The Cross: A Universal Symbol

While today it is the most recognizable symbol of Christianity, the cross, from the Latin crux, is older than the faith and has held various forms and meanings before and after the birth of Jesus Christ. Ancient Egyptians used the ankh, a cross with a loop at the top, to symbolize life. The Greek Cross traces its origins to ancient Babylon, where it represented the sun god. Whether proclaiming a religious belief or a historical event, a cross appears on the national flags of 28 of the 193 member countries of the United Nations. Each of the states within the United States of America has its own flag, and crosses appear on several, including Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Maryland, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Rhode Island. The Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Norway are united by their use of the Nordic Cross, which is also known as the Scandinavian Cross. This book, color illustrated throughout, will help you identify and understand the history of crosses seen on historic monuments, houses of worship, flags, and anywhere your travels may lead. It also addresses crucifixes, or crosses that contain an image of the Body of Jesus Christ. Stories of crosses awaken curiosity about medieval knights, crusades, and the exploration of new lands. Every cross has a story to tell.