PATRIARCHAL CROSS Meaning and
Definition
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The patriarchal cross is a symbol commonly used in Christianity, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is a variation of the traditional Christian cross, consisting of a vertical line crossed by an additional horizontal line near the top. The upper horizontal line is typically smaller in size compared to the lower one, creating a distinctive form.
This particular cross design is often associated with patriarchs, the highest ranking bishops in the Orthodox Church. The addition of the upper horizontal bar is said to represent the inscription placed above Jesus' head on the crucifixion cross, known as the "titulus," which displayed the acronym "INRI" – Latin for "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." Therefore, the patriarchal cross symbolizes the authority and leadership of the patriarchs and their role as spiritual guides.
Moreover, the patriarchal cross is sometimes linked to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, with its lower horizontal line representing the earth or humanity, and the vertical line representing the divine or heaven. Thus, this cross serves as a reminder of the central Christian belief in the Redemption through Christ's death on the cross.
Throughout history, the patriarchal cross has become a recognizable emblem within the Orthodox Church and is often used to designate the presence of a patriarch or their jurisdiction. It symbolizes the spiritual legacy and important roles of patriarchs in leading and guiding the faithful.
Common Misspellings for PATRIARCHAL CROSS
- oatriarchal cross
- latriarchal cross
- -atriarchal cross
- 0atriarchal cross
- pztriarchal cross
- pstriarchal cross
- pwtriarchal cross
- pqtriarchal cross
- parriarchal cross
- pafriarchal cross
- pagriarchal cross
- payriarchal cross
- pa6riarchal cross
- pa5riarchal cross
- pateiarchal cross
- patdiarchal cross
- patfiarchal cross
- pattiarchal cross
- pat5iarchal cross
Etymology of PATRIARCHAL CROSS
The term "patriarchal cross" is derived from the combination of the words "patriarch" and "cross".
The word "patriarch" comes from the Greek word "patriárchēs" (πατριάρχης), which is a compound of "patria" meaning "family" or "lineage", and "archos" meaning "leader" or "ruler". Originally, it referred to the male head of a particular kinship group or tribe. Later, the term was adopted by several Christian churches to refer to the highest-ranking bishops or archbishops within specific regions, such as the Eastern Orthodox Church.
The term "cross" comes from the Old English word "cros", which is derived from the Latin word "crux".
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