Catechetical Corner – IHS
I’m sure we have all seen this symbol/monogram. In fact, we have probably seen it so often that we are now blind to it.
The monogram IHS is one of the most recognisable symbols in Catholic tradition. It is derived from the first three letters of the name of Jesus in Greek which are I (iota), H (eta), and S (sigma), in one word it’s ΙΗΣΟΥΣ (Iēsous).
When written in Latin script, the first three letters—ΙΗΣ—are transliterated as IHS (or sometimes IHC, since the Greek letter sigma [Σ] was once written as a “C”).
IHS originated in the 3rd century and was initially used as a secret Symbol by the early Christians who were trying to stay safe from the persecution. It was inscribed on tombs to signify a Christian burial and or on the door posts to mark Christian homes.
Over time, IHS came to be used as a sacred monogram representing Jesus Christ. In the Middle Ages, it was popularized in the Western Church, especially by St. Bernardine of Siena in the 15th century, who promoted devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus and encouraged the faithful to place the monogram on their homes and churches as a sign of blessing and protection.
The letters are sometimes mistakenly interpreted in Latin as an acronym: Iesus Hominum Salvator – Jesus, Saviour of Men. But as already mentioned, it stands for the Name of JESUS.
Some also interpreted the IHS as In Hoc Signo ‘vinces’ – In this sign ‘you will conquer’ (a reference to Constantine’s vision of the Cross before the Battle of the Milivan Bridge).
Today, the IHS monogram is found in Catholic liturgical art, vestments, the Eucharistic host, and the seal of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), reminding the faithful of the reverence due to the Holy Name of Jesus and of His role as Saviour.
(Adapted from an original article from an unknown source)