Symbol 28:34

28:34 ·
The Maltese cross or cross of
Promise, is
related to the Sovereign Ex-territorial State St. John of
Jerusalem, Rhodes, and Malta Supreme Military Hospital Order. The
order runs an activity in many countries similar to that of the Red
Cross, and has diplomatic representation in several of the
world's major cities. The eight points of the cross symbolize the
eight qualities of a knight: loyalty, piety, generosity,
courage, honor and glory, contempt of death, helpfulness, and
reverence for the Church. This cross is also found on
the seal of the Order of Knight Templars. The order was inaugurated
by eight knights in 1118, who in the presence of the patriarch
of Jerusalem vowed, among other
things, to defend pilgrims travelling to the Holy City.
This cross form is used on the Maltese merchant marine
flag. It is also the form used for the most important order
medals in many countries.



