The difference between a cross and a crucifix

Crucifix = a cross with a corpus, is a symbol used by Catholics. The name is derived from the Latin word Cruci, which means “attached to a cross”. Thus, it refers to an image of Jesus attached to a cross, which is different from an ordinary cross.

Most crucifixes contain the sign INRI at the top. INRI is the Latin abbreviation for “Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum” or: Jesus of Nazarene, king of the Jews. The cross is a symbol of Christianity. But there are 35,000 Christian denominations in the world. Most of the time, Protestants do not have the body of Christ on the cross. Because Christ has risen from the dead, He is no longer hanging on the cross. In Roman times, the cross was an instrument of torture and public humiliation. Today, the cross has been adopted as a symbol of the ultimate sacrifice. It evokes the death of Jesus and more importantly: His resurrection.

Catholics understand that both are a symbol of faith and remind us of Jesus’ great sacrifice for us.