Subject
Crosses Books
Best books
John Denham Parsons
The Non-Christian Cross An Enquiry into the Origin and History of the Symbol Eventually Adopted as That of Our Religion
"The Non-Christian Cross" by John Denham Parsons is a scholarly inquiry into the history and significance of the cross as a symbol, written during the late 19th century. The work explores the origins and the evolution of the cross, questioning its association with Christianity and its depiction throughout history. Parsons seeks to reveal that the cross held meanings prior to its Christian associations, linking it to various ancient beliefs regarding life and divinity. The opening of the text introduces several intriguing questions that inspired the author’s research, including the representation of John the Baptist with a cross, the connection between baptism and the sign of the cross, and the various forms of crosses accepted by Christians before the traditional depiction of the crucifixion. Parsons emphasizes that historical representations of the cross may not necessarily align with the traditional Christian understanding and suggests that earlier forms of the cross, predating Christianity, may have symbolized life itself. Thus, the book sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the complex legacy of the cross, inviting readers to reconsider its cultural and religious significance beyond a solely Christian interpretation.
Geo. S. (George Smith) Tyack
The Cross in Ritual, Architecture and Art
"The Cross in Ritual, Architecture and Art" by Geo. S. Tyack is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work examines the multifaceted significance of the Cross as a symbol within Christianity, exploring its diverse roles and representations across ritual, architectural designs, and artistic endeavors. It sheds light on the historical evolution of the Cross, the controversies surrounding its use, and how it became integrated into various facets of Christian life and society. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the historical and cultural dimensions of the Cross, noting its use as a sacred symbol even before the advent of Christianity. Tyack highlights instances of the Cross's presence in pre-Christian societies and discusses early Christian attitudes towards the Cross, emphasizing the challenges they faced in openly displaying it due to the stigma associated with crucifixion. As he progresses, Tyack narrates key historical events, such as the vision of Emperor Constantine and the Crusades, that contributed to the Cross's elevation as a revered symbol of the Christian faith, setting the stage for a more detailed exploration of its implications in church rituals and architecture.
Anonymous
The Masculine Cross A History of Ancient and Modern Crosses and Their Connection with the Mysteries of Sex Worship; Also an Account of the Kindred Phases of Phallic Faiths and Practices
"The Masculine Cross" by Anonymous is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the origins and significance of the cross as a symbol throughout various cultures and time periods, exploring its connections to ancient and modern practices of sex worship and phallic faiths. The text argues against the common belief that the cross is of solely Christian origin, prompting readers to reconsider the symbol’s extensive and complex history across different civilizations. The opening of the text sets the stage for a broad historical exploration of the cross, asserting its universal presence across cultures and time periods long before its association with Christianity. It challenges the notion that the cross originated with the crucifixion of Christ, instead linking it to ancient pagan traditions, particularly in Egypt and India, where it was revered as a religious symbol. The author introduces various forms of the cross found in antiquity, such as those present in Assyrian, Egyptian, and Indian monuments, highlighting the symbol’s multifaceted meanings and its role in rituals associated with fertility and creation, thereby establishing a foundation for the subsequent chapters that promise further examination of the cross's significance within broader philosophical and religious contexts.
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