Why an Orthodox cross with an oblique crossbar at the bottom?
Have you noticed that Orthodox crosses have an oblique crossbar at the bottom? I’ll tell you what it means.
But first, it should be clarified that in Russia (and among Eastern Christians in general) the most common is the eight-pointed cross (now it is called the “Russian Orthodox cross”) with a small and large horizontal crossbars at the top and a lower one running obliquely.
And a six-pointed cross (“Russian cross”), devoid of the uppermost bar.
There are as many as three versions of the origin of the oblique lower crossbar.
Historical version
The description of the eight-pointed cross in 130-240 AD is found in such ancient church writers as Justin the Philosopher, Irenaeus of Lyons, and Tertullian. Such long-standing descriptions allow us to assert that this cross is historically reliable. Later, in the 1700s, such a cross was also described by Bishop Dimitry of Rostov, pointing out that there was no sacral idea of the oblique lower plank: the feet of the crucified person were simply slightly rested on it, and then nailed to the cross. The reliance on the inclined bar was only partial: such manipulation prevented traumatic separation of the arms from the torso (which could well occur if the body of the crucified person was heavy) or strangulation due to an unnatural posture, and could also prolong the torment for several days.
Soteriological (theological) version
In prayer hymns, in particular in the “troparia of the ninth hour”, which are read on days not dedicated to any saint, the meaning of the presence of an “oblique” crossbar on the cross is symbolically revealed. Here it is worth paying attention to the location (orientation) of the inclined plank. It is believed that the upper part of this element indicates the thief crucified at the right hand of Jesus, and the lower part is directed to the left, to the other thief.
In the troparion it is said that the cross here symbolizes the scales of justice: the criminal to whom the lower edge of the board points (Gestas or “the Madman”) was far from God, blasphemed him, while the second thief (Dismas or “the Discreet”), to whom the upper part of the crossbar points out, believed and found salvation because of the forgiveness of the sins committed. The symbolism in this theological work also hints at the fate of all people in the world, that is, those who accept Christ are saved by God, the rest must perish.
Sacrificial version
This variant suggests a sacred connection with human sacrifice. The description is in the Old Testament, in the Second Book of Chronicles. It describes the temple in Jerusalem from the point of view of King Solomon: at the foot of the throne, made entirely of ivory and pure gold, to which six steps lead, stood several priests and were engaged in offering sacrifices.
This Old Testament meaning shows that Jesus is not only the High Priest, but also the sacrificial Lamb who is killed for the sins of the people of the world. This means that the lower crossbar may symbolize the foot of the Altar from the New Testament.
Interesting Facts About the Cross
According to historical sources, the pillar (“trunk” or stips) of the cross was made of cypress wood, the long transverse board (“patibulum”) was made of pine (resinous peug), and the lower plank, also known as the “foot”, was made of cedar.
It is noteworthy that history does not tell what exactly the lower bar looked like, and what specific slope it had. Presumably, the oblique crossbar was nailed “by eye”, randomly, which did not prevent this board from acquiring the greatest religious and symbolic significance.