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their faith. This supposedly happened because of the conversion of a Roman emperor known as Constantine. After his conversion, Constantine outlawed crucifixions. Thus, the cross was eventually integrated into Christianity.

As for the other religions that used the cross, my favorite is the Egyptian religion. The Egyptian cross is actually a hieroglyphic symbol that roughly translated means life. The Egyptian cross is also known as the Ankh. It may have been used to symbolize the goddess Isis or other deities. No one is really certain. The cross may have also been used by early pagans to symbolize the four cardinal points (Air, Fire, Water; Earth).

Another deity that has ties to the cross is the Norse god Thor. Thor's cross is actually an upside down hammer that is in the shape of a cross (no known Christian relation). And do you know what else symbolizes Thor? A certain day of the week that we like to call Thursday.

As you can see, time changes the meaning of all things including symbols. What was evil in the past, may be seen as benevolent in the future or vice versa. So the next time you see a symbol and automatically think it's heinous, do some research. You might be surprised.

References:

http://ww w.reference.com/enc?q=swastica&search=search

http://www.refere nce.com/enc?q=pentagram&search=search

http://www.refere nce.com/browse/columbia/cross

Learn more about this author, Aaron Conor.
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