The Meaning of Ashes and Ash Wednesday
Catholic Christian symbolism in art provides a clear graphic illustration which represents people or items of religious significance. What is the definition and the meaning of the Ashes as a Christian Symbol? To cover the head with ashes was a token of self-abhorrence and humiliation (2 Sam. 13:19; Esther 4:3; Jer. 6:26, etc.). This first day of Lent is called Ash Wednesday. The Roman Catholic Church remembers Ash Wednesday by having ashes placed on a person’s forehead by a priest. While placing the ashes, he says “Remember, O man, that you are dust and to dust you shall return.”
Christian Symbolism
The definition and the meaning of the Christian Symbol or Icon in early religious art forms. A Catholic sign or icon, such as the Ashes, is an object, character, figure, or color used to represent abstract ideas or concepts - a picture that represents an idea. A religious icon, such as the Ashes, is an image or symbolic representation with sacred significance. The meanings, origins and ancient traditions surrounding Christian symbols date back to early times when the majority of ordinary people were not able to read or write and printing was unknown. Many were 'borrowed' or drawn from early pre-Christian traditions.
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