THE SYMBOLISM OF THE CARDINAL POINTS

 

The Christian churches have their front towards the East-the side of the rising sun, orient. This orientation became popular from the 4th.c. on. This placement depended on the point of the horizon where the sun rose the celebrating day of the god or saint to whom the temple was to be dedicated.

West (where the sun sets) is considered, on the contrary, the reign of the Devil, of Darkness and Death. Thus, the representation of the Final Judgement is reserved for the western wall.

North, it’s the region of darkness and ice. It’s dedicated to Satan. It’s where the baptistry must be placed so that the neophites get purified before coming to the light.

South, (noon) It’s where the light and the heat come.it evocates the idea of the Savior and the reign of Grace.

This opposition among the cardinal points reveals that the faithful found the North on their left and the South on their right when they enter the church.