what are the types of crosses

Types of Crosses

• Ankh The Ankh is the first on our list of types of crosses. ...
• Maltese Cross The Eight-Pointed Cross, also known as the Maltese Cross, is a cross with four “V” lines pointing inwards. ...
• Jerusalem Cross The Jerusalem Cross was the coat of arms for the city of Jerusalem during the 1800s. ...
• Orthodox Cross ...
• Gamma Cross ...
• Chi Rho Cross (Alpha/Omega) ...
• Coptic Cross ...
• Latin Cross ...

Full Answer

What are the types of crosses?

Types of Crosses

• Ankh. The Ankh is the first on our list of types of crosses. ...
• Maltese Cross. ...
• Jerusalem Cross. ...
• Orthodox Cross. ...
• Gamma Cross. ...
• Chi Rho Cross (Alpha/Omega) The Chi Rho Cross is also known as the Chrismon or Constantine’s cross. ...
• Coptic Cross. ...
• Latin Cross. ...
• Celtic Cross. ...
• Golgotha Cross. ...

More items...

What are the different types of Christian crosses?

Types of Crosses and What They Mean

• Latin Cross. The Latin Cross is the most recognizable symbol of Christianity and is representative of the cross upon which Jesus died.
• Jerusalem Cross. ...
• Forked Cross. ...
• Celtic Cross. ...
• Solar Cross. ...
• Papal Cross. ...
• Patriarchal Cross. ...
• Maltese Cross. ...
• Florian Cross. ...
• Russian Orthodox Cross. ...

More items...

What does the Christian cross symbolize?

The cross on which Jesus our Lord and Savior died for our sins is the most commonly recognized and most universally accepted symbol for Christianity the world over. It symbolizes God’s great sacrifice, an offer of salvation to all of humanity and the promise of the Resurrection.

What do Celtic crosses mean?

There are many theories about the meaning of the Celtic Cross. One interpretation is that the four ‘arms’ represent the four cardinal directions of the earth (north, south, east, and west). Another interpretation of the Celtic Cross symbol is that it represents the four elements: Earth, fire, water and air.

What do 3 crosses symbolize?

Roman soldiers on horseback, along with grieving citizens, surround the crosses. A beam of light, representing God's light from heaven, pierces the darkened sky to envelope the crucified figure of Christ....The Three CrossesLocationMuseum of Fine Arts, Boston5 more rows

What does 2 crosses mean?

A two-barred cross is used to symbolize checkmate.

What church uses 3 crosses?

LutheranChurch of the Three Crosses (Finnish: Kolmen Ristin kirkko; also known as Vuoksenniska Church) is a Lutheran church located in Kaukopää, Imatra, Finland. The church was designed by Alvar Aalto and completed in 1958....Church of the Three CrossesDenominationLutheranArchitectureArchitect(s)Alvar AaltoStyleModern10 more rows

Does the cross have different meanings?

The cross, once a shameful form of execution for criminals, has became a predominant symbol of Christ and Christianity. However, the cross at times has also taken on darker meanings as a symbol of persecution, violence and even racism.

What does 4 crosses mean?

Some historians believe that the large cross represents Christ, while the four smaller crosses represent Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Others suggest that the symbol is a visualization of the gospel being spread to the four corners of the Earth.

What does a black cross mean?

Black cross or Black Cross may refer to: Black Cross (Teutonic Order), heraldic insignia of the Teutonic order (since 1205) Black Cross (Germany), military emblem of Prussia and Germany, derived from the cross used by the Teutonic order. Anarchist Black Cross, an anarchist support organization.

What do three white crosses mean?

SUTTON, W.Va. —One night in 1984, the Reverend Bernard Coffindaffer had an epiphany. God called him, he explained afterward, to erect sets of three crosses across the land to recall Christ's crucifixion at Calvary.

Who were the 3 Marys at the cross?

Las Tres Marías, the Three Maries, are the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalene, and Mary of Cleofas. They are often depicted at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ or at his tomb.

Who died on cross with Jesus?

Christian tradition holds that Gestas was on the cross to the left of Jesus and Dismas was on the cross to the right of Jesus.

What was the first cross?

The pre-Christian cross existed in two forms; the tau cross and the svastika or fylfot cross. The tau cross resembles the Greek capital letter T. On the other hand, the fylfot cross resembles four Greek capital letter G's placed together. The tau cross was initially used among the pagans.

Where is the true cross of Jesus now?

the Church of the Holy SepulchreIn the year 629 A.D., the Cross was recovered and brought back to Jerusalem by Emperor Heraclius of Constantinople. The relic of the True Cross was then restored to its place in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Why do some crosses have a circle?

The pagan Celts were said to worship the sun. Saint Patrick according to legend combined the image of the Christian cross with the circular to represent the sun to associate circle of light with the Christian cross as one in the same.

What religion has a double cross?

It's the official heraldic emblem of archbishops of the Roman Catholic Church. The Patriarchal cross is similar to the traditional Latin cross and to the Papal cross in design. However, while the Latin cross has only one crossbar and the Papal cross has three, the Patriarchal cross has two.

Why are there double crosses?

Etymology. First recorded in 1834 from thieves' slang cross (or on the cross) to refer to something dishonest, a play on straight/square, and therefore a crook going back on his partners would be crossing the crossers, or double-crossing.

Who uses the double cross?

state of LithuaniaThe Double Cross was particularly widely used in the first half of the 20th century after the restoration of the independent state of Lithuania. The symbol, as a distinctive sign, was adopted by the Lithuanian army, aviation and other public authorities.

What does the double upside down cross mean?

The Cross of Saint Peter or Petrine Cross is an inverted Latin cross, traditionally used as a Christian symbol, but in recent times also used as an anti-Christian symbol. In Christianity, it is associated with the martyrdom of Peter the Apostle.

What is the Latin cross?

The Latin cross is by far the most famous one, which is also known as the crucifix. It symbolized the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and symbolized the belief of Christian religions across the world. In particular, it showcases the passion of Christ and his death on the Cross. The defining feature of this Cross is its more extended arm at the bottom.

What is the meaning of a wooden cross?

Wooden Cross. A wooden cross bears the same meaning as a Latin cross but with a closer connection to the actual crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This is because the Cross that Jesus was crucified on was made out of wood. The Cross itself is no different from a typical Latin cross, with its material being the only difference.

What is the meaning of the cross of Saint Aemilian of Cogolla?

Cross of Saint Aemilian of Cogolla. The Cross of Saint Aemilian of Cogolla is a cross that symbolizes the saint that it was named after. Saint Aemilian was a saint that lived between the fifth and sixth centuries in La Rioja, Spain.

What does the upside down cross mean?

Upside Down Cross (St. Peter) The Upside Down Cross is a unique cross that also has heavy ties to Christianity. The Cross symbolizes the martyrdom of Peter the Apostle, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. Peter wished to be crucified upside-down, as he found himself unworthy of being crucified in the same manner as Jesus.

What does the Coptic cross symbolize?

“The Coptic Cross is a cross that symbolizes the Coptic Catholic Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church.”.

What is the Jerusalem cross?

The Jerusalem Cross is a cross that features four small crosslets on each of the four quadrants of the main Cross. It symbolized Jerusalem’s coat of arms during the 1820s.

What is the San Damiano cross?

The San Damiano Cross is a unique cross that St. Francis of Assisi prayed to. While praying, St. Francis was said to have received instruction to rebuild the Lord’s church. It is cherished by many Christians, with the Franciscans especially treasuring the Cross.

What are the different types of crosses?

Lets’ discover the different types of crosses, their history and their symbolical meaning. Contents [ hide] 1 Latin Cross. 2 Greek cross. 3 Tau cross, also known as Saint Anthony the Abbot cross or Crux Commissa. 4 Tree of Life Cross. 5 Eight pointed Cross.

What religions use crosses?

Christianism was not the first religion to use crosses as objects of devotion. Since the Stone Age, and until the pre-Christian era, there were many pictures shaped as crosses. The so-called Celtic cross was the symbol of the god Odin for the Northmen. It represented a cross enclosed in a circle.

What is the symbolism of the cross?

What is a cross? Most of the people we know would answer such question by saying that it is the Christian symbol par excellence since it recalls crucified Christ, who sacrificed himself for the salvation of humankind. This is of course true, but the symbolism of the cross is older than that.

What is the cross of Christ?

It is composed of four arms of the same length, crossing each other at a straight angle. It is typical of the Byzantine art, alternating with the Latin cross as base diagrams for churches. Its four equal beams and the fact that it can be contained in a square, make it the idealized cross, which represents the Divine Nature of Christ.

Why is the Nile cross called the Cross of Life?

It looks like a key, and that is why it is also called Cross of Life, Nile cross or Ankh Cross, in memory of the ancient Egyptian symbol for eternal life. The Coptic cross is nothing but an evolution of the ancient Egyptian ankh, which decorated Pharaohs tombs and was often represented in the hands of the gods.

Why are the tips of the cross facing the outside?

The twelve tips of its beams represent the twelve apostles. The fact that the tips are facing towards the outside or the inside indicates the weakness of the Church, made of men, saints and sinners.

How many beams does the cross have?

It is the most typical, the one that represents Jesus’ crucifixion for Christians. It has two perpendicular beams, the horizontal one being shorter than the vertical one.

What is the Latin cross?

The Latin Cross is the most recognizable symbol of Christianity and is representative of the cross upon which Jesus died. This type of cross has a vertical post with a crossbeam near the top. The three upper arms are typically of the same length, but the topmost arm is sometimes depicted as being shorter. Many believers keep this cross close as a symbol of their faith, generally wearing it in pendants or carrying it as a charm. It’s believed to bring peace, solace and comfort to Christians.

Where did the cross come from?

The latter were stationed on the island of Malta, which is where the cross’s name comes from. Although the symbol was popular during the Middle Ages, evidence suggests that it existed as early as the 6 th century in the Byzantine era. The cross represents the 8 Langues (regions) from where the knights came.

What is a forked cross?

Other Names: Thieves’ Cross, Robber’s Cross, Y-Cross, Furca, Ypsilon Cross, Crucifixus Dolorosus. The Forked Cross is a Y-shaped cross, with arms extending upwards. Some believe that thieves in Roman times were crucified on forked crosses, but there is no evidence to suggest this.

Why did Peter ask to be crucified upside down?

Accordingly, Peter requested to be crucified upside down, as he did not feel worthy of being crucified in the same way as Jesus. In modern times, the Petrine cross is sometimes viewed as an anti-Christian symbol, which has somewhat tainted the symbolism of the cross.

What is the cross of Lorraine?

The cross is the emblem of Lorraine in eastern France,which was captured by the Germans along with Alsace. The Cross of Lorraine represents the French struggle against German forces, and more universally, is a symbol of resistance against evil forces.

Why is the forked cross so popular?

The forked cross was especially popular during the Middle Ages, when there was a strong focus on the Passion of Christ.

What is the most popular symbol of Christianity?

Ankh. Cross symbols have existed for thousands of years, signifying different things for the cultures in which they were valued. The oldest religious symbol is believed to be the solar cross, which influenced many subsequent cross symbols. Today, the cross is the most-recognized symbol of Christianity ...

Gold Cross Pendants

One of the most classic and recognizable cross necklaces is the gold cross pendant. The gold cross pendant is made from solid gold and has a simple and sleek design. The minimalistic composition of this necklace roots back to some of the earliest manufactured gold cross pendants.

The Ankh Cross

While most crosses are derived from a denomination of Christianity, these symbols can also relate to other cultures and beliefs. In fact, crosses were a symbol long before the creation of Christianity. For example, the ancient Egyptian ankh cross is one of the oldest and most unique cross designs.

The Nail Cross

Nail crosses are often less worn than gold cross pendants. However, these necklaces have an incredibly unique design. Nail crosses consist of three piercing silver or gold nails that intersect together to form the classic formation of a cross.

The Crucifix

Although many people assume that a crucifix necklace is the same as a standard silver or gold cross pendant, this jewelry is entirely different. Crucifix necklaces include a pendant of a sacrificed Jesus Christ in the center of their design. Christians often wear these necklaces to symbolize Christ's love for humanity.

What do crosses represent?

Crosses are a popular form of religious iconography. Most of them represent various denominations of Christian religions, but this is not true for all crosses. They appear on churches, tombstones, and religious books, but you may find some of these in other places as well. What crosses symbolize depends largely on the beliefs surrounding them, ...

What is the meaning of the cross?

In other interpretations, it is said to symbolize the Tree of Life . The most well-known and documented forked cross is the Coesfeld Cross, first made in 1250 CE, which is hung in the Church of Saint-Lambert in Coesfeld, Germany.

What does the 3 bars on the cross mean?

In reality, the three bars simply indicate someone of higher rank than an archbishop, whose crosses have two horizontal bars.

What does the Scientology cross represent?

According to the Scientology website, the eight points on the Scientology cross represent the eight parts or "dynamics" of life that Scientologists believe each person must deal with. These include the individual self, creativity, family, and the universe.

Why is the forked cross called the Y-shaped cross?

The forked cross is also known as the ypsilon cross, furka cross, or thief's cross because it was thought that criminals were executed on this shape in ancient Roman days. This type of cross is in a dramatic Y-shape, "a fork" (hence the name), and it often has the crucified form of Jesus Christ attached to it.

What is the Gnostic cross?

The Gnostic cross is unique because of its unusual shape. It consists of a standard cross with a circle on top. A smaller horizontal cross piece sits inside of the circle, creating a second cross. It is a combination of a sun cross (the upper circle with a cross within it) and a traditional Latin cross.

What do the horizontal bars on the papal cross represent?

It could be said that the horizontal bars represent the Holy Trinity (God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost or spirit), but this is not an official opinion.

How many crosses are there in a consecrated church?

In a consecrated church, twelve consecration crosses are carved or painted on walls, pillars or altars, marking the place where church walls have been anointed with chrism. The twelve crosses have equal length arms, distinguishing them from the main crosses of the church, which represent the Crucifixion.

How many buds are there on a cross?

Budded crosses can be fashioned with anywhere from a single to five buds per cross end, each arrangement having its own symbolism. The most common is three, which represents the Trinity: God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Four buds usually symbolize the four evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Why is St Brigid's cross woven?

St. Brigid , Patroness of Ireland (around 453-525), is known for her wisdom and generosity to the poor. She is the most revered female saint of Ireland. Tradition says that her cross was woven from rushes to illustrate the significance of Christianity to a dying, pagan chieftain, who then embraced Christianity before his death. Her feast day is celebrated on February 1.

What does the top bar on the St Andrew's cross mean?

St Andrew Cross: This Eastern Orthodox cross has three cross bars: the top bar symbolizes the placard on which was written the charge against Christ; some crosses features Slavonic letters that stand for, "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews". The middle bar is where the hands of Christ were nailed.

What is an anchor cross?

Anchor Cross: (also called Mariner’s Cross) Anchor crosses come in various styles, ranging from a traditional anchor shape to those with hooks, swords, ropes and more. For Christians, Jesus Christ is the anchor of the soul: “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6: 19-20).

Where did the Celtic cross originate?

Celtic Cross : The Celtic cross evolved in the British Isles, its earliest forms (dating from the seventh to ninth centuries) carved into large slabs of rock that lay on the ground. Later forms stood in an upright position. There are varying traditions regarding the origin of the cross’s circle. One includes the story of how St. Patrick, “the Enlightener of Ireland”, took a standing stone etched with a circle that symbolized the Druid moon goddess, and marked a Latin cross over the circle, thus incorporating a pagan symbol into a new Christian cross for the converted Druids.

Where was the original Canterbury Cross found?

Canterbury Cross: Found in 1867 in Canterbury, England, the original cross dates to circa 850 AD and was cast in bronze. The arms were each designed with a triangular panel adorned with a “triquetra”, or three-cornered knot, representing the Trinity: God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

What is a cross with a crossing point?

A Latin cross with the crossing point, starting initially as wide permanent and widening only at its end to the outside arms. It is not to be confused with the Maltese cross, also known as the St. John's cross. In heraldry, it is a common figure in coat of arms.

What is a Latin cross?

A Latin cross ("†") is included in the extended ASCII character set, and several variants have been added to Unicode, starting with the Latin cross in version 1.1. For others, see Religious and political symbols in Unicode .

Why are crosses important to Christianity?

Christian crosses are used widely in churches, on top of church buildings, on bibles, in heraldry, in personal jewelry, on hilltops, and elsewhere as an attestation or other symbol of Christianity. Crosses are a prominent feature of Christian cemeteries, either carved on gravestones or as sculpted stelae. Because of this, planting small crosses is sometimes used in countries of Christian culture to mark the site of fatal accidents, or, such as the Zugspitze or Mount Royal, so as to be visible over the entire surrounding area. Roman Catholic, Anglican and Lutheran depictions of the cross are often crucifixes, in order to emphasize that it is Jesus that is important, rather than the cross in isolation. Large crucifixes are a prominent feature of some Lutheran churches, e.g. as a rood. However, some other Protestant traditions depict the cross without the corpus, interpreting this form as an indication of belief in the resurrection rather than as representing the interval between the death and the resurrection of Jesus.

What is the red cross of Saint James?

A red Cross of Saint James with flourished arms, surmounted with an escallop, was the emblem of the twelfth-century Spanish military Order of Santiago, named after Saint James the Greater .

What is the cross on the flag?

Its first documented use was as the ensign of the Republic of Genoa, whereafter it was used successively by the crusaders. A notable uses are on the Flag of England and the Georgian flag .

What is a bride's cross?

Bride's cross, also known as Brigid 's cross or Brighid's cross, these are usually woven of rushes, wheat stalks or similar. They can be Christian or Pagan symbols, depending on context.

What is the cross of Lorraine?

The Cross of Lorraine consists of one vertical and two horizontal bars. The two-barred cross consists of a vertical line crossed by two shorter horizontal bars. In most renditions, the horizontal bars are "graded" with the upper bar being the shorter, though variations with the bars of equal length are also seen.