Meaning of Jerusalem Cross Tattoos

This cross makes up the official emblem of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre. It is believed that it was originally developed for the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. It is also called the "crusaders' cross" because it was used by crusaders on their way to the Holy Land.

There are some commonly used interpretations:

Five Wounds of Christ:  One of the interpretations of the Jerusalem Cross is that it is a representation of the five wounds of Christ. The smaller crosses would be the wounds on Jesus' hands and feet, and the larger one, the wound opened by the spear.

Teaching: It is seen as a symbol of combining the teachings of the Old Testament (Tau crosses) and those of the New Testament (Greek crosses)

Evangelism: Spreading the gospel throughout the world. A mission that started in Jerusalem.

Four Gospels: It represents the authors of the Gospels who helped spread the word of Jesus to the four corners of the world.

Beatitudes: Sign of commitment to the way Jesus Christ taught how to reach the kingdom of heaven.

Meaning of Jerusalem Cross Tattoo:

  • Faith
  • Christ
  • Jesus' Connection to the Holy Land
  • Four Gospels
  • God's sacrifice for man
  • Evangelism
  • Teaching
  • Wounds of Christ
  • Beatitudes
  • Kingdom of Heaven

Here are some images of Jerusalem Cross tattoos:

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