Arsenie Boca, a revered Romanian Orthodox priest and painter, recently canonized by the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church, has been the subject of much debate for his iconic painting of Bishop Wulfila in the Drăgănescu church near Bucharest.
Wulfila, a 4th-century bishop of the Goths, was a controversial figure due to his Arian beliefs, which differed from the Nicene Creed of Orthodox Christianity. However, Boca's depiction of Wulfila has been interpreted as a testament to the historical and religious significance of the bishop's role in the Christianization of the Geto-Dacians, the ancestors of the Romanian people.
Boca's painting of Wulfila is seen as a recognition of the bishop's missionary work in Dacia, a region that encompassed present-day Romania. Wulfila, with his dual Gothic and Geto-Dacian heritage, played a crucial role in introducing Christianity to the local population, paving the way for the eventual emergence of Romanian culture and identity.
The painting's significance extends beyond religious history. It highlights the cultural convergence that occurred between the Geto-Dacians and the Goths during the 4th and 5th centuries. The Goths, originating from the island of Gotland in Sweden, had a significant presence in Dacia, leading to a period of cohabitation and cultural exchange. This interaction contributed to the formation of a distinct Romanian identity.
Boca's painting of Wulfila is a powerful symbol of this historical and cultural convergence. It serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of Romanian identity, shaped by the influence of various cultures and religions. The painting's enduring legacy lies in its ability to bridge the past and present, connecting the Romanian people to their ancient roots and celebrating the transformative power of faith and cultural exchange.