Crucifixion

[Gianluca Drago]

Today on the way home I came across this thing at the edge of a military zone — the remains of a tree, clinging stubbornly to a metal post it had absorbed into its own flesh, with its head and limbs cut off, and a crown of thorns. Even an atheist like me couldn’t help but see in it the symbol of a crucifixion.

Open to interpretations.

 

[Peter Roberts]

I'll stick with your crucifix interpretation, Gianluca. It's so apt.
The image reminds me strongly of trees and wayside crosses I've seen in Northern France and Belgium. Ravaged by war they've still managed to survive as if to mock man's follies.
An agnostic rather than an atheist I do sometimes find religious symbolism strangely moving.

 

[Gianluca Drago]

Thank you, @Peter Roberts. I believe that the crucifix is a universal symbol representing the injustices and suffering endured by humanity, and as such, it speaks to everyone — believers and non-believers alike.
After all, it was the “pagans” who first devised this form of torture and death.
As for atheism or agnosticism, I personally think that every atheist, even those who are not agnostic (can a true atheist be non-agnostic? I'm not sure), possesses a kind of non-theistic religious sentiment. After all, we all have to confront questions of life and death, as well as many other mysterious natural phenomena that can disturb or astonish us — and we all share the same DNA, whatever we may think.

 

[Peter Roberts]

Valid and well put points, Gianluca, with which I concur.

 

[Gianluca Drago]

Valid and well put points, Gianluca, with which I concur.

I'm really glad you understand me, @Peter Roberts.

 

[Gary Ayala]

Complete with a Crown of Thorns.