Why do some people put a black "+" sign on their forehead?
Mark E.
People who put a black plus sign (or cross) on their forehead are often participating in a religious tradition, most commonly Ash Wednesday in Christianity. This is a significant day for many Christians, especially Catholics, as it marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, reflection, and repentance leading up to Easter.
The cross is made from ashes, often mixed with oil, and is applied by a priest or minister while saying, "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return," or a similar phrase. The ashes symbolize mortality and the need for repentance.
However, if you’ve seen a black plus sign in a different context, it might have another meaning. Could you describe the situation where you saw it?