 | The Celtic Cross is both mysterious and straightforward: it stirs the imagination. The strong, somewhat rugged lines of the Celtic Cross are unmistakable, strong, and beautiful. But what does it mean? What is the true nature of the Celtic Cross, and what is it thought to represent, from ancient times, to modern-day? |
The answer is not as easy to find as you might imagine: the Celtic Cross is cloaked in mystery, but some of its secrets are revealed here for you.
The Celtic Cross was not a common symbol of Christianity until the 4 th century. The Presbyterian and Catholic churches both claim the cross as their own symbol, so it could be said it belongs to both orders. While there is some ambiguity with regard to the crosses true meaning, the inner circle is said to represent eternity, and the endlessness of God’s own love.
As well, the four corners of the cross are thought to represent the directions: east, west, north and south. Each direction was thought to have special meaning. The North was meant to represent wisdom, stability, winter, and death. The East was associated with learning, youth, and springtime. In the South quarter, passion, life-force, and summertime were symbolized. The West quarter was thought to represent intuition, feelings, and inner knowledge.
A Celtic Cross is an object of beauty, mystery, and spirituality: whether it is found in a churchyard, or in the form of an exquisitely wrought Celtic Cross pendant, it will resonate with meaning and history.