Simple yet elegant this Cross is patterned after an Old Believer's Cross.
The Old Believers split from the Russian Orthodox Church in the 16th Century over the liturgical reforms of Patriarch Nikon.
The two lobes represent the duel nature of Christ as both God and Man. The three lobes represent the Three Persons of the Holy
Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
The Cross on the front side is the Resurrected Three Barred. The Three Barred Cross is often referred to as the "Russian Cross." In fact it is a Byzantine Cross that the Russian Church adopted in the 14th Century as a symbol for the Russian Church which was seeking its independence from the Great See of Constantinople.
The top bar in Slavonic translates as "King - Ruler."
On the side of each arm are the letters IC XC - the first letters in the name of Issus Christos -
Jesus Christ.
The bottom contains the word "victorious" as a reference to the Cross being "victorious" of Christ over Death.
Draped over the Cross is a "wreath." In ancient times the "wreath" was a sign of victory. In the liturgical celebration of Holy Friday after the body of Christ is taken down from the Cross a floral and green wreath is draped over the Cross as a sign of its Victory over Death!
The verso contains a Russian liturgical design.
Size: 1 1/4" x 1",
Optional: sterling silver chain, gold plated, 18" length.
