Spiritual Symbolism Hidden in Stained Glass

stained glassSource: Psychics Universe

If you have ever visited a church or cathedral, chances are you marveled at a few treasured stained glass windows.

When hit by the light in a certain way, they suddenly come alive, like precious sparkling jewels capturing your imagination and taking your breath away.

But did you know there is a great degree of spiritual symbolism hidden behind those multicolored shards?

Stained Glass and the Early Church

Although colored glass has been in production since ancient Egypt, we most commonly associate it with the Medieval Christian church. Many churches and cathedrals throughout Europe portrayed scenes from the Bible in stained glass.

In fact, the term “Poor Man’s Bible,” has come to mean stained glass depictions and other artwork contained within these early churches.

They were largely created to illustrate Biblical teachings to a mostly illiterate population. Only the rich and the clergy knew how to read and write during this period.

Color Symbolism Hidden Within

Aside from religious teachings contained with colored segments of glass, there is also hidden color symbolism. The next time you view an exquisite cathedral window, keep in mind these color meanings.

Red denotes courage and self-sacrifice. Many martyrs are depicted in red or surrounded by this color.

Blue is often used to represent heaven or eternity. It is also the color of meditation, contemplation and loyalty. The Virgin Mary is usually clothed in blue.

Green is the color of new beginnings and youth. It also symbolizes hope and victory, overcoming ignorance and indifference.

Gold is a symbol of God, divinity and the treasures of heaven. It means spiritual achievement and all that is good. Halos are gold for this reason.

White is used to portray innocence, joy, purity, faith and piousness.

Violet or purple is the union of wisdom and love. It is the color of royalty, but also justice. Glassmakers would also use dark purple in place of black to mean negativity, death and mourning.

When combined with white it symbolizes humility and purity.

Other Symbolism

Another hidden symbol (actually hiding in plain sight) is the light itself. When it hits the glass it reminds us of our inner light. Our spirits and auras are much like that magnificent window. Inspirational and glowing!

Finally, the fragile nature of glass reminds us of life. It too, is very fragile and precious. We must do the utmost to care for it.

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