Celtic Cross Meaning: Irish Symbol

From its creation to today, the Celtic Cross has been a spiritual sign. The cross is recognized throughout the world as an icon from Ireland. Deciphering the true meaning of this Christian emblem originating from Ireland is not obvious to everyone. Especially since there are different types of Christian crosses, one can quickly get lost.

If you are wondering what the meaning of this emblem is, we have written this article to explain in detail the origin and meaning of the Celtic Cross .

Below you will find:

• The meaning and origin of the Celtic Cross

• The definition of the Celtic Cross

• The making of the Celtic Cross

• The History and Symbolism of the Celtic Cross

• The meaning of the Celtic Knot

• The representation of the Celtic Cross

Let's get straight to the point!

1) Celtic Cross: Meaning & Origin

A. Meaning of the Celtic Cross

A beautiful survivor of ancient Celtic culture is his art. Anglicans and Episcopalians generally call it the Anglican cross , the Episcopal cross or the Celtic cross . While Catholics often call it the Irish Cross.

Due to its antiquity, the Celtic cross is popular with neo-druids, occultists, neopagans, and New Age followers who see the ring as representing the thunder god Taranis and refer to the cross as a Wheel of Taranis. When an encircled cross is seen as representing the Cosmos, several religions refer to it as a Mandala Cross (see also a Sun Cross ). Another interpretation is that the cross could be an astrological navigational instrument.

B. Irish Symbol

During the 9th and 10th centuries, Celtic crosses developed a structural and artistic complexity that represented an important contribution of Ireland. Along with the Claddagh and the Harp, the Celtic cross is one of the most well-known Irish emblems. Steeped in legend, all Celtic crosses have a very significant heritage . Their origin, meaning and symbolism may surprise you!

There are at least 60 Celtic crosses in Ireland . The Celtic crosses seen today were mainly built up until the mid-12th century.

C. Meaning of the Ring

Others say that the circle represented a moon goddess typically associated with pagan religion. The cross is also said to have resembled a tree, to make the gospel more acceptable to pagan religions that frequently used trees as emblems or objects of worship. The cross represents the Christian religion and the circle is the Celtic representation of eternity , without beginning or end.

D. Celtic Cross: Religious Symbol

Presbyterian and Catholic priests find the Celtic Cross spiritually significant . Both tend to believe that it was created by them (although this cannot be verified). The circle is for them the mark of eternity. It symbolizes the eternal love that God has come from sacrificing his son Jesus Christ on the cross. This is in order to forgive the sins of the world. Another meaning of the circle is the eternal hope of salvation found in the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

There are many symbolic meanings associated with the Celtic cross:

• Hope
• Life
• Honor
• Faith
• Unit
• Balance
• Transition
• Temperance
• Ascension
• Navigation

E. Origin of the Celtic cross

It appeared somewhere in Europe. This has been verified. The nations that originated the Celtic cross are: Ireland, Gaelic Ireland, England, Wales, Scotland and Great Britain. But who created it and where exactly was it created? After the 12th century, these crosses evolved into boundary or territorial markers. They are often called just Celtic crosses, rather than "high crosses", although many are still quite large!

Another theory suggests that by placing the emblem of the cross over that of the sun , Christians were illustrating the supremacy of Christ over the God of the noon or the goddess of the moon. Other explanations for the origin of the Celtic cross abound. Some will swear that it was a phallic model that was transformed into a cross to hide its true meaning. Still others will say that the cross with its circle is a Druidic emblem appropriated by Christians.

F. Origin of the Celtic Cross by Saint Patrick

The origins of the Celtic cross are believed to date back to pagan times , before the arrival of the Christian religion in Ireland. The Celtic cross first appeared in the 8th century and is believed to have been introduced to Ireland and Britain by early Christian missionaries. A simplified account is that St Patrick introduced the Celtic cross to Ireland .

Some say that St Patrick (or St Declan) introduced the Celtic cross in an attempt to convert pagan kings to the Christian religion. One theory is that he took the circular design of the pagan sun god and combined it with the cross of Jesus Christ to represent the light and life of God. Another is that he took the emblem of the moon goddess (a circle) and marked it with a cross, thus creating the first Celtic cross.

Some of these pagans worshipped the noon. They said that Patrick combined the Christian cross with the circular motif of the noon to associate light and life with the Christian cross in the minds of his converts. Another legend says that Patrick marked the pagan symbol of the moon goddess (a circle) with a cross, and blessed the stone, thus making the first Celtic cross.

Some also believe that it was St Columba or St Declan who introduced this design from Ireland . However, we now know that this style of cross predates St Patrick and that Celtic crosses existed before the 5th century.

G. Celtic Christian Cross: A Personal Meaning

Some people might reject the Celtic cross because of its possible connection to paganism. Conversely, it can be for others a sacred model bringing the divine message of the Gospel. Regardless, the meaning is very personal and also comes from the heart of the person, instead of being rooted in verifiable facts. With all this uncertainty, the meaning of the Celtic cross is left to you .

So where does this leave us in deciphering the greater meaning of these faith patterns ? It would indeed be our responsibility to delve into the collective energy of the ancient Celts and resurface with our own personal understanding. We can do this by objectively studying the Celts from the literature offered.

2) The Celtic Cross

A. Celtic Cross for Cemeteries

Ancient Celtic crosses can still be found in hundreds of cemeteries in Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England. They have become an emblem of national pride. The Celtic Revival of the late 19th century saw the growing popularity of Celtic crosses as gravestones . Today, throughout Ireland, the evocative monuments are found in abundance in every cemeteries, leaving a distinctive feature in the landscape. Of course, the Irish and Scottish emigrants who settled there carried this funerary tradition with them.

B. First Celtic Crosses

"Celtic high crosses" are freestanding stone crosses that date from the 8th to the 12th century. In the oldest crosses from this period, the arms of the cross often do not extend beyond the ring or only slightly. Later crosses from this period are often larger and decorated with biblical scenes. The earliest forms of the cross were not carved into the rock, but into the rock .

C. Use of the Celtic Cross in Ancient Times

During the 18th century , various Celtic crosses became very popular. During the period of the "Celtic Renaissance", tombs and many monuments were often represented by elaborately crafted Celtic crosses. Any Irishman worth his salt, literally, would not be seen dead without a Celtic cross!

In medieval times , the Celtic cross model was used as a public monument. Much like Christians today often place a cross on top of a church. When these crosses marked a religious place, they usually had a longer stem and are called "Irish high crosses".

D. Use of the Celtic Cross in our Modern Era

In our modern times, the Celtic cross is used on gravestones and as a symbol of Irish national pride. Since the birth of the Celtic cross, the Celtic cross as a sacred object has spread beyond monastic sites and cemeteries to become a modern emblem decorating: t-shirts, jewelry, paintings, and many other accessories. Those who identify with the Celtic tradition can wear the design of the cross on clothing, jewelry or also decorate their home with a painting of the Celtic cross .

Some organizations and sports teams incorporate the Celtic cross into their logo as a symbol of pride in their Irish heritage. The majority of people who use the Celtic cross design today are Christians. But many also wear pendants as a symbol of their Irish (or Scottish or Welsh) heritage.

E. Celtic Cross: Christian Cross Shop.com

Although Celtic crosses commonly adorn tombs and churches, we see Celtic crosses worn in jewelry formats that are all unique and unlike any other.

Even though Christians wear them, it is wise to remember that not everyone who wears a Celtic cross is necessarily a Christian. If you wear a Celtic cross, it is above all to keep a sacred object with great meaning to you. You are spoiled for choice: modern Celtic crosses or Celtic crosses in the ancient image of the sacred model of the Celts. At Croix Chrétiennes ® we offer the best Celtic gemstones for men or women, all hand forged by jewelers specialized in the manufacture of precious jewels. You will also find other beautiful Celtic cross items. 🕈

3) Making the Celtic Cross

A. Composition of the Celtic Cross

The Celtic cross is called a Latin cross with a nimbus, a halo centered on the cross representing something supernatural. A simple description of what the Celtic cross looks like is: a simple cross with a circle . It appeared in the early Middle Ages, somewhere in Europe. This is what we can verify. Some say that St. Patrick introduced the Celtic cross in an attempt to convert pagan kings to the Christian religion. Sometimes the Celtic cross is placed on a high base to make it look more like a traditional Christian cross. In medieval times it was used as a public monument and if it marked a pure place it had longer stems and was called: Irish high cross .

Also known as the "high cross", or "Irish cross", Celtic crosses are found throughout Ireland. They are a compromise of a normal cross, with a ring that goes completely around the intersection of the cross. The main components of the Celtic cross are:

• Base of the cross
• Intersection
• Ring
• Tombstone (including finial)

B. Construction of the Celtic Cross

The construction of the Celtic cross normally begins with the base of the cross, which is an extremely heavy stone. Often the base has had another life before being carved for the cross, for example as a millstone. The high cross is set into a recess carved into the stone base by means of a tenon, forming a very strong and secure joint. The crosses are decorated with a series of panels, which usually cover most of the cross. Traditionally these panels are used to show important biblical scenes or to highlight elements of Celtic design and art.

At the intersection of the cross, the ring is added , which gives the Celtic cross its classic and world-famous appearance. Most crosses feature a pierced ring. But there are variations that do not have an open space between the inner circumference of the ring and the intersection of the cross. An additional tenon is usually found above the ring that serves as a seat for the capstone .

The St. Patrick's Cross is beautifully decorated with Christian depictions and Celtic artwork , indicating its early creation. This decoration includes intertwined knotwork patterns , similar to those found in the Book of Durrow, which symbolize the Tree of Life . 🌳

The entire cross is often decorated with ornate Gaelic designs . Sometimes the Celtic cross is nothing more than a simple stick drawn on a gravestone or religious site. Other times it is carved and quite ornate. Celtic crosses are decorated with Insular art characterized by elaborately interlaced bands.

C. Celtic Stone Cross

Celtic crosses carved in stone were vulnerable to breakage due to their shape. Celtic cross craftsmen would then have made the crosses with a circle to strengthen the carving . This is a practical and plausible idea, but it cannot be proven like all the other theories.

The massive crosses found throughout Ireland today were generally built in the name of Christian religion.

D. Cross of Scripture: High Cross

The most elaborate high crosses of this later period were often erected to commemorate famous people or places. Over time, the crosses began to be decorated with panels depicting biblical scenes that were used by the monks for religious instruction. The finest example is the Scripture Cross at Clonmacnoise Monastery on the banks of the River Shannon. This cross is decorated with the stories of the Last Supper, the Crucifixion of Christ, and the guarding of the tomb. The visual presentation of the biblical stories was a useful tool for communicating Christ's teachings to an illiterate population.

These wonderful crosses were normally used as boundary markers. For example at the intersection of parishes or as monuments surrounding monasteries, cathedrals or churches. Traditional Irish emblems were often used for the signs, as were significant scenes from the Bible , such as the Crucifixion, the Resurrection, Adam and Eve, etc.

4) History & Symbolism of the Celtic Cross

A. Celtic Symbol in Christian Religion

Crosses are undoubtedly biblical (Philippians 2:8). And since we cannot come to a consensus on the actual origin and meaning of the Celtic cross, we do not know whether it has true biblical roots or not. Assuming that the center does indeed signify eternity, we can learn the eternal nature of God .

God has no beginning and no end (Psalm 102:12). We can know that while the earth may pass away and the seasons change, God does not change. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Even though the circle in the center has a pagan origin, we must keep in mind that God can use everything for His glory. It is believed that early Irish monks borrowed this idea of ​​the Sun God to explain the halo of Christ . To help understand the concept of the Christian religion from the Celtic pagans .

Finally, we can remember Christ and the eternal nature of God every time we see the Celtic cross . Every time we see this emblem on a necklace or serving as a tombstone, we can remember God's death and resurrection so that we can spend eternity with Him.

B. A Cross of Christian and Pagan Culture

Because of its uniqueness, many Christians wonder: Is it biblical or pagan? Some Christian emblems and traditions have pagan connections. We must also keep in mind that this would not be the first time that the Christian religion has mixed elements from other religions to make the gospel message more palatable. Of course, with all elements of other religions, Christians must be careful when finding points of intersection. Especially with more enigmatic origins.

C. The Irish converted to Christianity

The Celtic cross , as commonly depicted, is a traditional Christian emblem used for religious purposes. As well as to symbolize concepts such as Irish pride . As such, it is a very common emblem and primarily used by non-extremists. Most depictions of the traditional Celtic cross feature an elongated vertical axis, often with knots that resemble that of other Christian crosses.

The Celtic cross predates Christianity and has its origins in an older religion. When Ireland converted to Christianity, the cross remained an integral design and, as such, took on a new meaning. In Ireland (as well as in Britain), Celtic crosses began to appear as early as the 7th century. Often, these large stone crosses were erected by Irish monks.

" Celtic " is an Indo-European language that predates Christianity and was widely used in Western and Central Europe. Crosses found in these territories retain elements of pre-Christian culture and are called " Celtic crosses ". The earliest examples are found in Ireland in the 8th century (or perhaps earlier), where missionaries erected these stone crosses to mark preaching stations and monasteries.

D. Other Functions of the Celtic Cross

Celtic crosses were often placed outside the walls of the monastic establishment so that it could mark the boundary of the monastery. They were called terminal crosses. Once inside the monastery, a fugitive could seek asylum.

One such Celtic cross is the Market Cross found in the village of Kells in County Meath. The cross originally stood in Cross Street and was known as the ' Gate Cross ' of the monastery. The cross was broken by Cromwellian forces as they passed through the town.

6) Celtic Knot Meaning

One of the most popular designs associated with the Celtic cross is: the " Celtic knot " made up of seven strands. Each strand represents something important in Celtic culture. Throughout time, these knots have been engraved on Celtic crosses and woven into a popular Celtic jewelry piece known as the Trinity knot , symbolizing the Trinity.

These knots are complete loops that have no beginning or end and could be said to represent eternity, be it loyalty, faith, friendship, and love. These intricate designs are used as decorative accompaniments to various items including jewelry sets, plates, cups, clothing, and even cutlery.

Despite the seemingly ubiquitous nature of Celtic knots , these designs are not particularly understood. When you pick up a canvas bag with a Celtic knot , are you aware of the symbolism and spirituality attached to it? Below, we offer a detailed look at the different types of Celtic knots , as well as their origins and meanings.

But first, we offer you a video showing beautiful images of several Celtic crosses with knots that were depicted by artists.

A. History of the Celtic Knot

To understand the Celtic knot , one must look to ancient legend. Celtic knots are thought to date back to 450 AD, when the meanings of the Christian religion were influencing Celtic civilization. The designs can be seen in a variety of early Christian artwork and manuscripts, with the addition of plants, humans, and even animals.

On the other hand, some historians say that the origin of the Celtic cross knots may have appeared as early as 500 BC. What we do know is that knot patterns were in use as early as the third century AD and can be seen on Roman floor mosaics. These knots have also been found on architecture and illumination from the Byzantine Empire (Rome's empire in the East that was founded in 330 AD).

B. Birth of Celtic Knots

One of the main reasons why it is so difficult to pinpoint a precise date for the use of Celtic knots in Christian art is that the traditional culture of Celtic knots was transmitted orally. The lack of written records makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact moment when the influence of Celtic knots began to spread.

Historians say that the pre-Christian Celts represented these particular emblems by drawing them, because they could not create other images. Indeed, some scholars argue that early Celtic religion was similar to Islam, in that realistic depictions of living creatures were forbidden. Consequently, this restriction may have given rise to Celtic knots in the same way that it gave rise to Arabic calligraphy.

C. Various interpretations of Celtic Knots

Most scholars believe that Celtic knots were developed for both religious and secular purposes . However, historians have struggled to determine whether or not each intricate design had a specific meaning. Still, it seems that the intertwined designs reflect the Celtic belief in the interconnectedness and continuity of life. In our modern era, some designs have had meanings attached to them, based on personal interpretation.

Additionally, each Viking accessory designer makes their own ornaments and other accessories so that they are linked to their beliefs.

D. Some Celtic Knot Patterns

• Dara Knot
• Sailor's knot
• Celtic Spirals
• Trinity Knot
• Celtic Love Knot
• Celtic Spiral Knot

• Popular Celtic Knot Designs

7) Representation of the Celtic Cross

ARDBOE CROSS

The Ardboe Cross is also one of the most beautiful Celtic crosses in Ireland . Made of sandstone, it is located towards the shores of Lough Neagh. It measures 2.5 metres in height.

MUIREDACH CROSS

This beautiful Celtic cross is generally considered to be one of the finest in Ireland. It is approximately 2.5 metres high. The cross is generally thought to be named after Muiredach mac Domhnaill , who was responsible for its construction.

The design of the cross is heavily influenced by biblical scenes in the panels of the cross. In general terms, the east face features scenes from the Old Testament, while the west face is more influenced by the New Testament. There are also a few panels whose meaning is unclear.

KELLS CELTIC CROSS

The Kells Cross was recently moved because its location in the centre of the town posed a safety risk to those visiting it, as well as to the Celtic Cross itself (it was hit by a car).

Currently it stands outside at the centre of the reception area for all visitors to Kells. Kells is also home to Columba's Monastery, and features a variety of Celtic crosses as well as the ruins of a tower.

CROSS OF THE SCRIPTURES

Located at Clonmacnoise Monastery, this stunning scripture cross was carved from a single piece of sandstone around the beginning of the 10th century. It stands just over 3 metres tall and has been moved inside the visitor centre in recent years for preservation. A replica now occupies its original location, but both the original and the replica are accessible.

The inscription on the cross requests that a prayer be said for both Flann (an Irish king) and Colman (who commissioned the cross). Like many Celtic crosses , the body of the cross is divided into panels that feature various scenes from the Bible .

AHENNY CROSS

As one of the oldest of the high ringed crosses, the Southern Cross appears to be in better condition than the Northern Cross. Part of the ring of the Northern Cross is no longer part of the monument. Both crosses have magnificent Celtic carvings , as well as biblical scenes (mainly on the base).

CROSS OF ST. KEVIN

St Kevin died around 618, but this beautiful Celtic cross in the glacial valley of Glendalough still bears his name. This particular cross has an unpierced ring. The cross is designed as a simple cross without the complicated panels seen on many others.

It was made of granite, dating from the end of the 6th or 7th century. This symbol is well over a meter high!

8) Find your Spiritual Celtic Cross: Christian Crosses

Both sacred and spiritual, a Celtic cross worn through jewelry proves to be a personal decision for those who seek to possess all the virtues that a traditional Celtic cross brings . After reading our article on the meaning of the Celtic cross, you can now see the full power of this sacred Irish design.

If you are looking for a sign of hope, honor, faith, tradition and spirituality, a Celtic cross will be the perfect emblem to keep on you at all times! Among the trends, you have here a wide choice of unique Celtic crosses : pendants, a ring, a bracelet or two pairs of earrings. If you are looking for a massive and visible model, then a necklace with the Celtic pendant will be the right choice. On the other hand, if you want to wear a more discreet Celtic cross, then a Celtic Cross Ring will do the trick perfectly.

Now that you know that the Celtic Cross is a Christian symbol in its own right, you can adopt it to mark your faith in God by wearing Celtic jewels. Further expand your faith by discovering our article on the Cross of Lorraine .