Celtic Crosses - An Ancient and Powerful Symbol
- Date: 2007-05-03 - Word Count: 332
Share This!
The cross of the Celts and Celtic Christianity is a symbol of beauty and also a possessor of many meanings. It resembles a traditional Christian cross, with a circle drawn around the joints of the two arms of the cross. It is regularly referred to as the Irish Cross or the Cross of Iona (both an island and a Gaelic name).
One feasible meaning of the cross is the unity of two types of belief systems. The cross symbolizes Christian belief, while the circle symbolizes a pagan moon Goddess. This coincides with the Irish legend, that St. Patrick introduced this symbol when trying to convert the pagan people of the Emerald Isle. Some say that the circle actually represents the Sun, another powerful symbol in the pagan belief system.
Many times the cross and circle design is only just part of the picture. Complex designs and carvings are prominent on Celtic crosses. One such common motif is of an interweaving thread, actually interviewing figures of eight, which symbolize chaos, death, order and rebirth. As you can see, four again which is such an important number with the Celts.
The symbol, in some form or another, actually dates back long-long before Christianity. The reason is, that a cross has arms facing four directions. This could mean four elements, four navigational directions, and so on. The circle is another ancient symbol, associated with perfection, even the ancient Egyptians have used it.
Regretfully, in these modern times, the ancient symbol has been abused and used by some extremely radical political parties. Usually they simplify the cross and circle design by just drawing a circle with a plus sign inside, extending outward (regularly referred to as the sun cross). The link between the symbol and radical factions have become so firm that in Italy they have even banned it from being publicly shown in stadiums.
Martin Mallett is the co-owner of www.shop4silver.co.uk - a family run online store with a new and exciting range of Celtic jewellery especially beautiful Celtic bangles.
One feasible meaning of the cross is the unity of two types of belief systems. The cross symbolizes Christian belief, while the circle symbolizes a pagan moon Goddess. This coincides with the Irish legend, that St. Patrick introduced this symbol when trying to convert the pagan people of the Emerald Isle. Some say that the circle actually represents the Sun, another powerful symbol in the pagan belief system.
Many times the cross and circle design is only just part of the picture. Complex designs and carvings are prominent on Celtic crosses. One such common motif is of an interweaving thread, actually interviewing figures of eight, which symbolize chaos, death, order and rebirth. As you can see, four again which is such an important number with the Celts.
The symbol, in some form or another, actually dates back long-long before Christianity. The reason is, that a cross has arms facing four directions. This could mean four elements, four navigational directions, and so on. The circle is another ancient symbol, associated with perfection, even the ancient Egyptians have used it.
Regretfully, in these modern times, the ancient symbol has been abused and used by some extremely radical political parties. Usually they simplify the cross and circle design by just drawing a circle with a plus sign inside, extending outward (regularly referred to as the sun cross). The link between the symbol and radical factions have become so firm that in Italy they have even banned it from being publicly shown in stadiums.
Martin Mallett is the co-owner of www.shop4silver.co.uk - a family run online store with a new and exciting range of Celtic jewellery especially beautiful Celtic bangles.
Related Tags: celtic, celtic cross, irish, celts
Martin Mallett is the owner of a number of UK based jewellery web sites selling a range of jewellery in silver, gold and gemstones. Your Article Search Directory : Find in Articles
Recent articles in this category:
- Prada Sunglasses: Your Reasons To Choose One!
Prada sunglasses are the most fashionable range of eyewear today. Prada, the brand, has been widely - Put Your Best Face Forward With Some Help From Becca Cosmetics
While there's absolutely nothing wrong with going without makeup - in fact, some women look better w - Keep An Eye On The Time With A Versatile New Sport Watch
If you play sports or work out, you should consider purchasing a sport-infused timepiece. Keep readi - How To Shop For Sports Watches
Are you confused on where to go to purchase a sports watch? You are not the only one with this probl - Getting The Best Deals On Your Sports Watches
If you are physically active and involved in sports on a regular basis, you are probably looking to - Why You Should Opt For Slimline Vibrators
If you are looking for an arousing experience, quality vibrators can surely come in handy and if you - Moda Sunglasses: Add To Your Style
Moda Sunglasses are your ultimate option to enhance your physical get up. Don it up and see how thin - Henna Can Give Different Hair Shades
Henna is one of the most commonly used natural ingredients for dyeing hair. It is a very famous hair - Silk Scarf: Strategy To Make You Fabulous
Each woman need to own about a half dozen scarves to select from. However doesn't always keep these - Know About Home Made Hair Care Recipes
Most of us spend hundred of dollars on buying synthetic hair products to improve and style our hair.
Most viewed articles in this category:
- Domestic Goddess Aprons
Become a domestic goddess, or look like one in a Jesse Steele vintage style domestic goddess aprons - Finding Wholesale Nike Air Jordan Shoes
In the mid 1980s the Nike shoe company came out with several new shoe designs, most particularly cre - Printed Pictures Beautify Some Type Of Tote Bags
It is very noticeable that many women who are strolling in malls, workplaces, colleges and the like - A Review of Estee Lauder Cosmetics
You have to take care of your appearance because you only have one. That is unless you're some sort - Plus Size Bras Give You All The Support You Need And A Flattering Shape!
You have to choose a bra that fits correctly. It should provide your bust a flattering shape and th - Women's Sleepwear Speaks About Fashion Statement
Women's sleep wear are also called nightdress, nightclothes, or nightwear. It is a clothing created - Do You Know Where The Purse Comes From?
The birth of purses dates very far back. Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics illustrate pouches that wer - Why Women Love Handbags!
Most women absolutely love handbags - something which is a bit of a mystery to men! Some women spen - Underarmor Gear - What is Under Armor All About?
Under Armor is a brand name of clothing that is the ultimate in protection for the skin. It is made - Boots Made for Walking - What to Look for in Military Boots
While combat boots have become a favorite foot accessory in today's ever evolving fashion trends, th