3 Ichthys Fish Symbol Cross Olivewood Pendant Free Ship

On sale are 3 lovely pendants/necklaces with with the Ichthys, or fish symbol with cross design (see below for explanation)  that is carved from genuine olive wood (see below for information on olive wood.) It is approximately 3cm x 3 cm.  Each one comes with a certificate of authenticity.

What is the Ichthys symbol?

The Ichthys, or fish symbol, was used by early Christians to covertly identify each other. The symbol was simple to draw and was often used among Christians as a type of password during times of persecution by the Roman government. If two strangers met and were unsure whether each other was a Christian, one would draw an arc in the earth like:). If the other were a Christian, they would complete the symbol with a reverse arc: (), forming the outline of a fish.

Why a fish?  

The fish outline is a logical symbol for the early Christian church to adopt. Fish are often mentioned in the gospels.

Some of the gospel verses which mention fish are:

Some Christians believe that a second link between their religion and the fish symbol is seen in the Greek word for fish (ichthus, spelled: Iota Chi Theta Upsilon Sigma). That is an acrostic * which has many translations in English. The most popular appears to be ''Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior'' 16 [Iesous (Jesus) CHristos (Christ) THeou (God) Uiou (Son) Soter (Savior)].

The Apostles were often referred to as ''fishers of men''. Followers of Christianity were called Pisciculi; the root of this Latin word is ''fish''. The symbols of ''sacremental fish, with wine and a basket of bread represents the Eucharist and the Last Supper in Christian art.''

Information about olive wood:

Olive trees are indigenous to the Holy Land and are treasured because the oil from their fruit has been used for religious rites since biblical times. The olive wood used in these beautiful products is of the highest quality and is distinctive for its dark lines. It comes only from olive wood trees that are grown in the area between Shechem and Hebron that are not irrigated. The olive tree is a protected species in Israel and cannot be cut down. Once every two years the olive trees are pruned so that they bear fruit and it is from these prunings that these handcrafted pieces are made. The prunings are stored for almost 5 years until they are dry enough to carve, before they are used by the craftsmen for these exquisite pieces.

Environmentally friendly as they are made only from the prunings of ancient olive trees growing in the Bethlehem region, the site of the nativity of Jesus (Matt 2, Luke 2).

''The wood from the Tree of Life, those who grasp it will experience eternal Happiness...'' Proverbs 3:18  .

Olive wood items make perfect gifts. Not only are they imbued with spirituality, they also do not require much care since olive oil is naturally protecting them from corrosion and changes of color.  

Payment and Shipping:

I accept U.K. cheques, postal orders (sent to a UK address I will give you), Paypal (if it is not to a confirmed address I reserve right not to accept this)  or direct bank transfer to my UK account.    I can combine postage with other purchases.  

Please note that shipment is from Israel and it should take approximately 7 - 10 days to arrive in the UK after posting.  I ship goods out most days - sometimes even twice a day.

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