Christian symbolism
Christian symbolism uses images, objects, colors, numbers, and actions to express Christian beliefs, narratives, and spiritual ideas.
Christian iconography: The study and use of images depicting Christian subjects, figures, and doctrines. It is the visual branch of Christian symbolism, especially in sacred art.
Cross: A structure of intersecting beams, used in Roman execution and adopted as Christianity’s central emblem. It condenses the crucifixion and Christian claims about redemption into a single sign.
Liturgical colors: Colors assigned to seasons and observances in Christian worship, with conventions varying by tradition. Their changing use marks the liturgical year and shapes the mood of worship.
Iconoclasm: The rejection or destruction of religious images, often because they are considered improper objects of veneration. Iconoclasts challenged whether Christian images could serve devotion without becoming idols.
Christian architecture: The design of buildings for Christian worship and related religious purposes. Church layouts and architectural features can express theological ideas and direct ritual.
Christian liturgy: The public rites and prayers through which Christian communities worship. Ritual actions and objects acquire symbolic meaning within worship.
Chi-Rho: An early Christian monogram combining the Greek letters chi and rho, the first letters of Christos. This compact sign names Christ and appears on Christian objects and monuments.
Christian numerology: The interpretation of numbers as carrying theological or symbolic significance in Christian scripture and tradition. Numbers such as three, seven, and twelve recur with associations shaped by biblical contexts.
Icon veneration: The honoring of sacred images in some Christian traditions, distinguished from worship directed to God. Its defenders distinguish reverence shown to an image from worship of its subject.
Christian vestments: Special garments worn by clergy or ministers during Christian worship. Their colors, forms, and use distinguish roles and mark sacred occasions.