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The Celtic Cross - An Irish Symbol of
Faith and Hope
By Leigh Maher
In the holy ground of the churchyards of Ireland, simple
stone crosses rest in remembrance of those who have
passed. For centuries, these ringed crosses, known as
Celtic Crosses, have been used as symbols of faith and
hope, along with other crosses, such as High Crosses. A
true Celtic Cross will always include a central ring,
which is thought to be borrowed from Pagan rituals of
yore, representing the Sun. The four points of the
Celtic Cross represent the four directions, north,
south, east and west.
When Celtic Crosses first appeared in Ireland, they were
often decorated with Runic symbols, and sometimes with
zoomorphic images of animals as well. While they may
have been considered Pagan symbols back in the day,
Celtic Crosses have become potent symbols of
Christianity in Ireland.
The Insular Art movement produced many fine examples of
Celtic Crosses, throughout Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Insular Art is complex, symbolic, and somewhat
mysterious. The art movement gained its name from the
fact that is was impossible to ascertain exactly where
the art may have been made. Often, art treasures and
metalwork was moved from one country to another.
It is certain that many Celtic Crosses were made in
Ireland, rather than simply brought there, but others
have a hazier origin. The Insular art movement began
after the Romans retreated from Celtic lands, and grew
stronger as the Celtic people embraced Christianity.
Irish master artists have a long tradition of expertise
with metalwork and stonework, and, in past centuries,
they added real beauty and meaning to Celtic Crosses.
Unlike the Crucifix, which features painful and sad
images of Jesus in his suffering, the Celtic Cross is
more decorative and less graphic. For example, the
Celtic Cross often features carved symbols and intricate
knot work that symbolize life-force and the eternal
nature of all things. Irish master craftsmen sought out
many small variations to the Celtic Cross, adding a
rich, three-dimensional quality to the simple structure.
Some other examples of decoration used to enhance the
beauty of stone and metal Celtic Crosses are whorls and
spirals, popular symbols used in many Celtic designs of
the Insular Art period. Some symbols remain wrapped in
mystery, years later, but their frequent use in Celtic
art and design speaks to spiritual meanings, and to the
notion of eternity. The spiral, in particular, is
thought to represent growth, and the journey through
life.
When the first High Crosses appeared in Celtic lands
during the ninth century, they were often adorned with
zoomorphic, or animal, symbols...but why? Some people
feel that many aspects of Celtic and High Crosses were
borrowed from the Druids, who worshipped the natural
world.
The addition of complex, richly-detailed animal symbols
such as wolfhounds, birds, and other creatures, may have
been passed down from the Druids. Zoomorphic symbols
faded in popularity over the years, and Celtic Crosses
continued to evolve into their modern variations.
Today, master craftsmen still embrace the beauty and
meaning of Celtic Crosses, and many Irish families still
place a Cross on the grave of a loved one, to symbolize
their faith in a higher power. Today, Celtic Crosses can
also be found in jewelry designs such as pendants, and
they are crafted of gold, silver, and often precious
stones such as emeralds and diamonds. The pleasing lines
and intricate knot work of modern Celtic Cross jewelry
designs have made them popular choices for many wearers
who wish to honor their Celtic heritage.
If you travel to Ireland, you will find ancient and
modern examples of the Celtic Cross in churches,
churchyards, and other landmarks. It is thought that
some Celtic Crosses were placed in the ground in order
to guide travelers on their journey.
The timeless nature of the Celtic Cross ensures that
each generation discovers its meaning and history,
decade after decade. The crosses are a touching symbol
of the past, and an important way to remain in touch
with the beliefs and spirit of Christianity. Celtic
Crosses will always remain an integral part of Irish art
and culture, whether they are worn as pendants, or
placed in remembrance upon the final resting place of a
loved one.
The fascinating history and meaning of Celtic Crosses is
often steeped in mystery, but there is no doubt that the
love of God prompted their creation. For this reason,
they will always retain their appeal, and represent the
special, unique nature of the Celtic people.
Leigh Maher researches and writes about Celtic jewelry,
and specialises in Celtic wedding rings, engagement
rings and bridal jewelry. Click here for more
information about Celtic cross jewelry [http://www.mrzeesshoppingcenter.com/online-jewelry-store/finding-the-perfect-celtic-cross-pendant-for-you.html] |
