What are the symbols in the sacrament of reconciliation?

Question

I know one is the confession box, but what does it symbolize?

anything would help. just help please

yeah, it's for class

Answer 1

The confessional is not a symbol of the sacrament of reconciliation. It's just a room. Many people prefer face to face confessions these days.

If you're trying to find something for class, then I'd go with the purple stole. It signifies / symbolizes the priest's authority.

Answer 2

Sacraments are not actually about symbols but signs. The difference? Symbols are static representations. Signs are symbolic actions. We use material objects because we are in the material world, but its what is done with the objects that communicates the meaning. In Baptism, the water is poured, the candle is lit, the robe is worn, the oil is applied to the head. In reconcilliation, the sign is the conversation: the confession of the penitent, the absolution of the confessor.

Answer 3

The only symbol I have seen used to represent the Sacrament of Reconciliation is a broken chain which represents the breaking of the bindings of sin. http://www.know-accounting.com/images/left_tile/broken-chain-2.jpg

The only problem is that chains are not used in the Sacrament of Reconciliation the way oil, water, the white robe, and candle are used in Baptism

Answer 4

The box is not a symbol of anything really as one may confess outside of the box as you put it. The one big symbol is the stole the priest wears as it designates his stand in role as Jesus.

Answer 5

I guess I'm not really positive what you want, but here is some info. The sacraments themselves are the symbol.

http://www.ewtn.com/library/BISHOPS/PENANCE.HTM

http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/YU/ay0787.asp

Answer 6

Try keys, a stole, raised hand, cross, or scourging whip