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What Does the Jerusalem Cross Really Mean?

The Jerusalem Cross, also known as the five-fold cross, the cross-and-crosslets, the Crusader’s cross, and sometimes the Cantonese cross, is an elaborate variant of the Christian cross. It’s one of the most well-known Christian symbols. Here’s what it represents and why it’s so important.

History of the Jerusalem Cross

Jerusalem cross

The Jerusalem cross features one large central cross with equidistant arms and crossbars at each end, with four smaller Greek crosses in each quadrant. Together, the design features five crosses in total.

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While it’s believed that the symbol has its roots in the 11th century, its connection to Jerusalem is more recent, dating back to the latter half of the 13th century. Like the Maltese cross, the Jerusalem cross was especially significant during the Crusades of the Middle Ages. It was used as a heraldic cross and as an emblem of Jerusalem, the Holy Land over which the Crusaders were fighting the Moslems.

Godfrey de Boullion, a leader of the Crusades, was one of the earliest to use the Jerusalem Cross as a symbol of Jerusalem, after it was captured and became a crusader state, known as the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem. In 1291, the Crusader state was overthrown, but for Christians, the cross continued to be a symbol of Jerusalem.

Symbolic Meanings of the Jerusalem Cross

jerusalem cross cufflinks
The Jerusalem Cross represents the five wounds of Christ. See it here.

There are several meanings believed to be represented by the Jerusalem Cross.

1. Five Wounds of Christ

The Cross of Jerusalem is a reminder of the five wounds suffered by Christ during his crucifixion. The Holy Wounds are a symbol of Christianity and were a main focus during the 12th and 13th centuries when devotion to the Passion of the Christ was on the rise. The large, central cross represents the wound from the Roman soldier’s spear while the four smaller crosses represent the wounds on Jesus’ hands and feet.

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2. Christ and the Evangelists

Some believe that the cross represents Christ and the four evangelists. Chris is represented by the central cross, and the four Evangelists (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), are represented by the four smaller crosses.

3. Christ and the Four Corners

Another interpretation posits Christ as the central cross and the four corners of the earth are represented by the four crosses. Seen in this light, the design symbolizes the spreading of Christianity to all four corners of the world.

4. Crusading Nations

The Jerusalem Cross is also associated with the history of the Crusades, during which Christian knights embarked on military campaigns to recapture Jerusalem and other holy sites. The cross became a symbol worn by the Crusaders as a sign of their allegiance and mission.

The five crosses may symbolize the five nations that played an active role during the Crusades – Great Britain, Spain, France, Germany, and Italy. However, if this is the case, which of these five nations is represented by the central cross?

5. Jerusalem

As the name suggests, the Jerusalem Cross is closely linked to the city of Jerusalem. It serves as a symbol of the city’s spiritual and historical significance as a holy site for Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike.

6. Georgian Heritage

In Georgia, the Cross of Jerusalem holds great significance as a national symbol and is even represented on their national flag. Georgia is a Christian country and has a long relationship with the Holy Land. As such, the cross is a symbol of Georgia’s status as a Christian country.

Jerusalem Cross vs. Cross of Lorraine

Jerusalem cross vs lorraine cross

The Lorraine Cross has sometimes been called the Jerusalem Cross, but this is not correct. These two crosses are completely different in appearance, as the Lorraine cross is more traditional, consisting of a vertical beam with two horizontal crossbeams.

Jerusalem Cross in Use Today

The Jerusalem cross is a popular Christian symbol for jewelry and charms, typically pendants, bracelets, and rings. The symmetry of the design and how it lends itself to being stylized, allows designers to come up with unique versions and beautiful jewelry featuring the symbol.

Many Christians, especially those with a particular connection to Jerusalem or who have made a pilgrimage to the city, choose to wear the Jerusalem Cross as a way to express their faith, commemorate their visit, or display their affiliation with the Christian tradition. Some also choose to have it tattooed on their bodies.

Below is a list of the editor’s top picks featuring the star of Jerusalem cross symbol.

Editor's Top Picks
COTTVOTT Stainless Steel Jerusalem Crusaders Cross Pendant Necklaces Women Men Medieval Jewelry...
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Nazareth Store 18k Yellow Gold Plated Crusaders Jerusalem Cross Pendant with Crystallized...
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HZMAN Mens Stainless Steel Crusader Jerusalem Cross Pendant Necklace with 22+2 Inches...
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Last update was on: March 12, 2024 11:02 am

In Brief

The Jerusalem Cross remains an enduring symbol of Christianity and a reminder of its connection to the Middle East. Its beautiful design is often worn in jewelry and decorative items for those looking for a unique variant of the Christian cross.

Affiliate Disclosures
Dani Rhys
Dani Rhys

Dani Rhys has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 years. She holds a Masters degree in Linguistics and Education, and has also studied Political Science, Ancient History and Literature. She has a wide range of interests ranging from ancient cultures and mythology to Harry Potter and gardening. She works as the chief editor of Symbol Sage but also takes the time to write on topics that interest her.