A Patriarchal Cross

What does a Patriarchal Cross look like? How does it differ from other Christian crosses? The article describes the symbolism of Patriarchal Cross.



A Patriarchal Cross is often presented as a cross with eight endings. It is accepted both by eastern and western churches. The vertical axis contains three crossbars, all of whom have a special meaning that carry symbolism of the whole cross. The top beam contains an inscription "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews" which was placed on Jesus's cross on Pilate's order. The middle, the longest beam is for Christ's arms, whereas the lower one is for Jesus's legs. According to the Orthodox church Jesus's feet were nailed with two nails, not only one. The beam is slanted with the left side slightly raised towards heaven when a repentant thief went to. The right side is lowered towards hell where unrepentant thief fell. The orthodox icon presents Adam's skull at the bottom of the cross and Jerusalem's walls in the background. The skull represents Adam himself who was buried near Golgotha, it symbolizes redemption of the first man by the Redeemer's blood. Some of the icons show a crescent, which isn't a symbol of the victory of orthodox church over Islam. It is a symbol of hope, Eucharistic chalice which represents redemption of all human sins.