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| Chapter LV.—Symbols of the cross.
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Chapter LV.—Symbols of the cross.
But in no instance, not even in any of
those called sons of Jupiter, did they imitate the being crucified; for
it was not understood by them, all the things said of it having been put
symbolically. And this, as the prophet foretold, is the greatest symbol
of His power and role; as is also proved by the things which fall under
our observation. For consider all the things in the world, whether
without this form they could be administered or have any community. For
the sea is not traversed except that trophy which is called a sail abide
safe in the ship; and the earth is not ploughed without it: diggers and
mechanics do not their work, except with tools which have this shape. And
the human form differs from that of the irrational animals in nothing
else than in its being erect and having the hands extended, and having on
the face extending from the forehead what is called the nose, through
which there is respiration for the living creature; and this shows no
other form than that of the cross. And so it was said by the prophet,
“The breath before our face is the Lord Christ.”1885
And the power of this form is shown
by your own symbols on what are called “vexilla” [banners]
and
trophies, with which all your state possessions are
made, using these as the insignia of your power and government, even
though you do so unwittingly.1886
| 1886 [The Orientals delight in such refinements, but the
“scandal of the cross” led the early Christians thus to
retort upon the heathen; and the Labarum may have been the fruit
of this very suggestion.] | And with this form you consecrate
the images of your emperors when they die, and you name them gods by
inscriptions. Since, therefore, we have urged you both by reason and by
an evident form, and to the utmost of our ability, we know that now we
are blameless even though you disbelieve; for our part is done and
finished.E.C.F. INDEX & SEARCH
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