Difference between revisions of "Antimension"
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| − | The '''antimension''' ( | + | The '''antimension''' (Greek for "instead of the table"), also called the '''antimins''' (Slavonic), is one of the furnishings of the [[altar]]. It is a rectangular piece of cloth, of linen or silk, with representations of the entombment of [[Jesus Christ|Christ]], the four [[Evangelist]]s, and scriptural passages related to the [[Eucharist]]. It often has a very small [[relics|relic]] sewn into it. During the [[Divine Liturgy]], it is unfolded on the altar just before the [[Anaphora]], and the Eucharist is consecrated on it. The antimension must be consecrated and signed by the [[bishop]], indicating his permission for the Eucharist to be celebrated in his absence. It is, in effect, the [[priest]]'s permission to officiate. |
The antimension is a substitute altar. A priest may celebrate the Eucharist on the antimension even if there is no properly consecrated altar. In emergencies, war and persecution, the antimension serves a very important pastoral need. The [[eileton]] is now often used to wrap the antimension when it is not in use. | The antimension is a substitute altar. A priest may celebrate the Eucharist on the antimension even if there is no properly consecrated altar. In emergencies, war and persecution, the antimension serves a very important pastoral need. The [[eileton]] is now often used to wrap the antimension when it is not in use. | ||
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| + | Although St Theodore the Studite (759-826) mentions "fabric altars," the term "antimension" is not found before the late twelfth century. | ||
[[Category:Liturgical objects]] | [[Category:Liturgical objects]] | ||
Revision as of 17:08, March 17, 2006
The antimension (Greek for "instead of the table"), also called the antimins (Slavonic), is one of the furnishings of the altar. It is a rectangular piece of cloth, of linen or silk, with representations of the entombment of Christ, the four Evangelists, and scriptural passages related to the Eucharist. It often has a very small relic sewn into it. During the Divine Liturgy, it is unfolded on the altar just before the Anaphora, and the Eucharist is consecrated on it. The antimension must be consecrated and signed by the bishop, indicating his permission for the Eucharist to be celebrated in his absence. It is, in effect, the priest's permission to officiate.
The antimension is a substitute altar. A priest may celebrate the Eucharist on the antimension even if there is no properly consecrated altar. In emergencies, war and persecution, the antimension serves a very important pastoral need. The eileton is now often used to wrap the antimension when it is not in use.
Although St Theodore the Studite (759-826) mentions "fabric altars," the term "antimension" is not found before the late twelfth century.
