The Coptic Cross
The Coptic Cross usually has an elaborate design, baroque style or filigree, reflecting the richness of the hearts of people in the Coptic Church.
The Coptic Cross
also called the Ethiopian Cross
The Coptic Cross
The Coptic Church is the Christian church of Egypt, established by Mark in the 1st century (around 60 A.D.). The church now also has dioceses elsewhere in Africa and the Near East. The early Gnostics and Copts adapted the Egyptian Ankh Cross as the basis of its emblem, which then evolved as the region's history changed.
Old Coptic crosses often incorporate a circle; sometimes large, sometimes small. The circle was inherited from the Ankh Cross, where it originally depicted the sun god. For the Coptic Church, the circle represents the eternal and everlasting love of God, as shown through Christ's crucifixion. It also symbolises Christ's halo and resurrection.
In Ethiopia, these crosses can be so sophisticated that it's difficult to find the cross in the design. These are often named after the Northern Ethiopian regions and towns they are found in; for example Lalibela, Axum and Gondar. (We plan to write much more about these crosses in the future.)
Whatever shape or form, the Coptic Cross usually has an elaborate design, baroque style or filigree, reflecting the richness of the hearts of people in the Coptic Church.
