Sarcophagi Flashcards
What are the Sarcophagi?
large stone coffins often carved with scenes from the suffering and death of Jesus showing a belief in the resurrection and hope of an eternal life with God
What does the crown of throns on the sarcophagi represent?
•The crown of thorns reminds Catholics of the suffering Jesus had to endure as he was given “a crown of thorns” as stated by the gospels and mocked by being called “king of the Jews”
•it symbolises the pain of sacrifice of Jesus emphasising that through his sacrifice humanity can find redemption and salvation
•However, the crown is covered in jewels instead of thorns to emphasise that Jesus resurrected and that he holds true kingship
What does the Chi-Ro on the sarcophagi represent?
•this is a Christian symbol made of the first two letters of the Greek word for Christ
•this represents the belief that Jesus is Christ, the anointed one and it is an ancient symbol reminding Catholics of the resurrection and salvation through Christ
•e.g. The gospels say he is risen
How do the features on the Sarcophagi influence a Catholic’s Life?
•Catholics will look at the cravings on the sarcophagi and this will give them hope of an eternal life with God after death.
•The will try to follow the teachings of Jesus to ensure they have a positive judgement and their souls will enter heaven
