| The Celtic Wall Cross - 2 |
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Symbolism of the Celtic wall crosses Because the origins of the Celtic cross are so ancient, it is possible that you may find many explanations regarding its symbolism. The Christian explanation tells us that the Celtic cross symbolizes eternity and Gods endless love. The non Christian explanation may tell you that the great stone Celtic crosses were carved from the standing stones of the Druids where originally phallic symbols, the cross carved into them acted to disguise their original purpose. With the advent of the rise of interest in anything Pagan, New Age interpretations may tell us that the cross in the circle is a symbol of the sun, worshiped by ancient druids, but later appropriated by the Christians. Unfortunately there are no historical records existing which would allow us to place the Celtic cross in a specific time area, locations or creative origin. What is known though is that the Celtic cross became a symbol of Christianity in the 4th Century adopted by Protestants and Catholics alike. What makes the Celtic cross designs distinctive is the inclusion of knot work motifs and the circle. The knot work is composed of geometric patterns which themselves have deep symbolic significance, as they are representative of not only plants and rivers but also of how all actions are interconnected in life. However, many academics today agree that whatever the designs once stood for, their meanings have been lost forever. The circle represents equality, boundaries and relationships and this fusion can be seen as redemption and salvation from the ancient pagan worship of the sun. The Celtic cross places this sun symbol and knot work around its point of intersection, in the process symbolizing a sense of resolution. Is the Celtic wall cross Pagan? Many Christians believe it is and want nothing to do with it while others who use it for wall adornments, amongst other uses, are completely unconcerned whether it is or isn't. Many historical examples of wall crosses come from Christian writings, yet the pagan association still exists. It has been said however that the ancient Celtic cross has its origins in paganism and in fact some of these pagan practices were continued during the Christian period. Some people believe that the ancient sun symbols used by the Druids were prototypes of the Christian Celtic cross and that God blessed the ancient Druids with prophetic knowledge of the coming of Christ. About the Author: Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Lazaro |