crucifix

In the Christian religion, a cross with the figure of Jesus on it. The crucifix is usually used to portray the agony Jesus suffered when he died. Crucifixes are particularly associated with the Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox churches. Crucifixes are part of rosaries, and can also be worn or used as statues. The symbolism of the cross also applies to the crucifix.

Above the head of Jesus, at the top of the crucifix, or cross, are the letters ‘INRI’. These are the first letters of the Latin words that mean ‘Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews’. It recalls the inscription put on the cross by the Romans at the crucifixion.

For Christians, the crucifix symbolizes that God, in Jesus, came down to earth and suffered a brutal death. They believe that, by his crucifixion, Jesus overcame death and demonstrated that good is greater than evil.

The crucifix also symbolizes for Christians that God is involved in the world and cares about his creation. The crucifix reminds Christians that God sent his son to show people how to live, and that Jesus preached a message of salvation, but it was rejected and he was put to death. It also signifies that people are offered a choice to believe in Jesus and his teachings.

The crucifix also reminds Christians that Jesus offered a perfect sacrifice to God by his death on the cross, and that he atoned (made amends) for the sins of humankind.