I came upon this movie, Constantines Sword, quite by accident, while uploading movies to watch instantly on the T.V. I was profoundly fascinated, not just by the storyteller and his narrative, but the journey of Christianity and its intersection with Judaism, throughout history. For me, the movie was truly moving, in a very personal sense. When it was over, I wondered, how is it possible that the Jewish religion has survived? What dedication must it have taken to continue the traditions under such heavy persecution.
In the end, I came away feeling even more strongly that religion is more often than not, misused and abused. That the most important message, from almost all religions, “love they neighbor as thyself” too often becomes, well, completely forgotten.
One fact that was truly an eye opener was the use of the cross. Now, as a Jewish person, not knowing much about Christianity, I just always assumed it was because Christ was crucified on the cross. Could it be true, that Constantine had this vision when looking up into the blue sky, 300 years after Jesus’s death, of a cross in the sky, a vison he would replicate by crossing his swords? Once he conquered his enemies, believing Christ had been the reason he had vanquished his enemy, the symbol of the cross would now be used to represent all Christians.
I look forward to the discussion!!!
