An account of the objects of the Holy Liturgy and their meaning
Every movement, every word and every object in the church carries a deep spiritual meaning. The Armenian Apostolic Church preserves a rich symbolism that reminds us of the presence of God and of the great events in the life of Christ. In this article we describe the principal liturgical objects and their significance, together with the differences from other Christian traditions.
Holy Communion – the sacrament of sacraments
Holy Communion in the Armenian Church is prepared in a special cup called the chalice (in Armenian: Skih). The bread that is consecrated and becomes the Body of Christ is placed upon a small dish – the paten (Maghsman). The chalice recalls the cup of the sufferings of Christ, while the paten symbolises the manger in which the newborn Jesus was laid.
In the Eastern Orthodox tradition an object resembling a star, called the asterisk, is also placed upon the paten – a symbol of the star of Bethlehem, which pointed out the place of the Nativity.
The keeping of the Holy Gifts
The liturgical vessels are kept in a special niche within the altar, called the khorhrtanots, usually set to the left of the Holy Table. These niches recall the cave in which the Saviour was born. What remains of the Communion is kept in a special box – the tabernacle (Srpatup) – to be used for its purpose at subsequent services.
The Muron – the gift of the Holy Spirit
In the Armenian Church the Holy Muron is kept in a vessel shaped as a dove – the symbol of the Holy Spirit in Christianity. In the sacrament of chrismation the believer receives the gifts of the Holy Spirit. This special vessel is called the Myuroni aman.
The Cross – from an instrument of death to a sign of salvation
Upon the highest part of the altar stands the cross with the crucifix. In antiquity the cross was a symbol of torment and shame, but through the crucifixion of Christ it became a symbol of redemption and hope.
The Orthodox cross often bears at its top a tablet with the inscription INRI, and in Armenian HNTKH, meaning „Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews“. The Roman soldiers used this inscription and a crown of thorns to mock Jesus – the crown of thorns signifying kingly power, but in derision.
Beneath the feet of the Saviour there is often depicted a skull with crossed bones – an ancient symbol of death. Because Christ conquered death, this symbol is placed at His feet, as a sign of victory over it.
The Holy Bible – the word of God to humanity
Beneath the cross is placed the Holy Bible, the most sacred writing of Christianity. In the Old Testament, through the prophets, God foretells the coming of the Saviour. In the New Testament, through the apostles, the life, deeds and miracles of Christ are revealed – handed down by those who were themselves witnesses of His mission.
Other important objects and their symbolism
The censer – Purvar
The censer is a vessel from which smoke rises as incense burns. This smoke symbolises our prayers ascending to heaven, and the unseen offerings we send up to our Heavenly Father. The incense is kept in a small vessel called the khngaman.
Kshots – the staff bearing a seraph
The kshots is a disc bearing the image of a seraph, mounted upon a long handle. It resembles a staff and symbolises the angels, who descend over the Holy Table to serve Christ and to guard Holy Communion from every defilement.
The banner – Khachvar
The banners bear the image of the Saviour and are fixed to poles. They are carried in processions, as a sign of faith and of the glory of God.
The small cup – Pazhgaman
The small cup is a little metal vessel into which the wine for Communion is poured before the beginning of the Holy Liturgy.
Candles – the flame of prayer
The flame of a candle symbolises the strength and the warmth of our prayer. The candle is also an offering, a small personal gift to God as we enter the church. But we must remember that the lighting of a candle cannot take the place of personal prayer. The chief purpose of every entry into the church should be a heartfelt conversation with God and the cleansing of the soul.