Symbolism and Imagery Flashcards
1
Q
What are the main symbols?
A
cross crucifix fish chi rho dove eagle alpha and omega four evangelists
2
Q
what is the cross?
A
- a simple reminder that Jesus dies on the cross
- can remind us of divine love and forgiveness
- believers make the sign of the cross when they are about to pray
3
Q
what is the crucifix?
A
- Jesus on the cross
- reminds us of Jesus’ passion and how he dies to save our sins
- reminder of Christ’s sacrifice
- found at the front of a church on the altar
4
Q
what is the fish?
A
- featured a lot in the NT as the first disciples were fishermen
- was used as a secret code for early Christians
5
Q
what is the chi rho?
A
- symbol sometimes found in churches
- made from the first 2 letter of Christ in Greek - P and X
- began use as a secret sign
6
Q
what is the dove?
A
- symbolises the Holy Spirit
- Jesus’ baptism where the Holy Spirit descended like a dove
- “The spirit comes down” -CCC701
7
Q
what is the eagle?
A
- speed and power of God’s message
- older churches often have eagle sculptures on the lectern
8
Q
what is alpha and omega?
A
- alpha is the first letter in the greek alphabet
- omega is the last letter in the greek alphabet
- Jesus is shown in the first and last
9
Q
what is the four evangelists?
A
- gospel writers wings (global messengers of God)
- winged man (Matthew)
- winged lion (Mark)
- winged ox (Luke)
- winged eagle (John)
