Ethiopian Orthodox Processional Cross -- Ornate Metalwork HD Wallpaper

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The Ethiopian Orthodox processional cross is one of the most distinctive and beautiful forms of the Christian cross in the world -- and this detailed HD wallpaper captures one in all its intricate glory: a lattice of golden metalwork so complex and fine that it resembles lacework, mounted on its processional staff with colorful tassels at the base, photographed against dark velvet to reveal every exquisite detail. Ethiopia is home to one of the world's oldest Christian communities. According to the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 8), a high official of the Ethiopian queen was among the first Gentiles baptized by Philip the Evangelist -- making Ethiopian Christianity traceable to the very generation of the apostles. The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (Tewahedo means "made one" -- referring to the unity of Christ's divine and human natures) has maintained continuous Christian practice since the 4th century CE, when King Ezana of the Aksumite Empire declared Christianity the state religion -- making Ethiopia one of the first nations in history to officially adopt Christianity. The processional cross (Mequamia in Amharic) is a central element of Ethiopian Orthodox worship. Priests carry them in liturgical processions and they are also used in personal blessing -- a worshipper will hold the base of the cross to their forehead to receive blessing from the priest. The intricate lattice patterns are distinctive to the Ethiopian tradition and may have origins in pre-Christian metalworking traditions that were baptized into Christian service. This beautiful Ethiopian cross HD wallpaper celebrates one of Christianity's oldest and richest traditions. Free download.

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