Religious - Symbology - Part 1

Religion is full of symbols. Most people realize this, but some don't realize to what extent. Even actual events or people and their acts can be symbolic. The stories of creation found throughout the world are a great example. First they symbolize our creation by a supreme being and second they usually contain elements about how we should live our life. Creation stories are found in almost every culture throughout the world.

The Christian world believes in the symbolism of Jesus Christ. As I said, symbols do not have to be made up and can be based on real events. Christ's role as an example, teacher, neighbor and most importantly a Savior are import teaching tools to bring us happiness. While Christians consider the events to be real, the real power is in their ability to teach us how to be better and to give us hope.

We come to Christ through Baptism, which is symbolic of burying our old sinful life and rising anew in Christ. This event is then celebrated through the Sacrament or Eucharist. In the LDS tradition, we partake of the Sacrament almost every week. It sometimes goes un-noticed the symbolism of the event because we see it every week. The body and blood (water) of Christ are prepared as though for burial. We are passed the emblems of his body and blood symbolic of the gift of salvation he has given to us. But even more symbolic is that it is given to us, we do not take it of ourselves. We renew our promises made at baptism and lay or "sacrifice" our sins symbolically upon the altar of the sacrament. They are covered and buried with Christ, symbolizing Christ taking upon himself our sins.

Religious symbols are a part of everyday life, but maybe none so consuming as the symbolism of the LDS temple. Part 2 will discuss this often misunderstood symbol of the LDS faith.