[cyncooper]

I thought the Satan figure was necessary. Right from the start it harks right back to the Garden of Eden. Also in Scripture Satan tempts Jesus so I felt this was a way for Gibson to include that account by showing Satan present as Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane and reminds us that Satan was squarely against Jesus and stands between us and God.

Anyway, Freeper Reader's Digest is that the figure Satan is shown holding may have been a mocking of the portrayal of Madonna and Child. Also some thought it might be the anti-Christ or Satan's spawn. I believe Mel Gibson said it represented Satan holding sin---but I honestly can't recall because I was partial to the mocking of Madonna and Child symbolism.

[LibertarianLiz]

I was partial to the mocking of Madonna and Child symbolism.

That is an interesting take. I was left with the impression that it was almost another temptation. See, I would never do this to my child, what loving father would allow their child to be so tortured. That kind of thing. But, considering it was Satan, "mocking" would fit his m.o.