Celtic culture gave the world an unusual symbol - the Celtic cross, which is considered one of the most beautiful symbols of the Middle Ages. Today, the Celtic cross is used to decorate clothing, accessories, souvenirs and even tattoos.
It is necessary
History textbook, images of the Celtic cross
Instructions
Step 1
The meaning of the symbol. Visually, the Celtic cross is an equal-beam cross with a circle, which is a symbol of Celtic Christianity. In paganism, this figure symbolized the combined four elements - the sun, air, water and earth. In addition, the presence of cyclicality and isolation is historically inherent. There is also an opinion on the part of the EU official authorities among skinheads, racists and neo-Nazis that the Celtic cross means the superiority of the white "Aryan" race over all other races. For the Celts themselves, the cross has always been a symbol of spiritual development and expansion of inner consciousness. For them, it is a union of heaven and earth, in the center of which is the union of the natural and the supernatural.
Step 2
The image of the cross. There are many variations of the image of a cross and a circle, each of which is called "solar crosses". In addition, one of the Christian interpretations says that the circle is the "Sun of Faith", which means the light of faith in God, which cannot be obscured by anything. It should be taken into account that the sun in Celtic means infinity, continuity, therefore, this symbolism has passed to the cross. That is why the Celtic cross is often depicted as a kind of knot that has no beginning or end and is woven from a single thread that symbolizes life.
Step 3
History of appearance. It is believed that the Celtic cross appeared in Ireland no later than the 8th century. According to legend, this symbol was the result of the activities of St. Patrick, who came to the island with the aim of converting its inhabitants to Christianity. In this vein, the figure takes on the meaning of combining the symbols of the sun and the Christian faith and carries with it the goal of linking the new religion with the already familiar pagan solar deity, giving particular importance to the cross. In addition, Christian symbols such as fish and chrism can be seen on the early Celtic crosses found by archaeologists.
Step 4
Celtic cross in modern times. Today, the Celtic cross can be found as an image on T-shirts, mugs, baseball caps. It appears on jewelry, watches and other accessories. In addition, it is an element of logos. For example, the famous Donegal football club uses the Celtic cross as its symbol. In addition to promotional items and souvenirs, the Celtic cross can be found in tarot cards. The layout of the cards called "Celtic Cross" should help to find out information about the future, past and present of a particular person. Also, the Celtic cross is often used as a tattoo element.
