In most Christian traditions, the symbol of the Cross is fashioned from an upright piece joined to one crosspiece. However, in the Russian Orthodox tradition, it is shaped somewhat differently. In addition to the usual upright piece and one crosspiece, there are two smaller crosspieces. One is positioned slightly above the central crosspiece and the other down toward the foot of the upright. The small one above represents the sign hung over the crucified Lord’s head, bearing the inscription, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” St. John tells us that these words appeared in three languages — Latin, Hebrew and Greek — so that everyone would be sure to get the message: “here hangs the king — some king!” The little crosspiece below depicts the wooden block placed under Jesus’ feet for support, in order to prevent Him from dying too quickly. This crosspiece is set on the upright at a slant to indicate how Jesus must have pushed down hard with one foot…
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