It seems like most religions harness the pagan four elements — fire, wind, earth, and water — to demonstrate the power of their deity. On your way into Hagia Sophia, you’ll pass by an early Christian baptismal pool (the “water” part of the ritual) carved from one solid chunk of marble ten feet long. Nearby jars held olive oil (representing “earth”) that was also used in the baptismal ceremony. Swinging incense burners symbolized wind, while lighting candles and lamps represented fire. We still use all these pagan elements in Christianity today.
