Exploring Different Types of Crosses and Their Deeper Meanings
The cross is one of the oldest and most universal symbols in human history. For Christians, the cross represents the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But there are various types of crosses with their own distinct meanings beyond the common symbolism. Understanding the differences between cross styles can provide new insight into their spiritual significance.
The Latin Cross
The Latin cross, with its two longer arms bisected by a shorter vertical bar, is the most common and familiar form. It signifies the union of heaven and earth through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. The shorter top section represents the plaque bearing Jesus’ name and the longer bottom signifies his body.
The Greek Cross
The Greek cross features arms of equal length, symbolizing balance and equality. It tends to represent spiritual perfection and the union of body and spirit through Christ. The Greek cross emphasizes Jesus’ resurrection and eternal life rather than his crucifixion.
The Celtic Cross
The Celtic cross features a latin cross with a circular ring. The circle signifies eternity and union with the divine. The additional loops and swirls represent the intricate knotwork patterns found in traditional Celtic Christian art. A Celtic cross represents continuity between Christian and pagan spiritual traditions in Celtic culture.
The Jerusalem Cross
The Jerusalem cross features four equal arms instead of the typical two or three. The extra arms represent the gospel accounts of Jesus’ life and crucifixion. It is a symbol of pilgrimage and the journey of faith due to its prominence in Jerusalem, the spiritual center of Christianity.
The Papal Cross
The papal cross features three bars instead of two, representing the Holy Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It is topped by a globe symbolizing the pope’s leadership over the worldwide Church. The keys below represent St. Peter, the first pope.
While Christians typically view any cross as signifying Jesus’ death and resurrection, different cross styles incorporate additional layers of meaning related to history, culture and theology. Appreciating the subtleties of form and symbolism within various crosses enriches our understanding of how they function as spiritual symbols for devotion and reflection. The common symbolism they share ultimately points to the one they represent: Jesus Christ and his salvation of humankind.
FAQs about the Types of Crosses and Meanings
There are four basic types of iconographic representations of the cross: the crux quadrata, or Greek cross, with four equal arms; the crux immissa, or Latin cross, whose base stem is longer than the other three arms; the crux commissa, in the form of the Greek letter tau, sometimes called St.
Death and life, hate and love, violence and peace, accusation and forgiveness, sin and purity, brokenness and wholeness, all is lost yet everything is gained, destruction and restoration, defeat and victory. Once the cruelest form of execution, yet now it is a symbol of abundant life.
In the Catholic Faith, the crucifix is a very common symbol which is a cross with the figure of Jesus Christ attached to it. It often has the word “INRI” written across the top.
One might associate the incarnational depiction of the cross with Good Friday while the evangelical cross reflects Resurrection Sunday. Some might question whether we should give preference to the incarnational or evangelical depiction of the cross.