The cross is worn during the sacrament of baptism and is worn on the body throughout one’s life. But what about incense? Isn’t it a response to ancient paganism? Often Orthodox Christians have a question: is it possible to wear both symbols together?
The cross as a reminder of the great sacrifice
This is not a simple decoration, but a symbol of faith and a means of protection from unclean thoughts. When we look at him, we remember how Christ conquered death and granted salvation to believers. Its amazing properties have been repeatedly noted; it is capable of protecting with Divine grace.
There can only be one cross; it is not a piece of jewelry; it is worn under clothing so that no one can see it. It doesn’t matter what exactly it hangs on: a chain, a ribbon or a rope.
Is it necessary to wear a cross?
The tradition is many centuries old, but there are no strict responsibilities, only recommendations. Religion is bound by certain rituals, and many sacraments prescribe rules for wearing during their performance. Therefore, it is quite strange to show self-will and come to church without a blessed cross.
If you lose it, you need to go to the priest in church, you will need to take communion, buy a new cross and be sure to consecrate it.
Nothing can replace the cross; it is the symbol of the Christian faith. It cannot be passed on to someone else; this is an individual thing that belongs to a specific person. The only possible case is purchasing as a gift for a close relative or future godson.
What is an amulet and should you wear it?
Incense is a special small bag in which incense is most often placed. It is worn around the neck. The custom came from ancient times, when our ancestors sewed objects of pagan worship or earth into similar bags.
Fumigation with incense smoke is ritual in nature and means a prayer that rises to God. It cannot be assumed that he has magical powers.
Nowadays, incense means all kinds of pendants depicting the apostles, holy people, Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the Guardian Angel. They often consist of two halves, and it is convenient to insert a piece of holy land or the relics of saints into them. It is best to wear it on a chain, since the amulet cannot be lowered below the belt.
Men's
Most popular images:
- Christ the Savior;
- Nicholas the Pleasant, he has long been considered the patron saint of travelers, sailors, prisoners and the poor;
- St. George the Victorious, he protects all those whose profession involves risk and courage.
Women's
Without a doubt, the image of the Mother of God is the most popular, because she is the first prayer book for people. All Christians can wear her image. But most of all, she protects women, helping them become mothers and preserve the family hearth.
So which is better to choose?
The priests agree that a thing cannot be a miraculous protection from evil; one should not fall into pagan superstitions. The protection of an Orthodox Christian lies in prayer, humility, mercy and repentance. It is important to go to confession, to share what is tormenting you, thus relieving your soul. A righteous lifestyle will reliably protect you from sin and evil spirits.
Religion preaches modesty and abstinence, so you should definitely refrain from excessive decoration, even if it is related to Christian themes.
The Church and God care about the salvation of the soul, and not about the number of amulets hung on a parishioner’s neck. In essence, incense is reassuring oneself with the knowledge that the saint is always nearby, you need to thank him for every day you live. A pectoral cross is an ancient symbol of faith, a distinctive sign of a Christian who observes the traditions of the church; it can be worn separately or together with an amulet.
The main thing is that you like the product. When choosing, you should carefully study the assortment; a cross or amulet should resonate in the soul with warmth and peace.
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