Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

The Non-Christian Cross An Enquiry into the Origin and History of the Symbol Eventually Adopted as That of Our Religion   By:

Book cover

In "The Non-Christian Cross: An Enquiry into the Origin and History of the Symbol Eventually Adopted as That of Our Religion," John Denham Parsons takes readers on a fascinating journey through the history and symbolism of the cross. This thought-provoking book challenges conventional assumptions and sheds light on an often overlooked aspect of Christianity.

Parsons begins by delving into the origins of the cross symbol, tracing it back to various ancient civilizations and religious practices predating Christianity. Drawing on extensive research and historical evidence, the author explores the cross's evolution from a universal symbol of life, fertility, and divine protection to its later adoption by different cultures and religions.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Parsons' ability to present complex information in a clear and accessible manner. He skillfully weaves together historical accounts, archaeological findings, and religious texts to paint a comprehensive picture of how the cross became intertwined with Christianity. Parsons examines the cross's significance in different cultures, from the Egyptian ankh to the Indian swastika, challenging readers to reimagine their understanding of this iconic symbol.

Furthermore, Parsons tackles the controversial topic of the cross's association with Jesus Christ, offering alternative interpretations and inviting readers to question established narratives. He addresses the historical context surrounding the adoption of the cross as a Christian symbol and explores how it became an integral part of the faith. This thorough exploration encourages readers to engage critically with their beliefs and the historical foundation of their religion.

While the topic of "The Non-Christian Cross" may seem niche, the book has broader implications for religious studies and the understanding of symbols in general. Parsons provides a compelling argument that challenges readers to reexamine the cross as a symbol beyond its Christian connotations. By doing so, he prompts a deeper exploration of the interplay between ancient religious practices, cultural appropriation, and the evolution of symbols throughout history.

However, one critique of the book is the occasional use of unnecessarily technical language, which may alienate readers without an academic background in religious studies or history. Although Parsons does an admirable job of explaining complex concepts, moments of overly scholarly language may hinder the book's accessibility to a broader audience.

Overall, "The Non-Christian Cross" is an engrossing and thought-provoking read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the origins and history of the cross symbol. John Denham Parsons presents a well-researched and compelling argument that challenges preconceived notions, shedding light on a fascinating aspect of religious symbolism. By grappling with its historical and cultural significance, this book invites readers to reevaluate their understanding of the cross, encouraging a more nuanced approach to religious symbols and their interpretations.

First Page:

THE NON CHRISTIAN CROSS An Enquiry Into The Origin And History Of The Symbol Eventually Adopted As That Of Our Religion

BY JOHN DENHAM PARSONS

LONDON

1896

"O CRUX, SPLENDIDIOR CUNCTIS ASTRIS, MUNDO CELEBRIS, HOMINIBUS MULTUM AMABILIS, SANCTIOR UNIVERSIS." [ BREVIARIUM ROMANUM, Festival of the Invention of the Holy Cross.

PREFACE.

The history of the symbol of the cross has had an attraction for the author ever since, as an enquiring youth, he found himself unable to obtain satisfactory answers to four questions concerning the same which presented themselves to his mind.

The first of those questions was why John the Baptist, who was beheaded before Jesus was executed, and so far as we are told never had anything to do with a cross, is represented in our religious pictures as holding a cross.

The second question was whether this curious but perhaps in itself easily explained practice had in its inception any connection with the non Mosaic initiatory rite of baptism; which Jesus accepted as a matter of course at the hands of his cousin John, and in which the sign of the cross has for ages been the all important feature. And it was the wonder whether there was or was not some association between the facts that the New Testament writers give no explanation whatever of the origin of baptism as an initiatory rite, that this non Mosaic initiatory rite was in use among Sun God worshippers long before our era, and that the Fathers admitted that the followers of the Persian conception of the Sun God marked their initiates upon the forehead like the followers of the Christ, which finally induced the author to start a systematic enquiry into the history of the cross as a symbol... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books