Question 1

What does "Cross" mean in the King James Bible?

Accepted Answer

In the KJV, "Cross" means "religious symbol." The horror. For a first-century audience, 'take up your cross' was as shocking as 'sit in your own electric chair.' The cross was not a religious symbol but a state execution device designed to kill as slowly and publicly as possible. Paul 'glorying in the cross' was as provocative as glorying in a gallows. The sanitization of the cross removes the scandal.

Question 2

Why did the word "Cross" disappear from modern English?

Accepted Answer

Greek stauros ('execution stake/instrument of the most shameful death Rome could inflict/symbol of state terrorism against rebels') transformed from the most horrifying image in the ancient world into jewelry and decoration. The word was at peak usage around 1611 and declined by still used but jewelry-ized (~1800).

Question 3

What modern word replaced "Cross"?

Accepted Answer

"Cross" was replaced by: "necklace charm" (though this fashion accessory; the cross was the electric chair of the roman world); "religious symbol" (though this identity marker; the cross was an instrument of execution designed for maximum public humiliation); "difficulty" (though this 'my cross to bear' as everyday inconvenience; carrying your cross meant walking to your own execution).

What Does “Cross” Mean in the Bible?

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