Signs of christian faith. Early Christian Symbols: Fish, Lily, Anchor, Pelican, Etc

The meaning of the ancient Christian characters,
Depicted around the Holy Ilinskiy temple.

The earliest Christian symbolic images belong to the days of the first persecution of the church in the Roman Empire.

Poison mosaics of the time of Constantine and Elena in the Basilica of the Nativity of Christ in Bethlehem.

Then the symbolism was used primarily as a cryptogram, the Tynsopcript so that the units could recognize each other in a hostile environment. However, the meaning of the symbols was entirely due to religious experiences; Thus, it can be argued that they were conveyed to us theology of the early church. Lamb, Cross, Grape Vine, Bread Basket, Bowl, Pigeon, Good Shepherd, Lilia, Peacock, Fish, Phoenix, Anchor, Pelican, Eagle, Chris, Rooster, Leo, Olive Branch, Alpha and Omega - Here are the most common forehardian Symbols.

The mosaic floor with the image of grape leaves and clusters carrying the Eucharist's meaning, the addition to which the images of the Eucharistic cups serve and next to them the fruits of pomegranate apples are one of the fruits of the tree of life.

The symbolism of the first crunchy art is much deeper by simple encrypted images, these images were a kind of visual preaching for Christians, like the parables, to which the biblical prophets were resorted and Jesus Christ was contacted in their conversations.

In 2012, during work on the improvement of the territory of the Ilinskaya Mountain, from the Western and Eastern, Northern and South side of the Holy Ilinskiy temple, ancient-Christian symbols were depicted with decorative paving: Lily, Chrisma, Fish and Anchor. What do they mean?

The lily depicted in decorative paving before entering the church is a symbol of innocence and purity, a symbol of a loving God God. In the song book, the song is said that the Old Testament Temple of Solomon was decorated with lilies. According to legend, Archangel Gabriel on the Day of Annunciation came to the Virgin Mary with White Lillia, which since then has become a symbol of her purity, innocence and devotion to God. With the same flower in the Middle Ages portrayed the saints, glorified by the purity of their lives. In the first Christians, Lily personified the martyrs who remained clean and are true to Christ, despite the brutal persecution.

So and we should enter the temple of the Lord with clean and kinsti hearts, if we want to take part in the Divine Liturgy and adequately join the Holy Taine.

Chrisma.

Chrisma or Chrysmond - a monogram of the word Christ, which means anointed anointed, Messiah, and which consists of two initial Greek letters of this word "χριστὀς" - "χ" (hee) and "ρ" (RO), superimposed one to another. At the edges of the monogram, the Greek letters "A" and "Ω" are placed. Such use of these letters dates back to the text of the Apocalypse: "Az Yesma Alfa and Omega, the beginning and end, says the Lord who has and was coming, Almighty" (Rev. 1: 8) .

The coin of the emperor magnament depicting chrysm.

Christ was widespread in the epigraphy, on the reliefs of sarcophagus, in mosaics, including outdoor, and probably goes back to apostolic times. It is possible that its origin is associated with the words of the Apocalypse: "Printing God Livago" (Rev. 7: 2). Greek monogram name "crisma" (own. "Anointing", "Miropomanazing")can translate as "print".

The monogram of Christ on the floor of the ancient Christian Basilica of Chrysopolitis.

In the environment of the Slavic peoples, the ancient Christian Christ acquired a new meaning, becoming a symbol of the award or the Nativity of Christ, according to the first letters, - "P" and "X" is his Slavic writing.

Chris on the southern side of the Holy Ilinskiy temple in Vyborg

A FISH.

Fish is one of the earliest and most common Christian characters. "Ichtis" (Dr. Greek. ἰχθύς - Fish) - Ancient acronym (monogram) The name of Jesus Christ, consisting of the initial letters of words: ίησοὺς χριστὸς θεού ὺιὸς σωτήρ (Jesus Christ the Son of God Savior)That is, expresses in a brief form to confess the Christian faith.

The New Testament links the symbolism of fish with the sermon of students of Christ, some of which were fishermen.

At the same time, Christians themselves were often depicted symbolic - in the form of fish. One of the earliest fathers of the Church of the TERTULLYAN wrote: "We, little fish, Following our Jesus Christ in the water (grace) are born and, only staying in it, we can be unharmed."

The symbolic image of the fish also has an eucharistic value. In the ancient part of Calicist Calicist, the researchers discovered a clear image of fish carrier on the back basket with bread and a vessel with wine. This is an eucharist symbol denoting the Savior, who gives people food of salvation, a new life.

Ancient mosaic depicting a stue with bread and fish that the Lord fed the suffering is in the altar next to the sacred stone. On the stone, as some researchers of the New Testament suggest, the Savior stood when the fish and bread blessed before the soda of them.

In other catacombs and on gravestone monuments, the fish image is often found in conjunction with other symbols and means the saturation of the people in the desert bread and fish (MK. 6: 34-44, MK. 8: 1-9), as well as the meal prepared by the Savior for the Apostles on His Resurrection (John 21: 9-22)on the shore of the Tiber Lake.

Ancient Christian Fish Symbol with Eastern
Parties of the Holy Ilinskiy temple in Vyborg

ANCHOR.

In early Christian art, anchor was a symbol of hope. The source for the occurrence of this image was the message to the Jews of St. Apostle Paul, where we can find the following words: "God, wanting to show the heirs to promise the immutableness of your will, used to the vague, in order to ... The firm consolation had we who resorted to take up the presenter hope, which for the soul there is as an anchor safe and strong, and enters the internal veil, where the forego For us, Jesus entered, having made the high priest forever for the rank of Melchizedek "(6: 17-20). Thus, anchor is an attribute for us by an attribute of personalized hope for salvation in Christ Jesus from eternal death.

Outdoor mosaic of the marine cathedral.

Anchor, as an ancient Christian symbol of hope from the northern side of the Holy Ilinskiy temple in Vyborg.

Over time, the Unified Unified Church of Christ's Cathedral Mind of the 82nd Rule of the Sixth Ecumenial Cathedral rejected the image of the Lamb, as the symbol of the cross sacrifice of Christ: "On some honest icons, it is depicted, the forerunner is a showable Lamb, who is accepted into the image of grace, through the law showing us truth Lamb, Christ of our God. Honor ancient images and senses, devotees the churches, like signs and destination of truth, we prefer grace and truth, accepting it, like the fulfillment of the law. This is for the sake of the sake, in order for the art of painting, the eyes of all representing it was perfect, commanded from now on the image The lamb, the scarring of the sins of the world, Christ of our God, to represent the icons on human nature, instead of the LAKHGO Lamb: Due, at night, the contemporary humility of God is given to the memory of his life in the flesh, his suffering, and saving death, and Symnia ".

Also, the 73rd rule of the same Cathedral of the Church banned to portray the life-giving cross of Christ on Earth: "Pooriko the life-giving cross revealed to us the salvation, it applies to us every thorough of consuming, and it will be assumed to be the honor of what we are saved from ancient fall. Therefore, and Thinking, and in a word, and a feeling of worshiping to him, we command: the images of the cross, stable by some on the ground, to completely think, in order to the sign of our victory, was not insulted by the passion of the walking ... ".

But today, when modern means of information seemingly give inexhaustible opportunities for the knowledge of their own faith, it's not safe from where, unfortunate "jeques" of their own ignorance, which from inflammation of the previous life of the former life of the Holy Ilinski temple from the inflammation of the oldest life -Hyristian characters, falsely claiming that their images on Earth are prohibited by the 73rd rule of the Sixth Ecumenical Cathedral. However, as we can see from the text of this rule, the church prohibits portraying only the life-giving cross of Christ on Earth, even the hint is not mentioned other ancient Christian characters. Moreover, this rule speaks exactly the "life-giving cross", and not about any other, simple or decorative, crosshair lines. Because of the three, those found by the Apostolic Queen of Elena Crosses, only one, - the Cross of Christ, - was a life-giving and worthy of worship. Two other cross, among whom were the cross of a prudent robber, who, according to the Lord, was the first to enter the paradise monastery, they were not life-friendly and were not the subject of worship for the church.

Again, if we see the life-giving cross of the Lord in any crosshairs of the lines, we will be forced to abandon the use of transport and roads that are constantly crossed, as, however, both sidewalks that inevitably end with pedestrian transitions at intersections. At the same time, to the great joy of opponents of our faith, we will be forced to jump like a flea, accidentally be in crosshairs of seams of tiled floors in public places.

Therefore, the Church of ancient times, depicting the life-giving cross of the Lord, two additional crossbars and the inscription on them indicates that this cross is not just a decorative crosspiece of lines or ornaments, but is the image of the life-giving Cross of Christ, which we are saved "from the work of the enemy."

As for other ancient Christian symbols, then repeat, the church never forbade their image on both the walls and floors of Christian temples, except in the time of the shameful celebration of iconocrust. Those who are infected with garde ones, contrary to the whole tradition of a single undivided church, jealous about their ignorant opinions about the inadmissibility of the image of Christian symbols in Orthodox Temple-building not only on the walls, but also on Earth, is likened to the ancient Pharisees, which, instead of observing the execution of the commandments God, unauthorized adopted to keep false piety: "Watch the ablution of cups, mugs, boilers and benches" (Mark. 7: 4).

And those show themselves like not only the ancient pharyes, but also discover themselves with new iconoclands, who, being infected with secret manikes, forgot that everything is created "good beer" (life. 1:31); and that we are created from the dust of the earth, which is "Pour" by our feet; And that the Lord, in his holy incarnation, took this physicity from the dust of the earth, introducing it to his unwanted deity; and that the Lord washed in his sacraments not only our heads, but legs, which clearly showed on the example of Peter (John 13: 6-10); and that God is not only the god of the sky, but also the earth (Rev. 11: 4); And that on the day of the Holy Epiphany, we sanctify the Holy Aguyma not only the walls of our dwellings, but also "in all sorts of places, and the screeds, and everywhere frozen, Like and under our feet of our essence"; and that in the future century, the presence of which is filled with our temples, "God will be all in everything" (1 Cor. 15:28) - These wish to take away from us not just a well-being, but the richness of graceful and saving symbols that fill our temples, having likened them to the sad launch of Protestant Kirch.

Moreover, if we follow the logic of these new iconoborets, then the bishops should be banned. Because the bishops of the Church in worships are not different as on the Orlets, which depict an ancient Christian symbol of an eagle in the radiance of grace and the city with the Holy Temples, and who, if you believe the fables of the newly informed iconoborets, the charges of local churches in the "shameful ignorance" about true piety "Pour" legs. But we know that where the bishop, there and the church, and where there is no bishop, there is no church there. What are we now in favor of the new iconobores to leave the church? Yes, it will not be!

The most sad thing is that such a false leap, "Not entering the door to the yard of the sheepskin" (Ioan. 10: 1), seduce the hearts of sootimy and sow separation into a single church body. It will be useful for them well to remember and do not forget the entire rule of the same Sixth Ecumenical Cathedral, - 64th, - which says: "Do not make a word, or to teach Mityanin, and taco to take care of teacherhood, but to obey the devotee From gentlemen, to clarify the ear who reached the grace of teacherskigo words, and from them to go to the divine This will keep this; this will happen in the ear, but that language; this hand, and the other other than anything; this may learn, he learns. And after the few words then the height: the student will be in obedience, telling yes, gives merry Yes, it serves as a diligence. Do not all be tongue, if it's closer to this, neither by the apostles, nor all the prophets, nor all interpreters. And after some words, there is still a heaven: Choosing yourself with a shepherd, being a shepherd? Paired GL Avo, being a nurse? Will you atheble warrantly, the former is put in a number of warriors? And elsewhere commands wisdom: do not be witch in words; Do not say fatty with rich; Do not look for wise wise life. If someone seems to be a violation of the present rule: on forty days, it will be excommunicated from the communion of church. "

Chairman of the Department of Religious Education and Catechization
Vyborg Diocese,
primer of St. Ilyinsky Temple of the City of Vyborg
archpriest Igor Viktorovich Aksenov.

The earliest Christian symbolic images relate to the times of the ancient catacomb church and the first persecutions. Then the symbolism was used primarily as a cryptogram, the Tynsopcript so that the units could recognize each other in a hostile environment. However, the meaning of the symbols was entirely due to religious experiences; Thus, it can be argued that they were conveyed to us theology of the early church.

The world of "other" is opened in this world through symbols, therefore the symbolic vision is the property of a person who is intended for being in these two worlds. Since the Divine to some extent was revealed to people of all pre-Christian cultures, it is not surprising that the church uses some of the "pagan" images that do not actually go to paganism in paganism, but in the depths of human consciousness, where even the most fiery atheists hacking the thirst for the scribbling. At the same time, the church cleans and clarifies these symbols, shows the truth standing behind them in the light of revelation. They turn out to be similar doors to another world, covered for the pagans and open the manifestation in Christianity. Note that in the pre-Christian world, the Old Testament Church was enlightened in the greatest completeness. Israel knew the path of knowledge of a single God, and therefore, the language of his symbols was most adequate to what was standing behind them. Therefore, many Old Testament, transformational symbols naturally enter the Christian symbolism. Objectively, this is due to the fact that the first Christians were mainly the people from the Jewish environment.

The symbolism of the Christian art of this pore was the manifestation of "natural" for a religious person of the vision of the world, was a way to know the intimate depths of the universe and his creator.

Attitude towards the immediate image of God and the "Invisible World" was ambiguous even among the early fathers of the Church; All before their eyes had an example of a paganism in which religious venerations took place at the primordination of the Divine and was transferred to his form embodied in one or another material.

It was a very difficult task to artistically convey the secret of incarnation and the cross. According to Leonid Asspensky's remark, "in order to gradually prepare people to truly incomprehensible the mystery of the award, the church first appealed to them in a language, more for them acceptable than a direct image." This explains the abundance of symbols in early Christian art.

A rich material for studying the early Christian symbolism gives the creation of the Clement Alexandria, who writes about the preferred images for Christians. The alloy of the images of the windscreen and general cultural we find in the anthem of the Christ of its composition (approx. 190):

15 Forapiece
Eternal Vladyka,
Mortal Roda
Savior Jesus
Shepherd, PAKAR,
20 Fed, mouth,
Heaven wing
Saint herd.
Fisher of all mortals
To you saved
25 In the waves of hostile.
From the sea of \u200b\u200bwicker
Sweet life catching,
Lead us, sheep
30 Reasonable shepherd
Holy, lead us
Children's king immaculate.
Foot of Christ -
Way of heaven.

Here we will give only the main symbols from the totality of ancient Christian symbolism, which conveys a holistic picture of the world of the church and the aspirations of the heavenly kingdom.

The main symbols are naturally related to the most significant in the life of the Church - the Savior, his godfather and the sacrament of God-Eucharist approved by it. Thus, the main Eucharistic symbols: bread, grapes, items associated with the Vinogradar case - got the most widespread in the painting of catacombs, in the epigraphy; They were depicted on the sacred vessels and household items. Actually, Eucharistic symbols include images of a grape vine and bread.

Bread It is also depicted in the form of non-erase (sheaves can symbolize the collection of the apostles), and in the form of pieces of communion. We give the drawing, clearly appealing to the miracle of the enhancement of breads (MF 14: 17-21; MF 15: 32-38) and at the same time depicting the bread of the Eucharist (for the symbolism of the image of the fish, see below).

Vine - The evangelical image of Christ, a single source of life for the person he serves through the sacrament. The vine symbol also has the importance of the church: its members - branches; Grape clusters who often peck the birds, the essence of the communion symbol - the way of life in Christ. Grape vine in the Old Testament - the symbol of the land of the promised, in the new - paradise; In this value, the vine is still used as a decorative element. Here is a perfect image of a vine from Mozaic Mausoleum San Constanta in Rome.

The symbols of grapes also include images of cups and barrels used when cleaning it.

Grape vine, bowl and cruciform monogram of Christ.

Let us give a fragment of the equal mosaic VI century, depicting the vine, the monogram of Christ and Peacock, - a bird, symbolizing the revival to a new life.

Images themselves are related images fish as a kind of reference to the name of Christ; Good shepherd (Ying 10: 11-16; MF 25:32); Lamb - His Old Testament Preview (for example, IP 16: 1, Wed. In 1:29), as well as it nameexpressed in the sign (monogram) and in the insertion of the cross in the image anchors, Ship.

Let us dwell first of all on the Monogram named after Christ. This monogram, consisting of initial letters X and P, was greatly distributed, possibly since the apostolic times. We find it in the epigraphy, on the reliefs of sarcophagus, in mosaics, etc. Perhaps the monogram dates back to the words of the apocalypse about the "Print of God's Living" (Rev 7: 2) and the "New Name of Winning" (Rev 2:17) - faithful in the kingdom God's.

The Greek name of the CRISMA monogram (own. "Anointing, Miropomanazing") can be translated as "printing". The shape of the monogram was significantly modified over time. Ancient forms :. The most involved option is complicated in Ranneconstantinovsky time :, OK. 335. It is converted to (disappears the letter x). This form was very spread in the East, especially in Egypt. Often it decorates palm branches or is approved in a laurel wreath (antique symbols of glory), accompanied by letters and. Let us give the image of the detail of the sarcophaga II century, in which the actual chrism is not present, but the value is saved. Such use and goes back to the text of the apocalypse: I am alpha and Omega, the beginning and end, says the Lord who has and was coming, Almighty. (Open 1: 8; see also Revelation 22:13). The initial and ultimate letters of the Greek alphabet are thus the divine dignity of Jesus Christ, and their connection with his name (chrism) emphasizes "... His disabled birthday with his father, his attitude to the world, as the original source of all and the ultimate goal of every existence." Such is the image of chrysm on the coin of Emperor Konstantin II (317-361).

An additional reference to Christ could serve as an inscription, which was a cipherogram of his name Christos - Ikhthus, "Fish". In addition to simple analog similarity, this word acquired an additional symbolic load: it was read as an abbreviation phrase Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior, Iesus Christos Theu Yu Sotir. Cf. Silver plate IV in. (Trier).

Image of chrysm - the constant motive of Christian art. Let us give an interesting modern graphic version of chrisms - the logo of the magazine "Sourozh".

All these images are really a tynenopcript: for the well-known forms of letters of the alphabet, etc. Hiding the image of the crucifixion of the inclined God and the opportunity for a person to change through the attachment to the secret of the cross.

This is an image on the gravestone stone (Tunisia, VIII century).

There are also anchor to such images - the symbol of Christian hope for the future of Sunday, as the Apostle Paul says about the Apostle Paul in the Epistle to the Jews (Heb 6: 18-20). Here is an anchor anchor from Roman catacombs.

Images of the cross and anchors merge in the early Christian gem. It is accompanied by fish - the symbols of Christ, and from the base palm branches grow - symbols of triumph. In the literal sense, as an image of salvation, anchor is used in an image with two captured Christian fish from the Roman catacombs of the II century. And this is another, a graphically worked version of the same plot.

Another common symbol is a ship that also often turns on the image of the cross. In many ancient cultures, the ship is a symbol of human life floating to the inevitable pier.

But in Christianity, the ship is associated with the Church. The church as a ship, driven by Christ, is a common metaphor (see above in the anthem of the Alexandrian Clement). But all the Christian can also be like a boat, following the church ship. In the Christian images of a ship, carrying the waves of the life of the Sea, under the sign of the Cross and guide to Christ, an adequately expressed the image of Christian life, the fruit of which is the acquisition of eternal life in unity with God.

Let us turn to the image of Christ - a kind shepherd. The main source of this image is the evangelical parable, in which Christ himself calls herself so (in 10: 11-16). The actual image of a shepherry is rooted in the Old Testament, where the leaders of the People of Israel (Moses - IS 63:11, Joshua - Numbers 27: 16-17, Tsar David in Psalms 77, 71, 23) are called shepherds, the Lord itself says - "Lord, Shepherd My" (PS Lord says - "Lord, My Shepherd" (PS 23: 1-2). Thus, Christ in the Gospel parable indicates the fulfillment of the prophecy and the acquisition of the consolation by the people of God. In addition, the woman had a shepherd It has a clear meaning, so that today in Christianity it is customary to call the priests to the shepherds, and the laity is flown.

The worship of the Shepherd is depicted in the form of an ancient shepherd dressed in Chiton, in shepherd-laced sandals, often with a staff and a vessel for milk; In his hands, he can keep a cane flute. The milk vessel symbolizes the sacrament; Wand - Power; Flute - the sweetness of his teachings ("no one ever said as this man" - in 7:46) and hope, hopes. Such is the mosaic of the beginning of the IV century. Basilica from Aquileia.

Antique images of the shepherd could serve as artistic prototypes of the image, the patron saint of Hermes, with a lamb on the shoulders, Mercury with a lamb at the feet - the image of the bob. The Lamb on the shoulders of a good shepher of the Divine Joy about the missing sheep - the sinner - in the Gospel of Luke (LK 15: 3-7), where the prophecy of Isaiah is revealed: "The lands will take on their hands and wear their chest, and led daisy" ( IP 40:11). Here the secret of the redemption of the world in Christ, the relationship of God, "believing his life for the sheep" (in 10:11), to people. The sheep in this case is the image of the fallen human nature, perceived by God and erected by him to Divine dignity.

In the image of a good pastor in early Christian art, the image of the Lamb - the Old Testament Preview of the Victim of Christ (Victim Abel; Victim Abraham, Easter Sacrifice) and the Gospel Lamb, "The Sins of the World" (Ying 1:29). Lamb - Christ is often depicted with shepherd accessories, which literally follows the words of revelation "Lamb<...> There will be a grazing of them and drive them on live sources of water "(Rev. 7:17). The Lamb is an Eucharist image, and in Christian iconography, he is often portrayed at the bottom of the liturgical vessels. The Lamb is called in modern liturgical practice and part of the prosphora consecrated in the Eucharist.

The lamb can be depicted on a rock or stone, from the foot of which the jets of four sources be hit (characters of a four-day), to which other lambs are ridiculed - the apostles or, wider, in general Christians. Lamb from Mosaics Ravenna (VI century) is depicted with a halby, on whom - Christ; Thus, his correlation with Christ appears as completely indisputable.

The image of Christ in the form of the lamb hints at the secret of the godfather, but did not discover it in front of non-Christians; However, in the times of widespread dissemination of Christianity, it was prohibited by 82 Rules VI (V-V-VI) of the Universal Cathedral of 692, since the championship in the reverence should not belong not to the sobrase, but the very image of the Savior "on the human being". In relation to the "direct image" such symbols were already remnants of "Jewish immaturity"

The first Christian symbolic images appear in the painting of Roman catacombs and refer to the period of persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire. During this period, the symbols were the character of the Tynopisi, allowing the uninterests to know each other, but the meaning of the symbols already reflects the formative Christian theology. Protopressil Alexander Schmeman notes:

The early church did not know the icons in her modern dogmatic value. The beginning of Christian art - painting catacombs - is symbolic (...) It is inclined to depict not so much a deity as the function of the deity.

Active use in the ancient Church of various symbols, and not icon-painted images L. A. Asspensky binds to the fact that "for gradually prepare people to truly incomprehensible the mystery of the award, the church first appealed to them in the language, more for them acceptable than Direct image. " Also, symbolic images, in his opinion, were used as a way of concealing from the christian sacraments announced before the time of their baptism.

So Kirill Jerusalem wrote: "To hear the gospel to everyone is allowed, but the glory of gospel is provided with one sincere ministers of Christ. Those who could not listen to, the Lord spoke in parables, and alone spoke to the disciples. " Ancient catabase images include the scenes "worship of the wilts" (about 12 frescoes with this plot), which are dated II century. Also, the II century refers to the appearance in the catacombs of the images of acronym ιχθςς or symbolizing its fish.

Among other symbols of the catacomb painting are allocated:

• anchor - the image of hope (anchor is the support of the ship in the sea, hope is the support of the soul in Christianity). This image is already present in the Epistle to the Jews of the Apostle Paul (Heb. 6: 18-20);
• pigeon - symbol of the Holy Spirit; · Phoenix - symbol of resurrection;
• eagle - a symbol of youth ("UKO Yako Youth Your Youth" (Ps. 102: 5));
• peacock is a symbol of immortality (according to the ancient, his body was not subjected to decomposition);
• rooster - a symbol of the resurrection (Creek Rooster awakens from sleep, and the awakening of Christians should remind believers about the terrible court and the universal resurrection of the dead);
• the lamb is the symbol of Jesus Christ;
• lion is a symbol of power and power;
• olive branch - a symbol of the eternal world;
• lily - a symbol of purity (distributed due to the influence of apocryphic stories about the presentation of the Archangel Gabriel Virgin Mary with the Annunciation of the Lily Flower);
• grape vine and basket with bread - the symbols of the Eucharist.

Characteristics 35 of the main characters and signs of Christianity

1. Hee ro. - One of the earliest crushing symbols of Christians. It is formed by the imposition of the two first letters of the Greek version of the word Christ: Chi \u003d X and Ro \u003d p. Although technically chi ro is not a cross, it is associated with the crucifixion of Christ and symbolizes his status of the Lord. It is believed that the first used Hee RO at the beginning of the IV century. AD Emperor Konstantin, decorating them with Labarum, Military Standard. According to the Christian Apology of the IV century of lactations, on the eve of the battle of the Milvian bridge in 312 AD. The Lord appeared to Konstantin and ordered the image of Hee RO on the shields of warriors. After Konstantin's victory in the battle of the Milvian Bridge, the Cie RO became the official emblem of the Empire. Archaeologists have found proof that chi ro was depicted on a helmet and shield of Constantine, as well as his soldiers. On coins and medallions that were minted in the era of the Board of Constantine, hee also was carved. By 350 AD Images began to appear on Christian sarcophages and frescoes.

2. Lamb: The symbol of Christ as an Easter sacrificial lamb, as well as a symbol for Christians, which reminded them that Christ is our shepherd, and Peter ordered to feed his sheep. The lamb is also served by the sign of St. Agnes (her day is celebrated on January 21), the martyrdom of early Christianity.

3. Baptist cross: It consists of a Greek cross with the Greek letter "X" - the initial letter of the word Christ, symbolizing the revival, and therefore it is associated with the rite of baptism.

4. Cross Peter: When Peter was sentenced to martyrs, he asked to crucify his head out of respect for Christ. So, the inverted Latin Cross became his symbol. In addition, it serves as a symbol of the papacy. Unfortunately, this cross is also used by Satanists whose goal is "coup" of Christianity (see, for example, their "black Mass"), including the Latin Cross.

5. Icyus(Their-Tus) or ichtis in Greater means "Fish". Greek letters that wrote the word: Yota, Hee, Teta, Ipsylon and Sigma. In English translation is Ixoye. Five named Greek letters are the first letters of the words of Iesous Christos, Theou Uios, Soter, which means "Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Savior." This symbol was used mainly among early Christians in the I-II centuries. AD The symbol was brought from Alexandria (Egypt), which at that time was a crowded seaside port. Goods walked from this port throughout Europe. That is why the symbol of Ichtis was the first to begin to use sailors to refer to God close to them.

6. rose flower: Holy Deva, Mother of God, symbol of martyrdom, secret confessions. Five roses, combined together, denote five wounds of Christ.

7. Jerusalem Cross: Also known as the cross of the Crusader, it consists of five Greek crosses that symbolize: a) five wounds of Christ; b) 4 Gospel and 4 sides of the world (4 crosses smaller) and Christ himself (Big Cross). The cross was a common symbol during wars with Islamic aggressors.

8. Latin CrossAlso known as the Protestant Cross and the West Cross. The Latin Cross (Crux Ordinaria) serves as a symbol of Christianity, despite the fact that he has long before the foundation of the Christian church, he was the symbols of the pagans. It was created in China and Africa. Its images are found on the Scandinavian sculptures of the bronze century, embodying the image of the God of war and thorus. The cross is considered a magic symbol. He brings good luck and distinguishes evil. Some scientists interpret the rock painted images as a symbol of the sun or symbol

Earth, the rays of which denote the north, south, east and west. Others point to its similarity with the human figure.

9. Dove: Symbol of the Holy Spirit, part of the cult of the baptism of the Lord and Pentecost. He also symbolizes the liberation of the soul after death, is used to call the pigeon Noah, the harbinger of hope.

10. Anchor: The images of this symbol in the cemetery of the Holy Domitille are referred to the I century, they are also found in the catacombs in epitaphy of the II and III centuries, but especially many of them on the cemetery of Holy Priscilla (only there are about 70 samples), Holy Caliksta, Coetemetarium Majus. View the Message to Jews 6:19.

11. Eight Cross: The eight-spin cross is also called the Orthodox Cross or Cross of Saint Lazar. The smallest crossbar denotes title, where "Jesus Norazhai, King Jewish" was written, the upper end of the cross is the path to the Heavenly Kingdom, which was shown by Christ. The seven-party cross is the variation of the Orthodox Cross, where the title is not attached not across the cross, but from above.

12. Ship: He is an ancient Christian symbol that symbolized the church and each individual believer. Crosses with a crescent, which can be seen at many churches, just depict such a ship where the cross is a sail.

13. Calvary Cross: Cross-Calvary is monastic (or samplen). He symbolizes the sacrifice of Christ. Having widespread in ancient times, now Cross-Calvary is embroidered only in Paramanva and Analave.

14. Vine: It is the evangelical way of Christ. This symbol has its own value for the church: its members are branches, and grape clusters - a symbol of communion. In the New Testament, grape vine is a symbol of paradise.

15. Ihs.: Another popular monogram name of Christ. These are three letters of the Greek name of Jesus. But with the decline of Greece began to appear other, Latin, monograms with the name of the Savior, often - in conjunction with the cross.

16. Triangle - Symbol of the Holy Trinity. Each of the parties personifies the hyposta of God - Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. All parties are equal, and together form a single whole.

17. Arrows, or a ray piercing heart - allusion for the statement of St. Augustine in "confession". Three arrows piercing the heart symbolize the prophecy of Simeon.

18. Skull or Adamova Head Equally, it is like a symbol of death and a victory symbol over it. According to the sacred legend, the ashes of Adam was in Calvary, when Crucified Christ. The blood of the Savior, washing the skull of Adam, symbolically washed all mankind and gave him a chance to salvation.

19. Eagle - The Ascension Symbol. He is a symbol of a soul that is looking for God. Often - a symbol of a new life, justice, courage and faith. Also, the eagle symbolizes the evangelist of Jaonna.

20. All-seeing eye - Symbol of allocating, omniscience and wisdom. It is usually depicted inscribed in a triangle - the character of the Trinity. May also symbolize hope.

21. Seraphim - Angels, closest to God. They are six-cycle and wear fiery swords, can have from one to 16 faces. As a symbol, they mean the cleansing fire spirit, divine fever and love.

22. Bread - This is a reference to the biblical episode, when five thousand people were saturated with five breads. Bread is depicted in the form of non-erases (sheaves symbolize the collection of the apostles) or in the form of bread for communion.

23. Good shepherd. The main source of this image is the evangelical parable, in which Christ himself calls herself so (in 10: 11-16). The actual image of a shepherry is rooted in the Old Testament, where the leaders of the People of Israel (Moses - IS 63:11, Joshua - Numbers 27: 16-17, Tsar David in Psalms 77, 71, 23) are called shepherds, the Lord itself says - "Lord, Shepherd My" (PS Lord says - "Lord, My Shepherd" (PS 23: 1-2). Thus, Christ in the Gospel parable indicates the fulfillment of the prophecy and the acquisition of the consolation by the people of God. In addition, the woman had a shepherd It has everything a clear meaning, so that today in Christianity it is customary to call the priests shepherds, and the laity is a flock. Christ-shepherd is depicted in the form of an ancient shepherd dressed in Hiton, in the shepherd-laced sandals, often with a staff and a vessel for milk; in his hands he It can keep a cane flute. The milk vessel symbolizes the sacrament; rod - power; Flute - the sweetness of his teachings ("no one ever said like this man" - Ying 7:46) and hope, hope. Such is the mosaic of the start IV century. Basilica From Aquileia.

24. Burning bush - It is a thorns bush, which burns, but does not burn. In his image, Moses came to God, calling him to bring the people of Israel from Egypt. The unhapable buggy is also a symbol of the Mother of God, who touched the Holy Spirit.

25. a lion - a symbol of vigilance and resurrection, and one of the symbols of Christ. He is also a symbol of the evangelist Mark, and is associated with the power and royal dignity of Christ.

26. calf (bull or ox) - the symbol of the evangelist Luke. Taurus means the sacrificial ministry of the Savior, his godfather. Also, ox is considered a symbol of all martyrs.

27. Angel Symbolizes the human nature of Christ, his earthly embodiment. Also is the symbol of the evangelist Matthew.

28. Grail - This is a vessel in which Joseph Arimafi allegedly gathered blood from Rounds Jesus Christ during crucifixes. The history of this vessel, which acquired miraculous force, was set forth by the French writer of the beginning of the XII century by Coreyne de Troita and a century later, in more detail by Robert De Voronen on the basis of the apocryphal gospel. According to the legend, the Grail is stored in the mountain castle, it is filled with sacred living rooms, employees for the communion and giving wonderful forces. The fanatical search for the relics knights crusaders in many ways contributed to the creation of legends about the graveyard, processed and decorated with the participation of many authors and reached the climax in the Tale of Parsiffal and Galada.

29. Nimbus It is a brilliant circle that the ancient Greek and Roman artists, depicting gods and heroes, was often placed above their heads, denoting that these are higher, unearthly, supernatural creatures. In the iconography of Christianity Nimbi since ancient times, it became an affiliation of images of the Highests of the Blessed Trinity, Angels, Our Lady and Saints; Often, he also accompanied the Lamb of God and the figures of animals serving the symbols of four evangelists. At the same time, nimbits of a special kind were installed for some icons. For example, the Lick of the Father's Lick was placed under the namm who at first form

triangle, and then the shape of a six-pointed star formed by two equilateral triangles. Nimba Virgin Mary is always round and often deliciously decorated. Nimbi saints or other divine persons are usually round and without ornaments.

30. Church In a Christian symbolism, the Church has several values. Its basic value is the house of God. It can also be understood as the body of Christ. Sometimes the church is associated with the ark, and in this sense it means salvation for all her parishioners. In painting the church, placed in the Holy Hand, means that this saint "was the founder or bishop of this church. However, the church in the hands of St. Jerome and St. Gregory means not some particular building, but the church in general, which these saints had enormous support and became her first fathers.

31. Pelican, A beautiful legend is connected with this bird, which exists in dozens of some different options from each other, but very similar in meaning on the ideas of the Gospel: self-sacrifice, burning through the gender of the body and blood of Christ. Pelicans live in coastal reeds at the warm Mediterranean sea and are often subjected to snake bite. Adult birds feed on them and immune to their poison, and there are no chicks yet. According to the legend, if Pelican's chicks will bite a poisonous snake, then he spits his own breasts to grab their blood with the necessary antibodies and those save their lives. Therefore, Pelican was often portrayed on sacred vessels or in places of making Christian worship services.

32. Chrisma - This is a monogram composed of the first letters of the Greek word "Christ" - "anointed". Some researchers mistakenly identify this Christian symbol with a two-season secretion of Zeus - "Labarum". At the edges of the monogram, the Greek letters "A" and "ω" are placed. Christ was depicted on the sarcophages of martyrs, in the mosaics of Baptisteriyev (baptized), on the shields of warriors and even in Roman coins - after the era of persecution.

33. Lily - A symbol of christian purity, indisputability and beauty. The first images of lilies, judging by the song song, served the decoration of the temple of Solomon. According to legend, Archangel Gabriel on the Day of Annunciation came to the Virgin Mary with White Lillia, which since then has become a symbol of her purity, innocence and devotion to God. With the same flower, Christians portrayed the saints, famous for the purity of their lives, martyrs and martyrs.

34. Phoenix Represents the image of a resurrection associated with an ancient legend of the eternal bird. Phoenix lived several centuries and when he had time to die, flew to Egypt and burned there. Only a bunch of nutritious ashes remained from the bird in which, after some time a new life was born. Soon, the new rejected Phoenix rebelled out of it and flew to search for adventures.

35. Cock - This is a symbol of universal resurrection that expects everyone in the second coming of Christ. Just as a crunch of a rooster awakens people from sleep, the pipes of the angels will break away people at the end of times to meet the Lord, the terrible court and the inheritance of a new life.

Color symbols of Christianity

The most significant difference between the "pagan" period of color symbolism from the "Christian" is, first of all, in the fact that light and color are completely stopped identified with God, mystical forces, and become their

attributes, qualities and signs. According to Christian canons, God created the world, including the light (color), but he himself does not boil down to the light. Medieval theologian (for example, Avrellius Augustine), praising light and color, as manifestations of the Divine, however, indicate that they (colors) can be fraudulent (from Satan) and identifying them with God is a delusion and even sin.

White

Only white color It remains an unshakable symbol of holiness and spirituality. Especially important was the importance of white as purity and impurity, liberation from sins. In white clothes, angels are depicted, saints, the resurrected Christ. White clothes put on converts of Christians. Also white color is the color of baptism, communion, holidays of the Nativity of Christ, Easter, Ascension. In the Orthodox Church, the White is used in all worships from Easter to the day of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit is depicted as a white dove. White Lilia symbolizes purity, it accompanies the images of the Virgin Mary. White does not have negative values \u200b\u200bin Christianity. In early Christianity prevalted the positive symbolic meaning of yellow, as the colors of the Holy Spirit, Divine Revelation, Enlightenment, etc. But later, yellow acquires a negative meaning. In the era of gothic, it is beginning to be considered the color of treason, betrayal, deceit, jealousy. In the church art of Cain and the traitor, Judas Iskariot often portrayed with yellow beards.

Gold

Used in christian painting as an expression of Divine Revelation. Golden radiance embodies the Eternal Divine Light. Many gold color is perceived as a star light from heaven.

Red

In Christianity, symbolizes the blood of Christ, shed for the save of people, and, therefore, - and his love for people. This is the color of fire faith, martyrdom and the passions of the Lord, as well as the royal celebration of justice and victory over evil. Red - the color of worships on the feast of the Holy Spirit, Palm Sunday, during a passionate week, in the days of the memory of martyrs who shed blood for their faith. Red rose points to shed blood and wounds of Christ, on the bowl, taking the "Holy Blood". Therefore, it symbolizes in this context revival. Reds were celebrated in the calendar joyful events dedicated to Christ, the Lame and Saints. From the church calendar, the tradition came to allocate festive dates. Easter Christ in temples begins in white vestments in the sign of the Divine Light. But Easter liturgy is already (in some temples it is customary to change the vestments, so the priest appears every time in the riza of another color) and the whole week serve in red riza. Often red clothes are used to Trinity.

Blue

This is the color of heaven, truth, humility, immortality, chastity, piety, baptism, harmony. He expressed the idea of \u200b\u200bself-sacrifice and meekness. Blue color as if to mediate the connection between heaven and earth, between God and the world. As a blue color blue color expresses a person's readiness to take for himself the presence and strength of God, Blue has become the color of faith, the color of loyalty, the color of the desire for something mysterious and wonderful. Blue color is the color of the Virgin Mary, it is customary to depict in a blue raincoat. Maria in this meaning - the Queen of the Heavenly, covering

this cloak, protecting and saving believers (Pokrovsky Cathedral). In the painting of temples dedicated to the Mother of God, the color of heavenly blue. Dark blue is characteristic of the image of Cherubis clothing, which are constantly in reverent reflections.

Green

This color was more "earth" meant life, spring, blossom of nature, youth. This is the color of the Cross of Christ, Grail (according to legend, isted out of the whole emerald). Green is identified with the Great Trinity. On this holiday, according to tradition, temples and apartments, it is customary to decorate bouquets of green twigs. At the same time, green had a negative meaning - cunning, temptation, the devilish temptation (Satan was attributed to the eyes of a green color).

The black

The attitude to the black was, mainly negative, as the color of evil, sin, devil and hell, as well as - death. In the values \u200b\u200bof the black, as in primitive peoples, the aspect of "ritual death", death for the world has also developed. Therefore, the black became the color of monastic. Black raven from Christians meant trouble. But black has not only such a tragic value. In icon painting in some plots, he means the divine mystery. For example, on a black background, which meant an incomprehensible depth of the universe, a space was depicted - an elder in the crown in the icon of the Fathest of the Holy Spirit.

Purple

It is formed by mixing red and blue (blue). Thus, purple color combines the beginning and end of the light spectrum. It symbolizes intimate knowledge, silence, spirituality. In early Christianity, violet symbolized sadness, affection. This color is assimilated by the memories of the cross and a great service, where the suffering and the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus Christ are remembered for the rescue of people. As a sign of the highest spirituality, in combination with the idea of \u200b\u200bthe godniegency of the Savior, this color is used for the bishop mantle, so the Orthodox bishop as it were to have the whole to the gloor feat of the heavenly bishop, and the imitator of which the bishop is in the church.

Brown and gray

Brown and gray were the colors of commoners. Their symbolic meaning, especially in the early Middle Ages, was, purely, negative. They meant poverty, hopelessness, mildness, abomination, etc. Brown - earth color, sadness. He symbolizes humility, rejection of worldly life. Gray (mixing white and black, good and evil) - ash color, emptiness. After the ancient era during the Middle Ages in Europe, the color again returned its position, primarily as the symbol of mystical forces and phenomena, which is especially characteristic of early Christianity.

The entire Orthodox symbolism is the personification of the lives of Christ the Savior: his crucifixes, resurrection, ascension.

Initially, the symbols were used as a cinema that helped Christians to recognize each other during the periods of hostile persecution.

Later, the images acquired a deep philosophical meaning. Each sign has its own history, its meaning.

Why fish - symbol of Christianity

Ichtis (fish) is a reduction that appeared when the expression "Jesus Christ of God's Son Savior" from Greek, by adding the first letters.

Next to Jesus had a lot of apostles - fishermen. He called them "cathers of humans", and associated himself with Alfoy and Omega (the beginning and end of all living things). Depicting the fish, Christians preached their faith and recognized the unintellites.

According to some sources, the fish has become a symbol due to its easily accessibility.

What symbolizes anchor

The sign appeared at the beginning of our era. In Greece, he was depicted on coins as hope for a bright future. In ancient Rome - personified return home after long journeys.

Amulet with the image of the dolphin and anchors had great fame: Dolphin is a sign of speed, anchor - restraint.

Sign sign

The attributes of the saints were clothing, animals, various items depicted nearby.

Holy Martyrs painted with the gun of their torture or execution, or with animals that were in a dream.

Some saints were depicted in different pictures in different pictures. This is explained by the fact that many stories and legends could walk about one saint.

Christian character of the Trinity

Many confuse the concepts of "Trinity" and "Three-Lights". What do they differ?

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

Previously, the symbol was a circle inside which the triangle was located. The same sides of the shape meant the trinity and eternal life. Sometimes the image was in the form of three hares, the ears of which were connected to the triangle. Modern trinity sign - ornament, woven in a circle.

Pigeon in christianity

There is a narrative, like a pigeon during the World Flood flew to Noah, holding an olive branch in the paws. Owning about God's mercy, the bird became a symbol of peace and good.

Another legend states that evil spirits can be visible in anyone, except dove. Therefore, he symbolizes cleanliness and hope, truth and impairment.

Values:

• bird with an olive branch - a new life, who discerned Jesus Christ;
• a flock of pigeons - believers;
• white dove - a rescued soul, which has passed the stages of purification;
• a pair of pigeons - love and a strong family.

Early Christian symbols

Their number is not so little, as it seems: olive branch, peacock, ship, bumping bread, etc. Consider the most famous.

Cross "Vine"

This is the eight-spin cross depicting the thin branches of grapes. Sometimes the Savior can be depicted in the center.

Grapes - the personification of wisdom and immortality. Servants of the church - branches, and bunches - the sign of communion. The leaves and berries symbolize the sacrifice of Christ by the sake of people. Such a cross will always remind of God's love to everyone who believes in it.

Biblical symbols

The most common:

• antichrist - Devil;
• white clothes - the righteousness of Christ;
• be awake - keep faith;
• throw dust to the sky - indignation;
• crown - award;
• wind - War;
• gate - a court seat;
• clay - man;
• leaky wallet - in vain acquisitions;
• star - Angel;
• snake - Satan;
• lev - power;
• flesh and blood - human understanding.

Symbol of Jesus Christ

The main symbol of Jesus Christ is "Cross". To redeem the sins of all mankind, Jesus brought himself sacrificing. Cross - the personification of the sacrificial victory over evil acts.

Unbelievers believe that the worship of the cross is the worship of the instrument of execution. But believers know - this is a symbol of life, the salvation of mankind.

The icon paints are often painted near the Cross of the Virgin and John the Bogoslov. Skull at the foot - a sign of death. The image is filled with the fertile strength, honored, a man praises God.

Symbols of the Apostles

Each apostle is depicted with a specific attribute.

For example, the apostle Peter is depicted with keys in hand.

They are presented by Jesus, open the gates of the kingdom of God.

Apostle Paul is depicted with an instrument of its execution. Bartholomew is a preacher of Christianity, was tortured in one of the cities of Armenia - it was solely from him, then crucified. Attributes - your own skin and knife.

Jacob Senior - a student of Christ, who lost his life in Jerusalem. Coming on his grave, pilgrims took a shell with them. This meant that they got to the goal. So began to depict it with a staff, in a hat and with a shell.

Thomas - drawn with a spear, which was pierced. Judah holds a bag of money in her hands. He helped begging, but he was greedy. Picture it with a red beard - this is the color of cowardice and betrayal.

Symbols of the temple

Each fragment of the temple has a definite value.

Temple shape:

• cross - Salvation from the devil, entrance to paradise;
• circle - the inviolability of the church;
• the eight-pointed star is the salvation of the human soul.

Dome shape:

• helmet - the struggle of the church with evil;
• in the form of a bulb - the flame of the candle.

Dome color:

• golden - dedicated to Christ;
• blue with stars - the Most Holy Virgin;
• green - Trinity.

The Orthodox Church is a collection of many sacraments, the values \u200b\u200bof which can only understand the truly believer man.

As you know, the first three centuries of Christian history passed under the sign of periodically recurring persecution. In such conditions it was necessary to develop a whole system of secret signs, with the help of which one could identify brothers in faith.

In addition, theology of the image developed. Christians were looking for symbols, with the help of which could allegorically hand over the truths of the faith contained in the gospel, arrange premises for worship, so that the situation itself reminded them of God and tuned to prayer.

So a number of original early Christian characters appeared, about which there will be a further small story.

1. Fish

The most common symbol of the first centuries was fish (Greek. "Iphis"). The fish was an acronym (monogram) named after Jesus Christ and, together with the Christian confession of faith:
Jesus Christ Feu Ios Sotir - Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior.

The fish of Christians were portrayed on their homes - in the form of a small drawing or as an element of a mosaic. Some wore a fish on the neck. In the catacombs adapted under the temples, this symbol was also very often present.

2. Pelican.

A beautiful legend is connected with this bird, which exists in dozens of some different options from each other, but very similar in meaning on the ideas of the Gospel: self-sacrifice, burning through the gender of the body and blood of Christ.

Pelicans live in coastal reeds at the warm Mediterranean sea and are often subjected to snake bite. Adult birds feed on them and immune to their poison, and there are no chicks yet. According to the legend, if Pelican's chicks will bite a poisonous snake, then he spits his own breasts to grab their blood with the necessary antibodies and those save their lives.

Therefore, Pelican was often portrayed on sacred vessels or in places of making Christian worship services.

3. Anchor

The church is primarily a solid foundation of human life. Thanks to him, a person acquires the ability to distinguish good from evil, understands what is good, and what is bad. And what could be harder and more reliable than anchor holding a huge ship of life in the stormy sea of \u200b\u200bhuman passions?

Also - symbol of hope and the future of the resurrection from the dead.

By the way, at the domes of many ancient temples, it is the cross in the form of an ancient Christian anchor, and no "cross, winning the Muslim crescent."

4. Eagle over the city

The symbol of the height of the truth of the Christian faith, uniting the entire population of the Earth. He lived to this day in the form of bishops used to solemn services. Also indicates the heavenly origin of the power and dignity of the Episcopian Sana.

5. Chrisma

The monogram, compiled from the first letters of the Greek word "Christ" - "Anointed". Some researchers mistakenly identify this Christian symbol with a two-season secretion of Zeus - "Labarum". At the edges of the monogram, the Greek letters "A" and "ω" are placed.

Christ was depicted on the sarcophages of martyrs, in the mosaics of Baptisteriyev (baptized), on the shields of warriors and even in Roman coins - after the era of persecution.

6. Lilia

A symbol of christian purity, indisputability and beauty. The first images of lilies, judging by the song song, served the decoration of the temple of Solomon.

According to legend, Archangel Gabriel on the Day of Annunciation came to the Virgin Mary with White Lillia, which since then has become a symbol of her purity, innocence and devotion to God. With the same flower, Christians portrayed the saints, famous for the purity of their lives, martyrs and martyrs.

7. Vine grape

The symbol is associated with the image to which the Lord himself often appeared in his parables. Indicates the church, its vitality, the abundance of grace, the Eucharistic sacrifice: "I am a grape vine, and my father is vinogradar ...".

Depicted on the subjects of church utensils and, of course, in temple ornaments.

8. Phoenix

The image of the resurrection associated with an ancient legend of the eternal bird. Phoenix lived several centuries and when he had time to die, flew to Egypt and burned there. Only a bunch of nutritious ashes remained from the bird in which, after some time a new life was born. Soon, the new rejected Phoenix rebelled out of it and flew to search for adventures.

9. Lamb

All clear symbol of the voluntary victim of the immaculate Savior for the sins of the world. In early Christianity, he was often depicted with a human face or with a nimber (sometimes a combined version was also met). Later was banned for the image in iconography.

10. Rooster

The symbol of the universal resurrection that awaits everyone in the second coming of Christ. Just as a crunch of a rooster awakens people from sleep, the pipes of the angels will break away people at the end of times to meet the Lord, the terrible court and the inheritance of a new life.

There are other early Christian characters that have not entered this selection: cross, pigeon, peacock, bowl and baskets with bread, lion, shepherd, olive branch, sun, good shepherd, alpha and omega, breadcrumbs, ship, house or brick wall , source of water.

Andrei Stemteda

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