Post 6: The Symbolism of my cross necklace

Before we begin, I want to use a quote from Reference from an article "Why Are Symbols Important?"

"Symbols are important because they facilitate communication and identification of ideas and other concepts based on what those symbols represent, though they can have literal as well as figurative meanings."

The symbol I am choosing to write about is my cross necklace that I wear just about everyday. When most people think of a cross worn or hung anywhere, they immediately think of Christianity. However, according to Earl L. Henn in his article "The Cross: Christian Banner or Pagan Relic?" crosses were used as symbols before the life and death of Christ. Henn writes "From its simplicity of form, the cross has been used both as a religious symbol and as an ornament, from the dawn of man's civilization. Various objects, dating from periods long anterior to the Christian era, have been found, marked with crosses of different designs, in almost every part of the old world." This quote shows that the Christian symbol of the cross did not begin with the religion. Henn also tells us that "in very many cases it was connected with some form of nature worship." to show us its original symbolism. 

To answer what the Christian cross means now, for many, is very well known; The cross represents the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and hope of the new life Christians are born into if we accept Christ into our hearts. A beautiful worded quote to explain this is from an article "The Cross- Symbol of Christianity" that says "The cross has an important meaning for every believer. In the cemetery it gives consolation and nourishes the hope of life's victory over darkness. High up on the summit it shows that God is far above all else."

With all this being said, the cross that I wear on my neck everyday brings me comfort. It is a reminder to me of the sufferings Jesus went through, so that I could be here today living in His hope and love. I find that in times that I am anxious or sad I quickly find my hand on my necklace to find comfort. 

-however to add, I don't always put the necklace on with huge symbolic intentions, most of the time it is just a very simple, dainty necklace that goes with everything haha.

Article Links:

- https://www.cgg.org/index.cfm/library/article/id/471/cross-christian-banner-pagan-relic.htm

- https://www.lignoma.com/en/magazine/the-cross-symbol-of-christianity/

-https://www.reference.com/world-view/symbols-important-d02f6f37820a2dd6