Jerusalem cross

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The Jerusalem cross, also known as Crusaders' cross, is a heraldic cross or Christian symbol consisting of a large Greek cross surrounded by four smaller Greek crosses, one in each quadrant.

The simpler form of the cross is known as the "Crusaders' Cross", because it was on the papal banner given to the Crusaders by Pope Urban II for the First Crusade, and was a symbol of the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem. The four smaller crosses are said to symbolize either the four books of the Gospel or the four directions in which the Word of Christ spread from Jerusalem. Alternately, all five crosses can symbolize the five wounds of Christ during the Passion. This symbol is also used in the flag of Georgia.

Sometimes the larger cross is in the form of a cross potent or a cross crosslet, and in this configuration is referred to as the "Jerusalem Cross" proper.

[edit] External links

• The Jerusalem Cross
• Jerusalem Cross Tattoo - What Does It Mean?