Rivers of Paradise Cross

Rivers of Paradise Cross

The Rivers of Paradise Cross is one of those multi-purpose symbols that can be adapted to several interpretations.

The four rivers refer to Pishon, Gihon, Hiddekel and Perat, mentioned to in Genesis 2:10-14 and the theological meaning of these rivers is well understood.

As we see in the symbol, Christ is at the centre of Paradise, and each of us can be baptised, washed of our spiritual uncleanliness, in the blood that flowed from the crucifixion of Jesus.

Each of the four cross arms is in three parts; a clear reference to the Holy Trinity. The three x four refers to the twelve Disciples, being despatched from the Church to the four corners of the world.

In the centre is a circle, like the Sun with rays emanating, representing the Glory of Christ.

The movement of the rivers is complemented by the apparent swirling of the entire symbol, like a Swastika.