Cemetery Symbolism 5 – IHS
Welcome back cemetery and graveyard fans. It’s time once again to talk about the symbols of the graveyard. Today we talk about:-
The letters IHS
This symbol is just as mysterious as others we have mentioned previously but is very simple to explain.
When you see a headstone like those shown, which bear the letters IHS it may not be obvious what the letters are or what they mean. In Latin, IHS stands for the phrase “In Hoc Signo” which translates to “In This Sign.”
This phrase is often used in reference to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the Christian faith.
The letters IHS may also be seen on other religious objects, such as Bibles and rosaries.
NOTE: As with most things symbolic, the true meaning of symbols found on graves and headstones are always open to interpretation. Wherever possible I attempt to highlight the most plausible, most interesting, or most widely accepted explanation.
© Colin Lawson Books