The emoji with the unicode 2626 FE0F is known as the
Orthodox Cross emoji. It is not a combined unicode. This emoji represents the Eastern Orthodox Cross, also known as the Suppedaneum Cross, which is a variation of the Christian cross known from the 6th century in the Byzantine Empire. The cross has three horizontal crossbeams—the top one represents the plate inscribed with INRI, and the bottom one, a footrest. In many depictions, the side to Christ's right is higher. This cross is today primarily associated with the Eastern Orthodox Church.
The primary and most common uses for the Orthodox Cross emoji are to represent the Eastern Orthodox Church, Eastern Orthodox Christianity, or Eastern Orthodox culture and traditions. It is often used in discussions about religion, particularly in the context of Eastern Orthodox Christianity. It can also be used to symbolize faith, spirituality, or divine protection.
Beyond its religious connotations, the Orthodox Cross emoji can be used to represent positive sentiments such as hope, faith, and resilience. It can also be used to symbolize a connection to Eastern European culture or heritage, given the strong presence of the Eastern Orthodox Church in this region.
The Orthodox Cross emoji is not as widely used as some other religious symbols, reflecting the smaller global population of Eastern Orthodox Christians compared to other religious groups. However, it holds significant cultural importance for those who identify with the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is particularly popular among users in Eastern Europe and Russia.
Related emojis include other religious symbols such as the Latin Cross emoji (✝️), the Star of David emoji (🔯), and the Crescent Moon and Star emoji (☪️), which represent Christianity, Judaism, and Islam respectively.
The Orthodox Cross emoji is often used in the context of religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas, particularly in communities where these holidays are celebrated according to the Eastern Orthodox calendar. It may also appear in discussions about religious art, architecture, and history, given the prominence of the Orthodox Cross in these fields.