An '''epitaphios''' (also called the '''''Epitaphios Thrinos''''', '''''epitaphion''''', or '''''epitaphioi''''') is a large cloth [[Iconography|icon]] used during the services of [[Great Friday]] in a commemoration of the death of Christ on the cross.

In this iconAlso, Christ has been removed (or ''unnailed'') from usually inscribed on the cross and his body is being prepared for burial. Shown around icon are the body, and mourning his death, are his mother, words of the [[Theotokostroparion]] and Virgin Mary, [[Apostle John|John "The Noble Joseph, taking down Thy most pure Body from the beloved]] discipleTree, [[Joseph of Arimathea]]did wrap it in clean linen with sweet spices, and [[Mary Magdalene]]. [[Nicodemus]] and others may also be displayedhe laid it in a new tomb."

Also, usually inscribed on the icon are the words of the [[troparionCategory:Liturgical objects]], "''The Noble Joseph, taking down Thy most pure Body from the Tree, did wrap it in clean linen with sweet spices, and he laid it in a new tomb.''"  Enkomia (praise-songs) and threnoi (laments) are usually sung before the epitaphios. These ''epitaphios thrinos'' or lamentations are why the service is often referred to as the “Lamentations service.