For a long time, Christians who lived in Russia and Byzantium wore reliquaries. A reliquary is a repository of relics or shrines. Formally, many reliquaries are similar to crosses. These are the most powerful amulets that endow a person with the light of true faith. Besides, these items protect the owners from diseases. After all, the reliquary is both a cross and the relics of a great martyr. On the inside, as a rule, a saint is depicted.
The symbol of the circle in the Christian faith
Most of the reliquaries are not accidentally made in the form of a cross made up of circles. Indeed, the circle symbolizes eternity, heaven and Jesus Christus himself. In addition, the number five in Christianity has a sacral meaning. The sign of the cross consists of two parts:
- when three fingers are folded;
- when two fingers of God are added.
The first symbolizes the Holy Trinity, the second represents the two deities of Christ. As known, one of his incarnations is divine, and the second is human. The cross, consisting of circles, symbolizes the Savior and his victory over evil. In addition, it combines the elements of Earth and Sky.
When creating a reliquary, not only its shape is important, but also the bound ornament. In Christianity, it is of great importance. The circle, the crosses, and this weaving show the most complex relationship between the Earth and the World of Immortality.
Other elements important for the reliquary
On the side of the reliquary that faces the surrounding people, you can see the Not-Made-by-Hand icon of the Savior. In the thirteenth century, during the war with the Crusaders, this greatest creation was lost.
A beautiful legend is associated with this icon. Once upon a time, Jesus Christus wiped his face with a towel after washing, and his holy face was imprinted on the fabric. This piece of canvas cured the king, who was lepra. Moreover, the healed person accepted to Christianity.
The image of Saint Nicholas is associated with a wicker cross. He was one of the most revered saints in Russia. He could stop storms, heal the sick, and foresee coming events. From time to time, he had to revive the dead.
The reliquaries contain texts of prayers and important sayings. According to legend, these sacred objects turned even convinced atheists to the Christian faith. For example, employees of the Cheka. Even the Germans who occupied Russia changed their cruel intentions thanks to the reliquaries. So, these objects carry light within them. They will help a lone wanderer and a person who finds himself face to face with the enemy. And the light of true faith will melt even the coldest and cruelest hearts.
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