Alphabet Advent - X is for
Xριστός or ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ – Christos in Greek
In Greek the letter CHI (X) starts the name of Christ. The X has been incorporated into symbols of Christ since early Christianity.
Labarum or Chi-Rio
The Chi-Rio was used by Constantine as a military standard in the early fourth century. The symbol is composed of the first two letter of Christ in Greek.
Coin of Magnentius with large Chi-Rho at ecliptic angles and including the Alpha and Omega.
IX Monogram
This symbol is formed from the initials of Jesus Christ in Greek: IHCOYC XPICTOC. It is found on sarcophaguses as early as the end of the third century.
What joy! I've always thought that Xmas was an abbreviation that removed Christ from Christmas. Now I know it is a valid abbreviation that includes Christ. I am grateful for the time you have spent gathering these insightful bits of information. I have thoroughly enjoyed your alphabet advent posts.
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