Encyclopedia of symbols. Crosses: the most common forms
Among all Christians, only Orthodox and Catholics venerate crosses and icons. They decorate the domes of churches, their houses, and wear them around their necks with crosses.
The reason why a person wears pectoral cross, everyone has their own. Some pay tribute to fashion in this way, for some the cross is a beautiful piece of jewelry, for others it brings good luck and is used as a talisman. But there are also those for whom the pectoral cross worn at baptism is truly a symbol of their endless faith.
Today shops and church shops offer a wide variety of crosses various shapes. However, very often not only parents who are planning to baptize a child, but also sales consultants cannot explain where the Orthodox cross is and where the Catholic one is, although it is, in fact, very simple to distinguish them.In the Catholic tradition - a quadrangular cross with three nails. In Orthodoxy there are four-pointed, six- and eight-pointed crosses, with four nails for the hands and feet.
Cross shape
Four-pointed cross
So, in the West the most common is four-pointed cross. Starting from the 3rd century, when similar crosses first appeared in the Roman catacombs, the entire Orthodox East still uses this form of the cross as equal to all others.
For Orthodoxy, the shape of the cross is not particularly important, much more more attention is paid to what is depicted on it, but the eight-pointed and six-pointed crosses are the most popular.
Eight-pointed Orthodox cross most corresponds to the historically accurate form of the cross on which Christ was already crucified.The Orthodox cross, which is most often used by the Russian and Serbian Orthodox churches, contains, in addition to a large horizontal crossbar, two more. The top one symbolizes the sign on the cross of Christ with the inscription "Jesus the Nazarene, King of the Jews"(INCI, or INRI in Latin). The lower oblique crossbar - a support for the feet of Jesus Christ symbolizes the "righteous standard" weighing the sins and virtues of all people. It is believed that it is tilted in left side, symbolizing the fact that the repentant thief, crucified on the right side of Christ, (first) went to heaven, and the thief crucified on the left side, by his blasphemy of Christ, further aggravated his posthumous fate and ended up in hell. The letters IC XC are a christogram symbolizing the name of Jesus Christ.
Saint Demetrius of Rostov writes that “When Christ the Lord carried the cross on His shoulders, then the cross was still four-pointed; because there was still no title or foot on it. There was no foot, because Christ had not yet been raised on the cross and the soldiers did not know where their feet would reach Christ's, did not attach the footstools, having finished it already on Golgotha". Also, there was no title on the cross before the crucifixion of Christ, because, as the Gospel reports, first “they crucified Him” (John 19:18), and then only “Pilate wrote the inscription and put it on the cross” (John 19:19 ). It was first that the soldiers who “crucified Him” divided “His clothes” by lot (Matthew 27:35), and only then “They placed an inscription over His head, signifying His guilt: This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.”(Matt. 27:37).
The eight-pointed cross has long been considered the most powerful protective agent from various kinds of evil spirits, as well as visible and invisible evil.
Six-pointed cross
Widespread among Orthodox believers, especially in times Ancient Rus', also had six-pointed cross. It also has an inclined crossbar: the lower end symbolizes unrepentant sin, and the upper end symbolizes liberation through repentance.
However, all its strength does not lie in the shape of the cross or the number of ends. The cross is famous for the power of Christ crucified on it, and this is all its symbolism and miraculousness.
The variety of forms of the cross has always been recognized by the Church as quite natural. According to the expression of the Monk Theodore the Studite - “The cross of every form is the true cross” Andhas unearthly beauty and life-giving power.
“There is no significant difference between the Latin, Catholic, Byzantine, and Orthodox crosses, or between any other crosses used in Christian services. In essence, all crosses are the same, the only differences are in shape.”, says Serbian Patriarch Irinej.
Crucifixion
In Catholic and Orthodox Churches special meaning is given not to the shape of the cross, but to the image of Jesus Christ on it.
Until the 9th century inclusive, Christ was depicted on the cross not only alive, resurrected, but also triumphant, and only in the 10th century did images of the dead Christ appear.
Yes, we know that Christ died on the cross. But we also know that He later resurrected, and that He suffered voluntarily out of love for people: to teach us to take care of the immortal soul; so that we too can be resurrected and live forever. IN Orthodox Crucifixion this Easter joy is always present. Therefore on Orthodox cross Christ does not die, but freely stretches out his arms, the palms of Jesus are open, as if he wants to hug all humanity, giving them his love and opening the way to eternal life. He is not a dead body, but God, and his whole image speaks of this.
The Orthodox cross has another, smaller one above the main horizontal crossbar, which symbolizes the sign on the cross of Christ indicating the offense. Because Pontius Pilate did not find how to describe the guilt of Christ, the words appeared on the tablet "Jesus the Nazarene King of the Jews" in three languages: Greek, Latin and Aramaic. In Latin in Catholicism this inscription looks like INRI, and in Orthodoxy - IHCI(or INHI, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews”). The lower oblique crossbar symbolizes a support for the legs. It also symbolizes the two thieves crucified to the left and right of Christ. One of them, before his death, repented of his sins, for which he was awarded the Kingdom of Heaven. The other, before his death, blasphemed and reviled his executioners and Christ.
The following inscriptions are placed above the middle crossbar: "IC" "HS"- the name of Jesus Christ; and below it: "NIKA" — Winner.
Greek letters were necessarily written on the cross-shaped halo of the Savior UN, meaning “truly existent”, because “God said to Moses: I am who I am.”(Ex. 3:14), thereby revealing His name, expressing the originality, eternity and immutability of the being of God.
In addition, the nails with which the Lord was nailed to the cross were kept in Orthodox Byzantium. And it was known for sure that there were four of them, not three. Therefore, on Orthodox crosses, Christ’s feet are nailed with two nails, each separately. The image of Christ with crossed feet nailed to a single nail first appeared as an innovation in the West in the second half of the 13th century.
IN Catholic Crucifixion The image of Christ has naturalistic features. Catholics depict Christ as dead, sometimes with streams of blood on his face, from wounds on his arms, legs and ribs ( stigmata). It reveals all human suffering, the torment that Jesus had to experience. His arms sag under the weight of his body. The image of Christ on the Catholic cross is plausible, but this image dead person, while there is no hint of the triumph of victory over death. The crucifixion in Orthodoxy symbolizes this triumph. In addition, the Savior's feet are nailed with one nail.
The meaning of the Savior's death on the cross
The emergence of the Christian cross is associated with martyrdom Jesus Christ, which he accepted on the cross under the forced sentence of Pontius Pilate. Crucifixion was a common method of execution in Ancient Rome, borrowed from the Carthaginians - descendants of Phoenician colonists (it is believed that the crucifix was first used in Phenicia). Thieves were usually sentenced to death on the cross; many early Christians, persecuted since the time of Nero, were also executed in this way.
Before the suffering of Christ, the cross was an instrument of shame and terrible punishment. After His suffering, it became a symbol of the victory of good over evil, life over death, a reminder of the endless God's love, a subject of joy. The incarnate Son of God sanctified the cross with His blood and made it a vehicle of His grace, a source of sanctification for believers.
From the Orthodox dogma of the Cross (or Atonement) undoubtedly follows the idea that the death of the Lord is a ransom for all, the calling of all peoples. Only the cross, unlike other executions, made it possible for Jesus Christ to die with outstretched hands calling “to all the ends of the earth” (Isa. 45:22).
Reading the Gospels, we are convinced that the feat of the cross of the God-man is the central event in His earthly life. With His suffering on the cross, He washed away our sins, covered our debt to God, or, in the language of Scripture, “redeemed” (ransomed) us. The incomprehensible secret of the infinite truth and love of God is hidden in Calvary.
The Son of God voluntarily took upon himself the guilt of all people and suffered for it a shameful and painful death on the cross; then on the third day he rose again as the conqueror of hell and death.
Why was such a terrible Sacrifice needed to cleanse the sins of mankind, and was it possible to save people in another, less painful way?
The Christian teaching about the death of the God-man on the cross is often a “stumbling block” for people with already established religious and philosophical concepts. Both to many Jews and to the people of the Greek culture of apostolic times, it seemed contradictory to assert that the omnipotent and eternal God descended to earth in the form of a mortal man, voluntarily endured beatings, spitting and shameful death, so that this feat could bring spiritual benefit to humanity. "This is impossible!"- some objected; "It is not necessary!"- others argued.
St. Apostle Paul in his letter to the Corinthians says: “Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in the wisdom of the word, so as not to make the cross of Christ abolish. For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and the understanding of the understanding I will reject. Where is the wise man? where is the scribe? where is the questioner of this age? Has not God turned the wisdom of this world into foolishness? For when the world through its wisdom did not know God in the wisdom of God, it pleased God through the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe. For even the Jews demand miracles, and the Greeks seek wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews, and foolishness to the Greeks, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ, God's power and God's wisdom"(1 Cor. 1:17-24).
In other words, the apostle explained that what in Christianity was perceived by some as temptation and madness, is in fact a matter of the greatest Divine wisdom and omnipotence. The truth of the atoning death and resurrection of the Savior is the foundation for many other Christian truths, for example, about the sanctification of believers, about the sacraments, about the meaning of suffering, about virtues, about feat, about the purpose of life, about the upcoming judgment and resurrection of the dead and others.
At the same time, the atoning death of Christ, being an event inexplicable in terms of earthly logic and even “tempting for those who are perishing,” has a regenerating power that the believing heart feels and strives for. Renewed and warmed by this spiritual power, both the last slaves and the most powerful kings bowed in awe before Calvary; both dark ignoramuses and the greatest scientists. After the descent of the Holy Spirit, the apostles personal experience They were convinced of the great spiritual benefits that the atoning death and resurrection of the Savior brought them, and they shared this experience with their disciples.
(The mystery of the redemption of mankind is closely connected with a number of important religious and psychological factors. Therefore, to understand the mystery of redemption it is necessary:
a) understand what actually constitutes the sinful damage of a person and the weakening of his will to resist evil;
b) we must understand how the devil’s will, thanks to sin, gained the opportunity to influence and even captivate the human will;
c) we need to understand the mysterious power of love, its ability to positively influence a person and ennoble him. At the same time, if love most of all reveals itself in sacrificial service to one’s neighbor, then there is no doubt that giving one’s life for him is the highest manifestation of love;
d) from understanding the power of human love, one must rise to understanding the power of Divine love and how it penetrates the soul of a believer and transforms his inner world;
e) in addition, in the atoning death of the Savior there is a side that goes beyond the human world, namely: On the cross there was a battle between God and the proud Dennitsa, in which God, hiding under the guise of weak flesh, emerged victorious. The details of this spiritual battle and Divine victory remain a mystery to us. Even Angels, according to St. Peter, do not fully understand the mystery of redemption (1 Peter 1:12). She is a sealed book that only the Lamb of God could open (Rev. 5:1-7)).
In Orthodox asceticism there is such a concept as bearing one’s cross, that is, patiently fulfilling Christian commandments throughout the life of a Christian. All difficulties, both external and internal, are called the “cross.” Everyone carries their own cross in life. About the need personal feat The Lord said this: “Whoever does not take up his cross (deviates from the feat) and follows Me (calls himself a Christian), is unworthy of Me.”(Matt. 10:38).
“The cross is the guardian of the entire universe. Cross the beauty of the Church, Cross of the kings power, Cross true statement"The Cross is an angel's glory, The Cross is a demon's plague"- states absolute Truth luminaries of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross.
The motives for the outrageous desecration and blasphemy of the Holy Cross by conscious cross-haters and crusaders are quite understandable. But when we see Christians drawn into this vile business, it is all the more impossible to remain silent, for - in the words of St. Basil the Great - “God is betrayed by silence”!
Differences between Catholic and Orthodox crosses
Thus, there are the following differences between the Catholic cross and the Orthodox one:
- most often has an eight-pointed or six-pointed shape. - four-pointed.
- Words on a sign on the crosses are the same, only written on different languages: Latin INRI(in the case of the Catholic cross) and Slavic-Russian IHCI(on the Orthodox cross).
- Another fundamental position is position of the feet on the Crucifix and number of nails. The feet of Jesus Christ are placed together on a Catholic Crucifix, and each is nailed separately on an Orthodox cross.
- What is different is image of the Savior on the cross. The Orthodox cross depicts God, who opened the path to eternal life, while the Catholic cross depicts a man experiencing torment.
At the same time, one of the most familiar and most mysterious decorations for those uninitiated in the secrets of religion. We have prepared a guide for you that will answer all your questions.
Pectoral cross: decoration and symbol of faith
Despite the fact that now the cross is extremely common as decorative element and is often perceived as breaking with Christian traditions, its origin and symbolism should not be ignored.
Historical models of body crosses
Religion insists: it doesn’t matter how much the material from which the cross is made costs. This is primarily a symbol Christian faith. In the same time tradition of honoring the cross, which is always with you, turned it into decoration and a luxury item.
There is an opinion that it is true religious pectoral cross should be simple in design and should be worn under clothing. Now this is not entirely true. The main difference between a purely decorative and a truly significant thing is whether the cross is consecrated or not. The church will not refuse to bless a product strewn with stones, nor will they demand that it be hidden under clothing in the summer heat.
What you really should pay attention to is not the metal, but the Does the shape of the chosen decoration correspond to the Orthodox or Catholic tradition?.
How to distinguish between Orthodox and Catholic crosses
Form
The most common in the Orthodox Church six- and eight-pointed crosses . By the way, the latter have long been considered a powerful amulet against evil spirits. The small crossbar at the heads symbolizes the sign that was used to designate crimes committed. But since no one called Jesus' crimes that way, Orthodox tradition it may have the abbreviation I.N.C.I. or I.N.C.I, Catholics write I.N.R.I in Latin. This is an abbreviation for “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.”The slanting crossbar under your feet symbolizes the path from sins to righteousness. In turn, Catholic crosses are as simple as possible and consist of only two crossbars.
Engravings
In addition to the inscription I.N.C.I., on Orthodox crosses on the opposite side of the crucifix there may be engraved "Save and Preserve". There is no such thing in the Catholic tradition.
Nails
Orthodox Christians believe that Jesus was nailed with four nails, Catholics believe that there were three nails. That is why the feet of Christ on the Orthodox cross are located one next to the other, but on the Catholic cross they are thrown one on top of the other.
Crucifix
T oh what it should be depiction of Jesus on the crucifixion- the subject of heated debate among representatives of both faiths. Catholics adhere to the most naturalistic image, which reflects the insane suffering on the cross. At the same time, the Orthodox believe that such an image speaks of torment, but is silent about the main thing - Jesus conquered death. Therefore, in the Orthodox tradition, his figure rather reflects happiness from the transition to a better world.
Difference between Orthodox and Catholic cross
Symbolism of the main Orthodox crosses
Eight-pointed cross
This is one of the most canonical Orthodox crosses. Above its widest horizontal crossbar there is a short one (often with the abbreviation I.N.Ts.I.), and at the feet there is a short diagonal crossbar (the upper end is directed to the left, the lower end is directed to the left, if you look at the cross directly). The lower part is a symbol of support under the feet of the crucified Jesus, as well as the transition from a sinful world to a righteous one. In fact, the presence of this false support only prolonged the torment on the cross.
Six-pointed cross
One of the oldest options. In this cross, the inclined lower crossbar symbolizes the internal scales of each of us: what wins - conscience or sin. Its meaning is also interpreted as the path from sin to repentance.
Four-pointed teardrop cross
It is believed that the drops at the ends of the crossbars are the blood of the crucified Christ, who atoned for the sins of mankind. This symbol was often used to decorate religious books.
"Shamrock"
This cross is often used in heraldry (for example, on the coat of arms of Chernigov), but many people also love it as a body cross. The ends of the crossbars of such a product are decorated with semicircular leaves. Sometimes there are also beads on them - “bumps”.
Latin four-pointed cross
This is the most common in the West christian cross. The horizontal crossbar is located 2/3 of the height of the vertical one. The elongated lower part symbolizes Christ's patience in redemption. Such crosses are a very long tradition. They appeared around the 3rd century in the catacombs of Rome. At that time Christians gathered there.
How to choose a cross for a christening
Traditionally, the first pectoral cross or vest, as it is also called, is assigned at the rite of baptism. Controversy over when to baptize a child: still a baby or at a more conscious age - still have not stopped. For adults who decide to undergo this sacrament, there are special restrictions in choosing sacred decoration No. But to get it right choose a cross for baptism for newborns oh, there are several factors to consider.
Women's and men's crosses
There is no particular difference between crosses for men and women. Their average size is about 4 centimeters. The main difference is in the design. Silver and gold men's crosses, as a rule, more concise in execution. Their crossbars can also end with drops, petals and trefoils, but the overall composition is simpler than that of women's products, and the decoration itself is a little more massive.
Crosses for the fair half are often decorated precious stones. If the decoration is consecrated, its decor does not affect its sacred meaning in any way. Rarely, but still, a church may refuse to consecrate a decorative cross with too curved and shaped crossbars. Although, of course, the main thing is your own feelings. Whether he warms you up or not.
The cross is supposed to stay with you forever. But at the same time, the church does not condemn the change of this decoration. Let us add that wearing it on the same chain with any other pendant is bad manners. The only thing that can be worn with a cross is an amulet.
How to consecrate a cross
Crosses purchased in church shops have two advantages. Firstly, they exactly correspond to the traditions of your religion. Secondly, they are already sanctified. If you bought a cross at a jewelry store, you can consecrate it in church. It is better to come before the start of the service and make this request to the priest. You can also ask to perform the ceremony in your presence and take part in prayer.
As a rule, body crosses are consecrated only once. The exception is that the decoration was severely damaged.
What to do if you find a cross
There is an opinion that find a cross - Bad sign . Allegedly, along with it, the sorrows and sorrows of the previous owner may be passed on to you. At the same time, in the church we were advised not to pay attention to such superstitions, explaining that everyone has their own temptations and their own troubles.
If you find a cross, keep it freely at home, you can give it to someone who needs it more, give it as a gift, or wear it yourself.
It is better to consecrate the found pectoral cross first
Is it possible to give a pectoral cross?
It is possible and necessary. The Church does not prohibit this. A to a loved one such a gift will be especially symbolic. If you chose gold or silver cross in a jewelry store, before giving it as a gift, go to the temple and consecrate it. The decoration will take on a special meaning. 7656 viewsThe Christian (Orthodox) pectoral cross is a symbol of faith that a person receives at the moment of his initiation into the faith - Baptism and wears of his own free will all his life until his last earthly days. It is called upon to protect, protect from troubles and misfortunes, bring inspiration and remind us of the essence of faith.
The cross has ancient history, it appeared long before Christianity in different cultures: Eastern, Chinese Indian and others. Archaeologists find ancient imprints of the cross in rock carvings of caves in Scandinavia, Easter Island, India, Japan...
The cross personifies great balance, harmony in the Universe, carries deep secret meaning knowledge accumulated by our ancient ancestors. The cross acquired a sacred (hidden deep) meaning after Jesus Christ was crucified on it.
There are people who wear a cross as decoration, as a fashion statement, without considering themselves believers. Is this forbidden? Of course not, for such a person the cross will serve as decoration, completely devoid of the meaning of those things that we outlined above.
What is the difference between an Orthodox cross and a Catholic one?
The eight-pointed cross was considered by ancient people to be the most powerful protective amulet against evil spirits and all kinds of evil. Although the hexagonal one was also widely used.
There is an opinion that Catholics and Orthodox different shapes at the cross. How to distinguish an Orthodox cross from a Catholic one? In general, an Orthodox believer should not have such a question, since any form of the cross is acceptable for such a believer. Venerable Theodore the Studite wrote:
“The cross of every form is the true cross.”
And even though the shape and meaning of the cross changed over the centuries, some attributes were added, but since Christ accepted the sacrifice on it, it has become a symbol of the victory of good over evil.
The Lord himself spoke about how important this symbol is for every believer:
« He who does not take up his cross (deviates from the feat) and follows Me (calls himself a Christian) is unworthy of Me"(Matthew 10:38). -24).
Serbian Patriarch Irinej says this:
« There is no significant difference between the Latin, Catholic, Byzantine, and Orthodox crosses, or between any other crosses used in Christian services. In essence, all crosses are the same, the only differences are in the shape».
What is the meaning of all the sides of the cross and what do they mean?
Orthodox Christians more often wore six-pointed crosses, when a lower crossbar was added, symbolizing the “righteous standard”: on one side of the scale are sins, on the other are righteous deeds.
For Orthodox form pectoral cross should not matter, the information that is indicated on it is much more important.
- The inscription “Jesus of Nazarene, King of the Jews” on the crosses are the same, only written in different languages: in Catholic in Latin script “INRI”, in Orthodox in Slavic-Russian “IHCI”. Sometimes it has the following form: “IC” “XC” - the name of Jesus Christ;
- Often on back side The cross contains the inscription “Save and Preserve.”
- At the very bottom, sometimes in another place you can see the inscription “NIKA” - which means Winner.
- One more distinctive feature is the position of the feet on the Crucifix and the number of nails. The feet of Jesus Christ are placed together on a Catholic crucifix, and each one is nailed separately on an Orthodox cross.
- Western Christians (Catholics) portray Jesus as tortured and dead; for them he is a man. For Orthodox Christians, Jesus is God and man rolled into one; his crucifix most often has a flat image. Catholics make it more voluminous.
- Catholics have a crown of thorns on Jesus' head, while Orthodox Christians have his head uncovered.
But I repeat once again, in fact, all these differences are not so significant.
And yet, when choosing a cross for yourself and your child, give preference to the one without a crucifix. With all your love for Jesus and filled with gratitude and reverence, remember that the crucifix contains the energy of pain and suffering, which presses on your soul and heart chakra, filling your life, which is already full of suffering. Think about it... Watch this video:
And remember that the cross is just a symbol of faith, and it cannot replace faith itself.
Pectoral cross- a small cross, symbolically representing the cross on which the Lord Jesus Christ was crucified (sometimes with the image of the Crucified One, sometimes without such an image), intended for constant wear Orthodox Christian as a sign of his loyalty to Christ, belonging to the Orthodox Church, serving as a means of protection.
The cross is the greatest Christian shrine, a visible evidence of our redemption. In the service for the Feast of the Exaltation, the tree of the Cross of the Lord is sung with many praises: “the guardian of the entire universe, beauty, the power of kings, the affirmation of the faithful, glory and plague.”
A pectoral cross is given to a baptized person who becomes a Christian to wear permanently. important place(at the heart) as an image of the Cross of the Lord, external sign Orthodox. This is also done as a reminder that the Cross of Christ is a weapon against fallen spirits, having the power to heal and give life. That is why the Cross of the Lord is called Life-Giving!
He is evidence that a person is a Christian (a follower of Christ and a member of His Church). This is why it is a sin for those who wear a cross for fashion without being a member of the Church. Consciously wearing a cross on the body is a wordless prayer, allowing this cross to demonstrate the true power of the Archetype - the Cross of Christ, which always protects the wearer, even if he does not ask for help, or does not have the opportunity to cross himself.
The cross is consecrated only once. It needs to be reconsecrated only in exceptional conditions (if it was severely damaged and restored again, or fell into your hands, but you do not know whether it was consecrated before).
There is a superstition that when consecrated, the cross acquires magical protective properties. teaches that the sanctification of matter allows us not only spiritually, but also physically - through this sanctified matter - to join the Divine grace that we need for spiritual growth and salvation. But the grace of God does not act unconditionally. A person is required to have a correct spiritual life, and it is this that makes it possible for the grace of God to have a salutary effect on us, healing us from passions and sins.
Sometimes you hear the opinion that the consecration of crosses is a late tradition and that this has never happened before. To this we can answer that the Gospel, as a book, also once did not exist and there was no Liturgy in its current form. But this does not mean at all that the Church cannot develop forms of worship and church piety. Is it contrary to Christian doctrine to invoke God’s grace on the creation of human hands?
Is it possible to wear two crosses?
The main question is why, for what purpose? If you were given another one, then it is quite possible to reverently keep one of them in a holy corner next to the icons, and wear one constantly. If you bought another one, then wear it...
A Christian is buried with a pectoral cross, so it is not passed on by inheritance. As for wearing a second pectoral cross somehow left behind by a deceased relative, wearing it as a sign of memory of the deceased indicates a misunderstanding of the essence of wearing a cross, which testifies to the Sacrifice of God, and not family relationships.
A pectoral cross is not an ornament or an amulet, but one of the visible evidence of belonging to the Church of Christ, a means of grace-filled protection and a reminder of the Savior’s commandment: If anyone wants to follow Me, deny yourself, and take up your cross, and follow Me... ().
Among all Christians, only Orthodox and Catholics venerate crosses and icons. They decorate the domes of churches, their houses, and wear them around their necks with crosses.
The reason why a person wears a cross is different for everyone. Some people pay tribute to fashion in this way, for others the cross is a beautiful piece of jewelry, for others it brings good luck and is used as a talisman. But there are also those for whom the pectoral cross worn at baptism is truly a symbol of their endless faith.
Today, shops and church shops offer a wide variety of crosses of various shapes. However, very often not only parents who are planning to baptize a child, but also sales consultants cannot explain where the Orthodox cross is and where the Catholic one is, although it is, in fact, very simple to distinguish them. In the Catholic tradition - a quadrangular cross with three nails. In Orthodoxy there are four-pointed, six- and eight-pointed crosses, with four nails for the hands and feet.
Cross shape
Four-pointed cross
So, in the West the most common is four-pointed cross. Starting from the 3rd century, when similar crosses first appeared in the Roman catacombs, the entire Orthodox East still uses this form of the cross as equal to all others.
Eight-pointed Orthodox cross
For Orthodoxy, the shape of the cross is not particularly important; much more attention is paid to what is depicted on it, however, eight-pointed and six-pointed crosses have gained the most popularity.
Eight-pointed Orthodox cross most corresponds to the historically accurate form of the cross on which Christ was already crucified. The Orthodox cross, which is most often used by the Russian and Serbian Orthodox churches, contains, in addition to a large horizontal crossbar, two more. The top one symbolizes the sign on the cross of Christ with the inscription “ Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews"(INCI, or INRI in Latin). The lower oblique crossbar - the support for the feet of Jesus Christ symbolizes the “righteous standard” that weighs the sins and virtues of all people. It is believed that it is tilted to the left, symbolizing that the repentant thief, crucified on the right side of Christ, (first) went to heaven, and the thief crucified on the left side, by his blasphemy of Christ, further aggravated his posthumous fate and ended up in hell. The letters IC XC are a christogram symbolizing the name of Jesus Christ.
Saint Demetrius of Rostov writes that “ when Christ the Lord carried the cross on His shoulders, the cross was still four-pointed; because there was no title or foot on it yet. There was no footstool, because Christ had not yet been raised on the cross and the soldiers, not knowing where Christ’s feet would reach, did not attach a footstool, finishing this already on Golgotha". Also, there was no title on the cross before the crucifixion of Christ, because, as the Gospel reports, at first “ crucified Him"(John 19:18), and then only " Pilate wrote an inscription and placed it on the cross"(John 19:19). It was at first that the soldiers divided “His garments” by lot. those who crucified Him"(Matthew 27:35), and only then" they placed an inscription over His head, signifying His guilt: This is Jesus, the King of the Jews"(Matt. 27:37).
Since ancient times, the eight-pointed cross has been considered the most powerful protective tool against various kinds of evil spirits, as well as visible and invisible evil.
Six-pointed cross
Widespread among Orthodox believers, especially during the times of Ancient Rus', was also six-pointed cross. It also has an inclined crossbar: the lower end symbolizes unrepentant sin, and the upper end symbolizes liberation through repentance.
However, all its strength does not lie in the shape of the cross or the number of ends. The cross is famous for the power of Christ crucified on it, and this is all its symbolism and miraculousness.
The variety of forms of the cross has always been recognized by the Church as quite natural. According to the expression of the Monk Theodore Studite - “ a cross of any form is a true cross"and has unearthly beauty and life-giving power.
« There is no significant difference between the Latin, Catholic, Byzantine, and Orthodox crosses, or between any other crosses used in Christian services. In essence, all crosses are the same, the only differences are in the shape“says Serbian Patriarch Irinej.
Crucifixion
In the Catholic and Orthodox Churches, special importance is attached not to the shape of the cross, but to the image of Jesus Christ on it.
Until the 9th century inclusive, Christ was depicted on the cross not only alive, resurrected, but also triumphant, and only in the 10th century did images of the dead Christ appear.
Yes, we know that Christ died on the cross. But we also know that He later resurrected, and that He suffered voluntarily out of love for people: to teach us to take care of the immortal soul; so that we too can be resurrected and live forever. In the Orthodox Crucifixion this Paschal joy is always present. Therefore, on the Orthodox cross, Christ does not die, but freely stretches out his arms, Jesus’ palms are open, as if he wants to hug all humanity, giving them his love and opening the way to eternal life. He is not a dead body, but God, and his whole image speaks of this.
The Orthodox cross has another, smaller one above the main horizontal crossbar, which symbolizes the sign on the cross of Christ indicating the offense. Because Pontius Pilate did not find how to describe the guilt of Christ; the words “ Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews» in three languages: Greek, Latin and Aramaic. In Latin in Catholicism this inscription looks like INRI, and in Orthodoxy - IHCI(or INHI, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews”). The lower oblique crossbar symbolizes a support for the legs. It also symbolizes the two thieves crucified to the left and right of Christ. One of them, before his death, repented of his sins, for which he was awarded the Kingdom of Heaven. The other, before his death, blasphemed and reviled his executioners and Christ.
The following inscriptions are placed above the middle crossbar: "IC" "XC"- the name of Jesus Christ; and below it: "NIKA"- Winner.
Greek letters were necessarily written on the cross-shaped halo of the Savior UN, meaning “truly Existent”, because “ God said to Moses: I am who I am"(Ex. 3:14), thereby revealing His name, expressing the originality, eternity and immutability of the being of God.
In addition, the nails with which the Lord was nailed to the cross were kept in Orthodox Byzantium. And it was known for sure that there were four of them, not three. Therefore, on Orthodox crosses, Christ’s feet are nailed with two nails, each separately. The image of Christ with crossed feet nailed to a single nail first appeared as an innovation in the West in the second half of the 13th century.
Orthodox Crucifix Catholic Crucifix
In the Catholic Crucifixion, the image of Christ has naturalistic features. Catholics depict Christ as dead, sometimes with streams of blood on his face, from wounds on his arms, legs and ribs ( stigmata). It reveals all human suffering, the torment that Jesus had to experience. His arms sag under the weight of his body. The image of Christ on the Catholic cross is plausible, but it is an image of a dead man, while there is no hint of the triumph of victory over death. The crucifixion in Orthodoxy symbolizes this triumph. In addition, the Savior's feet are nailed with one nail.
The meaning of the Savior's death on the cross
The emergence of the Christian cross is associated with the martyrdom of Jesus Christ, which he accepted on the cross under the forced sentence of Pontius Pilate. Crucifixion was a common method of execution in Ancient Rome, borrowed from the Carthaginians - descendants of Phoenician colonists (it is believed that the crucifixion was first used in Phenicia). Thieves were usually sentenced to death on the cross; many early Christians, persecuted since the time of Nero, were also executed in this way.
Roman crucifixion
Before the suffering of Christ, the cross was an instrument of shame and terrible punishment. After His suffering, it became a symbol of the victory of good over evil, life over death, a reminder of God’s endless love, and an object of joy. The incarnate Son of God sanctified the cross with His blood and made it a vehicle of His grace, a source of sanctification for believers.
From the Orthodox dogma of the Cross (or Atonement) undoubtedly follows the idea that the death of the Lord is a ransom for all, the calling of all peoples. Only the cross, unlike other executions, made it possible for Jesus Christ to die with outstretched hands calling “to all the ends of the earth” (Isa. 45:22).
Reading the Gospels, we are convinced that the feat of the cross of the God-man is the central event in His earthly life. With His suffering on the cross, He washed away our sins, covered our debt to God, or, in the language of Scripture, “redeemed” (ransomed) us. The incomprehensible secret of the infinite truth and love of God is hidden in Calvary.
The Son of God voluntarily took upon himself the guilt of all people and suffered for it a shameful and painful death on the cross; then on the third day he rose again as the conqueror of hell and death.
Why was such a terrible Sacrifice needed to cleanse the sins of mankind, and was it possible to save people in another, less painful way?
The Christian teaching about the death of the God-man on the cross is often a “stumbling block” for people with already established religious and philosophical concepts. Both to many Jews and people of Greek culture of apostolic times, it seemed contradictory to assert that the omnipotent and eternal God descended to earth in the form of a mortal man, voluntarily endured beatings, spitting and shameful death, that this feat could bring spiritual benefit to humanity. " This is impossible!“- some objected; " It is not necessary!"- others stated.
St. Apostle Paul in his letter to the Corinthians says: “ Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in the wisdom of the word, so as not to make the cross of Christ abolish. For the word about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and destroy the understanding of the prudent. Where is the sage? where is the scribe? where is the questioner of this century? Has not God turned the wisdom of this world into foolishness? For when the world through its wisdom did not know God in the wisdom of God, it pleased God through the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe. For both the Jews demand miracles, and the Greeks seek wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, for the Jews a stumbling block, and for the Greeks foolishness, but for those who are called, Jews and Greeks, Christ, the power of God and the wisdom of God"(1 Cor. 1:17-24).
In other words, the apostle explained that what in Christianity was perceived by some as temptation and madness, is in fact a matter of the greatest Divine wisdom and omnipotence. The truth of the atoning death and resurrection of the Savior is the foundation for many other Christian truths, for example, about the sanctification of believers, about the sacraments, about the meaning of suffering, about virtues, about feat, about the purpose of life, about the upcoming judgment and resurrection of the dead and others.
At the same time, the atoning death of Christ, being an event inexplicable in terms of earthly logic and even “tempting for those who are perishing,” has a regenerating power that the believing heart feels and strives for. Renewed and warmed by this spiritual power, both the last slaves and the most powerful kings bowed in awe before Calvary; both dark ignoramuses and the greatest scientists. After the descent of the Holy Spirit, the apostles were convinced by personal experience of what great spiritual benefits the atoning death and resurrection of the Savior brought them, and they shared this experience with their disciples.
(The mystery of the redemption of mankind is closely connected with a number of important religious and psychological factors. Therefore, to understand the mystery of redemption it is necessary:
a) understand what actually constitutes the sinful damage of a person and the weakening of his will to resist evil;
b) we must understand how the devil’s will, thanks to sin, gained the opportunity to influence and even captivate the human will;
c) we need to understand the mysterious power of love, its ability to positively influence a person and ennoble him. At the same time, if love most of all reveals itself in sacrificial service to one’s neighbor, then there is no doubt that giving one’s life for him is the highest manifestation of love;
d) from understanding the power of human love, one must rise to understanding the power of Divine love and how it penetrates the soul of a believer and transforms his inner world;
e) in addition, in the atoning death of the Savior there is a side that goes beyond the human world, namely: On the cross there was a battle between God and the proud Dennitsa, in which God, hiding under the guise of weak flesh, emerged victorious. The details of this spiritual battle and Divine victory remain a mystery to us. Even Angels, according to St. Peter, do not fully understand the mystery of redemption (1 Peter 1:12). She is a sealed book that only the Lamb of God could open (Rev. 5:1-7)).
In Orthodox asceticism there is such a concept as bearing one’s cross, that is, patiently fulfilling Christian commandments throughout the life of a Christian. All difficulties, both external and internal, are called “cross.” Everyone carries their own cross in life. The Lord said this about the need for personal achievement: “ He who does not take up his cross (deviates from the feat) and follows Me (calls himself a Christian) is unworthy of Me"(Matthew 10:38).
« The cross is the guardian of the entire universe. The cross is the beauty of the Church, the cross of kings is the power, the cross is the affirmation of the faithful, the cross is the glory of an angel, the cross is a plague of demons", - affirms the absolute Truth of the luminaries of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross.
The motives for the outrageous desecration and blasphemy of the Holy Cross by conscious cross-haters and crusaders are quite understandable. But when we see Christians drawn into this vile business, it is all the more impossible to remain silent, for - according to the words of St. Basil the Great - “God is betrayed by silence”!
Differences between Catholic and Orthodox crosses
Thus, there are the following differences between the Catholic cross and the Orthodox one:
Catholic cross Orthodox cross
- Orthodox cross most often has an eight-pointed or six-pointed shape. Catholic cross- four-pointed.
- Words on a sign on the crosses are the same, only written in different languages: Latin INRI(in the case of the Catholic cross) and Slavic-Russian IHCI(on the Orthodox cross).
- Another fundamental position is position of the feet on the Crucifix and number of nails. The feet of Jesus Christ are placed together on a Catholic Crucifix, and each is nailed separately on an Orthodox cross.
- What is different is image of the Savior on the cross. The Orthodox cross depicts God, who opened the path to eternal life, while the Catholic cross depicts a man experiencing torment.
Material prepared by Sergey Shulyak