Within Christianity Essays

Within Christianity Essays Within Christianity Essay Within Christianity Essay Within Christianity there are a wide range of symbols which represent what is believed. Christian buildings are themselves symbolic, as are the things inside of them. Similarly, Christians use colour and music for different occasions to symbolise different things. All of these aspects of Christianity can be different in size and style (modern or traditional) depending on which denomination is being represented.In terms of Christian buildings, the architecture and design is often symbolic. There are three main types of buildings; cathedrals, orthodox churches and free churches. Cathedrals are usually large and this demonstrates their importance. They were historically built at the centre of the community to represent Gods kingship on Earth. Inside cathedrals and parish churches, the altar is the focus of attention as this is where the main act of worship takes place. Methodist churches often have smaller altars than other denominations. The lectern is where the word of God is spoken and it can be in the shape of an eagle which symbolises the spreading of Gods words. Orthodox churches are often built in the shape of a cross which represents the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ.The large dome on the top of the church symbolises Christs presence, eternity and the nearness of heaven. Inside, orthodox churches are often richly decorated with carvings that represent the life of Christ. Free churches, on the other hand, are where Baptist meet and these meetings happen in simple halls where the pulpit is the focus of attention. The pulpit is slightly raised which makes worshipers look up to hear the word of God, thereby symbolising the importance of preaching from the bible. The font is usually near the entrance of the church and symbolises people entering the Christian faith. It is where people are baptised with water and water symbolises the washing away of original sin as well as cleansing and replenishing.Inside orthodox churches, there are often a range of icons, statues and stained glass windows all of which are symbolic. Icons are paintings (mostly of saints) and are often greeted by worshippers with a kiss on entering the building. They are used to represent the presence of saints and as a means to pray. Inside large cathedrals and churches, there are often colourful murals or frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows depicting biblical stories. For centuries the finest work of leading artists was made for churches all to offer to God the highest expression of worship (ie the artists hard labour) and to create a sense of awe and wonder. Candles symbolise God making light on the first day and smoke which goes up to heaven. The hassock symbolises respect and a humble approach to God through kneeling. Doves are symbols of peace, purity and reconciliation.Similarly, Christians use colour and music for different occasions to symbolise different things. Yellow and gold represent birth and joy and as such are associa ted with Christmas, the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. At Christmas, the star symbolises guidance which remind us of the three wise men. Black represents death and is associated with funerals. Red represents blood and at Holy Communion, bread and wine symbolise the body and blood of Christ. White is associated purity and along with lilies and is associated with weddings and Easter.Church music is also symbolic in Christianity as it is used to praise God and to express belief. Mozart, Bach, Beethoven and similar great composers wrote music for worship. Hymns have been part of Christian worship for many centuries and the words are often taken from passages of scripture. In protestant churches, choirs have an important role in giving leadership to singing. In Christianity, there are many different types of musical instruments that are used in worship form organs to brass instruments and guitars. The music used in Christian worship can be solemn and dignified or loud and lively depending upon the type of church and the occasion. The type of instrument and mood of music is often symbolic of celebration or sadness.Symbolism plays a vital part in religious expression. Christian beliefs are commonly expressed through worship in ritual form (for example baptism) and that is also a kind of symbolism. In Christianity, ICTHUS is an old symbol, it symbolises Jesus (I), Christ(C), Gold (H), Son (TH), Saviour (US). Similarly,Alpha Omega symbolises Jesus being everlasting and reminds Christians of Jesus presence at the beginning of time.