Cemetery Symbols: O is for Obelisks

What do obelisks represent?

OBELISKS:Despite its origins in worshiping the sun god, Ra, obelisks are a common sight in historic cemeteries. So how did this ancient Egyptian form work its way into Christian symbology?

Although they’ve existed for thousands of years, obelisks gained popularity after Napoleon invaded Egypt in the late 1700’s. As the form began to appear in Neoclassical architecture, it made its way into graveyards, where it represents a connection between heaven and earth, as well as power, strength, and fatherhood.

In historic cemeteries, an obelisk is often at the center of a family plot, where it represents the family members’ connection to the heavenly father.

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