Further studies on the cross as an auspicious symbol
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Further studies on the cross as an auspicious symbol
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
S. Mahdihassan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Further studies on the cross as an auspicious symbol
Year: 1990
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The paper by S. Mahdihassan explores the historical significance of the cross as an auspicious symbol across various ancient cultures. The author posits that the cross has long been perceived as a representation of the soul, which symbolizes life and death. This paper traces its lineage back to early beliefs that associated breath with the essence of life, envisioning the soul as a bird that departed the body upon death. Consequently, the cross emerged as a vital symbol, acting as a protector against harm and as a means of preserving the sanctity of life.
The Cross as a Protector of Life
One of the central concepts in this paper is that the cross serves not only as a symbol of the soul but also as a protective emblem. In ancient pottery, for instance, the fragile nature of earthenware led potters to use the symbol of the cross to safeguard against breakage. Mahdihassan illustrates how the simple design of the cross, often found in ancient artifacts, allowed it to be easily stamped onto pottery. The modification of the cross into the swastika further signifies its evolution as a protective emblem. The cross also associated with auspiciousness became a common practice among farmers, who believed adorning their tools and livestock with the symbol would enhance their harvests. This practice underscored the cultural understanding that the presence of the cross could bless and prolong life.
Conclusion
In summary, the cross has been regarded through history as a vital symbol representing the soul, intertwining life with notions of longevity and protection. Its usage in various contexts鈥攆rom fragile pottery to talismans for resurrection鈥攄emonstrates its multifaceted nature. Mahdihassan's research emphasizes the cross not merely as an ancient symbol but as a significant cultural artifact that conveyed profound meanings of life, death, and the connection between the living and the dead. The insight into its protective qualities reflects broader themes of survival and spirituality that resonate throughout human history.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the historical significance of the cross symbol?
The cross has ancient roots as a symbol of the soul, representing life and its protection. It was often used to safeguard fragile pottery and was associated with auspiciousness, longevity, and blessings in various cultures.
How was the cross related to ancient pottery?
In ancient times, potters used the cross symbol to protect fragile earthenware from breakage. The simple design allowed it to serve as a seal impressed on ceramics, believed to enhance durability and prevent damage.
What transformation did the cross undergo in ancient cultures?
The cross evolved into the swastika, indicating a modified form. This transformation was essential to clarify its distinct meaning as a symbol of the soul, emphasizing its significance across various ancient artifacts.
What role did the cross play in burial practices?
The cross was interred with the dead as a gift from the living, symbolizing hope for resurrection. Its presence in burial sites was thought to facilitate the deceased's journey to the afterlife.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淔urther studies on the cross as an auspicious symbol鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformed refers to the modification of the cross symbol into the swastika. This transformation was necessary to distinguish the specific representation of the soul from random scratches. The cross's evolution highlights its significance as a symbol of life, soul, and auspiciousness in ancient cultures, particularly in pottery designs.
2) Science (Scientific):
Science in this context suggests the systematic study of ancient symbols and their meanings, tracing the historical significance of the cross. The research illustrates how these symbols pertained to spirituality and life, providing insight into early human beliefs regarding the connection between symbols and life preservation or resurrection.
3) Horse:
The horse symbolizes strength and vitality in ancient art, frequently depicted alongside symbols like the cross. Horses represented life's energy and were part of designs conveying auspiciousness. Their depiction with the cross and swastikas on pottery underscores the belief in these symbols providing protection, fertility, and longevity in farming contexts.
4) Cina (C墨na, C墨n膩, Ci峁塧, Ci峁壞�, C墨峁壞�, Cin膩):
China is relevant due to the examples of burial artifacts found there, such as bronze figures bearing the cross symbol. These artifacts illustrate the belief in the cross as a facilitator for resurrection, emphasizing the cross's importance across cultures and its function as a symbol of the soul and life beyond death.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Further studies on the cross as an auspicious symbol鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.