The Meaning of Religious Stained Glass Icons
Many different symbols may be found in various parts of a church stained glass window. This is quite typical in religious stained glass. Iconography was frequently used to tell vital stories to congregations of churches. A cross, for example, has a very clear significance. However, there are times when icons don’t have as obvious a meaning. Here are some of our favorite religious stained glass symbols and what they mean.
Church Stained Glass Iconography
- A Dove: The dove symbolizes the Holy Spirit because it is associated with peace, which comes from God.
- A Dove and Rainbow: The dove and the rainbow are symbols for endings, so they represent forgiveness.
- A Chalice with Grapes: This is the most popular symbol for Holy Communion.
- A Lamb: Since becoming the sacrificial lamb and the Lamb of God, which is depicted resting on the Book of Seven Seals in Revelation, it has been used as a symbol of Jesus Christ..
- Messianic Rose: The Messianic Rose is a well-known Christian sign that symbolizes the promised Messiah. The desert will blossom as the rose at the advent of God’s kingdom of justice, according to the prophet Isaiah (43:18).
- The Lion: The lion is a symbol of the tribe of Judah, which includes characteristics such as power, valor, and benevolence.
- Fish: The Greek fish is a Christian symbol that refers to Jesus Christ, the Son of God. It comes from being a covert sign in days gone by when it was dangerous to be a Christian.
- Anchor: This is one of the oldest representations of Jesus Christ, dating from the catacombs.
- Dragon: The dragon is a representation of Satan. It’s also a symbol of sin.
- Leaf and Acorn: The acorn is a rare heraldic device. It represents the maturation of faith from tiny to robust, like that of a seed to as big as a tree.
- Butterfly: It’s a lovely emblem that denotes rebirth and everlasting life.
To learn more about the lovely meaning behind your church’s stained glass, contact us today!
