The Christogram brings together the first Greek letters of the name of Christ. Julio presents it as a sign of protection and hope, surrounded by a formula of victory.
Reading the symbolism
The X and P correspond to the Greek letters chi and rho. Their superimposition forms the monogram. The Latin formula around the figure refers to the traditional theme of victory through this sign; the notice then develops a Christian reading of the cross and the resurrection.
The attributed effects
The text attributes very broad protection to the Christogram: opposition to enemies, help in trials, and the attainment of a desired grace. It also associates it with numerous claims concerning health and the end of life, which belong to the beliefs set out by Julio.
Use by Julio
The object is presented as a protective pantacle linked to an ardently desired request. To understand its use by Julio, it should be considered in relation to his prescriptions for blessing and consecrating supports, rather than separating the image from the prayer.
A personal reading
Identify the two letters before reading the figure as a single form. A personal reading may focus on the confidence needed to get through a difficulty and on how to maintain that confidence in daily actions.
The source and variants
The engraving is mentioned in Grands Secrets merveilleux, p. 531. The Christogram can be distinguished from the host bearing IHS, another monogram presented in its own entry.
Abbé Julio, The Secret Book of Great Exorcisms and Blessings, Vincennes, published by the author, 1908. Explanation and application no. 24, pp. 426–428. Practical advice on blessed and consecrated supports: pp. 462–463.
Classic directory numbering: 5 of 44. This numbering differs from the inventory of engravings in the old volumes.
Read the notice in the 1908 edition
Image: historical reproduction distributed by Oracles.ch. The reproduction does not allow its edition to be identified precisely; it has been preserved at its native resolution, without redrawing the characters or artificial enlargement. The text of the entry is based on the 1908 notice.
