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The Latin, or Passion Cross was originally rejected by Christians because it was a pagan symbol. Some earlier uses of this
symbol was as a scepter of Apollo; with the phrase "Ptolemy the Savior"; and a sign of life to come in the Egyptian religon
of Sarapis.
The New Testament sometimes refers to Jesus as being hanged on a tree, not a cross (Acts 5:30; 1 Peter 2:24), linking this
imagery to tree-slain savior figures of Krishna, Marsyas, Odin, and Dodonian Zeus.
This version of the cross is not an inappropriate symbol for a church with a male-oriented structure, for in early societies
it was a phallic symbol.
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Wotan's Cross reflects similar symbolism, with the cross and circle as a symbol of cosmic union. The circle also stood for
the earth horizon, with the four directions meeting at the center. It was also called the Sun Cross for the sun (cross) embraced
by heaven (circle). The often repeated symbolism is that of a diety in the middle of a four-way heaven.
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A similar symbol in appearance is the Cross Fourchee. This design reflects Christian piety and was popular as a decorative
cross in medieval heraldry. The design ties to the age-old trust in the pagan magic of the forked stick.
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The Celtic Cross was originally a Hindu symbol of sexual union, kiakra. The cross as a phallic symbol within the circle as
yoni. This cross was adopted by the Gypsies. This cross, as used by Christians, is often used as a grave marker.
Other symbolism of this cross relates to the four directions. East is rebirth, youth, Spring, and growth. West is knowledge,
experience, Autumn, and guidance. South is vitality, vigor, Summer, and strength. North is wisdom, silence, winter, and death.
The circle connects them in the cycle of life.
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