The Meaning of the Chi Rho Symbol

What Does the Chi Rho Symbol Mean?

One of the most common Christian symbols in Catholic churches and artwork is the monogram Chi Rho (XP). Chi (χ)and Rho (ρ) are the first two letters of Christ in Greek (ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ). Therefore, the Chi Rho symbol means Christ. Also, combining the two letters into one gives the symbol a shape similar to the cross.

The popularity of Chi Rho Christogram symbol can be traced back to the conversion of the Emperor Constantine. In AD 312 Constantine witnessed a vision of this symbol in the sky during the Battle of Milvian Bridge with the words "in hoc singo vinces" (in this sign, you will conquer). He interpreted this to mean that God would protect them in battle. He had all of the Roman soldiers paint the symbol on their shields for the battle and they were victorious. Thereafter, the Emperor Constantine legalized Christianity and brought the religion into the mainstream of the Roman Empire.

The Chi Rho symbol is also found on the Labarum, which was the imperial standard of Constantine and later Roman emperors.

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