What is an avatar?
The Letter to the Hebrews begins with the words that
"long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word." [1:1-3]
These opening lines acknowledge the fact that throughout the history of the world and at particular times, special people make their presence felt. These special people in what they say and do bridge the gulf that seemingly separates God from men and women and the rest of the world. Throughout the history of the world there have been many such figures, almost
transcendent figures who are able to give an almost singular expression to
the Spirit of God.
The Hindus refer to such people as Avatars – divine incarnations or divine manifestations. The word itself is derived from the Sanskrit
Avatara and is translated as
descent.
…
The concept of Jesus being an avatar makes considerable contemporary sense. It does not detract in any way from Jesus being a human person, it explains more easily his relationship with his God, and it helps us to read and respect the lives and teachings of other avatars — something very important for us living in the global village.
