The gospel significance of the three crosses at Jesus' crucifixion reflects the Father’s direct communication with humanity about reconciliation through Christ, His Messiah. The central cross, where Jesus was crucified, stands as the Father’s testimony of His plan to redeem humanity. Flanked by two criminals, this scene vividly portrays the choices humanity faces: one criminal humbly acknowledges his guilt and seeks mercy from Jesus, while the other rejects Him. This contrast reveals the Father’s invitation to all, offering grace and reconciliation through Christ, demonstrating that through Him, anyone can find forgiveness and restoration, no matter their past.
The ancient MASH cross (𒈦), derived from the Sumerian word "mash," meaning "to bind" or "to join," adds rich symbolism to this moment. In Sumerian and Akkadian contexts, the MASH cross represented ownership, divinity, and the marking of sacred boundaries. The three crosses at Calvary, in this light, symbolize the Father’s desire to bind humanity to Himself through Christ. Positioned between the two criminals, Jesus is the bridge, the true connection between humanity and the Father. The other two crosses illustrate the universal choice: acceptance of this reconciliation and divine grace, or rejection of it.
The Sumerian term "MASH MASH MASH," used for priests or ritual specialists responsible for exorcisms, cleansing, and protection from evil, deepens the meaning of the three crosses. Jesus is not merely performing the work of cleansing and delivering; He is the ultimate Great High Priest, the true source of divine healing and deliverance from evil. His sacrifice on the central cross is a priestly act of purification, driving out the power of sin and evil, and restoring humanity to the Father. The two other crosses, representing the choices of belief or rejection, further emphasize the Father's invitation to all people for healing and reconciliation.
Thus, the Father’s placement of three crosses, with Jesus at the center, carries deep significance. It reveals that Jesus is the Messiah, the one who cleanses, heals, and delivers, binding humanity back to the Father. The three crosses embody themes of priesthood, healing, and deliverance, showing that through Christ’s death, the Father offers the ultimate act of purification, protection, and reconciliation. In this moment, the ancient symbolic meaning of the MASH cross and the "MASH MASH MASH" priests finds its fulfillment in Christ, the true and final healer, priest, and deliverer for all of humanity.
ChatGPT, 2024
