ciphers. Beware of those who stand bedecked in the finest clothes and brightest jewels, claiming all manner of authority and power, but with simpering smile and sacred sentiment:

And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name. Revelation 13:1b