"ICXC" is a Christian symbol that represents the name of Jesus Christ. It is an abbreviation derived from the Greek language, specifically from the first and last letters of the Greek names for Jesus Christ. Here’s a breakdown of what "ICXC" stands for:
- I (Ι): This letter represents "Ιησούς" (Iesous), which is the Greek name for Jesus.
- C (Χ): This letter represents "Χριστός" (Christos), which means "Christ" or "the Anointed One" in Greek.
The letters are often used in Christian iconography, particularly in Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic traditions, and are typically seen in icons, church decorations, and liturgical texts. The "IC" stands for "Jesus," while the "XC" stands for "Christ."
This abbreviation is part of a broader tradition of creating "Christograms" or monograms for Christ, similar to other symbols like the Chi-Rho (☧), which combines the first two letters of Christ in Greek (Χ and Ρ).
In addition to its theological significance, the use of "ICXC" also conveys a sense of reverence and holiness, serving as a reminder of the central figure of the Christian faith.