Introduction
Christianity has more than 2 billion followers worldwide, with diverse cultures and practices, leaving curious minds with a lot of questions. This article will uncover 10 fascinating facts about Christian beliefs and practices that you never knew before, from their backs to their lifestyle.
The Christian Backs
1. Christian Body Tattooing: Tattoos are not uncommon for Christians, especially in western countries, with many wearing tattoos representing their faith, such as crosses, doves, angels, and verses from the Bible. Though there is no prohibition against tattoos specifically, some conservative believers still consider body tattooing as self-mutilation and a violation of God’s plan for their bodies.
2. Christian Backward Sign of the Cross: The sign of the cross is a ritualistic movement for Christians to signify faith in God. Some Eastern Orthodox Christians hold their hands in the opposite direction when making the sign of the cross, with the thumb, index, and middle fingers bound, creating a sign of the Holy Trinity on their hand.
3. Christian Backward Dancing: Contrary to popular belief, not all Christian dancing is reserved, quiet, and unexciting. There are various Christian dances, including the Backward Dance, which originated in Africa, where worshippers would step backward while clapping or drumming.
The Christian Lifestyle
4. Christian Vegetarianism: Although not a dominant trend, some Christians abstain from meat and animal products for religious and ethical reasons. Some argue that Adam and Eve did not eat meat until after the fall, and that “a wise person welcomes a person of all gifts, available from the soil in every season.”
5. Christian Tea Parties: Partaking in the Christian lifestyle can be delightful, and tea parties are quite popular among Christian women, where they share tea, scones, and sweets with each other, and discuss their faith and theological perspectives.
6. Christian Dress Code: More like a moral code, Christians are expected to dress modestly, without revealing or overly tight clothing, as this is considered ungodly. Women are expected to dress within cultural norms and avoid wearing anything that can lead to lustful thoughts, while men are expected to maintain immaculacy and sobriety in the way they dress.
7. Christian Charity: Christians are also expected to be charitable, giving back to society. The giving back can be in the form of donations to less-fortunate members of the church or community, volunteering, and missionary work.
The Christian Festivities
8. Christian Halloween: Contrary to popular belief, Halloween has a Christian origin, not pagan, with the word “Halloween” meaning “All Saints’ or All Hallows’ Eve,” which is celebrated on 31st October. It is a day commemorating the dead and is also known as Hallowtide.
9. Christian Christmas Trees: Christmas trees have become a symbol of Christmas worldwide, but few people know that its roots are in Christian belief. Some Christians believe the evergreen tree signifies eternal life through Christ, while others believe it represents the Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden.
10. Christian Easter Eggs: Easter eggs are a well-known part of the Christian Easter celebrations, representing new life, and the resurrection of Christ. The egg is an egg-shaped candy or chocolate designed to symbolize new life, while some churches give out real eggs to their members.
Conclusion
Christianity is a fascinating religion that has a rich history and diverse practices worldwide. From the rituals to the lifestyle, it is a religion that has evolved over centuries and continues to change. While there are still a lot of mysteries, these 10 surprising facts about Christian backs, lifestyle, and festivities should endear and satisfy curious minds.
FAQs
1. Why do some Christians tattoo their bodies?
Some Christians tattoo their bodies as a symbol of their faith. Some tattoos represent Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, or quotes, both to remind them of their faith and signify the importance of religion in their lives.
2. What is the Christian dress code?
The Christian dress code involves dressing modestly, without revealing or overly tight clothing. Women are expected to adhere to cultural norms, avoiding anything that can lead to lustful thoughts, while men are expected to maintain sobriety and immaculacy in the way they dress.
3. What is Christian charity?
Christian charity involves giving back to society, the community, and the church. It can involve donating items or money to less-fortunate members of the church, volunteering, and participating in missionary work.
4. What is the Christian origin of Halloween?
The Christian origin of Halloween is that it is a commemoration of the dead, and is also known as “All Saints’ or All Hallows’ Eve.” It is not pagan, as some people believe.
5. Why do some Christians not eat meat?
Some Christians abstain from eating meat and animal products for religious and ethical reasons. They believe that Adam and Eve did not eat meat until after the fall and that they should follow this example. Additionally, they argue that “a wise person welcomes a person of all gifts, available from the soil in every season.”