Maltese Cross Meaning Firefighter

While it s not really there for aesthetic appeal this emblem has a very rich history and it symbolized an elite group of people that have dedicated their lives to serve their everyone in need.

Maltese cross meaning firefighter. The maltese cross has 8 points. The roots of the maltese cross symbol lie in the crusader crosses. John in 1126 stylistically owes its origins to the crosses used in the crusades when it was identified as the symbol of the christian warrior. The history of the maltese cross symbol how it came to be used in the firefighter emblem although the use of the maltese cross was popularized in the 16 th century during the rule of the knights hospitallers it dates as far back as the early 11 th century.

For the eight points and the meanings given is not so straight forward. Maltese crosses are usually black and white or red and white. The maltese cross is a symbol of protection. It is not to be confused with the iron cross which resembles it in some regards.

The maltese cross is the very familiar red center circle. Firefighters wear badges that also bear the shape of the maltese cross. The maltese cross is a starlike symbol formed by four v shapes with their tips joined together. This cross is almost universally used as the symbol of firefighters around the world.

Almost any fire apparatus you see today has a maltese cross on it. It is symmetrical both vertically and horizontally giving it an overall similar shape to the greek cross. The maltese cross it is universally agreed that the four arms of the cross stand for the four cardinal virtues namely. Prudence temperance justice and fortitude.

So in this article we re going to do a deep dive into what the cross is what it symbolizes and how it s actually used. Although it may have eight or more points it also has large curved arcs between the points. Its eight points denote the eight obligations or aspirations of the knights namely to live in truth have faith repent one s sins give proof of humility love justice be merciful be sincere and whole hearted and to endure persecution. The firefighter s cross sometimes mistakenly called the cross of saint florian for the patron saint of firefighters is often confused with the maltese cross for example the new york city fire department so calls it.

The maltese cross firefighters if you take a look at almost any fire apparatus today you re likely to see the maltese cross. The maltese cross is a badge of honor signifying that he works in courage a ladders rung away from death. The maltese cross symbolism consists of an eight pointed cross that has been around for quite a long time. Originally it was worn by maltese knights who used it as their special military badge.

It means that the firefighter that wears it is willing to protect and lay down his own life for the safety of his brother just as the crusaders did centuries ago. Symbolism of the firefighter emblem maltese florian cross the firefighter cross is a symbol of honor valor courage and integrity.