Why do we hang purple cloths on crosses at Easter?

Answer 1

For centuries, purple was the color of royalty. This was because the hue of purple valued by people in ancient times came from a specific, and very rare dye. The tradition of rulers wearing purple began with the Phoenicians in ancient times (who were masters of seatime trading) and, through cultural diffusion, spread to other areas. In ancient Rome, the emperors wore purple to signify their importance and power (Caesar commonly wore purple). In Christianity, Jesus is seen as the ultimate king, and therefore it is seen as appropriate to have the purple cloth of royalty on his crucifix representation.

Also, for a while, people were persecuted for wearing purple, as only rulers could wear the color. I know that in Germany and many Teutonic regions, common people could be jailed if they wore the color purple on any of their worn garments. The rules, of course, have mellowed out since then :)

Answer 2

Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran churches follow the liturgical calendar, which associates different colors with various events in the life of Jesus Christ and the early Church. These Christian traditions customarily use violet or purple cloth until the third Sunday of Advent and the fourth Sunday of Lent as a sign of either renewal or penance. White cloths on Easter Sunday and Christmas symbolize "joyful victory".

Answer 3

Shows the royalty of Jesus, how He's king now that He's dead