The Sign of the Cross is a ritual, devotional motion made by many Christians. It is most frequently found in stronger liturgical traditions like Catholicism, Lutheranism, Orthodoxy, and high Anglicanism.
Where Does the Sign of the Cross Come From?
The Cross has been an important symbol of the sacrifice of Christ since the beginning of Christianity. Written evidence of a ritual act of “signing the cross” dates from the second century, and the practice goes back even further.
In the early church, making the Sign of the Cross was an important invocation of Christ in the face of a hostile world filled with spiritual evils. As Christianity gained favor in the Empire, the practice developed ritual depth and flourish.
How Do You Make the Sign of the Cross?
Make a spoken or internal invocation of the Trinity, usually with the words “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
- At “Father,” touch your forehead.
- At “Son,” touch your stomach.
- At “Holy,” touch your left shoulder.
- At “Spirit,” touch your right shoulder.
The order of the shoulders is reversed in the Eastern Christian tradition.
What is the Significance of the Motion?
The Sign of the Cross is a motion intended to foster a memory and love of God in the heart of the person praying. The symbolism of the act is open-ended, allowing each person who practices it to assign their own meaning and religious significance to their devotion.
Through the centuries, theologians have suggested interpretations that provide helpful guidelines for understanding the practice. Touching the forehead, stomach, and shoulders, for instance, is a commitment to unite heart, mind, and strength in the act of loving of God. The motion across the shoulders can represent the passage from misery to glory, or the integration of holiness and the spirit.
In the Christian East, the Sign is made with the first three fingers joined together representing the Trinity of God, while the other two fingers represent the dual nature of Christ as fully God and fully man.
Is There Any Mention of the Sign of the Cross in Scripture?
While there is no specific mention of making the Sign of the Cross in the Bible, some passages are interpreted in connection with the practice. The mark of salvation seen by Ezekiel (Ezk. 6:9) is regularly identified with the Sign of the Cross. Furthermore, the repetition of this imagery in the Book of Revelation is sometimes cited as evidence that this practice is of apostolic origin.
Some commentators have even identified the Sign of the Cross as a symbolic fulfillment of the injunction to “bind [the Commandments of God] to your hands and tie them to your forehead.” (Deut.6:8)
How Is the Sign of the Cross Relevant in Contemporary Spirituality?
Contemporary movements in Christian spirituality have revived interest in physical expressions of prayer and worship, and many younger evangelicals are strongly attracted to ritual behaviors and ecumenical movements. In this context, the Sign of the Cross is a potent practice, providing a strong point of symbolic interface between Christians of different traditions, and entry into a broader historical expression of the faith.
Faithful people of all backgrounds have found the mindful practice of the Sign of the Cross an enriching spiritual discipline. The true test of its efficacy is its usefulness to the people who adopt it. Consider your own practice. Could a deeper awareness and use of the Sign of the Cross be beneficial to your spiritual life? Give it a try!
Resources
Thurston, Herbert. "Sign of the Cross." The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 13. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1912.
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