The tradition of the Church regarding the word crucifix

[Olympiada]

To my understanding, the Orthodox do not use the word crucifix. Am I correct in my supposition?

[Herman Blaydoe]

I have not heard this. I know of Orthodox who do, in fact, use the word, as seen here: Crosses And Crucifixes (http://www.standrewschurchsupply.com/CrossesAndCrucifixes/OrthodoxCrossesCrucifixes.htm).

Since it is not a Russian nor Greek word, so I think it safe to assume that many Orthodox do not use it, but probably use the Russian or Greek equivalent?

[Paul Cowan]

I don't think that is true. We do have Christ on the cross even behind the alter except from Pascha to Pentecost. (or there abouts, I am still learning the dates).

To deny His being on the cross is to deny that part of His life. Many protestants don't think He should be on the cross anymore since He has risen. But to never show him on the cross is to deny He was there.
IMHO

Paul

[Olympiada]

What is the use for the crucifix as opposed to the cross? Does anyone know what a bishop uses a crucifix for? Is a crucifix ever used for a blessing cross?

[John Charmley]

Dear Olympiada,

I had not heard that, and wonder why it would be so. The point that Paul makes is a good one; the Crucifix is the Cross with Our Lord. It certainly is not as ever-present in Orthodox Churches as it is in some Catholic ones, but it would be interesting to know if there was any praxis on this.

In Christ,

John

[Father David Moser]

Is a crucifix ever used for a blessing cross?

Yes, always. I don't think I have a "blessing cross" that is not a crucifix.

However the Orthodox style of crucifix is not always Christ *hanging* on the cross, but rather Christ *standing* on the cross - since He voluntarily ascended the cross for us and for our salvation. Christ on the cross is the symbol of His love for us and of our victory over sin death and the devil. The crucifix is not a sign of our defeat, but rather of our freedom to follow Him. Remember the path to salvation lies through the cross - "If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself, *take up his cross*, and follow Me." The cross is at the center of our own salvation.

Fr David

[Alex Haig]

I remember being told that Christ looks as if He is dancing on the cross (think Greek dancing) - dancing on death.

Ax