As believers, we tend to relate so much with the cross of Jesus. We know that Jesus accepted to be crucified on the cross for the sake of our sins (Mark 15:21-41). However, most of us don’t figure out the size of the cross that Jesus was crucified with. So, what was the size of Jesus’ cross?
The Bible does not tell us the exact size of Jesus’ cross. We only learn about the size of Jesus’ cross through the ancient study of how the cross in ancient Greek looked and thereby drew a similarity to that of Jesus. Theologians who have studied the size of Jesus’ cross record that it measured approximately 3.5 meters long and six inches wide.
So, what were the dimensions of Jesus’ cross? What was the weight of Jesus’ cross? What was the shape of Jesus’ cross? Was Jesus’ cross heavier than the others? Was Jesus’ cross heavy? What kind of wood was used to make Jesus’ cross? Keep reading to learn more.
What were the dimensions of Jesus’ cross?
There are no specific known measurements to determine the exact dimensions of Jesus’ cross. But we can follow through various works of renowned architects and scholarly works on the dimensions of Jesus’ cross. These dimensions include the height and width of the cross;
Height
Charles Rohault de Fleury (1870), a French architect, recorded all the known fragments of the true cross of Jesus. He determined that the cross of Jesus measured approximately three or four meters.
Additionally, other scholars suggest that the height of the cross of Jesus is approximately 4.8 meters long. Generally, there are no specific figures of the exact height of the cross of Jesus.
The main Christian lesson we learn is that the height of Jesus stretches us through to the Kingdom of God. It doesn’t matter how high or far Heaven is; trusting in Jesus and following His teachings, we are assured of getting to Heaven, our eternal home.
Width
Further, Charles Rohault de Fleury, supported by a documentary of proof from Byzantine emperors, suggests that the cross of Jesus had a cross beam that measured about two meters in width.
Other scholars suggest that the dimensions of the cross range from a single foot long by a foot and a half wide at the base. Others imply the cross of Jesus to be about 13.8 meters in width.
Jesus’ arm literally stretches wide on the cross, displaying His love and mercy. His love is for everyone ready to follow His teaching and be His believers.
What was the weight of Jesus’ cross?
There are no exact figures on the weight of the cross of Jesus. Therefore, we cannot clearly say how much weight the cross of Jesus was. However, the weight of the cross is estimated to be over 100 kilograms, while the crossbar is around 32 kilograms.
Jesus’ cross is believed to have been made from wood. In the gospel of Mark 15:21, we are informed that Simon of Cyrene helped Jesus to carry the cross. It depicts that the cross was heavy.
What was the shape of Jesus’ cross?
The scriptures do not talk about the shape of the cross of Jesus. However, theologians have argued that we can define the shape of the cross of Jesus by looking at the life of the ancient people in Greek.
Gerrhard Kittel suggests that we find three basic forms in the shape of the cross of Jesus. The cross was a vertical, pointed stake consisting of an upright pole with a cross above it or two intersecting beams of equal length.
Was Jesus’ cross heavier than the others?
No comparisons are made regarding the actual weight of the cross of Jesus with others in the scriptures. However, the weight of Jesus has been found in the similarity of the other crosses in ancient times.
However, based on spiritual thoughts in the Bible, one can depict that Jesus’ cross was the heaviest ever among others. It is because Jesus accepted to be crucified not because of His fault but for the sake of the sins of the world so as o reconcile us with God. No one has ever sacrificed His life as much as Jesus to bear a heavy cross more than Jesus’ cross.
Was Jesus’ cross heavy?
Through the Biblical passage on the accounts of the crucifixion of Jesus, we learn that Jesus’ cross was heavy to the point that Simon of Cyrene volunteered to help Jesus carry His cross.
Moreover, the catholic catechism on the accounts of the way of the cross suggests that Jesus fell down three times with the cross. This literally means that though Jesus carried the cross, it was hey for Him, but He willingly accepted to carry it all along.
What kind of wood was used to make Jesus’ cross?
The Bible does not talk about the type of wood that was used to make Jesus’ cross. However, e can depict the type of material by reading from the different theologians who have tried to unmask the ideal type of wood from which the cross of Jesus was made.
Several theologians say that the wood from the foot of the cross was made from Cedar, and the palm held back the hands. The tall cypress holds the body while the inscription was written on a piece of olive.
References
What was the size of Jesus’ cross?
Wood used to make Jesus’ cross.
What was the shape of Jesus’ cross?
Was Jesus’ cross heavier than the others?
What was the weight of Jesus’ cross?
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
