Orthodox Cross

    The Orthodox cross is distinguished by having three horizontal bars crossing the vertical bar. The upper bar represents the location of the inscription placed over Jesus' head as he hung on the cross. The lower bar, which is slanted, indicates the foot rest for Jesus' feet. The slant of the bar represents the two thieves who were crucified, one on either side of Jesus. The higher side of the bar represents the thief who expressed his faith in Christ while the lower represents the thief who mocked Jesus.