Analogion
JEFFREY B. PETTIS
In the Orthodox Church the analogion is the lectern used to support the gospel, the service book, or an icon. Originally, churches used only one analogion for Scripture, although later two were used, one for the gospel and one for the epistle reading. The analogion is sometimes shaped in the form of an open-winged dove, representative of the Holy Spirit. Normally, a decorative cloth (antipendia) fully or partially covers it. Some analogia have a simple design and can be folded up for portability. Others are made of intricately carved wood. Certain analogia are designed to stand in the choir section (kliros) of the church and are used by the chanters. This style has a top that usually turns on a spindle to allow easy access to the various service books being used. The tetrapodion, a piece of furniture which is similar to the analogion, is a four-legged table which may stand in the center of the church. A cloth covers its surface, which is used to support special ritual objects.
REFERENCES AND SUGGESTED READINGS
Parry, K. et al. (eds.) (1999) The Blackwell Dictionary of Eastern Christianity. Oxford: Blackwell.
Patrinacos, N. D. (1984) A Dictionary of Greek Orthodoxy. Pleasantville, NY: Hellenic Heritage Publications.