Crafting, Home Decor, and its Biblical Significance

From shame to glory

In Christian tradition, the Crown of Thorns is a poignant symbol of Jesus Christ's crucifixion. According to the New Testament of the Bible, Roman soldiers mocked Jesus by placing a crown made of thorns on his head before his crucifixion, intending to turn his testaments, ministries, and ability to perform healings as a vassal into proctor of his Holy Father against him; ridicule him as they proclaimed him to be a king who ruled the less than worthy subservient Jewish race. This act was considered an insult, a mockery of his belittled proclamation of kingship. Therefore, it has become a symbol of Christ's suffering and sacrifice for humanity's sins. As described in the biblical reference below, the image of shame, contempt, and jeering disparagement shown by the Roman soldiers is apparent and is revered so deeply by some that it will bring tears to the truly devout.

"And they stripped him and put a scarlet robe upon him, and plaiting a crown of thorns they put it on his head, and put a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him they mocked him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!"' (Mt 27:27-29).

The Crown of Thorns, a symbol deeply rooted in Christian tradition, has found its way into various aspects of life, including crafts and home decor. This blog post will explore the biblical significance of the Crown of Thorns, its acceptance across different religions, and its use in crafts and home decor. 

Biblical Significance

The Crown of Thorns is a powerful reminder of the Easter story, symbolizing the pain and suffering that Jesus endured. It is a symbol of faith, sacrifice, and redemption, reminding believers of God's depth of love for humanity. While the Crown of Thorns is predominantly recognized in Christianity, its acceptance varies across different religions. 

In Judaism and Islam, for instance, Jesus is respected as a prophet, but the crucifixion and the associated symbols, including the Crown of Thorns, are not recognized in the same way as they are in Christianity. So why, then, is a crown worn as a sign of leadership? The crown for a King or Queen shows power, legitimacy, immortality, righteousness, victory, triumph, resurrection, honor, and glory of life after death.

Dating back through pre-history, as depicted in many civilizations, the original reasoning for the need for a crown is virtually unknowable. Still, it is surmised to have stemmed from a browband or tether called a diadem, which is worn by any who claims to be the dominant figurehead and leader. Furthermore, the act of Diadema or diadein is derived from being bound to and showing loyalty to the sovereign of those who have supreme and total power. As the customs of civilizations evolved, so did the symbols of such progressions.  

While the crown style began with feathers, bones taken as war trophies or animal skin carcasses headdresses, the demand to have one grew more sought after as a sign of prowess. Soon, gold circles were forged to show rank. 

Another example is the tiara, which originated from Ancient Persia as an adorned sign of sovereignty and was crafted exclusively for the king's wear. It stayed securely on the head as it was tied together in the back and was typically covered in jewels, precious stones, gems, and other embellishments. 

++additional trivia: did you know that the name Tia is synonymous with Aunt as well and is derived from the original meaning "Goddess"?++

Crown of Thorns on display every day.

Crafting with the Crown of Thorns can be a meaningful activity, especially during the Lenten season. While being accepted in home decor design, the Crown of Thorns can still be seen as a powerful symbol of faith. It can be displayed as a wall decoration, a table centerpiece, or incorporated into a religious shrine at home. Its rustic, natural look can add a unique touch to your decor while also reminding you of the Easter story. 

++ Tips and Advice: When crafting, remember to handle the thorns carefully to avoid injury.++

Sourced directly from the Holy Lands by Jerusalem Export House, these crowns are crafted by a select group of artisans. They are available in three different circumferences, making them versatile for a range of uses:

• 4 to 5 Inch Small
• 6 to 8 Inch Medium
• 10 Inch Large

Our readers, satisfied customers, and staff recommend some of the following ways you can incorporate the crowns into your life. As an aside, we also invite you to share your own unique craft, activity, and photo with us and other shoppers worldwide. 

• **Children's Activities**: The Crown of Thorns can be used as a teaching tool for children. It can be incorporated into story-telling sessions about faith and resilience or used as a prop in plays and skits. Children can also be encouraged to create their own crowns using safe, thornless materials, fostering creativity while teaching them about the significance of the symbol. Paper plates, bits of leather laces, tin foil pie plates, and pipe cleaners up to hula hoops hung and draped above a bed as a mobile ring base for bed netting. If your child is crafty, the possibilities are endless. Try salt dough or premade baking clay and whole clove "thorns" to use as tree ornaments or doorknob hangers.  
• **Tableware**: The Crown of Thorns can be used as a centerpiece for your dining table. It can be placed on a decorative plate or tray, perhaps surrounded by candles or flowers. Smaller crowns can be used as unique napkin rings or coasters, adding a touch of faith and hope to your mealtimes. Wrap them around pillar candle bases or holders and try them as drapery tiebacks or hung from atop a simple cross made with tree branches. 
• **Year-Round Gift Giving**: The Crown of Thorns makes for a thoughtful and meaningful gift, regardless of the occasion. It can be given as a symbol of hope during challenging times, as a sign of commitment for engagements or weddings, or as a token of renewal for birthdays or anniversaries. Its significance transcends religious boundaries, making it a suitable gift for anyone.  
• **Home Decor**: The Crown of Thorns can be used as a wall hanging, a door wreath, or even a bookshelf ornament. It can be incorporated into your home decor in a way that constantly reminds you of your faith and resilience. 

What was once a symbol of suffering and mockery has transformed into a symbol of ultimate sacrifice and redemption. Its use in crafts and home decor not only adds a unique aesthetic touch but also brings a profound spiritual significance into our daily lives. Whether or not it is universally accepted as a sign of Easter, its importance in Christian tradition is undeniable. It serves as a reminder of the depth of love, sacrifice, and redemption that Easter represents.