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Crucifixion
can be seen as one of the cruelest acts of torture known to the ancient
world. Many people believed that
crucifixion was most deserving of criminals and blasphemers.
Many types of crosses were used to torture the convicts who committed
heinous acts; these include a “r” shape, a “t”
shape, a "+"
shape, and a “T”
shape. St. Andrew’s cross was made in the
shape of an “X.” This type of cross is also know as a “saltier” or “Crux
Decussata.” Andrew was the brother of Peter and he did not feel “worthy
enough” to be crucified on the same style cross as Jesus. Therefore, when he requested this oddly
shaped cross, he was granted it. Jesus was crucified on a common “t”
shaped cross. This is also known as: “Latin cross,” “Passion Cross,” “Cross
of Calvary,” or a “Holy Rood.” This cross was the most commonly used cross.
This cross is the standard cross that most Christians wear and think of when
they think of a cross. The Greek cross, which is the “+”
shaped cross, is also know as the “Red Cross.” This is the most basic form of
cross. All of its arms are of the same length. This form of cross appears in
many variety of contexts. Some scholars say that all other complex forms of
crosses derived from this form. The “T” cross is also known
as the “Tao Cross,” other names include: “Advent Cross”, “Anticipatory
Cross,” “Pre-Christian Cross,” “Old Testament Cross,” or “St. Anthony's
Cross.” This form of cross is very important to the early Christians. Some
people say that it is due to the way blood was put on the Israelites
doorposts (blood dripping down from the lamb). Other People say that it is
due to the shape of the cross that Moses used to cure all those with
snakebites. These crosses are generally
used to crucify convicts that committed heinous acts. Crucifixion can be seen as the worst of all
medieval torture, only the “scum of the Earth” were thought to merit
crucified; however, many rulers used the cross as a way to put down any
annoyances or rebellions, as with the crucifixion of Jesus. Sources:
Crucifixion
in Antiquity - The Jewish Roman World of Jesus - James Tabor
crucifixion: Definition and Much More From
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