SYMBOLISM OF FURNISHING IN HOLY BUILDINGS?

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GCSE RELIGIOUS STUDIES B (Philosophy and Ethics) 1931

Candidate Name: DOMINIC BAMBER

Topic 2 The Nature of Belief

(b) Explain some of the different symbols used in Christianity.        [21]

Within in Christianity there are a wide range of symbols which vary in size whether modern, traditional, denomination. They all symbolise different teachings, events and points within Christianity.

In terms of Christian buildings, the architecture and design is often symbolic. There are four main types of buildings; Roman Catholic, Church of England, Orthodox churches and free churches. Roman Catholic and Church of England churches are usually large and this demonstrated their importance. They were built at the centre of the community to represent god’s kingship on earth. Where as Orthodox churches are often in the shape of a cross, with a dome symbolising Christ’s presence, eternity and nearness of heaven.

Inside Roman Catholic churches and parish churches the altar is the focus of attention, as it’s where the main act of worship takes place. The altar which symbolises sacrifice, as it’s where the bread and wine is consecrated into the body and blood of Jesus Christ who died on the cross to save the world from sin.

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The nave symbolizes the congregation as fish, as Jesus who said ‘’follow me and I will make you fishers of men’’ when he fed the hungry. The pulpit is slightly raised making you look up, symbolising looking up to hear the word of god, it also often has an eagle on it symbolising the word of god being spread around the world.

The font which is where you are baptised, this symbolises the washing away of orinal sin, cleansing and replenishing you. Meaning you are therefore part of the Christian community.

Candles symbolise god making light on the first day. ...

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