The eight pointed cross, commonly referred to as the Cross of Malta, had its origins with pious and wealthy merchants of Amalfi. Click here for its evolution.
Four Arms of the Cross
The four arms of the Cross of Amalfi represent the four Cardinal Virtues:
Eight Points of the Cross
The eight points of the Cross of Amalfi represent the eight Beatitudes:
More on Beatitudes - More Still.
Put on the Armour of God
Put on the armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of your own evil character. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the wickedness within. Stand therefore, and fasten the lambskin apron around your waist, that its purity may keep you unstained in your work. And take up the 24-inch gauge, that it may teach you to divide your time wisely. And take up the common gavel of the spirit, that you may break
off the rough and superfluous parts of your character, that you may be fitted stones to that heavenly house not built with hands. Take up the plumb, the square, and level, that you may walk uprightly, square your actions, and travel on the level to that country of which we are eternal citizens. Take up the trowel, that you may spread the cement of brotherly love and bind together all those who work to rebuild the temple which has
fallen.
