krzyz harcerski

The Krzyż harcerski (Polish for The Scouting Cross) is the symbol of the Polish Scouting awarded to all Scouts, Senior Scouts and Rangers. It was first used by an underground Scouting organisation in Warsaw in 1912. The initial project by Kazimierz Lutosławski has not been modified significantly ever since. It is worn over the heart, 2 fingers above the left pocket of the uniform. In November 1918 the Polish Ministry of War Affairs decreed that the Krzyż Harcerski is the only civilian sign that can be worn on military uniforms. This tradition lasts to this day.

Symbols

The shape of the Cross is a symbol of a hard way that should always be followed. It also bears resemblance to Virtuti Militari, the highest Polish military medal, a symbol of bravery and indomitability. The central point of the Cross is the Fleur-de-lys, an ancient symbol of virtue and purity. It is used worldwide as a symbol of the Scouting Movement. The three letters ONC on the wings of the symbol stand for "Ojczyzna, Nauka, Cnota" (Polish for Motherland, Education, Virtue). The middle wing with the letter N is also to symbolise a compass that should guide every Scout through his or hers life. The Fleur-de-lys on the Scouting Cross does not have the ONC letters which were replaced by two stars, the symbol of wide-open eyes of a Scout. The Fleur-de-lys is surrounded by a circle or a ring, a symbol of both perfection and unity of all Scouts. The rays around inside of the ring signify the Latin phrase per aspera ad astra (through hard ways to the stars). The wreath around the centre of the Cross is composed of two parts. To the left there is a chain of oak leaves which symbolise strength, courage, heroism and agility. To the right there is a chain of laurel leaves - symbol of victory. A Scout is to achieve victories over his own weaknesses rather than over an enemy. Thus the laurel leaves signify also the knowledge and proficiency. The tie between both chains is to remind every Scout to commit good deeds every day. The arms of the cross are filled with grains of sand. Their purpose is to symbolise both the multitude of Scouts on Earth and stones that are thrown on the road of a Scout by the fate. The word Czuwaj (Polish for Beware and be aware) is the motto and the greeting of all Polish scouts and symbolises readiness.

Krzyz Harcerski

Symbols

See also: