Simple Shapes as a Source of Symbolism in Christianity

In Christian tradition even simple shapes are symbolically potent. A circle, for example, being without end, is a symbol of the divine; a triangle refers to the Trinity, a line, like the horizon, can mark out the bounday between heaven and earth, or between the sacred and the secular.

Pop Christianty
Pray, How Often? Pop culture and commerical images in service to the Christian faith ... or is it Christianity in service to commercialism? You decide.

The Fish
The fish has been an important Christian symbol, not only because of the fact that Jesus included several fishermen in his close circle, but also because The initial letters of each word in the Greek phrase "Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior" form the word ICHTHUS, which means "fish."

The Ankh Cross
The Ankh Cross is an ancient Egyptian symbol for life, combining the feminine circle and masculine staff to form the whole. It was adapted by early Christians because of its resemblance to the cross.

Charles Henderson

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The Rev. Charles P. Henderson is a Presbyterian minister and Executive Director of
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He is the author of God and Science (John Knox Press, 1986).
A revised and expanded version of the book is appearing here.
God and Science (Hypertext Edition, 2005).
He is also editor of a new book, featuring articles by world class scientists and theologians, and illustrating the leading views on the relationship between science and religion:
Faith, Science and the Future (CrossCurrents Press, 2007)
For more information about Charles Henderson.
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