The Cross

The cross is one of the most recognizable images on the planet. In Christian storytelling and spirituality, the cross is at the heart of the matter. But did you know there is more to this symbol than what you see?

For Christians, the cross—the main symbol of Christianity—stands for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is one of the most important events in Christian history. It is a reminder of his sacrifice and the great love he has for humanity, which Christians accept. Beyond its historical and religious significance, the cross has taken on many different forms and interpretations. Each variation—from the very simple Latin cross to the much more elaborate Celtic cross—tells its own unique story. The circle in the Celtic cross represents eternity and God’s everlasting love.

For many, wearing a cross in jewelry form has turned into a personal statement of faith. For others, it brings comfort, safety, or a sense of belonging in a worldwide community of believers. Even in secular settings, the cross serves as a cultural reference point, one that is evident in the art, music, and literature of various cultures across the globe.

 

The Fish

Before it became a famous car decal, the fish symbol (or Ichthys) had already traveled a remarkable journey through history. It is a simple design – two intersecting arcs that look like a fish.

The term Ichthys comes from the Greek word for fish, but it also functions as an acronym. Each letter stands for the Greek phrase “Iesous Christos Theou Yios Soter,” which means “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior.” This symbol was used by early Christians during times of persecution as a secret way to identify themselves. A simple drawing of a fish would be for one person an act of profound faith for another.

Even today, the fish symbol serves as an identity badge for Christians—an identification with their faith and community. Despite its simplicity, the symbol carries an awesome message: that of being “fishers of men,” which challenges one to invite others to the faith journey, while at the same time reflecting on its roots in Christian tradition and history.

 

The Dove

The dove, graceful in flight and gentle in nature, often appears in representations of peace. In Christianity, its implications are much weightier.

The dove symbol is directly linked with the Holy Spirit. At the baptism of Jesus, the Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove. This imagery brings forth ideas of purity, peace, and the divine.

It’s connected to the tale of Noah’s Ark. After the flood, a dove comes back with an olive branch, indicating the end of God’s judgment and the beginning of a new chapter for humanity. The dove’s peace-bringing quality is strongly entrenched in the Christian narrative.

In contemporary settings, this bird’s image still appears in church artwork, stained-glass windows, and confirmations, serving as a reminder to believers of the Holy Spirit’s continual presence in their lives and the world.

 

The Lamb

When you picture a lamb, what usually comes to mind? Gentle images? Innocent ones? This symbolism corresponds beautifully with the lamb’s role in Christianity.

Jesus is referred to as the “Lamb of God.” He is depicted in this way to highlight his role as a sacrificial offering – just as a lamb would have been offered as a sacrifice in the ancient Jewish traditions, Jesus represents the ultimate spiritual sacrifice meant to cleanse humanity of sin.

This symbol links the Passover lamb from the Exodus story and presents a rich tapestry of themes of salvation that are deeply interwoven into Christian theology. The lamb represents purity and sacrifice, reminders of what Christians believe Jesus offers to followers.

In art, the lamb sometimes carries a flag to signify the resurrection or is depicted in pastoral settings to stress guidance and care, representing the Good Shepherd who watches over his sheep.

 

The Anchor

When you hear the word anchor, it brings up images of sailors and the sea. For Christians, it has a more hopeful message—one of stability and assurance.

In the New Testament, the anchor is associated with hope regarding the salvation of the soul. Just as the anchor secures a ship in the midst of troubled waters, Christians see their beliefs as securing them through the uncertainties of life.

The anchor, much like the fish, became a secret symbol of faith for Christians in the early centuries, when persecutions raged. It united the idea of a seafarer’s journey with the steadiness of faith, creating a blend of imagery that was very much alive in the lives of the early believers.

Nowadays, among Christians, the anchor is a favored image in jewelry and tattoos, representing, to some extent, a personal faith reflection and, to others, a slight reminiscence of an ancient tradition of hope amid the storm.

 

The Alpha and Omega

If you examine Christian art very carefully, you may be able to see the Greek letters Alpha (Α) and Omega (Ω). But they mean more than just the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet.

In the Book of Revelation, Jesus says, “I am the Alpha and the Omega.” This statement of His nature eternity—He has always been and always will be. These letters represent God’s omnipotence and eternal presence, which is all-encompassing within its span.

For Christians, it gives comfort and assurance, since God is present in every aspect of existence. In church decoration, these letters usually appear with other holy symbols, serving as a reassurance of divine presence and authority. As tattoos or other art, they remind one of faithfulness and spiritual continuity that are everlasting.