On 14 September 1966, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan issued a beautiful and spiritually significant set of 14 stamps and a miniature sheet to commemorate the Stations of the Cross, also known as the Via Dolorosa. This release, designed by V. Whiteley and printed by Photo Harrison, visually narrates the Passion of Christ through vivid, multicolored illustrations. Each stamp corresponds to one of the fourteen Stations of the Cross, depicting key moments from the final hours of Jesus Christ’s life.
Design and Symbolism
The stamps are arranged in denominations that match the sequence of the Stations of the Cross. The designs highlight the emotional and spiritual weight of each event, using rich colors and intricate artwork to capture the significance of Christ’s Passion. Each stamp includes the following elements:
- Illustration: A depiction of the corresponding Station.
- Roman Numerals: Indicating the sequence of the Stations.
- Arabic and English Inscriptions: Featuring the title “Via Dolorosa” and the country name, “The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.”
The miniature sheet (MS763) features the 14th Station in an imperforate format, with a beautiful, illustrated border showcasing landmarks of the Holy Land.
The Fourteen Stations
| SG No. | Station | Denomination | Mint (£) | Used (£) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 749 | I. Jesus is condemned to death | 1 Fils | 30 | 15 | Jesus is brought before Pilate and unjustly condemned to death. |
| 750 | II. Jesus takes up His Cross | 2 Fils | 35 | 15 | Jesus willingly accepts the heavy burden of the Cross for the salvation of mankind. |
| 751 | III. Jesus falls the first time | 3 Fils | 45 | 15 | Overcome by the weight of the Cross, Jesus stumbles and falls. |
| 752 | IV. Jesus meets His Mother | 4 Fils | 45 | 15 | Jesus encounters His sorrowful mother, Mary, who shares in His suffering. |
| 753 | V. Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the Cross | 5 Fils | 1.00 | 35 | Simon is compelled by the Romans to assist Jesus in bearing the Cross. |
| 754 | VI. Veronica wipes the face of Jesus | 6 Fils | 1.10 | 35 | Veronica steps forward to comfort Jesus by wiping His face with a cloth. |
| 755 | VII. Jesus falls the second time | 7 Fils | 1.70 | 90 | Weakened further by His suffering, Jesus collapses again under the Cross. |
| 756 | VIII. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem | 8 Fils | 1.70 | 90 | Jesus speaks to the weeping women, telling them to mourn for themselves and their children. |
| 757 | IX. Jesus falls the third time | 9 Fils | 2.10 | 1.30 | Completely exhausted; Jesus falls once more on the path to Calvary. |
| 758 | X. Jesus is stripped of His garments | 10 Fils | 2.10 | 1.30 | At Calvary, Jesus is humiliated as His clothing is taken away. |
| 759 | XI. Jesus is nailed to the Cross | 11 Fils | 2.50 | 1.70 | Jesus is crucified, His hands and feet pierced by nails. |
| 760 | XII. Jesus dies on the Cross | 12 Fils | 2.75 | 1.70 | Jesus breathes His last, sacrificing Himself for the redemption of humanity. |
| 761 | XIII. Jesus is taken down from the Cross | 14 Fils | 2.75 | 1.80 | Jesus’ lifeless body is gently removed from the Cross and placed in His mother’s arms. |
| 762 | XIV. Jesus is laid in the tomb | 14 Fils | 2.75 | 1.80 | Jesus’ body is placed in the tomb, awaiting the Resurrection. |
Miniature Sheet
| SG No. | Face Value | Description | Mint (£) | Used (£) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS763 | 100 Fils | Station I, imperforate | 55.00 | 50.00 |
The miniature sheet (101×76 mm) features the first Station: Jesus is brought before Pilate and unjustly condemned to death, surrounded by a border showcasing architectural landmarks of Jerusalem. The imperforate format adds to its desirability among collectors.
Printing and Perforation
- Printing:
- The stamps were printed by Photo Harrison, known for their exceptional attention to detail and vivid color reproduction.
- Perforation:
- The stamps are perforated 14½x14, ensuring clean and precise separation.
Historical and Philatelic Significance
This stamp issue not only holds religious and artistic value but also stands as a testament to Jordan’s commitment to preserving the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Holy Land. For Christians, the Stations of the Cross represent a deeply meaningful reflection on Jesus’ sacrifice and the hope of Resurrection. This set, through its beautiful illustrations, allows collectors to connect with this story in a profound way.
Did You Know?
- The Via Dolorosa, or “Way of Suffering,” is a processional route in the Old City of Jerusalem that Christians believe traces the path Jesus walked on the way to His crucifixion.
Closing Thoughts
The 1966 Stations of the Cross Stamp Set is a spiritual and artistic treasure, capturing one of the most profound stories in Christian theology. With its intricate designs and corresponding miniature sheet, this set is a must-have for collectors of religious and thematic philately.
Have you come across this set in your collection? Share your insights or experiences in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth philatelic explorations.