Here, the vertical and horizontal lines come
together to create a new symbol—the cross. There are of course countless
different types of cross, a few of which are covered in this section of
the book. Despite any embellishments or devices, however, the basic
meaning of the cross stays the same.
The earliest example of the cross comes from Crete and
dates back to the fifteenth century BC although the sign is much older
than this, ancient beyond proper reckoning. It is an incredibly
versatile and useful sign with many interpretations. As the convergence
of the vertical and horizontal lines, it symbolizes the union of the
material and the spiritual (think of the sign of the cross given by
Catholic priests). As a geometric tool, it has no equal; if you put the
cross inside the circle, then you are able to divide the circle equally.
Similarly, the cross is said to “give birth to” the square.
Because of its four cardinal points, the cross represents the elements and the directions.
In the West the cross equates with the number 4, but
in China, it is associated with the number 5 since the “dot” in the
middle of the cross, where the two arms intersect, is also included.
The cross is sometimes disguised as another symbol,
such as a four-petaled flower. All over the world, the cross is a symbol
of protection.