Several religions currently exist in the world. If you look closely at each one of them, you will realize that they have placed a high value on symbolism by having their respective believers wearing religious jewelry items. Most believers wear jewelry as a way of communicating their faith or communicating a specific divinity-oriented message.
The Christian cross, a direct representation of the crucifixion of Jesus, is the most dominant symbol of Christianity. Cross necklaces have existed since the Christianization of the Roman Empire. However, in modern times, they have been made more aesthetic by several jewelers. Currently, these cross necklaces are popularly worn by many as beautification jewelry pieces. However, this brings in a clash with the primary intention of wearing cross necklaces which exist in the form of rosaries.
Because of this clash, many of us ask, is it bad to wear cross necklaces if you aren’t religious? Read on to find out.
Is wearing a cross necklace disrespectful?
In general, the cross has a personal meaning and relationship with believers of the Christian faith. However, many people who tend to wear the cross for aesthetic reasons do not know what the cross means. Because of this, you may find several people wearing cross necklaces just for the sake of it. Also, you may come across another ignorant group of people who wear cross necklaces for reasons that they cannot account for. These instances may slowly begin to breed disrespect for the Christian faith and the cross symbol as well.
To eliminate any disrespectful instances or encounters, the best thing for you to do is understand whether it is rightful to wear the cross if you aren’t religious. The only way to do this would be to look into the history of the cross and its meaning in our lives.
Once crucifixion was no longer the central source of capital punishment in the Roman Empire, Christians began wearing the cross around their neck.
By doing this, it served as a constant reminder of a significant part of their lives. This is a clear indication that the notion that wearing a cross is equivalent to wearing a miniature death symbol is mere superstition.
Jesus’ crucifixion was part of God’s will. Hence, Christians always wear the cross as a memory of the cleansing of their sins.
So, if you wear the cross for reasons against this, the odds are that you may be disrespecting a great foundation of the Christian faith.
Is it bad to wear a cross necklace if you aren’t religious?
There is the notion that cross necklaces are to be worn by Christians and Catholics just as a symbol that they follow Christ. However, if you do not believe in Jesus, then you may want to avoid wearing them. It is not necessarily any kind of aesthetic for just anyone to claim.
Despite this, whether wearing a cross necklace is bad or not depends on how you want to present yourself to the world and what matches your values as an individual. Part of that presentation substantially involves what you wear, be it clothing or jewelry.
Bearing this in mind, take time and ask yourself whether you are comfortable wearing a jewelry item that strongly identifies with a religious group even if you do not share those beliefs.
You also need to ask yourself why you intend to wear it. Is it to hide who you are to avoid any possible confrontation from those close to you, or are you trying to communicate with a few Christians around you.
Also, analyze whether you respect the beliefs of any religious people affiliated with the cross, that is, Christians.
The answers to these questions help you understand whether you can deal with any ambush from people online, friends, relatives, and other people who strongly believe that the cross is heavily affiliated with belief in Christ only and nothing else.
Tips for wearing a cross if you aren’t religious
The main point here is that you do not have to be a Christian to wear a cross necklace around your neck. However, you should always know that by wearing a cross necklace, you give a hint that you either want to join the Christian faith or you are affiliated with it.
Unfortunately, if you aren’t religious, wearing the cross can be quite offensive to Christians, especially if you are against their faith. Well, most Christians won’t say much about it, but be sure to encounter a few extremists that may give you some trouble with your aesthetic piece.
To avoid any trouble, avoid opposing the Christian belief when wearing the cross symbol, try to conceal it under some kind of clothing, or avoid conversation that may heighten controversies. That way, you can comfortably embrace your fashion jewelry piece.
Conclusion
For every religious symbol, there is a sentimental meaning behind it. While some religious jewelry pieces have become fashion pieces and aesthetic-bound items, it is good to understand their history and their affiliations with religion to avoid any instances of vigorous confrontation and disrespect.
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