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cross is a geometrical figure consisting of two lines or bars crossing each other at a 90° angle, dividing one or two of the lines in half.
Crosses are often used as symbols:
- The Christian cross as a symbol for God and, especially, Jesus. Its historical significance lies in the fact that Jesus was executed by the Romans through crucifixion on a large wooden cross, which meant being nailed to it and left to hang until dead. In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, the cross represents Christ's victory over death and sin, since it is believed that through His death he conquered death itself. Catholic and Orthodox Christians often make the sign of the cross by moving their right hand so as to draw a cross upon themselves. One of the twelve great feasts in the Eastern Orthodox Church is the Exaltation of the Cross on September 14, which commemorates the discovery of the original cross in 326.
- The Red Cross as a symbol for medical care.
- The plus sign (+).