The various groups of figures composing the scene symbolically illustrate the seven corporal acts of mercy: to feed the hungry, to give drink to the thirsty, to clothe the naked, to give shelter to travellers, to visit the sick, to visit the imprisoned, and to bury the dead.
The Second Sunday of Advent
John the Baptist, one of the most important figures in history, may have been part of the ancient Essene community that shared so many basic understandings of Israel's dilemma with him. John knew the answer - the Messiah. Advent begins with the preaching of John and Christmas ends with John baptizing Jesus of Nazareth, his cousin. Consider Dr. John Bergsma's book, "Jesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls" as we wonder about the background of John and the problems of God's wounded people.
The readings for the Second Sunday of Advent: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120422.cfm
Jesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls: Revealing the Jewish Roots of Christianity Kindle Edition
From award-winning scholar John Bergsma comes an intriguing book that reveals new insights on the Essenes, a radical Jewish community predating Christianity, whose existence, beliefs, and practices are often overlooked in the annuls of history. ... In this enriching and exciting exploration, Bergsma demonstrates how the Dead Sea Scrolls—the world's greatest modern archaeological discovery—can shed light on the Church as a sacred society that offered hope, redemption, and salvation to its member. Ultimately, these mysterious writings are a time machine that can transport us back to the ancient world, deepen our appreciation of Scripture, and strengthen our understanding of the Christian faith.
“An accessible introduction . . . This is a handy entry point for readers unfamiliar with Essenes or those interested in the Dead Sea Scrolls.”—Publishers Weekly