The Real Cross of Jesus Christ: The Symbolism of the Cross in Christianity and its significance in the lives of believers.

Introduction

In Judeo-Christianity, two symbols hold great significance: the Bible and the cross. The Bible is considered the center of this faith, containing the sacred texts and teachings that guide believers. However, the cross, specifically the crucifix, is also highly revered.

There are contrasting views on the origin and meaning of the crucifix. Helena Blavatsky claimed that the crucifix was a common tool of torture among Romans and was not exclusive to Christianity. According to Tony Bushby, Christianity later adopted the cross as a symbol that originated in ancient Egyptian rituals.

Despite these differing perspectives, the cross has become the central motif in Christianity. It represents the intersection of two celestial paths: the ecliptic, which is the trajectory of the Sun around the Earth, and the celestial equator, another important cycle in the heavens. This intersection occurs at the spring and autumn equinoxes.

John, one of the disciples of Jesus, saw this celestial cross as a symbol of Christianity. He associated the twelve disciples, with Jesus as the sun, with the twelve constellations of the zodiac. Thus, the cross represents the zodiacal cross, the great cross of the zodiac.

It is important to note that the use of the cross as a symbol in Christianity did not appear until several centuries after the rise of the religion. The earliest depictions of Jesus on a cross date back to the eighth or ninth century.

Historical Background

Evidence of the cross as an ancient Egyptian initiatory symbol:

According to Tony Bushby, the cross symbol originated in ancient Egyptian rituals and eventually found its way into Christianity. This suggests that the cross was not unique to Christianity but was used in other ancient cultures as well.

Christian archives recording the ratification of the crucifix in the 6th century:

Christian archives document that the general use of the crucifix was ratified at the 6th Yuka Manacle Council in 680 AD. The council decreed that the figure of a man fastened to a cross should be adopted as the new church logo.

Emergence of Jesus Christ depicted against a cross in artwork:

The earliest depictions of Jesus on a cross date back to the eighth or ninth century, which is several centuries after the rise of Christianity. This suggests that the cross did not become a central motif in Christianity until much later.

The cross as a common symbol in Eastern nations:

Bishop Colino states that the cross was a common symbol in Eastern nations and that the existence of various cross symbols can be traced back to the remotest antiquity. This indicates that the cross was widely recognized and used in different cultures.

Lack of contemporary historical evidence

When examining the historical evidence for Jesus Christ's crucifixion, there is a noticeable lack of contemporary writings that verify this event. Prominent historians of the time, such as Philo, Tacitus, Pliny, Suetonius, and Josephus, make no mention of Jesus Christ or the crucifixion in their works.

This absence of verification raises questions about the accuracy of the crucifixion story. If such a significant event took place, one would expect multiple contemporary sources to record it.

In addition, the delay in the appearance of artwork illustrating Jesus on a cross is another point of contention. The earliest depictions of Jesus on a cross date back to the eighth or ninth century, several centuries after the rise of Christianity. This raises doubts about the biographical accuracy of the crucifixion story.

Bishop Colino states that the cross was a common symbol in Eastern nations and that various cross symbols can be traced back to the remotest antiquity. This indicates that the cross was widely recognized and used in different cultures, further suggesting that its association with Christianity may not be unique.

Overall, the lack of contemporary historical evidence, the absence of verification in prominent historians' writings, the delay in the appearance of artwork depicting Jesus on a cross, and the questioning of the biographical accuracy of the crucifixion story all contribute to the skepticism surrounding this event. It is important to critically examine the sources and consider alternative explanations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the symbolism of the cross in Christianity.

Symbolism of the Cross

The cross holds significant symbolism in Christianity. It represents the intersection of the zodiacal cross and the celestial equator, two important celestial paths. The zodiacal cross is the trajectory of the sun around the earth, while the celestial equator marks another significant cycle in the heavens.

The cross symbolizes the spring and autumn equinoxes, which occur at the intersection of the ecliptic and the equator. These equinoxes mark the points in the year when day and night are of equal length. The cross, therefore, represents the balance between light and darkness.

In astronomy, the cross can be visualized as the projection of the ecliptic and equator onto the night sky. The ecliptic is the plane of the Earth's orbit around the Sun, while the equator is the plane perpendicular to the Earth's axis of rotation. These two planes intersect at the celestial poles and create a cross-like shape.

It is important to note that the use of the cross as a symbol in Christianity did not appear until several centuries after the rise of the religion. The earliest depictions of Jesus on a cross date back to the eighth or ninth century. This suggests that the cross became a central motif in Christianity at a later time.

The original cross symbol in Christianity represents the zodiacal cross, also known as the great cross of the zodiac. John, one of the disciples of Jesus, associated the twelve disciples with the twelve constellations of the zodiac, with Jesus representing the sun. Thus, the cross symbolizes the zodiacal cross and the solar cult of Christianity.

Cross-Symbolism in Flags and Logos

The presence of the cross in national flags:

Have you ever noticed the cross symbol on national flags? The cross is a common motif in flags around the world, symbolizing various cultural, historical, and religious aspects. For example, the St. George's Cross is featured in the flags of England and several other countries. This cross represents the intersection of the zodiacal cross and the celestial equator, just like it does in Christianity.

Interpreting the cross as a representation of the zodiacal cross:

Did you know that the cross can also be interpreted as a representation of the zodiacal cross? According to John, one of the disciples of Jesus, the twelve disciples, representing the twelve constellations of the zodiac, are associated with Jesus as the Sun. In this interpretation, the cross symbolizes the zodiacal cross, also known as the great cross of the zodiac. So, when you see the cross in flags and logos, it may be a nod to this astrological symbolism.

Use of the cross in corporate logos and its occult origins:

Many corporate logos also incorporate the cross symbol, and this usage has its roots in occult origins. The cross, particularly the zodiacal cross, has been a powerful and ancient symbol across different cultures. Advertisers and marketers understand the power of symbols in attracting attention and evoking emotions, and the cross is no exception. It adds a sense of mystery and ancient wisdom to the brand, which can be appealing to consumers.

Understanding the power of symbols in advertising:

Symbols, such as the cross, play a crucial role in advertising. They have the ability to convey complex ideas and emotions simply and visually. Symbols can evoke cultural, religious, and historical associations, making them a powerful tool for marketers. When used appropriately, symbols can create a strong brand identity and connect with consumers on a deeper level.

Zodiacal Influence on the New Testament

Linking the four books of the New Testament to the cardinal points of the zodiac:

The four books of the New Testament, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, can be seen as representations of the cardinal points of the zodiac. Matthew represents Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, symbolizing new beginnings and leadership. Mark represents Libra, the sign of balance and justice. Luke represents Leo, the sign of courage and strength. And John represents Aquarius, the sign of innovation and spirituality.

The books of Aries, Libra, Leo, and Aquarius as representations of the Gospels:

Each of these books carries the characteristics and themes associated with their zodiac signs. Matthew, as the book of Aries, focuses on the birth and early life of Jesus, symbolizing new beginnings. Mark, as the book of Libra, emphasizes the teachings of Jesus on justice and equality. Luke, in the book of Leo, highlights the miracles and powerful acts of Jesus, portraying him as a courageous and strong figure. John, in the book of Aquarius, delves into the spiritual and mystical aspects of Jesus' life and ministry.

Criticism of the Gospel writers' lack of evidence and objectivity:

Some scholars criticize the Gospel writers for their lack of evidence and objectivity in documenting the life of Jesus. They argue that the Gospels were written by propagandists rather than objective historians. The gospel writers were focused on promoting their religious doctrines and were willing to invent stories and accept rumors and legends as facts to serve their purpose.

Questioning the authenticity and dating of the Gospels:

There is also a debate about the authenticity and dating of the Gospels. Church experts admit that there is no evidence of the existence of the Gospels until at least a century after the supposed birth of Jesus. The earliest references to the Gospels cannot be found in any writings from the first and second centuries. This raises questions about the reliability and historical accuracy of the Gospels as accounts of Jesus' life.

Influence of Early Christianity

The early development and shaping of Christianity were influenced by various factors and historical events. This section explores some of the key influences on early Christian beliefs.

The lack of evidence for the gospels in ancient literature

One of the challenges in studying early Christianity is the lack of contemporary historical evidence for the Gospels. Prominent historians of the time, such as Philo, Tacitus, Pliny, Suetonius, and Josephus, make no mention of Jesus Christ or the crucifixion in their works. This absence of verification raises questions about the accuracy of the crucifixion story and the biographical accuracy of the Gospels.

The adoption of zodiacal mythology in Christianity

According to Tony Bushby, the symbol of the cross originated in ancient Egyptian rituals and eventually found its way into Christianity. The cross, particularly the zodiacal cross, represents the intersection of the ecliptic and the celestial equator, two important celestial paths. This adoption of zodiacal mythology added a deeper symbolic meaning to Christianity, connecting it to ancient astrological beliefs.

Manipulation and supplementation of Christian beliefs in Rome

As Christianity gained popularity and spread throughout the Roman Empire, there was a manipulation and supplementation of Christian beliefs to align them with existing Roman religious practices. The Council of Nicaea, held in 325 AD, played a significant role in shaping Christianity by deciding its doctrines and determining which writings would be used. Emperor Constantine presided over the council, and various debates and compromises led to the establishment of a new god and the official ratification of Christian beliefs.

The role of Constantine's Council of Nicaea in shaping Christianity

The Council of Nicaea, convened by Emperor Constantine, had a profound impact on the development of Christianity. The council brought together religious leaders to define and standardize Christian beliefs. It resulted in the establishment of key doctrines, the selection of canonical texts, and the affirmation of Jesus Christ as the central figure of the religion. This council played a crucial role in shaping the early Christian faith and establishing its core principles.

Controversy and degeneracy in the early councils of the Church

The early councils of the Church, including the Council of Nicaea, were not without controversy and degeneracy. These councils were marked by intense debates, power struggles, and political influences. Different factions within the church vied for dominance and used various means, including haste, maneuvering, court influence, and even bribery, to advance their agendas. The decisions made in these councils had far-reaching consequences for the development and interpretation of Christian beliefs.