Orthodox symbols - symbols of Christianity and their meaning

Why fish is a symbol of Christianity

ICHTIS (fish) is an abbreviation that appeared when translating the expression “Jesus Christ the Son of God the Savior” from Greek by adding the first letters.

Next to Jesus there were many apostles - fishermen. He called them “fishers of men,” and associated himself with Alpha and Omega (the beginning and end of all life). By depicting fish, Christians preached their faith and recognized fellow believers.

According to some sources, the fish became a symbol due to its ease of availability.

History of symbols

After the crucifixion and resurrection of the Savior, persecution began against Christians who believed in the coming of the Messiah. In order to communicate with each other, believers began to create secret codes and signs to help avoid danger.

Cryptogram or secret writing originated in the catacombs where early Christians had to hide. Sometimes they used long-known signs from Jewish culture, giving them new meaning.

The symbolism of the early Church is based on man's vision of the Divine world through the hidden depths of the invisible. The meaning of the emergence of Christian signs is to prepare early Christians to accept the Incarnation of Jesus, who lived according to earthly laws.

Secret writing at that time was more intelligible and acceptable among Christians than sermons or reading books.

Important! The basis of all signs and codes is the Savior, His Death and Ascension, the Eucharist - the Sacrament left by the Mission before His crucifixion. (Mark 14:22)

Cross

The cross symbolizes the crucifixion of Christ; its image can be seen on the domes of churches, in the form of crosses, in Christian books and many other things. In Orthodoxy there are several types of crosses, but the main one is the eight-pointed one, on which the Savior was crucified.

Cross: the main symbol of Christianity

A small horizontal crossbar served for the inscription “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” The hands of Christ are nailed to the large crossbar, and His feet to the lower one. The top of the cross is directed to heaven, and the Eternal Kingdom, and under the feet of the Savior is hell.

About the cross in Orthodoxy:

• Crescent on Orthodox crosses
• Where to put the pectoral cross of a deceased person
• What is the difference between an Orthodox cross and a Catholic one?

Fish - ichthys

Jesus called fishermen as his disciples, whom he later made fishers of men for the Kingdom of Heaven.

One of the first signs of the early Church was a fish; later the words “Jesus Christ the Son of God the Savior” were written into it.

Fish is a Christian symbol

Bread and vine

Belonging to the Eucharist or the Sacrament of Communion is expressed through drawings of bread and grapes, and sometimes wine or grape barrels. These signs were applied to sacred vessels and were understandable to everyone who accepted faith in Christ.

Important! The vine is a type of Jesus. All Christians are its branches, and the juice is a prototype of the Blood that cleanses us during the reception of the Eucharist.

In the Old Testament, the vine is a sign of the promised land; the New Testament presents the vine as a symbol of paradise.

The vine as a symbol of heaven in the New Testament

A bird sitting on a grape vine symbolizes rebirth to new life. Bread is often drawn in the form of ears of corn, which is also a sign of the unity of the Apostles.

Fish and bread

The loaves depicted on the fish refer to one of the first miracles performed by Jesus on earth, when He fed more than five thousand people who came from afar to listen to the preaching of the Mission with five loaves and two fish (Luke 9:13-14).

Christian symbol of the Trinity

Many people confuse the concepts of “Trinity” and “Three-Faced”. How are they different?

God is one, but has 3 persons: Father, Son, Holy Spirit. And the Holy Trinity is a single fusion, where one smoothly turns into three, and three becomes one.

Previously, the symbol was a circle with a triangle inside it. The same sides of the figure meant trinity and eternal life. Sometimes the image was in the form of three hares, whose ears were connected into a triangle. The modern sign of the Trinity is an ornament woven into a circle.

Ancient Christian symbols that we know little about

In the first centuries of the terrible persecution of Christians, two unfamiliar fellow travelers met and sat down to rest.
During the conversation, one, as if by accident, drew an arc in the sand with a branch. When the second one completed the second arc, the image of a fish was created. This is the secret Christian way of distinguishing between enemies and friends. They immediately hugged each other and said, “Brother, I am a Christian too!”

Fish - a symbol of the first Christians

The language of antiquity is deeply symbolic. Biblical symbols of Christian Orthodox culture open windows and doors to the traditions of past times. Through these Divine signs, the church reveals faith in the language of rituals, iconography, and architecture.

What images are the main symbols of the church, what is the meaning and what is their significance - our article.

The very first symbol of Christianity

Ichthys is the most ancient Christian symbol.
Ichthys translated from Greek means fish. The first Christians saw that in the Greek letters of this word the monogram of the name of Christ is encrypted (Jesus Christ, the Son of God the Savior).

Ancient image of the IHTIS inscription found in Ephesus

Archaeologists have discovered early Christian images of the first centuries with images of fish.

Image of fish and five loaves in a cave temple of the Roman catacombs

The image of a fish is often used in gospel parables:

• The Apostles Peter and Andrew are fishermen (Matthew: 4.18);
• The image of a fish and a snake (Matt: 7:10);
• Christ compares “the Kingdom of Heaven to a net that was cast into the sea and captured fish of every kind” (Matthew: 13:47);
• Miracle of the loaves and fish (Matthew: 14:17);
• Statir coin found in a fish (Matthew: 19.27);
• The miracle of the great fish catch (Luke: 5:1-10);
• After the resurrection, Christ ate baked fish with the apostles (Luke: 24:42).

"The Last Supper". Fresco from the 13th century, where the body of Christ is depicted on a platter in the form of a fish

The main symbol of Christianity is a murder weapon

In the first centuries, due to persecution, fish was used as a secret sign. After the official recognition of the religion of Christ, the cross becomes the main religious symbol of Christianity.

312

this year the Emperor Constantine saw the appearance of the Cross in the sky

Before a battle with the much superior army of Emperor Maxentius, a cross with the inscription “With this banner you will conquer” appeared in the sky to Emperor Constantine the Great and his retinue.

Constantine ordered crosses to be depicted on the banners and shields of the soldiers, and defeated the enemy.

Painting by Raphael Santi “The Appearance of the Holy Cross to Constantine the Great” (1483 - 1520)

Later, after the discovery of the Cross of Christ, the holiday “Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord” was established, which is celebrated on September 27.

The place where the Holy Cross was found. Located in the chapel of the Church of the Resurrection of Christ in a former quarry, in Jerusalem

Orthodox canonical image of the cross

The cross is an execution weapon invented by the Romans. Those subjected to this torture die long and painfully. The most notorious criminals were subjected to it.

But after the Savior consecrated this tree with his blood, it became a symbol of salvation and a sign of victory.

Recalling this victory, the Crucifixion of Christ thrills demons and drives haters of the Christian faith to anger.

The canonical image of the Calvary Cross has its own Orthodox symbolism.

Explanations of the symbols on the Calvary Cross

Dove - symbol of the Holy Spirit

A common Christian symbol is the dove. The image of this bird is taken by the Holy Spirit at the baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist in the Jordan.

“And Jesus having been baptized, immediately went up out of the water,

- and behold, the heavens were opened to Him,

and John saw the Spirit of God,

Who descended like a dove,

and descended upon Him."

(Matt. 5:16)

Icon of the Baptism of the Lord, XVII century. A dove, as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, descends on Jesus

Holy Trinity, icon and symbol

The oldest symbol of the Holy Trinity is an equilateral triangle. Previously, it was depicted with an eye inside, symbolizing the “All-Seeing Eye.” Since this image was borrowed by the Freemasons in ancient times, it is not used in iconography.

The symbol of the Trinity is usually depicted in the form of an icon of three elders.

The image of three angels is a symbol of the Holy Trinity. Icon of St. Andrei Rublev. First quarter XV

Sometimes the icon of the Trinity is found in the form of an old man framed in a triangle. On each side there is a letter representing the names of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

The image of the Trinity in the form of a triangle

Lamb - image of Christ's sacrifice

Lamb of God, symbol of Christ's sacrifice.
Italy, Ravenna, VI century. mosaic is an element of Christian symbolism, as an image of the Old Testament sacrifice of Christ. The Jews of the Old Testament, celebrating Passover, sacrificed a lamb.

In the New Testament, John the Baptist, pointing to Jesus Christ, says:

“Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”

(John 1:29)

During the Christian service of the Eucharist, the mysterious transformation of bread into the Body of Christ occurs. This bread is called Lamb.

Bread on the paten, transformed into the Body of Christ during the Orthodox liturgy. He is also called the Lamb

As a shepherd He will feed His flock; He will take the lambs in his arms and carry them on his bosom

Russian icon of the 19th century The Good Shepherd
In the Holy Scriptures, the relationship between God and people is shown in the image of a shepherd and sheep. Christ says about himself: “I am the good shepherd.” He further explains that

“The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

But a hireling, not a shepherd, whose sheep are not his own,

sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep,

and runs; and the wolf plunders the sheep and scatters them.”

(John 10:11)

These words were confirmed by the death of Jesus for his people.

Telling his disciples how dear to him every person who has fallen away from God is, Christ gives the parable of the lost sheep:

“Which of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them,

will not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and

will not go after the missing one until he finds her.”

(Luke 15:6)

Figurine of the Good Shepherd, Christian art of the first centuries

Christianity as a sign of God's Anointed

Chrism is an ancient sign that became widespread during the time of the Apostles.

Monogram of Christ. Jerusalem, Holy Trinity Cathedral

These religious signs in the form of Greek letters mean the name of the Savior. The letters X and P crossed together encrypt the word “anointed.” The letters α and ω, located on the sides, are associated with the text from the Revelation of John the Theologian.

“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, says the Lord, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

(Rev. 1.8)

Chrism image. 4th century, Byzantium

Christ is the true vine

In temple paintings and frescoes you can often see images of grape branches. This image is taken from the Gospel, where the Savior calls himself that.

See also article 4 of the evangelist

“I am the vine, and you are the branches; who abides in Me,

and I am in it, it bears much fruit;

for without Me you can do nothing.”

(John 15.5)

Icon of Christ - Grapevine

Symbols of Christianity Chrism and a vineyard on a sarcophagus of the 6th century

Dove in Christianity

There is a story about how a dove flew to Noah during the global flood, holding an olive branch in its paws. Having announced God's mercy, the bird became a symbol of peace and goodness.

Another legend says that evil spirits can dress in anyone except a dove. Therefore, it symbolizes purity and hope, truth and integrity.

Values:

• a bird with an olive branch - new life that has come to know Jesus Christ;
• a flock of doves - believers;
• white dove - a saved soul that has gone through the stages of purification;
• a pair of doves - love and a strong family.

Early Christian symbols

Their number is not as small as it seems: an olive branch, a peacock, a ship, ears of bread, etc. Let's look at the most famous ones.

1. Pelican. It was painted on sacred dishes or on the walls of rooms where services were held. There is an interesting legend explaining why this bird became an Orthodox symbol.

   
   Pelicans lived in the reeds near the Mediterranean coast. They were often attacked by poisonous snakes and suffered from their bites. Over time, the adults acquired immunity to the poison, but the chicks never adapted. If the snake managed to bite the chick, the adult would peck its own chest to save its life by administering blood.

2. Phoenix. The bird is a long-lived bird that existed several centuries ago. When the phoenix was destined to die, it flew away to burn in Egypt.

   
   After it, piles of healing ashes remained, in which after some time a new life was born. After a long time, the young bird completely recovered from the remains and flew away in search of a new life.

3. Lamb. An image with a human face and a halo (or one or the other).

   
   Symbolized the voluntary sacrifice of Jesus for the sins of the people.

4. Rooster. Sign of the resurrection of Christ.

   
   Just as a rooster awakens people from sleep, so the angels will trumpet the meeting with the Lord at the Last Judgment.

Cross "Grapevine"

This is an eight-pointed cross with the image of thin branches of grapes. Sometimes the Savior may be depicted in the center.

Grapes are the personification of wisdom and immortality. The ministers of the church are the branches, and the grapes are the sign of Communion. Leaves and berries symbolize Christ's sacrifice of himself for the sake of people. Such a cross will always remind of God’s love for everyone who believes in him.

Jesus Christ symbol

The main symbol of Jesus Christ is the “cross”. To atone for the sins of all mankind, Jesus sacrificed himself. The cross is the personification of sacrificial victory over evil deeds.

Non-believers believe that worshiping the cross is worshiping an instrument of execution. But believers know that this is a symbol of life, the salvation of humanity.

Icon painters often paint the Virgin Mary and John the Evangelist near the cross. The skull at the foot is a sign of death. The image is filled with grace-filled power; by honoring it, a person praises God.

Jesus Christ - in symbols and codes

The Savior acts as the Good Shepherd for his sheep, Christians. At the same time, He is the Lamb slain for our sins, He is the saving cross and anchor.

The Ecumenical Council of 692 banned all symbols relating to Jesus Christ in order to shift the emphasis not on the image, but on the Living Savior, however, they still exist today.

Lamb

A small lamb, obedient, defenseless, is a prototype of the sacrifice of Christ, who became the final sacrifice, for God became displeased with the sacrifices made by the Jews in the form of slaughtering birds and animals. The Most High Creator wants Him to be worshiped with pure hearts through faith in His Son, the Savior of mankind (John 3:16).

Symbol of Lamb with Banner

Only faith in the saving sacrifice of Jesus, who is the way, the truth and the life, opens the way to eternal life.

In the Old Testament, the lamb is a type of the blood of Abel and the sacrifice of Abraham, to whom God sent a lamb to sacrifice instead of his son Isaac.

The Revelation of John the Theologian (14:1) speaks of a lamb standing on a mountain. The mountain is the universal Church, the four streams - the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, which nourish the Christian faith.

Early Christians in secret writing depicted Jesus as the Good Shepherd with a lamb on his shoulders. Nowadays priests are called shepherds, Christians are called sheep or flock.

Monograms of the name of Christ

Translated from Greek, the monogram “crisma” means anointing and is translated as a seal.

By the blood of Jesus Christ we are sealed to His love and salvation. Hidden behind the letters XP is an image of the Crucifixion of Christ, God Incarnate.

The letters "alpha" and "omega" represent the beginning and the end, symbols of God.

Monograms of the name of Jesus Christ

Symbols of the apostles

Each apostle is depicted with a specific attribute.

For example, the Apostle Peter is depicted with keys in his hands.

They were given by Jesus and open the gates of the Kingdom of God.

The Apostle Paul is depicted with the instrument of his execution. Bartholomew, a preacher of Christianity, was tortured in one of the cities of Armenia - they flayed his skin, then crucified him. Attributes: own skin and a knife.

James the Elder is a disciple of Christ who lost his life in Jerusalem. Coming to his grave, pilgrims took shells with them. This meant that they had reached their goal. So they began to depict him with a staff, a hat and a shell.

Thomas - drawn with the spear with which he was pierced. Judas holds a bag of money in his hands. He helped the poor, but was greedy. He is depicted with a red beard - this is the color of cowardice and betrayal.

Typikon signs

According to their importance, Orthodox holidays are classified in the Typikon (Divine Service Charter) into great, medium, small and daily. The importance of the holiday is reflected in the solemnity of the service held on this day. Typikon signs:

Other classifications By date, events are classified into movable holidays and fixed holidays. The mobility of the holiday means that the day of its celebration is calculated and can change from year to year. Depending on the location, there are general and local holidays. General holidays are the same for any temple or city. By type, Orthodox holidays are classified into master's holidays, Mother of God holidays and saints' holidays. The Lord's holidays are days glorifying the Lord Jesus and events associated with his earthly life. Theotokos are holidays that glorify the Mother of God. Feasts of saints glorify people significant in Orthodoxy and Angels.

See also: Holiday signs

Temple symbolism

Each fragment of the temple has a specific meaning.

Temple shape:

• cross - salvation from the devil, entrance to heaven;
• circle - the inviolability of the Church;
• The eight-pointed star is the salvation of the human soul.

Dome shape:

• helmet-shaped - the Church’s fight against evil;
• in the form of an onion - a candle flame.

Dome Color:

• gold - dedicated to Christ;
• blue with stars - to the Blessed Virgin Mary;
• green - Trinity.

An Orthodox church is a collection of many sacraments, the meaning of which can only be understood by a true believer.

Symbolism common in Orthodox iconography and architecture

In Orthodox culture, over two millennia, various religious signs have been used to denote deep meaning. They are depicted in icons, temple paintings, architecture and church vestments.

A complete description of the symbolism of Orthodox iconography has an impressive volume. The article presents its main known elements.

A halo is considered a sign of holiness on icons

A halo, as a symbol of holiness, is depicted around the head.

Examples of a halo in the temple painting of the Bistritsa monastery, Moldova and mosaics from the Assist workshop, Vinnitsa

The ship is a symbol of the church

On ancient paintings, the church is depicted in the form of a ship, as a refuge for people escaping in the raging sea of ​​worldly temptations.

Image of the Holy Orthodox Church. On the ship the helmsman is Christ, the Holy Apostles, Saints and the Virgin Mary are steering

Arrows or swords piercing the Mother of God

This symbol appeared as a result of the prophecy of Simeon the God-Receiver, who said, addressing the Mother of God:

“And a weapon will pierce your own soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

(Luke 2:35)

Icon of the Mother of God “Softening Evil Hearts”, or “Seven Arrows”. Seven arrows piercing the heart signify the fullness of grief experienced by the Virgin Mary

Star of Bethlehem

This is a symbol of the star that led the Magi to the cave in which the Savior was born. It is usually depicted with 8 rays.

The icon of the Nativity of Christ depicts the Magi and the star that led them

According to tradition, Christmas carols are accompanied by the image of the Star of Bethlehem.

Orthodox children sing Christmas cants