PASSIONFLOWER SYMBOL

THE PASSION FLOWER VINE and FRUIT HAVE BEEN TREASURED AS A SYMBOL OF THE CRUCIFIXION OF CHRIST.....
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The stigmas
representing the 3 Nails used in the crucifixion.
•
The style
- the sponge used to moisten Christ's lips with
vinegar.
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The five stamens
the color of blood depict the 5
Wounds that Christ received.
•
The 72 corona filaments
, tipped with blood red, were described as
reflecting the traditional number of thorns
in the crown of thorns.
•
The central column
- against which He was scourged.
•
The ten sepals and petals
represent the 10 Apostles (excluded are Judas and Peter).
•
The spiraled tendrils
- the lash of Christ's Scourging
•
The leaves
- the head of the Centurion's Spear.
The under-
side of the leaves were marked with dark spots to represent
the thirty pieces of silver.
•
The round fruit
- The World Christ came to save
The fragrance - The Spices prepared by the
Holy Women
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Even the history of this striking flower is rich with reverence. Called "Espina de Cristo" (Christ's thorns) by Spanish Christian missionaries who first discovered it in South America, each part of the flower holds symbolic meaning in recognition of the crucifixion story - the passion of the Christ. Five sepals and five petals refer to the ten faithful apostles (excluding Judas and Peter). Three stigma represent the three nails that held Christ to the cross, while five anthers represent his five sacred wounds. The tendrils of the flower are said to resemble the whips used in the flagellation, while the filaments, which can number in excess of a hundred depending on the flower, depict the crown of thorns. This powerful symbolism has led to the inclusion of the Passion Flower among the ornamentation of various churches, such as in stained glass window designs, altar frontals and lectern falls.