Crucifix

Abstract

A crucifix is religious symbol, used by Christians, as a reminder of the crucifixion of their deity Jesus Christ. People will wear crucifix jewelry around their neck to show their faith, ward off evil spirits or some people even were them to upset other religious groups. The crucifix symbol can be found on T-shirts, bumper stickers, religious flyers, cartoons, displayed at religious holidays and of course in its real form for extra symbolism. (see Figure 1: Crucifix)

The diversity of Christian belief causes stress in some cultures where Christian zealots have caused harm to others or used religion to persecute others, hence when in the company of others or in other countries, the outward wearing of the crucifix should be avoided.

The Deity and the Symbol

A crucifix is religious symbol, used by Christians, as a reminder of the crucifixion of their deity Jesus Christ. It is believed that this man was a god on earth in human form, whom delivered believers from eternal damnation caused by their sins, some 2000 years ago. The Christians believe a religious group known as Jews put the Christ to death on the cross; hence, there is some tension between the two religions in some sects but not all. Christian zealots have in the past persecuted and indeed waged wars against people around the world for opposing religious beliefs.

Wear the Goods

People will wear crucifix jewelry around their neck to show their faith, ward off evil spirits or some people even wear them to upset other religious groups. Generally, the crucifix is worn only by Christians wanting to give an outward sign to those around them of their deep belief in the Christ deity. Generally, non-Christians resent the exposure to the crucifix believing that it is being thrown in their face. Schools in some countries ban the wearing of crucifixes or any religious symbolism for that matter (wikinews 2005) (hrw.org 2005).

Keep it to yourself

The diversity of Christian belief causes stress in some cultures where Christian zealots have caused harm to others or used religion to persecute others, hence when in the company of others or in other countries, the outward wearing of the crucifix should be avoided.

The meaning and practice of Christianity is very broad and practiced in many different ways by hundreds of sects. The diversity of Christian belief causes stress in some cultures where zealots have harmed other due to religious beliefs. The Holy Wars between the Islamic and Christians alone should impress all to show restraint with religious symbolism in the homeland and abroad. When traveling or moving to foreign countries it is vital that old beliefs and customs not be pushed on the new natives, the results will be anger and resentment.

What I believe

I believe that any outward expression of religious, political, social, and dress beliefs should be kept to oneself in the country or out of the country. I consider bad manners to my opinions on others unless we have gathered to have open discussion as friends. Among foreigners, it is essential to understand that most non-Americans do not like Americans. Most cultures find us arrogant, loud, egocentric, and ignorant. My children have traveled to Europe with their colleges and are told not to wear any items that outwardly show they are Americans or their religious beliefs as it would upset the foreigners.

What I need to keep

I wear no jewelry, non-descript clothing, plain shoes, no facial hair, no perfumes, and no makeup. I would have a problem giving up running, sanitary water, clean clothes, shoes, medications, coffee, deodorant and a bug free environment. I believe I would have no problem being polite and non-offensive but I would miss the comforts we enjoy in America.

Reference:

http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/British_schoolgirl_told_to_return_home_for_wearing_crucifix

http://hrw.org/english/docs/2005/11/16/turkey12038.htm