The word about the cross is foolishness for those who are perishing, but for us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18).

The cross is the tool of the Christian! The radiant Cross with the inscription "By this, conquer" appeared to Emperor Constantine, who, by the will of God, built a banner, placing the sign he saw there. And indeed "Sim won"! In honor of Suvorov's passage through the Alps, a granite cross twelve meters long was carved in the mountains.
It is impossible to imagine the history of mankind without the cross. Architecture (and not only temple), painting, music (for example, "Carrying the Cross" by J.S. Bach), even medicine (red cross), all aspects of culture and human life are permeated with the cross.

It is wrong to think that the cross appeared with Christianity. In many events of the Old Testament we see the mark of the cross. Saint John of Damascus: “The Tree of Life, planted by God in Paradise, prefigured this Holy Cross. For since death entered through the medium of the tree, it was necessary that Life and Resurrection be bestowed through the tree. The first Jacob, bowing to the end of Joseph's rod, marked the Cross by means of an image, and, blessing his sons with changed hands (Gen. 48, 14), he very clearly outlined the sign of the Cross. The rod of Moses, which crosswise struck the sea and saved Israel, and drowned Pharaoh, also denoted the same; arms stretched out crosswise and putting Amalek to flight; bitter water, sweetened by the tree, and rock, torn and pouring out springs; a rod, acquiring to Aaron the dignity of a hierarchy; the serpent on the tree, lifted up as a trophy, as if it were slain, when the tree healed those who looked with faith at the dead enemy, just as Christ the Flesh, who knew no sin, was nailed for sin. Great Moses says: you will see that your life will hang on a tree before you (Deut. 28, 66).

In ancient Rome, the cross was an instrument of execution. But in the time of Christ, he turned from an instrument of shame and painful death into a symbol of joy.

Since the first centuries of Christianity, the Egyptian hieroglyph ankh, denoting eternal life, has been used to depict the cross. It combines two symbols: the cross - as a symbol of life and the circle - as a symbol of eternity. Together they represent immortality. Such a cross has become widespread in the Coptic Orthodox Church.

An equilateral cross consisting of two identical rectangular crossbars intersecting at right angles was called Greek. In early Christianity, the Greek cross symbolized Christ.
On the national flag of Greece, this cross, white on a blue background, first appeared in 1820, symbolizing the struggle against the rule of the Muslim Turks.

The gamma cross, or gammadion, got its name from the third letter of the Greek alphabet. It is said to symbolize Christ as "the cornerstone of the Church". Often such a cross can be seen on the clothes of the priests of the Orthodox Church.

The letter X, in which the name of Christ is hidden, we call the St. Andrew's Cross, because the Apostle Andrew was crucified on such a cross.

Illiterate opponents of Christianity believe that the inverted cross is an anti-Christian symbol. In fact, this is also a Christian symbol. Saint Peter believed that he was not worthy to die the same death that Jesus Christ died. At his request, he was crucified upside down. Therefore, such a cross wears his name.

Christ was taken down from such a cross, it is customary to call it Latin. The most common Christian symbol in the Western world.

The six-pointed cross with a crossbar for the legs is a symbol of the Russian Orthodox Church. The lower crossbar is depicted tilted from right to left.

According to legend, during the crucifixion of Christ, a tablet was nailed over the cross in three languages ​​(Greek, Latin and Aramaic) with the inscription "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews." Such an eight-pointed cross is also commonly called Russian.

The inscriptions and cryptograms on Russian crosses have always been much more diverse than on Greek ones. Since the 11th century, under the lower oblique crossbar of the eight-pointed cross, a symbolic image of the head of Adam appears, buried according to legend on Golgotha ​​(in Hebrew - “frontal place”), where Christ was crucified. “In the place where I will be buried, the Word of God will be crucified and sprinkle my skull with His blood,” Adam prophesied. The following inscriptions are known.
“M.L.R.B.” - the place of the frontal was crucified quickly.
“G.G.” - Mount Golgotha.
“G.A.” - head of Adamov,
The letters "K" and "T" mean a copy of the centurion Longinus and a cane with a sponge, depicted along the cross.
The inscriptions are placed above the middle crossbar: “IC” “XC” - the name of Jesus Christ; and under it: “NIKA” - Winner; on the title or near it there is an inscription: “SN” “BZHIY” - the Son of God or the abbreviation “I.N.Ts.I.” - Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews; the inscription above the title: “TSR” “SLAVY” - the King of Glory.

Clover leaves on a shamrock cross symbolize the Trinity and the Resurrection. The circles on the edges of the drop-shaped cross are drops of the Blood of Christ, which, having sprinkled the cross, informed him of Christ's power. The pointed circle on the crosses is a symbol of the crown of thorns, which was placed on the head of Christ by the Roman soldiers.

Saint Ephraim the Syrian spoke thus about the power of the Cross and the sign of the cross. “If you always use the holy Cross to help yourself, then “evil will not happen to you, and the plague will not come near your dwelling” (Ps. 91:10). Instead of a shield, protect yourself with the Holy Cross, imprint your limbs and heart with it. And do not only place the sign of the cross on yourself with your hand, but also in your thoughts imprint with it your every occupation, and your entrance, and your departure at all times, and your sitting, and rising, and your bed, and any service ... For this is very strong weapons, and no one can ever harm you if you are protected by them.

The cross in Orthodoxy is not just an object of worship, it is a powerful tool for repentance and atonement for sins, for receiving God's grace. There are many crucifixes and they are different. It is customary for the people to divide them into male and female, for the dome of temples, etc. There are Orthodox and Catholic. There are no canons in the church that separate crosses by gender, just as there are no special ones for baptism and other holidays.

There are many secrets in the crucifixion. For the Orthodox, this is a kind of strongest amulet against an evil spirit, the evil eye, and not pleasant accidents. They are worn without taking off. Once upon a time, when a child left home or left his father's house, a cross was attached to his neck. It was called wearable.

During baptism, a cross is also put on. It is believed that by removing it, you open the way to the baby for dark forces. Therefore, the rope or chain is made so long that the child is comfortable and it is not possible to remove it.

When you enter a church, you mark yourself with a cross, this is a righteous sign and faith in its power.

Image of orthodox cross

The meaning of the Orthodox cross

The cross is an integral part of Orthodoxy. Denotes the crucified Jesus and the life he gave for us sinners. It seems to atheists that Orthodoxy worships the tool that killed Christ. But this is far from true. The faithful bow before the symbol of eternal life. The Church says “Life-giving Cross”, which means that Jesus, in terrible agony, begged from the Almighty, the laity, forgiveness of sins and eternal life.

By putting a cross on themselves, the Orthodox honor the Almighty, his laws, and fulfill the Word of God. Accept humility and receive blessings. That is why, the cross is the redeeming power of faith, for the life Jesus gave.

Types of Orthodox crosses

Cross "patriarchal"

Used in the middle of the last century. Such a large cross is in the Museum of Russian Art.

Cross four-pointed

"The all-honorable cross, four-pointed power, blessing to the Apostles."

Six-pointed cross “Russian Orthodox”

This crucifix has a purpose. The lower bar serves as a kind of scale of good and bad deeds. So Jesus defined the two criminals who were crucified on either side of him. One of them repented and departed to another world with a pure soul, while the other blasphemed Christ and ended up in hell.

Eight-pointed cross

Christ was executed on a four-pointed crucifix. And only when a nail was driven into the legs did the crucifix have a lower bar, a foot. After that, they attached the top bar at the headboard with the inscription.

This is how the eight-pointed cross appeared, now known to the whole world.

Seven-pointed cross

Such crosses were depicted in 1500 in the north of Russia. They are also installed on the domes of Russian churches.

Cross “crown of thorns”

“Cursed is the whole earth because of you. Only thorns will grow,” these were the words of God to Adam. Jesus, without coercion, took upon himself all the sins of mankind, and a crown of thorns is like a thorny road, which he passed, carrying watercress for crucifixion. Completely atoned for Adam's sin.

Cross “gallows”

Such crucifixes can be seen in almost all temples. They are crowned with all church objects.

Cross “vine”

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman” (John 15:1). This designation was given by Jesus to himself and to the Lord God. The combination of the crucifix and the vine can be found on the domes.

Cross "Greek", or Old Russian "korsunchik"

One of the oldest in Russia. Saint Prince Vladimir was baptized with such a cross.
This designation was given to the micro-universal cross.

Cross "dome" with a crescent

Domes are crowned with such crucifixes. This is the form of the distant 1570s. It is designated as the birthplace of Christ, as an anchor of hope for eternal life, as an enemy of the Lord God at the feet of Jesus.

Cross “trefoil”

Altar crosses in churches are crowned with such a pattern. It is on the symbols of the Russian state.

Cross "Maltese", or "St. George"

It got its name after the murder of Pavel Petrovich of the Russian Emperor. He was an adherent and trustee of the Order of John of Jerusalem in Malta. This organization opposed Freemasonry. That's why the Masons killed the Emperor.

The cross of George the Victorious was used to reward the cavalry.

Cross “Prosphora-Konstantinovsky”

The very name already says that they put it on prosphora. You have the opportunity to see and eat them in the church after communion.

Old-printed cross “wicker”

Such drawings can be seen on printed old books in Russia.

Cross four-pointed "drop-shaped"

When Christ died in terrible agony, drops of his blood dripped onto the cross on which he was crucified. Giving him a special power.

Cross "crucifixion"

Until the 1800s, Jesus was presented as alive or resurrected. From time immemorial, there was a footstool on the crosses, and the legs were nailed separately, and Jesus, as it were, was leaning against the crucifix. And only among Catholics, a clear image of Christ with sagging hands. It can be seen in what terrible agony he died. The bottom line is that the laity should see the power of Christ's love for his people, that he gave his life for them.

Schema Cross, or "Golgotha"

They are embroidered on the clothes of the priests. This is an image of the spiritual cross. Used to illuminate the room, glued to 4 walls. Its designation is a true keeper.

Cross gammatic

It was used in the old days to decorate church items. It is also visible under the dome of Hagia Sophia, on the door drawings of the Nizhny Novgorod Cathedral.

Correct orthodox cross

A four-pointed crucifix is ​​considered correct. It should have an image of Christ, feet nailed with two nails.

Eight-pointed Orthodox cross

Christ was executed on such a crucifix.

And only when a nail was driven into the feet did the foot of the crucifix appear. After that, they attached the top bar at the headboard with the inscription. This is how the eight-pointed crucifix, now known to the whole world, appeared.

It can also be considered as eight periods of human life. The eighth is the other world, the future life. One end looks into the Kingdom of God. The crossbar for the legs speaks of sin on earth, that Jesus broke stereotypes, showed people that there is a God, explained to them what sin is.

Proportions of the Orthodox cross

The cross consists of a base and three additional parts:

• A plate with an inscription;
• The one in the middle, intended for the arms with which Jesus embraces the world, shows his love for him;
• Lower base for legs.

The base for the legs has such a shape for a reason. According to Scripture, believers will stand on the right hand of Christ, sinners on the left. Those on the right will go to the Kingdom of God, those on the left will go to hell.

By measure. Hands spread out in width, proportional to the height of the person. Accordingly, part of the middle bar of the cross should correspond to the length from the middle to the beginning of the lower bar. This means that with a basis of 1, the length of the bar will be 0.618, from the middle to the bottom, too, 0.618. From the top to the beginning of the crucifixion 1-0.618=0.382. Difference 0.382/2=0.191

What is the difference between the Orthodox cross and the Catholic

On the Catholic cross, Christ's legs are crossed, nailed with one nail. He is depicted alive, experiencing terrible torment. The inscription has the designation INRI.

Orthodox crucifixion shows us Christ after the resurrection. Legs are not crossed. The inscription has the designation ІНЦІ. It is also on the back side of "Save and Save"

Orthodox male cross

Crucifixes are in fashion these days. Silver denotes earthly life, gold denotes heaven. They have a simple appearance, a little rough. There may be no crucifixion at all.

Orthodox women's cross

Women are supposed to hide the crucifix under their clothes. It is believed that this way she will be closer to God. Her prayer comes from the heart, and the nearby cross gives her strength. A woman has the Lord's blessing, carrying a child under her heart. In defense, she is given the same pectoral cross.

Nowadays, the cross also performs the function of a beautiful decoration.

Orthodox crosses on churches

Inscriptions on the Orthodox cross, meaning

• The designation NIKA (victory) is the victory of Jesus over death and his resurrection.
• The designation ICXC is Jesus Christ the King of Glory.
• The designation INCI is Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.
• The head of Adam means his sin and death, located at the feet of Jesus as a sacrifice for the atonement of sins.

Dimensions of the Orthodox cross on the grave

The cross is a symbol permitted by the canons of the church, which takes place during burial. His life-giving power allows the soul to say goodbye to the world, and fly with relief to the Kingdom of God.

What does the crescent on the cross of an Orthodox church mean?

It was used in the old days to decorate church items. It is also visible under the dome of Hagia Sophia, on the door drawings of the Nizhny Novgorod Cathedral. Pretty common. It has a crescent moon at the base of the cross. They are installed on the domes of temples and churches. It marks the birth of Jesus. They can also interpret it as the Mother of God.

There is an opinion that such a designation gives the Orthodox faith an advantage over the Muslim one. But such an image of the cross was among Muslims much earlier than it appeared in Orthodoxy.

In reality, it is a cross anchor. In the old days, the church was a rescue ship, it guided the laity on the true path, showed them the way to the Kingdom of God.

Prayer orthodox cross

On the back of the crucifix, a prayer is engraved - a petition, this is the most important prayer for the Orthodox.

The domes of Orthodox churches are crowned with crosses. Believers wear crosses on their chests to always be under the protection of God.

What should be the correct Orthodox pectoral cross? On its reverse side there is an inscription: "Save and save." However, this attribute is not a talisman that can protect against all misfortunes.

The pectoral cross is a symbol of the "cross" that God gives to a person who wants to serve Him - in fulfillment of the words of the Lord Jesus Christ: "Whoever wants to follow Me, turn away from yourself, and take up your cross, and follow Me" (Mark 8, 34).

The person who wears the cross, thereby gives a guarantee that he will live according to the commandments of God and endure all the trials that will fall to his lot.

Our story about what to be guided by when choosing an Orthodox pectoral cross will be incomplete if we do not turn to history and talk about the festival dedicated to this Christian attribute.

In memory of finding in 326 in Jerusalem, near Golgotha, where Jesus Christ was crucified, the Orthodox Church celebrates a holiday called the Exaltation of the Holy and Life-Giving Cross of the Lord. This holiday symbolizes the triumph of the Church of Christ, which has gone through a difficult path of trials and persecution and has spread throughout the world.

According to legend, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, Queen Helena, went in search of the Cross of the Lord to Palestine. Excavations were carried out here, as a result of which the cave of the Holy Sepulcher was found, and not far from it three crosses were found. They were alternately placed on a sick woman, who, thanks to the touch of the Cross of the Lord, was healed.

According to another legend, a deceased person, who was carried by a funeral procession, resurrected from contact with this cross. However, it is not known exactly how the cross on which Christ was crucified looked. Only two separate crossbars were found, and next to it was a tablet and a foot.

A part of the Life-Giving Tree and nails were brought by Empress Helen to Constantinople. And Emperor Constantine erected in 325 in Jerusalem a temple in honor of the Ascension of Christ, which included the Holy Sepulcher and Golgotha.

The cross began to be used as a symbol of faith thanks to Emperor Constantine. As the church historian Eusebius Pamphilus testifies, “Christ, the Son of God, appeared in a dream to the emperor with a sign seen in heaven and commanded, having made a banner similar to this one seen in heaven, to use it to protect against the attacks of enemies.”

Constantine ordered to place images of the cross on the shields of his soldiers and installed in Constantinople three commemorative Orthodox crosses with golden inscriptions in Greek “IC.XP.NIKA”, which means “Jesus Christ the Conqueror”.

What should be the correct pectoral cross?

There are various graphic types of crosses: Greek, Latin, the cross of St. Peter (an inverted cross), the Papal Cross, etc. No matter how different branches of Christianity differ from each other, this shrine is revered by all confessions.

But if in Catholicism Jesus Christ is depicted sagging in his arms, which emphasizes His martyrdom, then in Orthodoxy the Savior appears in strength - as a conqueror, calling the whole Universe into His arms.

The palms of Jesus on the Orthodox cross are usually open; the figure expresses peace and dignity. In Him are embodied His most important hypostases – Divine and Human.

The attribute of the Catholic crucifixion is the Crown of Thorns. In the Orthodox pictorial tradition, it is rare.

Also in Catholic images, Christ is crucified with three nails, that is, the nails are driven into both hands, and the soles of the feet are put together and nailed with one nail. In the Orthodox crucifixion, each foot of the Savior is nailed separately with its own nail, and in total four nails are depicted.

The canon of the image of the Orthodox crucifixion was approved back in 692 by the Tula Cathedral and remains unchanged to this day. Of course, Orthodox believers should use crosses that are made in accordance with the Orthodox tradition.

I must say that the dispute about what should be a Christian cross of the correct form - eight-pointed or four-pointed - has been going on for a long time. In particular, it was led by Orthodox believers and Old Believers.

According to Abbot Luke,
“In the Orthodox Church, its holiness does not depend on the shape of the cross, provided that the Orthodox cross is made and consecrated precisely as a Christian symbol, and not originally made as a sign, for example, of the sun or part of a household ornament or decoration.”

What form of the pectoral cross is considered correct in Orthodoxy?

The Orthodox Church recognizes both four-pointed, and six-pointed, and eight-pointed types of crosses (the latter, with two additional partitions - tilted to the left for the legs and a crossbar at the head, are used more often), with or without the image of the crucified Savior (however, such a symbol cannot be 12-pin or 16-pin).

The letters ІС ХС are a christogram symbolizing the name of Jesus Christ. Also, the Orthodox cross has the inscription "Save and save."

Catholics also do not attach much importance to the shape of the cross; the image of the Savior is not always found on Catholic crosses.

Why in Orthodoxy is a cross called a pectoral?

Only clergymen wear crosses over their clothes, and ordinary believers should not wear crucifixes for show, thereby demonstrating their faith, because such a manifestation of pride is not befitting Christians.

It must also be said that an Orthodox pectoral cross can be made of different materials - gold, silver, copper, bronze, wood, bone, amber, decorated with ornaments or precious stones. Most importantly, it must be consecrated.

If you bought it in a church shop, you don’t have to worry about it: already consecrated crosses are sold there. This does not apply to products purchased in jewelry stores, and such crosses will need to be consecrated in the temple. During this ceremony, the priest will read prayers calling to protect not only the soul, but also the body of a believer from evil forces.

At the same time, one of the most familiar and most mysterious decorations for the 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 a decorative element and is often perceived as a break with Christian traditions, its origin and symbolism should not be ignored.

Historical models of pectoral crosses

Religion insists: it does not matter how much the material from which the cross is made costs. It is primarily a symbol of the Christian faith. In the same time tradition of honoring the cross, who is always with you, turned it into a decoration and a luxury item.

There is an opinion that it is true religious pectoral cross should be simple in design and worn under clothing. Now this is not entirely true. The main difference between an exclusively decorative and a truly significant thing is whether the cross is consecrated or not. The church will not refuse to consecrate a product studded with stones, nor will they require you to hide it under your clothes in the summer heat.

What the truth should be paid attention to is not metal, but something whether the shape of the chosen decoration corresponds to the Orthodox or Catholic tradition.

How to distinguish between Orthodox and Catholic cross

The form

In the Orthodox Church, the most common six- and eight-pointed crosses. By the way, the latter have long been considered the most powerful amulet against evil spirits. A small crossbar in the heads symbolizes the tablet, which denoted the committed crimes. But since no one named the crimes of Jesus, in the Orthodox tradition it may have the abbreviation I.N.Ts.I. or I.N.Ts.I, Catholics in Latin write I.N.R.I. It is an abbreviation for "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews."The slanting crossbar under the feet symbolizes the path from sins to righteousness. In turn, Catholic pectoral crosses are as simple as possible and consist of only two crossbars.

engravings

In addition to the inscription I.N.Ts.I., on Orthodox crosses with the opposite side of the crucifix, there may be engraved "Save and Preserve". This is not the case in the Catholic tradition.

Nails

Orthodox Christians believe that Jesus was nailed with four nails, Catholics that there were three nails. Therefore, the feet of Christ on the Orthodox cross are located one next to the other, and on the Catholic one they are abandoned one on top of the other.

crucifix

T oh how it should be picture of jesus on the crucifix- the subject of heated debate between representatives of both faiths. Catholics adhere to the most naturalistic image that 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 legs there is a short diagonal crossbar (the upper end is directed to the left, the lower end is 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 sloping lower bar symbolizes the inner scales of each of us: what wins - conscience or sin. Its meaning is also interpreted as the path from sin to repentance.

Four-pointed drop-shaped 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 also fell in love with it as a pectoral. The ends of the crossbars of such a product are decorated with semicircular leaves. Sometimes they also have beads - "bumps".

Latin four-pointed cross

This is the most common Christian cross in the West. The horizontal bar is located at 2/3 of the vertical height. The elongated lower part symbolizes the patience of Christ in redemption. Such crosses are a very old tradition. They appeared around the 3rd century in the catacombs of Rome. At that time, Christians were gathering there.

How to choose a cross for christening

Traditionally, the first pectoral cross or vest, as it is also called, is assigned to the rite of baptism. The 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 go through this sacrament, there are special restrictions in choosing sacral decoration no. But to be right choose a cross for baptism for newborn Oh, there are several factors to consider.

Women's and men's pectoral 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, are more concise in execution. Their crossbars can also end with drops, petals and shamrocks, 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 with precious stones. If the decoration is consecrated, its decor does not affect the sacred meaning in any way. Rarely, but still, the church may refuse to consecrate a decorative cross with too curved and curly crossbars. Although, of course, the main thing is your own feelings. He warms you 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. We 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 bless a cross

Crosses purchased in church shops have two advantages. First, they correspond exactly to the traditions of your religion. Secondly, they are already consecrated. If you bought a cross in a jewelry store, you can consecrate it in a church. It is better to have time to come before the start of the service and apply with this request to the priest. You can also ask to perform the ceremony in your presence and take part in prayer.

As a rule, pectoral crosses are consecrated only once. Exception - the decoration was badly damaged.

What to do if you find a cross

There is an opinion that finding a cross is a bad omen. Allegedly, along with him, the sorrows and sorrows of the previous owner can be transmitted to you. At the same time, the church advised us not to pay attention to such superstitions, explaining this by the fact that everyone is destined for their own temptations and their own troubles.

Found a cross - freely store it 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

Is it possible to give a pectoral cross

The pectoral cross is a sacred symbol, not a piece of jewelry. Don't buy a diamond-studded Crucifix just to show off your wealth. God is in your soul and does not require the expression of love through precious pendants.

When choosing a pectoral cross, pay attention not to the value of the metal from which it is made, but to what the Crucifix is ​​depicted. It can be Orthodox or Catholic.

Orthodox crosses have a very ancient history. Most often they are eight-pointed. The canon of the image of the Crucifixion was approved in 692 by the Trula Cathedral. Since then, its appearance has remained unchanged. The figure of Jesus Christ on the cross expresses peace, harmony and dignity. It embodies its most important incarnations - the Divine and the Human. The body of Christ is laid on the cross and opens its arms to all those who suffer, seeking to protect their novices from evil.

The Orthodox cross has the inscription "Save and save." This is due to the fact that during the consecration of the Crucifixion, the priest reads two prayers calling to protect not only the soul, but also the body from evil forces. The cross becomes a guardian of a person from any hardships and hardships.

The Catholic Church did not accept this concept; the Crucifixion is depicted differently there. The torments of Christ are expressed on the cross, his head is in a crown of thorns, his feet are put together and pierced with a nail, his arms sagged at the elbows. Catholics present human suffering, forgetting about the Divine hypostasis.

Before putting on a pectoral cross, it must be consecrated. This can be done in any church by approaching the priest before the start of the service.

It is better to wear a pectoral cross under a shirt, without showing it off. Especially if you go to gambling or drinking establishments. Remember that this is not an ornament, but one of the symbols of the Faith.

The divine does not accept superstition, so all the tales about the fact that the found wearable cross cannot be lifted and taken for oneself, or that the Crucifix cannot be given as a gift, are inventions. If you find the Crucifix, you can consecrate it and wear it calmly. Or give it to the temple, where it will be given to those in need. And, of course, you can give a pectoral cross. With this you will only please a loved one, express your love for him.

Do I need to wear a pectoral cross?

Gone are the days when any sign of belonging to the Christian Church, including wearing a pectoral cross, could lead to serious consequences, at best, ridicule. No one is forbidden to wear a pectoral cross today. Another question arises: is it necessary to do this?

The main condition for wearing a Christian pectoral cross is an understanding of its meaning. It is neither an ornament nor a talisman that can protect against all misfortunes. Such an attitude towards a sacred object is characteristic of paganism, and not of Christianity.
The pectoral cross is a material expression of that “cross” that God gives to a person who wants to serve Him. Putting on the cross, the Christian thereby promises to live according to the commandments of God, no matter what the cost, and endure all trials steadfastly. Anyone who has realized this, of course, needs to wear a pectoral cross.

How not to wear a pectoral cross

The pectoral cross is a sign of belonging to the Church. Those who have not yet joined it, i.e. was not baptized, should not wear a pectoral cross.

Do not wear a cross over clothing. According to church tradition, only priests wear crosses over the cassock. If a layman does this, it looks like a desire to put his faith on display, to brag about it. Such display of pride is not befitting a Christian.

The pectoral cross, as its name implies, should be on the body, more precisely, on the chest, closer to the heart. You can not wear a cross in the ear in the form of an earring or on a bracelet. You should not imitate those people who carry a cross in a bag or in their pocket and say: "I still have it with me." Such an attitude towards the pectoral cross borders on blasphemy. You can put a cross in a bag only for a while if the chain breaks.

What should be an Orthodox pectoral cross

It is sometimes said that only Catholics wear four-pointed crosses, but this is not true. The Orthodox Church recognizes all types of crosses: four-pointed, eight-pointed, with or without the image of the crucified Savior. The only thing that an Orthodox Christian should avoid is the depiction of the crucifixion with the utmost realism (a sagging body and other details of suffering on the cross). This is indeed characteristic of Catholicism.

The material from which the cross is made can be any. It is only necessary to take into account the characteristics of a particular person - for example, there are people whose silver on the body darkens, such a person does not need a silver cross.

No one is forbidden to wear a large cross or a cross encrusted with precious stones, but one should consider whether such a display of luxury is compatible with the Christian faith?

The cross must be consecrated. If it was bought in a church shop, you should not worry about it, there the crosses are sold already consecrated. A cross bought at a jewelry store needs to be consecrated in the temple, it will take a few minutes. They consecrate the cross once, but if it is not known for sure whether it is consecrated or not, this must be done.

There is nothing shameful in wearing a cross that belonged to a deceased person. A grandson may well receive a cross of a deceased grandfather at baptism, and there is no need to be afraid that he will “inherit” the fate of a relative. The idea of ​​an inevitable fate is generally incompatible with the Christian faith.