Nowadays, cross tattoos are popular among both men and women. That is mostly because of their profound and personal meanings, cultural importance, and customizable design. Crosses are popular choices for tattoos as of their global recognition. Long before crosses were a representation of religious symbols, they represented a cruel and inhuman treatment of convicts. They were hanging people on the cross until death was a form of punishment. Despite the fact that they are profoundly rooted in religious connotations, the tattoos of crosses may represent many different things. By integrating some symbols and elements into the design, the cross may represent many things. Such things may be dedication, a memory of loved ones, honor, ascension, life or death, suffering, etc. One cross, which is a beautiful tattoo motif, is the Maltese cross. This cross, also known as “Cross of Promise,” is very popular nowadays. Below, we are going to talk about Maltese cross tattoos, their meanings, and symbolism.
- The history of the Maltese cross.
The Maltese cross is a cross symbol that consists of four “V” or arrowheads. They have the shape of concave quadrilaterals, converging at a central vertex at right angles, two tips pointing outward symmetrically.
This cross is a heraldic cross variant that was developed from earlier forms of eight-pointed crosses during the 16th century. Although chiefly associated with the Knights Hospitaller and by extension with the island of Malta, a wide array of entities started using it. This started in the early modern period. Such entities were notably the Order of Saint Stephen, the Polish Order of the White Eagle, etc.
Unicode defines a character with the name “Maltese cross” in the Dingbats range at code point U+2720. But, they usually rendered the code point as a cross Pattee.
The constitution of the Order of St. John defines the Maltese cross. It actually says that the cross remains the symbol of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Moreover, it remains the symbol of the Order of St. John and its allied orders. Also, it is the symbols of the Venerable Order of St. John, and of their different service organizations.
The eight-pointed cross’ eight points have several symbolic interpretations. For example, it represents the eight Langues of the Knights Hospitaller. Alternatively, it represents the eight obligations or aspirations of the knights. Moreover, the Maltese civil ensign also displays the Maltese cross as part of it. The Maltese euro coins of one and two euro denominations also carry this symbol. It is even the trademark of Air Malta, the national airline of Malta.
- Maltese cross tattoos, meaning, and symbolism.
The Maltese cross or the “Cross of Promise” takes its name from the Malta Supreme Military Order. This is an organization akin to the Red Cross. The eight points of the cross symbolize the eight qualities of a knight. Moreover, they symbolize loyalty, piety, courage, generosity, glory, and honor.
Furthermore, this cross may symbolize contempt for death, reverence for the church, and helpfulness. The Order of the Knight Templars also uses this cross. Also, some countries are giving it the highest medal.
Maltese cross tattoos have vast popularity among tattoo lovers around the world. They may deal with meanings like bravery and courage, as the knights from Malta were wearing it. They used the cross as their military insignia – a badge to represent faith and commitment. Another symbolism that the Maltese cross tattoos are going to have is a virtue.
A lot of civic civilizations adopted this cross. For instance, firefighters often wear Maltese cross tattoos. They do this in order to represent their indomitable spirit and courage in helping their fellow humans.
Every point of the Maltese cross has meaning. Traditional Christianity claims that each point represents the Eight Blessings of Christ, which are the following:
- Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
- Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
- Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
- Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
- Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
- Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
- Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Some of the most common meanings that this cross has among the Knights of Malta are:
- Fearlessness;
- Loyalty;
- Respect;
- Holy devotion;
- Compassion;
- Bravery;
- Humanitarianism, etc.
The eight European states which the cross’ eight points symbolize are Aragon, England, Italy, Germany Auvergne, France, Provence, and Castle.
Nowadays, there are many different variations of the Maltese cross tattoos. However, the choice is yours; you should think well before you choose the right one.
