Kreuzwege

Kreuzwege is the plural form of Kreuzweg in German. The term has both religious and secular uses. In Christian contexts, Kreuzweg denotes the Way of the Cross, a devotional practice that commemorates Jesus Christ's path to crucifixion. The standard form in Catholic tradition consists of fourteen stations, though some communities use variations with twelve or fifteen stations. Participants meditate at each station, often with prayers or reflections. Outdoor Kreuzwege are common at churches, monasteries, and along pilgrimage routes, where sculptures, medallions, or inscriptions mark the stations. The practice is particularly observed during Lent and on Good Friday. In Protestant and other Christian traditions, the devotion exists in adapted forms and may not adhere to a fixed station count.

In secular and literary usage, Kreuzwege can denote literal cross-shaped paths or routes featuring crosses or chapels, as well as metaphorical journeys involving moral or existential struggles. The plural may appear in descriptions of several such routes, fictional or real. The term also occurs in place names and in the titles of works that explore themes of suffering, fate, or decision.

Etymology: the word combines Kreuz (cross) and Weg (way). The plural Kreuzwege is mainly used when referring to multiple paths or as a figurative expression for multiple difficult choices or trials.