Glossary

Words appearing in CAPITAL LETTERS have their own entries elsewhere in the glossary.

A

ABBA The Aramaic term of intimacy used in addressing one’s father, somewhat equivalent to the English “Papa.” Christ uses Abba in addressing God the FATHER (Mk 14:36). St. Paul tells believers that their relationship with God through the HOLY SPIRIT is so personal that they too may speak to Him as intimately as to their own father (Rom 8:15).

ABED-NEGO The name given by Nebuchadnezzar to Azariah, a Hebrew youth who was a prisoner along with Daniel the prophet and two others. A famous PRAYER by Azariah is recorded in Daniel 3:25–45. The Seventh and Eight Odes of canons chanted in Matins and other services are based on the Song of the Three Young Men.

ABSOLUTION The PRAYER offered by a BISHOP or PRESBYTER for the FORGIVENESS of sins. Following His glorious RESURRECTION, Christ breathed on His apostles and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained” (Jn 20:22, 23). This gift of proclaiming God’s forgiveness of sins remains forever in the CHURCH. It is exercised in the sacraments of BAPTISM and CONFESSION – the RECONCILIATION to the Church of Christian believers who have sinned and repented. The priest or bishop is the WITNESS who bears testimony to the REPENTANCE; only God forgives sins. (See article, “Confession,” at 1Jn 1.)

ADVENT A forty-day period of PRAYER, REPENTANCE, and FASTING in preparation for Christmas. The word stems from the Latin word for “coming.” During the fast the faithful prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas, and also anticipate His SECOND COMING. See also FASTING, NATIVITY.

AGAPE Greek for the self-sacrificial love which God extends to His people. Agape also designates a communal meal connected to the EUCHARIST which was a practice of the early CHURCH (1Co 11:20–34).

ALEXANDRIA A city in Egypt founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC and prominent in the books of the Maccabees.

ALLEGORY A story filled with symbolism illustrating a spiritual reality beyond the actual historical event being described. It is possible for a story to be both historical and allegorical. Some Church Fathers combined both elements in interpreting the Bible. (See Lk 15:4–7; Gal 4:21–26.) See also TYPE.

ALLELUIA The Greek form of the Hebrew word Hallelujah, which means “praise God.” Orthodox Christians sing a chorus of Alleluias interspersed with verses from the Psalms prior to the Gospel reading at the Divine Liturgy. See also PRAISE.

ALMS Works of MERCY or monetary gifts given to help the poor. Throughout the Scriptures, God’s people are called to help those less fortunate than themselves. (See Mt 25:31–46.)

ALPHA AND OMEGA The letters which begin and end the Greek alphabet, and symbolize the beginning and the end. “The Alpha and the Omega” is used as a title of Christ (Rev 1:8).

AMEN “So be it” in Hebrew. Amen is said or sung at the close of a PRAYER or hymn, showing the agreement of the people to what has been said (Dt 27:15–26; 1Co 14:16).

AMOS A PROPHET of the Lord and author of the OT book of prophecy in which he announced judgment against the nations and condemned the sins of Israel. He also foretold many blessings to come. (See Am 9:11–15.)

ANGELS Bodiless powers created before the CREATION of the physical universe. The English word “angel” comes from the Greek word for “messenger.” Throughout the Scripture, angels are messengers who carry the WORD OF GOD to earth (e.g., Gabriel’s visit to Mary, Lk 1:26–38). The Orthodox Church recognizes nine “choirs” or groups of angels as found in the Scriptures: Angels, Archangels, Powers, Authorities, Principalities, Dominions, Thrones, Cherubim, and Seraphim. (See Gn 3:24; Is 6:2; Eph 1:21; Col 1:16; 1Th 4:16; 1Pt 3:22.)

ANNUNCIATION The visit of the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary to announce to her that she had been chosen to bear Christ, the Son of God. The Feast of the Annunciation is celebrated exactly nine months before Christmas on March 25. Mary’s Son was no ordinary child, but God’s divine Son and Word in human flesh. (See article, “Mary,” at Lk 1; Is 7:14; Lk 1:26–38; Jn 1:1–14.)

ANTICHRIST Literally; “against Christ” or “instead of Christ.” Antichrist is used by John to refer to (a) the opponent of Christ who will arise at the end of this age, and (b) the “many antichrists” who stand against the Son of God (1Jn 2:18, 22; 4:3).

ANTIOCHUS EPIPHANES The Greek King of Syria who persecuted the JEWS for many years in the second century BC. (See 1Mc 6, 2Mc 2, and 4.)

APOSTASY Literally, “turning away.” This sin is committed when a Christian or body of believers rejects the true faith of Christ (1Ti 1:5–7; 4:1–3).

APOSTLE Literally, “one who is sent.” Apostle is used as a title for the Twelve Disciples who formed the foundation of the NT CHURCH, replacing, symbolically, the twelve tribes of Israel. In order to maintain this symbolism, Matthias was elected to replace Judas (Acts 1:15–26). The word is also used of The Seventy (or 72) sent by Christ, as well as of Paul, the repentant persecutor whom the risen Christ sent as “apostle to the Gentiles” (Rom 11:13). Great missionaries in the Church, such as Mary Magdalene (the “apostle to the apostles”), Thekla, Nina, Vladimir, and Innocent of Alaska are often called “equal to the apostles.” The extension of the apostolic ministry in the Church today is in the EPISCOPACY. See also BISHOP.

ARK OF THE COVENANT The chest with two cherubim on the lid in which Israel kept the tablets of the COVENANT (the Ten Commandments) and other holy items. Stored at first in the TABERNACLE and later in the Most Holy Place of the Jerusalem TEMPLE, it was later lost to the Israelites. (See Ex 25:10, 16; Dt 10:8; 3Kg 8).

ASCENSION The return of Christ, the Son of God in the flesh, to heaven following His RESURRECTION (Lk 24:50, 51; Acts 1:9–11). Christ’s Ascension completes the union of God and man, for a Man who is God now reigns in Heaven.

ASCETICISM (from Gr. askesis, “athlete”) A spiritual struggle – the CRUCIFIXION of the desires of the flesh––through a life of PRAYER, FASTING, and self-denial. Through asceticism the Christian fights temptation to sin and thereby grows in spiritual strength. Such spiritual classics as The Philokalia and The Ladder of Divine Ascent Give directions for the ascetic life. (See Lk 9:23; Gal 5:24.)

AUTHORITY The rule of God over the world and the legitimate authority given by God to those ORDAINED to shepherd the faithful (Heb 13:17). Also, one of the nine choirs of angels. See also ANGELS.

B

BAAL The (male) god worshiped by the Canaanites and other heathen faced by Israel in the OT. Sometimes Israelites turned from WORSHIP of the Lord God to worship Baal. This false god is often associated with immorality. (See especially the books of Judges, Numbers, and Kings.)

BALAAM A PROPHET who predicted the coming Messiah in his very last prophecy “A Star shall rise out of Jacob; and a Man shall rise out of Israel” (Nm 24:17).

BAPTISM (from Gr. baptizo, “to be plunged”) The SACRAMENT whereby one is BORN AGAIN, buried with Christ, resurrected with Him and united to Him. In baptism, one becomes a Christian and is joined to the CHURCH. Through Christ’s baptism, water was set apart unto God as the means by which the HOLY SPIRIT would bring to us new life and entrance into the heavenly Kingdom. (See article “Holy Baptism,” at Rom 6; see also Mt 3:13–17; 28:19; Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38, 39; Rom 6:3; Col 2:12; 1Pt 3:21.)

BEATITUDE Literally, “exalted happiness” or “blessing.” The ninefold blessing of Christ in the Sermon on the Mount is called the Beatitudes (Mt 5:3–12).

BELIEF The acceptance of the truths of the gospel. More than a mental assent, belief as used in the NT includes relying upon or trusting in God from the HEART. Such belief results from (1) hearing the WORD OF GOD (Rom 10:17) and (2) a gift of the HOLY SPIRIT (Eph 2:8). But faith without action (that is, a distinct movement of the will to follow Christ) is hollow and void of the RIGHTEOUSNESS that brings us SALVATION. (See article, “Justification by Faith,” at Rom 5; Mt 7:21; Jn 3:16; Jam 2:14–26.)

BENEDICTION Literally, “good word.” Benedictions were given by Christ (Lk 24:50, 51) and by the APOSTLES (2Co 13:14), and are given by the BISHOP or PRIEST at the close of every Divine Liturgy. (Other biblical benedictions include: Nm 6:24–26; Eph 3:20, 21; and Heb 13:20, 21.)

BISHOP (Gr. episkopos, “overseer.”) A bishop is the leader of a local community of Christians. In the New Testament there is often no clear distinction between the offices of bishop and elder (PRESBYTER), both of which function as leaders of the community. How ever, by the mid to late first century, the CHURCH began to reserve the title bishop for the men of spiritual qualification who were consecrated to follow the apostles in their office of oversight. (See article, “The Four ‘Orders’ in Church Government,” at 1Ti; Acts 1:15–26; 14:23; 1Ti 3:1–7.)

BORN AGAIN Literally, “born from above.” A person is born again to new life in Christ to enter God’s eternal Kingdom. This new birth takes place through the SACRAMENT of BAPTISM (Jn 3:16; Rom 6:3, 4; Gal 3:27). Spiritual life begins by receiving the HOLY SPIRIT in baptism and CHRIS-MATION, and is a dynamic process which continues throughout life. (See article, “The New Birth,” at Jn 3.)

BROTHERS OF THE LORD St. James, the first BISHOP of Jerusalem, Joses, Simon, and Judas are referred to as brothers of Christ (Mt 13:55). In the ancient Middle East one’s close relatives were frequently referred to as brothers and sisters. For example, Lot is clearly Abram’s nephew (Gn 14:12), but Lot is also called “his brother” (Gn 14:14). There is an ancient TRADITION that the “brothers and sisters” of Christ were actually children of St. Joseph from an earlier marriage; they are never in Scripture called the children of Mary and Joseph. Thus, these references to siblings of Christ do not contradict the belief of the historic CHURCH – East and West – that the Virgin Mary was a virgin before, during, and after the birth of Christ. The absence of blood brothers is strongly reinforced by Christ’s act of entrusting Mary to the care of the apostle John (Jn 19:26, 27), which would have been against the Mosaic Law had she had other natural children.

C

CANON Literally, “a rule.” It describes (1) the inspired Books of the Bible – the Canon of Scripture; (2) the rules and decrees issued by the early Church (see Acts 15:23–29) and by Ecumenical Councils – Canon Law; and (3) certain parts of worship, such as the Liturgical Canon or the Canon of MATINS.

CHRISMATION The sacrament completing BAPTISM, whereby one receives the gift of the HOLY SPIRIT through anointing with the Chrism, a specially prepared oil which must be consecrated by a BISHOP. In Acts, a baptized Christian received the gift of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of the hands of an APOSTLE. (See Acts 8:14–17; 19:6.) Chrismation is a continuation of this ancient practice in the Church. (See article, “Chrismation,” at Acts 2.)

CHURCH (Gr. ekklesia, the “called out,” the “assembly.”) The faithful are called out of the world to be the Church: the body of Christ, the Bride of Christ, the New Israel, the ark of SALVATION, the assembly of believers. Through the Church, Christians are united to Christ and to each other. In this community, the believer receives the GRACE of God through the sacraments and hears the truth of the gospel. This mystical transformation of people into one body in Christ takes place in the EUCHARIST. Because Christ is Head of the Church, the Church is a reflection of His INCARNATION, with both human and divine qualities. (See Mt 16:18; 1Co 10:16, 17; Gal 6:16; Eph 4:12; 5:22–32.)

CLOUD A “pillar of cloud” (Ex 13:21) was sent by God to help Israel find its way in the wilderness when the people left Egypt.

COMMANDMENT The Law of God, given first to Moses in the Ten Commandments on Mt. Sinai, and completed or fulfilled by the teaching of Christ (Ex 20:1–17; Mt 5:1–7:27; Jn 15:12).

COMMUNION (Gr. koinonia) A common union of the most intimate kind, enjoyed by Christians with God and with each other in the CHURCH. This communion is especially realized in the mystery of the EUCHARIST (Jn 6:56; 1Co 10:16, 17). See also KOINONIA.

CONFESSION (1) The avowal or verbal witness of faith in Christ, leading to SALVATION (Rom 10:9). (2) The SACRAMENT of the FORGIVENESS of sins, whereby the repentant sinner confesses his sins to Christ in the presence of the priest, who pronounces God’s ABSOLUTION of those sins. (See article, “Confession,” at 1Jn; Jn 20:22, 23; 1Jn 1:9.)

CONVERSION The beginning of SALVATION, occurring when a person repents, believes the gospel, and enters into a personal union and relationship with Christ. Conversion is not merely a change of belief but the beginning of a new life in Christ (2Co 5:17), which is a process of growth into the image and likeness of God. Our salvation is the working together of conversion, JUSTIFICATION and SANCTIFICATION throughout life.

CORNERSTONE The stone which ties together walls meeting at right angles, especially the one establishing the stability of a building. (See Ps 117:22; Ps 2:6–8; Is 28:16 and 1Pt 2:6–8.)

CORRUPTION The state of mortality and sinfulness, the universal condition of fallen humanity. All people are born into a world suffering the consequences of the Fall, the sin of Adam and Eve. These consequences include physical suffering, death, lack of perfection and a propensity to sin. (See Ps 52:4; Is 53:6; Rom 3:23; 1Jn 5:19.)

COSMOS The universe or world, created by God from nothing. It is controlled by God; He is the life of the world. Sin has corrupted the entire cosmos, and the rule of evil will not be abolished until the SECOND COMING of Jesus Christ. The universe will finally be redeemed by Christ when He comes again to transform the cosmos into a new heaven and a new earth. (See Gn 1:1; Rom 8:19–22; Rev 21:1.)

COUNCIL A group of Christians gathered to deliberate and ask for the guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT to administer the CHURCH and decide various doctrinal, moral, and liturgical questions. The Orthodox Church is conciliar (operating by councils) on all levels, from a parish to a worldwide council. While councils are not seen as infallible, their decisions become part of Church life when they are received by the entire Church. Besides the Jerusalem Council recorded in Acts 15, the Church counts Seven Ecumenical Councils in her history, from AD 325 to 787.

COVENANT An agreement or testament between men or between God and His people. In the OT, God chose the people of Israel, ending with John the Baptist, to prepare the way for the coming of His Only Begotten Son. Through Christ, the covenant was perfected, and the promises of God to Abraham and the Jews are fulfilled through the CHURCH, the New Israel, the new covenant people of God. (See Gn 13:14–16; Gal 3:6–9; 1Pt 2:9, 10.)

CREATION Everything made by God. The term creation is applied to the COSMOS in general and to mankind in particular. Our regeneration in Christ and the RESURRECTION of the dead are both often called the “new creation” (2Co 5:17; also Rev 21:1). Creation has no existence apart from God, but is nevertheless distinct from God. (That which is not created, such as divine GRACE, the divine energies, belongs to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.)

CREED A statement of belief. Creeds in their earlier forms were used by the apostles, and many are recorded in the NT (Eph 5:14; 1Ti 3:16; 2Ti 2:11–13). The Creed used throughout the CHURCH was adopted at the COUNCIL of Nicea in AD 325 and expanded at the Council of Constantinople in AD 381. This Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed, commonly called the Nicene Creed, is used at baptisms, in the Divine Liturgy, and in personal daily prayers.

CRUCIFIXION A form of execution of criminals used by the ancient Romans in which the offender was nailed through his wrists and ankles to a cross. A crucified person usually died from suffocation after becoming too exhausted to pull himself up in order to breathe. Besides Christ Himself (Mt 27:35–50), the apostles Peter, Andrew, James the Less, and Simon were also crucified.

CURSE (Gr. anathema) To “cut off,” “separate”; the opposite of blessing. A divine curse is God’s judgment. Christ delivers believers from the curse caused by their inability to live by the law of God. (See Gn 3:14–19; 9:25; Mk 11:21; Gal 3:10–14.)

CYRENE A colonial city in today’s Libya established by the Greeks as a regional center in North Africa (1Mc 15:23). Simon, who carried Jesus’ Cross, was “a man of Cyrene” (Mt 27:32).

D

DARKNESS A symbol of sin and rejection of God, who is LIGHT and whose followers walk in the light of RIGHTEOUSNESS (Jn 1:5; Rom 13:12).

DAY OF ATONEMENT The one day each year when the OT high priest offered sacrifices for the sins of the people; on this day (and on no other) the high priest entered the Most Holy Place of the TEMPLE to sprinkle blood on the ARK OF THE COVENANT, the mercy seat, to reconcile Israel with God.

DEACON Literally, “servant.” Originally seven deacons were ordained to assist the apostles with the temporal affairs of the CHURCH (Acts 6:1–7). St. Paul writes of the qualifications for deacon (1Ti 3:8–13). This established office has continued in the CHURCH Deacons help in the Church and assist the BISHOP and priest in liturgical services, but cannot preside over the EUCHARIST, give blessings or pronounce ABSOLUTION. In the NT (Rom 16:1) and the early Church, women also served as deacons or deaconesses, assisting others but not serving liturgically.

DEIFICATION The GRACE of God through which believers grow to become like Him and enjoy intimate COMMUNION with the FATHER through the Son in the HOLY SPIRIT. (See article, “Deification,” at 2Pt 1; 2Co 3:18; 5:17; 2Pt 1:2–4.)

DEPARTED The dead. Following death and judgment, those who have accepted God’s truth and love as fully revealed in Christ and the HOLY SPIRIT inherit eternal life in heaven. Those who have rejected His gift inherit eternal darkness. (See Mk 16:16; Lk 16:19–31; Heb 9:27.)

DEVIL Satan, the leader of the fallen angels. Called by Jesus the “father of lies” (Jn 8:44), Satan tempts the faithful to join his rebellion against God. The Greek word for devil means “separator”; he seeks to steal people away from God (Jn 10:10). Although not evil by NATURE, the devil turned by his free choice from what was according to nature to what was against it (Is 14:12–15). At the end of time, Christ will judge the devil and his followers and cast them into hell. (See Mt 25:41; Lk 10:18; 1Pt 5:8.)

DISCIPLESHIP The life of learning, growing, self-sacrifice, and commitment required of every Christian. A Christian not only believes in Christ but leaves everything to follow Him. (See Mt 4:18–22; 7:21–23; Lk 9:23; Gal 5:24.)

DOCTRINE The teaching of the Church, called variously the doctrine of Christ (2Jn 9), the apostles’ doctrine (Acts 2:42), or sound doctrine (Tts 1:9; see 2Ti 3:16; Rom 16:17).

E

EASTER The Feast of the RESURRECTION of Christ, also known as PASCHA (from the Hebrew word for PASSOVER). St. Paul calls Christ “our Passover” who “was sacrificed for us” 1Co 5:7). Orthodox Christians celebrate Pascha or Easter according to the decree of the COUNCIL of Nicea in AD 325: the first Sunday following the first full moon following the spring equinox following the Jewish Passover. Thus, Orthodox Easter is sometimes one, four, or five weeks after the Roman Catholic Easter – which Protestants also follow.

EDOMITES Descendants of Esau. They warred against Israel during the days of the Maccabees. Edomites are also known as Idumeans. The name Idumea was used by both the Greeks and Romans for the country of Edom. (See 1Mc 5:65.)

ENERGY Used theologically, that which radiates from the hidden ESSENCE or NATURE of God. The energies of God, such as GRACE, are not created, and allow the believer to enter into a personal relationship with God whose essence always remains hidden from humanity. Moses was permitted to see the GLORY of God, His energies, but was forbidden to gaze on the face of God, His hidden essence. (See Ex 33:18–23; 2Pt 1:2–4.)

EPIPHANY Literally, “a breaking through from above.” The word means a manifestation or THEOPHANY of God. Examples of epiphanies are the burning bush (Ex 3:1–6) and the TRANSFIGURATION of Christ (Mt 17:1–13). Twelve days after Christmas, the Church celebrates the Feast of Epiphany to honor the manifestation of the Holy TRINITY at the BAPTISM of Christ (Mk 1:9–11).

EPISCOPACY The order of bishops in the Church (from Gr. episkopos, “overseer”). See also BISHOP.

ESCHATOLOGY The study of the last days. According to the Holy Scriptures, Christ will come again at the end of time to judge the living and the dead, destroy the power of evil, and fully reveal the everlasting Kingdom (Mt 25:31–46; Rev 20:10–21:1). See also SECOND COMING.

ESSENCE Also called “substance,” “NATURE” or “form.” God the FATHER, the Son, and the HOLY SPIRIT are “of one essence.” Jesus Christ is “of one essence” with God the Father and the Holy Spirit in His divinity, and “of one essence” with all human beings in His humanity. God’s essence is beyond the understanding and comprehension of His creatures. God can be known by humans through the divine energies and operations of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Ex 33:18–23). See also ENERGY.

EUCHARIST Taken from a Greek word meaning “THANKSGIVING,” Eucharist designates Holy COMMUNION, the central act of Christian WORSHIP At the Last Supper Christ gave thanks (Mt 26:27; 1Co 11:24), and embodied in the communion service is our own thanksgiving. The word came into use very early, and appears in the late first century document, The Didache (“Now concerning the Eucharist....” Did. 9:1) and also the letters of St. Ignatius of Antioch (Ign. Phil. 4:1) written about AD 107.

EVANGELIST One who preaches the gospel; used especially of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, who wrote the four NT Gospels. It is also one of Christ’s gifts (Eph 4:11).

EXCOMMUNICATION Literally, “out of communion.” This judgment is pronounced usually by the BISHOP of the CHURCH on willfully heretical, immoral, or divisive persons who refuse to repent of their sins, excluding them from the sacramental life of the Church (1Co 5:1–5). Excommunication is not viewed as eternal damnation but as temporal discipline. It is administered for the SALVATION of the excommunicated person, with the hope the sinner will repent.

F

FAITH Belief and trust in Christ as one’s Savior, or a reference to Orthodox Christianity as “The Faith.” The effects of this faith are freedom from the power of the DEVIL, the growth and maturity in VIRTUE, and progress toward perfection and union with God. One is saved by faith through GRACE – a living faith manifested by a righteous life. (See article, “Justification by Faith,” at Rom 5; see also Rom 3:28; Gal 2:1; Eph 2:8; Jam 2:14–17.)

FASTING An exercise or discipline whereby one typically gives up certain foods as a means of disciplining the body and stilling human PASSION. Fasting is a part of the practice of ASCETICISM in the Church and a sign of REPENTANCE Orthodox Christians fast on most Wednesdays and Fridays (in memory of the betrayal and CRUCIFIXION of Christ) and during four fasting seasons: (1) ADVENT, the forty days before Christmas; (2) Great Lent, forty days before Palm Sunday and the week before Easter; (3) two weeks before the Feast of Ss. Peter and Paul (June 29); and (4) two weeks before the Feast of the Falling Asleep of the Virgin Mary (Aug. 15). (See Mt 6:16; Rom 13:14; Gal 5:16, 17.)

FATHER (1) God the Father is the “fountainhead” of the Holy TRINITY, for God the Son is eternally begotten of God the Father, and God the HOLY SPIRIT proceeds eternally from God the Father. (See Mt 28:19; Jn 3:16; 14:10; 15:26.) (2) “Father” is also a title given to one’s spiritual father based on the custom of the Jews, who spoke of their father Abraham or their father David, and on the words of St. Paul, who called himself the father of his flock. (See Lk 1:73; 16:24; 1Co 4:15.)

FELLOWSHIP (Gr. koinonia) Literally, “COMMUNION”; the unity of believers through Christ based on the fellowship of the FATHER, Son, and HOLY SPIRIT. Christians are united into a special fellowship through their love for one another and common union with Christ (Acts 2:42; 1Jn 1:3, 7). See also COMMUNION.

FILIOQUE A Latin word meaning “and the Son.” Roman Catholic and, later, Protestant churches have added words to the Nicene Creed: “I believe in the HOLY SPIRIT... who proceeds from the FATHER and the Son.” The filioque is judged by the Orthodox Church as error because it is contrary to what Jesus taught (Jn 15:26). Thus, the filioque confuses the true belief concerning the Holy Trinity. The addition of the filioque was a major factor contributing to the Great Schism in the eleventh century.

FORGIVENESS: The remission of sin and guilt through the love of Christ. Forgiveness is given originally in BAPTISM; forgiveness for continuing sin is reclaimed through REPENTANCE As God has forgiven the sins of believers, so are Christians to forgive those who have sinned against them (Mt 6:14, 15; 18:21–35; 1Jn 1:9).

FORNICATION (Gr. porneia); from which we get the word “pornography.” It is the sin of sexual immorality. Fornication is strongly condemned in Scripture. (See 1Co 6:16–18; Gal 5:19; Col 3:5.)

FREE WILL The freedom to choose between good and evil. Free will is one aspect of human NATURE created in God’s image. According to Orthodox teaching, sin stains the image of God but does not destroy it. Human beings have the right to accept or reject the gospel, but must accept the consequences of their decision. (See Gn 3:22, 23; Rev 3:20.)

G

GABRIEL Literally “man of God.” An archangel who explained to Daniel the meaning of a vision (Dan 8:16 and following). Later, he also told Daniel the meaning of a prophecy (Dan 9:21–27). In the NT we see Gabriel announcing first the conception of John the Baptist (Lk 1:11–22) and sometime later the conception of our Lord Jesus Christ (Lk 1:26–38).

GENTILE A non-Jew. Christ and His apostles first preached the gospel to the JEWS, those chosen by God to prepare the way for the Messiah. But because Christ Himself died for all, Jew and Gentile, SALVATION is therefore offered to all, both Gentile and Jew. Those Gentiles (and Jews) who believe in Christ become the true sons of Abraham. (See Acts 11; 15:1–29; Rom 1:16; Gal 3:6–9.)

GIFTS Charismatic or spiritual gifts are blessings and abilities given by the HOLY SPIRIT to believers for the building up of the Body of Christ. (See Rom 12:6–8; 1Co 12; 13; 1Jn 3:24.)

GLORY The divine splendor of God, or a specific manifestation of God’s presence, frequently likened to a CLOUD, smoke, or brilliant LIGHT. To serve and WORSHIP God is to glorify Him. Through the HOLY SPIRIT, Christians are being changed to be like God and to reflect His glory. (See Ex 19:9, 16–18; Is 60:1; Lk 2:9; Rom 8:16–18; 2Co 3:18; 4:6.) See also SHEKINAH.

GLOSSOLALIA Literally, “speaking in tongues.” St. Paul used the term to describe a spiritual gift in the early CHURCH, not an emotional experience (1Co 12:10). At PENTECOST the gift was given to allow those present to hear the gospel in their native language (Acts 2:6). In Corinth, the gift was an ecstatic utterance (1Co 14:2). The APOSTLE warned against too much emphasis on this experience, urging instead that believers seek to manifest love (1Co 13:1) and communicate the gospel intelligibly (1Co 14:19). Glossolalia has never played a significant role in historic Orthodox spirituality. (See 1Co 12–14.)

GNOSTICISM A very complex ancient heresy that was manifested in many different forms and beliefs. The Gnostics taught that Christ had imparted secret knowledge (Gr. gnosis) to a select few, who in turn transmitted hidden truths to an elite. Central to Gnosticism is the denial of the goodness of matter, leading to a denial of the reality of the INCARNATION of the Son of God and of His bodily RESURRECTION. Several schools of Gnosticism taught that SALVATION consisted of liberation from the physical body and of growth to a higher, nonphysical, spiritual level of existence. Orthodoxy has always rejected Gnosticism, teaching that the world and man were created good and will be redeemed by Christ and transformed at the end of this age (Gn 1:1–31; Rom 8:19–22; 1Co 15:35–55; Rev 21:1).

GOSPEL Literally, “the good news.” The term comes from the ancient word announcing the ascension of a new ruler to the throne. The Christian gospel is summarized in the statement, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Mt 3:2; 4:17).

GRACE The gift of God’s own presence and action in His creation. Through grace, God forgives sins and transforms the believer into His image and likeness. Grace is not merely unmerited favor – an attitude of God toward the believer. Grace is God’s uncreated ENERGY bestowed in the sacraments and is therefore truly experienced. A Christian is saved through grace, which is a gift of God and not a reward for good works. However, because grace changes a person, he or she will manifest the effects of grace through righteous living. (See Jn 1:17; Rom 5:21; Eph 1:7; 2:8; 2Th 1:12; 1Pt 5:5.)

H

HADES A Greek word equivalent to the Hebrew Sheol – the realm of the dead. Following His burial and before His glorious RESURRECTION, Christ liberated the righteous dead in Hades, enabling them to enter PARADISE because He had destroyed sin and death by His life-giving death (1Pt 3:18–20).

HANANIAH Jewish name of one of the three youths held by Nebuchadnezzar along with Daniel. Hananiah’s name in exile was Shadrach (See Dan 1:6, 7, 11). He is described as one whose faith saved him from fire (1Mc 2:59).

HANUKKAH The Jewish festival of lights that commemorates the rededication of the Jerusalem TEMPLE to more traditional modes of Jewish worship by JUDAS MAC-CABEUS around 164 BC after its desecration by the Seleucid King ANTIOCHUS EPIPHANES.

HEART In scriptural terms, the spiritual center of one’s being. The heart is the seat of divine presence and GRACE and the source of moral acts. The ongoing transformation of the heart is the major work of God’s saving grace. (See Mt 5:8; 6:21; 22:37; Lk 6:45; Jn 7:38; Rom 2:29; 10:9, 10; Heb 13:9.)

HERESY Following one’s own choice or opinion so as to cause division among Christians. Heresy is a system of thought contradicting the true teachings of the CHURCH. It is false teaching, which true Christians must reject (Mt 7:15; 2Pt 2:1).

HOLINESS is the goodness of God Who alone is good (Mt 19:17). Holiness is manifested in people being renewed and transformed by the HOLY SPIRIT, who seek to become holy as God is holy (Rom 12:1; 1Pt 1:14–16; 2:9).

HOLY SPIRIT One of the Holy TRINITY, sometimes referred to as “The Spirit of the Lord God” (Is 61:1).

HOPE An expectation of something desired through faith (Heb 11:1). Hope for Christians is to “look forward to the RESURRECTION from the dead and the life of the world to come” (The CREED). (Jn 16:20–24, 33; Rom 5:2; 8:24, 25; 2Th 2:16).

I

ICON A transliterated Greek word meaning “IMAGE” (Col 1:15). Icons of Christ and His saints depict the reality of the INCAR-NATION: because the Son of God became Man, He can be imaged. Orthodox Christians honor or venerate icons, but never WORSHIP them, for worship is due the Holy TRINITY alone. The honor given to icons passes on to the one represented on the icon, as a means of THANKSGIVING for what God has done in that person’s life.

IDOL A statue or other IMAGE of a false god, such as the “golden calf” (Ex 32:4–8). Also, anything that is worshiped in place of the one true God. Money, possessions, fame, even family members can become idols if we put them ahead of Christ our God. (See Lv 26:1; Col 3:5.)

ILLUMINATION “Enlightenment.” In the Bible, DARKNESS is often used as an image of sin and death. To be illuminated is to be shown the true path of RIGHTEOUSNESS in God, thereby being led out of the darkness of sin and death. BAPTISM is called illumination, because in it we are delivered from sin and death and regenerated by the HOLY SPIRIT. (See 2Ez 9:8; Ps 12:4; 18:28; Dan 5:11, 14; Tb 12:15–22; Eph 1:18.)

IMAGE (Gr. eikon) The Bible teaches that man was created in the image and likeness of God. Men and women reflect the divine image by their ability to reason and to choose freely. Through Christ, the image of God is renewed in fallen man as believers are renewed and transformed by the GRACE of the HOLY SPIRIT. (See Gn 1:26; Rom 8:29; 2Co 3:18.) See ICON.

IMMANUEL “God with us,” a title of Christ Who is God in the flesh (Is 7:14; Mt 1:22, 23).

INCARNATE From Latin, meaning “to become flesh.” Christ is God Incarnate: He became flesh, that is, a Man. Thus, Jesus Christ is perfect God and perfect Man in one Divine PERSON (Lk 1:26–38; Jn 1:1–14; Php 2:5–7).

INCENSE The sap of the frankincense tree, or other aromatic substances, dried and burned in honor of God. The offering of incense has been associated with the WORSHIP of God since God commanded Moses to burn incense to Him in the TABERNACLE (Ex 30:1–8). The WORD OF GOD came to the PROPHET Malachi (1:11) predicting, “among the Gentiles [the Church]... incense shall be offered to My name...” The Magi offered frankincense to the infant Christ (Mt 2:9–11). Incense manifests the prayers of the saints as they ascend to heaven (Ps 140:2). It is found in OT and NT accounts of the worship of God in heaven (Is 6:4; Rev 5:8).

INFANT BAPTISM There are numerous biblical passages which support the ancient Christian practice of infant baptism, which was universal in the CHURCH until the Anabaptist reaction after the Protestant Reformation. Among these are: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 19:14); the BAPTISM of whole households and families, presumably including children (Acts 16:14, 15, 25–33); and Paul’s comparison of circumcision – given to infant boys – to baptism (Col 2:11, 12; see also Jn 3:3–6; Rom 6:3, 4; Gal 3:27; 1Pt 3:21)

INTERCESSION Supplication to God in behalf of another person. Christ intercedes before God the FATHER in behalf of the repentant sinner, and God’s people intercede for one another. (See Is 53:12; Jer 27:18; Dan 9:3–19; Rom 8:34.)

J

JEWS Originally, God’s chosen people who followed the COVENANT given by the Lord to Moses. In the OT, the Jews are (1) citizens of Judah, (2) the postexilic people of Israel, or (3) the worshipers of Yahweh. God chose the Jews to prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, the Only-begotten Son of God. Through Christ the distinction between Jew and GENTILE has been overcome, and all who truly follow Him have become the chosen people of God. (See Acts 22:3; Rom 1:16; 2:28, 29; Gal 3:28; 1Pt 2:9.)

JUDAS MACCABEUS Son of Mattathias. Called “Maccabeus” (Hammer) because of his sturdy defense of the Israelites in the face of those who wished to destroy them. (See 1Mc 2:4.)

JUDGES The period of the Judges ruling Israel was between the conquest of the Canaanites (Jdg 1:1) and the establishment of the monarchy under Saul (1Kg 10:17–24) when the Israelites were settling the land of Canaan. The Book of Judges contains the stories of several individual judges.

JUSTIFICATION In BAPTISM (Rom 6:1–6), God forgives one’s sins and begins to transform him or her into a righteous person. (See article, “Justification by Faith,” at Rom 5; also Rom 5:1, 2; Gal 2:16; Php 2:12, 13; Jam 2:24.)

K

KINGDOM OF GOD God’s rule and reign. This Kingdom, revealed by Christ, is present in the world through the CHURCH. The fullness of the Kingdom will come when Christ returns to judge the living and the dead, creating a new heaven and earth. (See Mk 1:15; Jn 3:3–5; Rom 8:20, 21; 1Co 6:9, 10; Rev 21:1 – 22:5.)

KISS OF PEACE A kiss given by one believer to another. It is a sign of Christian unity and fellowship. (See 1Co 16:20.) In the Divine Liturgy, the clergy and in some Churches, also the laity, exchange the kiss of peace before saying the Nicene CREED.

KOINONIA A Greek word meaning COMMUNION or intimate fellowship. This relationship exists between Christians who are united by love into one body in Christ. (See Acts 2:41, 42; 2Co 13:14; 1Jn 1:1–7.)

L

LAMB OF GOD Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, offered Himself as a perfect SACRIFICE for the sins of the world (Jn 1:29). In the Preparatory Service of the Orthodox Church, the bread and wine are made ready to be consecrated in the EUCHARIST. The priest cuts out the center section of the loaf, called “the Lamb,” for use in COMMUNION as the Body of Christ. (See the OT prophecy in Is 53:7–8.)

LAST JUDGMENT The judgment that takes place after the SECOND COMING of Christ and the final RESURRECTION from the dead. (See Mt 25:31–46; 16:8–11; Rev 20:11–15.)

LIGHT The Bible frequently uses light as a symbol of God and of that which is good, that which overcomes the DARKNESS of sin and death. Candles are used in the CHURCH to symbolize the light of Christ. Christians are to be lights shining in the world to show the way of RIGHTEOUSNESS and SALVATION (Mt 5:14; Jn 8:12).

LITURGY The work or public service of the people of God, which is the WORSHIP of the one true God. The Eucharistic service of the Orthodox Church is called the “Divine Liturgy.”

M

MAGNIFICAT The PRAYER or hymn sung by the Virgin Mary when she visited Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, shortly after the ANNUNCIATION (Lk 1:46–55). This hymn is sung frequently during MATINS in the Orthodox Church, and takes its title from the Latin for the beginning phrase, “My soul magnifies the Lord.” (See also 1Kg 2:1–10.)

MAN (Gr. Anthropos) Frequently used in the Bible in the generic sense for both man and woman. Man is the pinnacle of God’s CREATION, for only he among the creatures was made in the IMAGE and likeness of God. (See Gn 1:26, 27; Lk 4:4.)

MARTYR (Gr. martyria) Literally, “a WITNESS.” The term is used to describe those who give their lives for Christ, both in life and in death. (See Jn 1:6–8; Acts 6:8 – 7:60.)

MATINS The early morning PRAYER service in the Orthodox CHURCH.

MEDIATOR One who intervenes on behalf of another. Jesus Christ mediates on behalf of the faithful before God the FATHER (1Ti 2:5).

MERCY The compassionate, steadfast love of God for sinners. Christians reflect the mercy of God by caring for others. The most frequent PRAYER in Orthodox WORSHIP is “Lord, have mercy.” (See Mt 5:7; Eph 2:4–7; Tts 3:4–7.)

MESSIAH The Christ, the anointed one of God. Jesus Christ is the Messiah, fulfilling all the promises made by God to His chosen people. (See Is 7:14; 9:6; Mt 16:13–17.)

MIRACLE A sign whereby God supersedes the laws of nature in a MYSTERY. Jesus Christ performed many miracles, showing His mastery over NATURE, while other miracles demonstrated His POWER over sin, disease, and death. The apostles continued to manifest the power of God through miracles in Jesus’ name. Healings, weeping icons, and other contemporary miracles show His power and presence in the CHURCH today. (See Mt 8:1–34; Jn 11:1–44; Acts 3:6–9.)

MISSION A task given by God to His people. Christ sent The Seventy on a mission (Lk 10:1–24). St. Paul went on three missionary journeys to preach the gospel (Acts 13:1 – 14:28; 15:36 – 18:22; 18:23 – 21:16). The mission of the Church today is to proclaim Christ to the world (Mt 28:18–20).

MYSTERY The ways of God, especially God’s plan for SALVATION, cannot be known with the rational, finite human mind. It can only be experienced by the revelation of God. The Orthodox Church also uses the term mystery for the sacraments of the Church. (See Mk 4:11; 1Co 2:7, 8; Eph 5:32.) See also SACRAMENT.

N

NATIVITY The birth of Christ according to the flesh. (See note for Matthew 2:11; notes for Lk 1:8; 2:1–3; 2:7.) This holy day is also called “Christmas.”

NATURE The sum of the qualities shared by individuals of the same type. (The qualities which distinguish individuals of a type from another make up the “PERSON.”) The Holy TRINITY is one Divine Nature in three Persons. Humanity is one human nature in the image of God. Although stained by sin, human nature is good, having been created in the IMAGE of God. Through GRACE, the SPIRIT restores the nature of the believer to its true, uncorrupted state, so that he or she may grow into union with God. (See Gn 1:26–31; 2Co 3:18; 5:17.)

NETHINIM Temple servants in the OT. In the LXX, the word is transliterated from the Hebrew and usually appears as “the Nethinim,” and never in the singular.

NEW JERUSALEM The center of the KINGDOM OF GOD which will be established following the SECOND COMING of Christ and the LAST JUDGMENT (Gal 4:26; Rev 3:12; 21:2).

NEW MAN One who is being transformed or deified by the HOLY SPIRIT into a new creature in COMMUNION with God (2Co 5:17; Gal 6:15).

O

ORDINATION The sacramental act setting a man apart for the ministry of the CHURCH by the laying on of hands of a BISHOP. The original meaning of ordination includes both election and imposing of hands. (See article, “Ordination,” at Acts 14; Acts 6:1–6; 14:23; 1Ti 4:14.)

ORIGINAL SIN The fact that every PERSON born comes into the world facing mortality: we die. With REDEMPTION in Christ, however, comes new life in Him. Original sin does not carry guilt, for a person is guilty only of his or her own sins, not of those of Adam. Therefore, the Orthodox CHURCH does not believe that a baby who dies unbaptized is condemned to hell. (See Gn 3:1–24; Rom 5:12–16.)

P

PARABLE A story told to illustrate a greater truth through familiar examples related to the daily lives of the hearers. Christ’s teaching is filled with parables. (See article, “Parables,” at Mt 13; Mt 13:1–54; Lk 8:9–15.)

PARADISE The place of rest for the DEPARTED in Christ. The original Paradise, (see Gn 2:8–14) will be restored in its fullness following the SECOND COMING of Christ. (See 2Ez; Lk 23:43; 2Co 12:4; 2Pt 3:13; Rev 2:7; 21:1.)

PARALEIPOMENON – see definition from fr. Peter.

PASCHA Greek for “PASSOVER.” Originally Pascha designated the. Jewish Passover; now, it is the Feast of the RESURRECTION of Christ, also called “Easter.” Christ is the LAMB OF GOD whose SACRIFICE delivers the faithful from death, as the sacrifice of the Passover Lamb delivered the ancient JEWS from slavery and death in Egypt (Ex 12; 13; 1Co 5:7, 8).

PASSION (1) A term used to describe the SACRIFICE of Christ on the Cross. (2) Holy Week is often called Passion Week, describing Christ’s struggle and suffering in Jerusalem. (3) In addition, there are blameless passions including human appetites or urges – such as hunger, the desire for pleasure and sexual drives – which can become a source of sin when not controlled or directed by submission to the will of God. (See Rom 1:26; 7:5; Gal 5:24; Col 3:5.)

PEACE (Heb. shalom) Tranquillity, harmony with God, self, and other people made possible through Christ, who unites the faithful to God and to each other. (See Rom 14:17; Gal 5:22; Eph 2:13–16; Php 4:6, 7.)

PENTATEUCH Refers to the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (The Old Testament) traditionally attributed to Moses. The JEWS call these books the “Torah.”

PENTECOST Originally an OT harvest festival celebrated fifty days following the PASSOVER. In time, Pentecost became the commemoration of the giving of the Law to Moses on Mt. Sinai. Pentecost took on a new meaning with the descent of the HOLY SPIRIT on the apostles at the time of Pentecost. Through the SACRAMENT of CHRISMATION, Orthodox Christians experience their own personal Pentecost. Every Divine Liturgy becomes a Pentecost through the descent of the Holy Spirit on the faithful and the gifts (the bread and wine), transforming them into the Body and Blood of Christ. (See Ex 23:14–17; Lv 23:15–21; 2Mc 12:32; Acts 2:1–41.)

PERSON (Gr. prosopon; Lat. persona) Regarding the Holy Trinity, there are three Divine Persons: God the FATHER, Son, and HOLY SPIRIT. The Person of God the Son became Man, Jesus Christ, “for us and for our SALVATION” (The CREED; see also Mt 28:19).

PHARISEES One of the parties of first-century Judaism. The Pharisees favored strict legalistic application of traditional interpretations of the Law stemming from oral Jewish traditions. Unlike the SADDUCEES, they believed in ANGELS and in the RESURRECTION of the dead. The Pharisees were generally hostile to the mission of Christ, who condemned their legalism and their preoccupation with outward forms, ignoring true RIGHTEOUSNESS of the HEART. (See Mt 3:7; 12:14; 22:34; 23:13–36.)

PILGRIM One who makes a journey to a religious shrine or a spiritual journey from sin and suffering in this life to eternal life with Christ in heaven. (See Ps 41:4–5; Heb 11:13; 1Pt 2:11.)

POWER (1) A divine attribute or energy (Mt 6:13; Lk 1:35; Rom 1:16). (2) The authority and ability to act (Mt 9:6). (3) A category of angelic beings (Eph 1:21).

PRAISE To glorify and give thanks to God or to speak highly of someone or something (Jdg 5:3; Ps 9:1–12; Ps 20:14; Ps 88:6; Ps 118:164; Rom 15:11). See ALLELUIA.

PRAYER COMMUNION with God through words of PRAISE, THANKSGIVING, REPENTANCE, supplication, and INTERCESSION. Prayer is “raising up the HEART and mind to God” (St. John of Damascus). Usually prayer is verbal. However, prayer of the heart or in the Spirit, the highest form of prayer, is without words. (See Tb 8:4–8; Dan 4:34, 35; Mt 6:5–13; 21:22; Rom 8:26; Php 4:6; 1Th 5:17.)

PRESBYTER Literally, “elder;” now generally called “priest.” Presbyter is one of the three orders of the ordained ministry of the CHURCH: BISHOP, presbyter and DEACON. (See article, “The Four ‘Orders’ in Church Government,” at 1Ti; Acts 14:23; 15:4–23; 1Ti 5:17–19; Tts 1:5.)

PROCEED “To come forth from” or “come to.” The HOLY SPIRIT proceeds from the FATHER, the fountainhead of the Holy TRINITY (Jn 15:26).

PROPHET Descriptive title given to accepted spokespersons of God (or their opposites, “false prophets”); a PERSON who speaks in the name of God. One who proclaims the will of God and/or foretells the future, especially the coming and mission of Christ, through the inspiration of the HOLY SPIRIT. (See Dt 18:18; Acts 28:25.)

PROPITIATION An offering that results in atonement, REDEMPTION, and RECONCILIATION. Christ offered Himself on the Cross as a propitiation for our sins, to liberate humanity from sin and death. (See Rom 3:21–26; Heb 2:17; 1Jn 2:2; 4:10.)

PROSELYTE Literally, “one who comes toward.” A proselyte is a convert to faith, usually from another religion. In the NT, the word usually refers to a GENTILE convert to Judaism. (See Dt 29:10–13; Is 56:3–8; Ru 1:16; Acts 2:10; 13:43.)

PROVIDENCE God’s sovereign care in governing His CREATION, especially His care for the faithful. (See Ps 144:17; Rom 8:28.)

PURIFICATION The OT rite whereby one is cleansed of ritual impurity caused by such things as contact with leprosy, a dead body or sexual acts. This cleansing consists of making a SACRIFICE or being sprinkled with “water of purification” (Nm 19:9). Christ liberated the faithful from these rites. Christians are purified by the sacraments and by their spiritual struggle towards transforming their passions. (See Lv 12:6; Nm 19:9–21; Mt 15:11; Lk 2:22–33; Acts 10:9–16; 15:1–29.)

R

RAPHAEL Archangel sent to help Tobit and his son, and Sarah who became the wife of Tobiah. (See Tb 3:1–17 and references to Raphael throughout.)

RECONCILIATION Making peace between enemies, especially the removal of hostility and barriers between humans and God, and between individuals, accomplished by Christ. (See Rom 5:11; 2Co 5:18, 19.)

REDEMPTION The deliverance of humanity from sin and death by Christ, who took on human NATURE by His INCARNATION, conquering sin and death by His life-giving death and glorious RESURRECTION. Redemption releases those who are in captivity to the evil one, and unites humanity to God by Christ’s ASCENSION. (See Dt 7:8; Gal 3:13; Heb 9:15.) See also DEIFICATION and SALVATION.

REMEMBRANCE (Gr. anamnesis) Making present by means of recollection. Remembrance of the COVENANT was crucial for Israel (Ex 2:24; 13:3). The EUCHARIST is not merely a calling to mind but a remembrance of and mystical participation in the very SACRIFICE of Christ, His RESURRECTION, His ASCENSION, and His SECOND COMING (1Co 11:23–26).

REMISSION The FORGIVENESS and putting aside of sins. As the faithful are released from their sins through the sacramental life of the CHURCH, they in turn are called to remit the sins of any who have offended them. (See Mt 26:28; Jn 20:23; Acts 2:37, 38.)

REPENTANCE Literally, “a change of mind” or attitude, and thus of behavior. God is the author of repentance, which is an integral part of BAPTISM, CONFESSION, and ongoing spiritual life. Repentance is not simply sorrow for sins but a firm determination to turn away from sin to a new life of RIGHTEOUSNESS in Jesus Christ. (See Ezk 18:31; Mt 4:17; 2Pt 3:9; 1Jn 1:9.)

RESURRECTION The reunion of the soul and body after death which will revitalize and transform the physical body into a spiritual body. Jesus Himself is the firstfruits of perfect resurrection; He will never again be subject to death. Because He conquered death by His Resurrection, all will rise again: the righteous to life with Christ, the wicked to judgment. (See Is 26:19; Jn 5:28, 29; 1Co 15:35–55.)

RIGHTEOUSNESS Being good, just, and blameless. All are called to a life of humble obedience to God. Righteousness is the fruit of the HOLY SPIRIT, and the way in which Christians respond with living faith to God’s gift of SALVATION. (See WSol 5:6, 18; Is 11:5; 46:13; Mt 5:6, 20; Rom 4:3; Gal 5:22; Jam 2:14–26.)

RITES Forms of WORSHIP, music, vestments, and architecture. Most Orthodox Christians follow the liturgical practice of the ancient Churches in the East (Antioch, Jerusalem, and Alexandria), the rite commonly known as the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom. However, some Orthodox follow a Western Rite, forms that developed in the West before the separation of Rome from the Orthodox Church (see 1Co 11:23–26).

RITUAL Ceremonies and texts used in the WORSHIP of the CHURCH. Having her roots in the TEMPLE and SYNAGOGUE, the Church has employed ritual in her worship from the very beginning. See also LITURGY.

S

SABBATH Saturday, the seventh day of the week, originally a day of rest, for after CREATION “He rested on the seventh day” (Gn 2:2). Since Christ rose from the dead on the first day of the week, Sunday, the CHURCH gathers on this day instead of the seventh to worship God. Sunday is also called “the Lord’s Day” and “the eighth day,” because it transcends the Sabbath and is seen as being a part of heavenly time rather than earthly time. (See Ex 20:8–11; Acts 20:7.)

SACRAMENT Literally, a “MYSTERY”. A sacrament is a way in which God imparts grace to His people. Orthodox Christians frequently speak of seven sacraments, but God’s gift of GRACE is not limited only to these seven – the entire life of the CHURCH is mystical and sacramental. The sacraments were instituted by Christ Himself (Jn 1:16, 17). The Seven Mysteries are: BAPTISM (Mt 28:18–20; Rom 6:4; Gal 3:27), CHRIS-MATION (Acts 8:15–17; 1Jn 2:27), the EUCHARIST (Mt 26:26–28; Jn 6:30–58; 1Co 10:16; 11:23–31), CONFESSION (Jn 20:22, 23; 1Jn 1:8, 9), ORDINATION (Mk 3:14; Acts 1:15–26; 6:1–6; 1Ti 3:1–13; 4:14), Marriage (Gn 2:18–25; Eph 5:22–33), and Healing or UNCTION (Lk 9:1–6; Jam 5:14, 15).

SACRIFICE To offer something up to God. In the old COVENANT, God commanded His people to sacrifice animals, grain, or oil as an act of THANKSGIVING, PRAISE, FORGIVENESS, and cleansing. However, these sacrifices were only a foreshadowing of the one perfect sacrifice – Christ. He, the Eternal Son and the WORD OF GOD became Man, giving His life as a sacrifice on the Cross to liberate humanity from the CURSE of sin and death. In the EUCHARIST, the faithful participate in the life-giving once for all sacrifice of Christ. (See Lv 1:1–7:38; 1Co 11:23–26; Php 2:5–8; Heb 9:1–10:18.) See also REMEMBRANCE.

SADDUCEES A party in Judaism at the time of Christ. The Sadducees steadfastly held to a literal interpretation of the Law contained in the first five books of the Old Testament (the PENTATEUCH or Torah), and rejected traditional interpretations favored by other groups of JEWS, especially the PHARISEES. Sadducees came from the priestly class and rejected the RESURRECTION of the dead and the existence of ANGELS. Christ condemned these Jewish leaders for their preoccupation with outward forms, ignoring or neglecting true RIGHTEOUSNESS of the HEART. (See Mt 16:1–12.)

SAINT Literally, “a holy person.” With God as the source of true HOLINESS, all Christians are called to be saints. (See Rom 16:2; 1Co 1:1, 2). But from the earliest times, the CHURCH has designated certain outstanding men and women who have departed this life and reached DEIFICATION as worthy of veneration and canonization as saints or holy persons.

SALVATION is the FORGIVENESS of sin and reunion with God and His Kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord (Jn 3; Rom 6). (See articles, “The New Birth,” at Jn 3; “Justification by Faith,” at Rom 5; and “Deification,” at 2Pt 1.) See also DEIFICATION, JUSTIFICATION, KINGDOM OF GOD, REDEMPTION and SACRAMENT.

SANCTIFICATION Literally, “being set apart” to God. The process of growth in Christ whereby the believer is made holy as God is holy, through the HOLY SPIRIT. (See article, “Deification,” at 2Pt 1; Rom 6:22; 15:16.) See also DEIFICATION, JUSTIFICATION and SALVATION.

SANCTUARY The Holy of Holies or Most Holy Place. The place in the Old Testament TABERNACLE or TEMPLE containing the ARK OF THE COVENANT, the dwelling place of God. Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place and only on the DAY OF ATONEMENT. When the early Christians built Churches, they followed the general pattern of the temple, and the altar area is often called the sanctuary. (See Ex 26:31–35; 40:34, 35; Lv 16:1–5; 1 Kin. 6:1–38; 8:1–11.)

SATRAP A governor or ruler in ancient Babylon, as mentioned in numerous OT passages.

SECOND COMING At the end of the ages, Christ will come again to judge the living and the dead. Following the LAST JUDGMENT, a new heaven and new earth will take the place of the old earth, which has been scarred by sin. Because Christ is already present through the CHURCH, Christians enter into the KINGDOM OF GOD through their participation in the sacramental life of the Church as they await the coming of the Lord. (See article, “The Second Coming of Christ,” at Tts 2; Mt 25:31–46; Rom 8:18–21; 1Th 4:16, 17; Rev 20:11–22:5.) See also RESURRECTION.

SHEKINAH The GLORY of God, frequently revealed in the symbols of fire and CLOUD in the OT. Although Christians experience the energies of God, including His GLORY, they never penetrate beyond the cloud to the inner ESSENCE of God, which remains hidden. (See Ex 13:21; 24:15–18; 33:18–23; 40:34, 35; 2Ch 7:1; Mt 17:1–5.) See also ENERGY.

SIN (Gr. hamartia) Literally, “missing the mark.” This word in ancient Greek could describe the action of an archer who failed to hit the target. All humans are sinners who miss the mark of perfection that God has set for His people, resulting in alienation from God. (See Mt 5:48; Rom 3:23; 6:23; 1Jn 1:8.)

SOJOURNER A stranger or foreigner. Because the CHURCH exists in a sinful world that has rejected God, Christians – citizens of the KINGDOM OF GOD – are strangers in a foreign land. Therefore, faithful sojourners are on guard, lest they adopt the ways of the fallen society in which they live. Abraham and Jacob were sojourners before us (Gn 12:10; 32:4); Israel was sojourning in Egypt (Gn 47:4); Naomi was a sojourner in Moab (Ru 1:1). Christians, too, are sojourners (1Pt 2:11; 1Jn 2:15–17).

SON OF MAN An important messianic title of Christ, who is perfect God and perfect Man. The Gospels reveal that Jesus often applied this title to Himself. In Christ, the Second Adam, God assumed and perfected sinful humanity, freeing those who follow Him from the consequences of the rebellion of the first man, Adam. (See Mk 2:28; 9:31; Rom 5:12–21; 1Co 15:21, 22, 45–49.) See also INCARNATION.

SORROW The Scriptures distinguish between godly sorrow, which produces REPENTANCE, and ungodly sorrow, the sadness of being found out, which produces death (Mt 5:4; 2Co 7:9, 10).

SOUL A living substance, simple, bodiless, and invisible by NATURE, activating the body to which it brings life, growth, sensation and reproduction. The mind is not distinct from the soul but serves as a window to the soul. The soul is free, endowed with will, and the POWER to act. Along with the body, the soul is created by God in His IMAGE. The soul of man will never die (Gn 1:26; 2:7; Mt 10:28).

STEWARD(SHIP) A steward is one who manages property belonging to another. All that a Christian has belongs to God. Thus, the Christian gives back to God out of the material blessings he has received from Him for the work of the CHURCH. In the OT, God commanded the faithful to give a TITHE or ten percent of their goods to God; though not under law, St. John Chrysostom teaches Christians should give that much and more. Christians are also stewards of the spiritual knowledge which God has entrusted to us. We must preserve the heritage of apostolic DOCTRINE intact for future generations. (See Gn 14:18–20; Lv 27:30–33; 1Co 4:1, 2; 2Co 9:6–8; 1Pt 4:10.)

SPIRIT (Gr. pneuma) Literally, “breath”; that which is living but immaterial. Spirit is used in three ways in Scripture: (1) the HOLY SPIRIT is one of the three Persons of the TRINITY (Jn 4:24; 20:22); (2) the ANGELS are called spirits (Ps 103:4); and (3) and the human spirit possesses the intuitive ability to know and experience God (Rom 8:16; 1Co 2:10–12).

SPIRITUALITY The ascetic and pious struggle against sin through REPENTANCE, PRAYER, FASTING, and participation in the sacramental life of the Church. (See Gal 5:16–26; Php 2:12, 13.) See also SYNERGISM.

SYMBOL In Orthodox usage, the manifestation in material form of a spiritual reality. A symbol does not merely stand for something else, as does a “sign”; it manifests the actual presence of its subject. Names of things are often symbols (Is 7:3, 14). The dove, for example, is the symbol which brought to Jesus the descent of the HOLY SPIRIT (Mt 3:13–16).

SYNAGOGUE A “gathering” or “assembly.” The synagogue appears in Judea as a result of the Babylonian exile, as it continues today as the main center of Jewish communal worship. (See 1Mc 2:42; Lk 4:16; 8:41; Acts 18:4; Rev 2:9.)

SYNAXIS Literally, “gathering” or “assembly.” Synaxis is the word used for the ancient Greek senate. The first part of the Divine Liturgy is called the synaxis because the faithful gather to sing, pray, hear the Scriptures read, and to hear the homily. The saints’ days are also called a synaxis, such as the Synaxis of St. Michael and all ANGELS.

SYNERGISM (from Gr. syn: same, together; ergos: energy, work.) Working together; the act of cooperation. In the NT synergism is the idea of being “workers together with” God (2Co 6:1), or of working “out your own salvation... for it is God who works in you” (Php 2:12, 13). This is not a cooperation between equals, but finite man working together with Almighty God. Man responds to Christ’s SALVATION through cooperation with God’s GRACE in living by faith, righteous works and rejection of evil (Jam 2:14–26). See also FREE WILL and PASSIONS.

SYNOPTIC (From Gr. syn: same, together; optic: eye, vision.) The books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which hold essentially the same viewpoint and are similar are called the “Synoptic Gospels.”

T

TEMPLE Ancient Israel had many temples, located throughout the country, but the temple in Jerusalem eventually became the central and only authorized place to WORSHIP the Lord. The first one was built by King Solomon around 950 BC. It was destroyed by the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar in 587 BC. It was rebuilt about 70 years later, but it was destroyed by the Romans in AD 70. More recently, temple has come to be used synonymously with SYNAGOGUE. (See 3Kg 6; 4Kg 25:9–17; 2Ez 1:1–4; 3:3–13; 1Mc 4:37–39; 4:48–51.)

TEMPTATION The seductive attraction of sin. Those united to Christ are given His POWER to withstand temptation through patience, courage, and obedience. (See Mt 4:1–11; 1Co 10:13; Heb 2:17, 18; Jam 1:12.)

THANKSGIVING To be grateful, to offer thanks, especially to God for His love and MERCY. The Eucharistic prayer is called The Thanksgiving. (See 1Th 5:18.) See also EUCHARIST.

THEOPHANY A manifestation of God in His uncreated GLORY. It refers also to Christ’s RESURRRECTION appearances. The revelation of the Holy TRINITY at the BAPTISM of Christ (Lk 3:21, 22) is the greatest theophany; it is celebrated in the Orthodox Church on EPIPHANY (Jan. 6). Other theophanies are found throughout the Bible. For example, God appeared to Abraham (Gn 18:1–15), and to Jacob in a dream (Gn 28:10–17).

THEOTOKOS God-bearer, birth-giver, frequently translated “Mother of God.” Because Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God, Mary is called the Mother of God to profess our faith that in the INCARNATION, God was in her womb. Elizabeth called Mary “blessed” and “the mother of my Lord” (Lk 1:42, 43). At the Council of Ephesus in AD 431, the Church condemned Nestorius and other heretics who refused to call the Virgin Mary the Theotokos. For if it was not God in Mary’s womb, there is no SALVATION for mankind. (See article, “Mary,” at Lk 1; Lk 1:26–43; Jn 1:1–14.)

TITHE A tenth of one’s income. It is first revealed in Genesis 14:18–20 when Abraham paid a tithe to Melchizedek, centuries before the Law was given to Moses. Abraham’s grandson, Jacob, told the Lord he would give Him a tithe (Gn 28:22; see also Lv 27:30, 32; Mal 3:8–12; WSir 35:3; Lk 18:12).

TRADITION That which is handed down, transmitted. In the NT, there are two types of tradition: (1) the “tradition of men” which Christ strongly condemns (Mk 7:6–8), and (2) holy or apostolic tradition which St. Paul calls us to steadfastly follow (2Th 2:15). Holy Tradition is the life of the HOLY SPIRIT in the CHURCH. He leads the Church “into all truth” (Jn 16:13) and enables her to preserve the truth taught by Christ to His APOSTLES. The Scriptures are the core of this Tradition, as interpreted through the writings of the Fathers, the Ecumenical Councils, and the WORSHIP of the Church. Together, these traditions manifest the faith of the ancient undivided Church. (See also Jn 21:25; Acts 15:1–29; 2Th 3:6.)

TRANSFIGURATION A change or transformation. Christ was transfigured on Mt. Tabor, showing He is God in the flesh (Mt 17:1–8). Christians are called to be transformed by the HOLY SPIRIT into the IMAGE and likeness of God (Rom 12:1, 2). (See article, “The Transfiguration,” at Mt 17.) See also DEIFICATION.

TRANSGRESSION Lawlessness, as in “He will not clear the guilty, visiting the lawlessness of the fathers upon the children and the children’s children to the third and the fourth generation” (Ex 34:8; see also Dt 17:2–5; Nm 14:41; Jos 7:11; Job 13:38; Pr 17; Mic 6:7; Lk 15:29; Rom 4:15; 1Ti 2:14).

TRIBULATION The Scriptures reveal that much trouble and violence – great tribulation – will engulf the world before the SECOND COMING of Christ (Mt 24:4–29). See also ESCHATOLOGY.

TRINITY God the FATHER and His Son and His HOLY SPIRIT: one in ESSENCE and undivided. God revealed the MYSTERY of the Trinity at Christ’s BAPTISM (Mt 3:13–17), but even before that event, numerous OT references pointed to the Trinity. For example, the frequent use of plural pronouns referring to the one God (Gn 1:26); the three angels who appeared to Abraham (Gn 18:1–16); and the Thrice Holy hymn sung by the angels in Isaiah’s vision (Is 6:1–4) all suggest one God in three Persons, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Mt 28:19).

TRISAGION Literally, “Thrice Holy.” The biblical Trisagion, “Holy, Holy, Holy,” is the hymn of the ANGELS before the throne of God (Is 6:1–3; Rev 4:8), and is one of the most important hymns of the Divine Liturgy. In the TRADITION of the CHURCH, this hymn has been amplified into the Trisagion frequently sung during services and said during prayers: “Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us.” The biblical use of “Holy” three times reveals the three Persons in the Godhead.

TYPE An historical event that has a deeper meaning, pointing to our SALVATION in Christ. For example, the three days that Jonah spent in the belly of the fish is a type of the three days that Christ would spend in the tomb (Mt 12:40). The serpent that Moses lifted up on the staff is a type of the lifting up of Christ on the Cross (Jn 3:14–16). The burning bush, aflame but not consumed, is a type of the Virgin Mary, who carried the incarnate God in her womb but was not consumed by His presence (Lk 1:26–38). Noah’s ark, which saved Noah and his family from death in the flood, is a type of BAPTISM, which brings the believer from death to life (1Pt 3:18–22). See also ALLEGORY.

U

UNCTION Anointing of the sick with blessed oil, for the healing of body and SOUL. The gift of healing is bestowed by the HOLY SPIRIT through the anointing, together with the prayers of the Unction service. (See article “Healing,” at Jam 5.) See also SACRAMENT.

UNLEAVENED BREAD Bread baked without yeast. The JEWS used unleavened bread for the PASSOVER to symbolize the fact they had no time to wait for the yeast to rise in the bread (Ex 12:1–20). By contrast, the bread of the new COVENANT is leavened.

V

VESPERS The evening prayer service in the Orthodox Church.

VICE A particular immoral, depraved, or degrading habit, as contrasted with VIRTUE. Christians are called to flee from the vices and to preserve their personal purity (Rom 13:13; Eph 4:17–24). See also PASSION.

VIRTUE A righteous characteristic such as self-control, patience, or humility; the opposite of VICE or PASSION. As a PERSON grows spiritually, he or she grows in virtue while the passions are conquered by the GRACE of God. (See WSol 4:1, 2; 5:13; Php 4:8 2Pt 1:2–7.

W

WISDOM (OF GOD) A name for God’s Son and Word; Christ is the Wisdom of God. Also, wisdom is given to the CHURCH as a gift of the HOLY SPIRIT. (See Ex 31:3; 3Kg 3:16–28; Pr 9:10; Dan 1:17; WSir 1:9; Jn 1:1; 1Co 2:6–8; Col 3:16.)

WITNESS (Gr. martyria) One who makes known the GRACE and GLORY of the Lord by word and deed. In the NT, the word is also rendered “MARTYR,” a reference to those who give their lives for the gospel of Christ. The HOLY SPIRIT bears witness to the spirits of those who believe in Christ, that they belong to Him. (See Dt 31:19–21, 26; Rom 8:16; Heb 10:15; 12:1; 1Jn 5:6–12; Rev 11:3–12.)

WONDERS Miracles and the attitude of mankind toward them. (See Ex 11:10; Ps 106; Dan 4:3; 6:27; 1Ch 16:8, 9, 12; Job 37:13–19; Acts 2:22–36; 6:8; 14:3; 2Co 12:12.)

WORD OF GOD (Gr. Logos) The Son of God, who from the MYSTERY of His eternal birth is called the Word of the FATHER. The “Word became flesh” (Jn 1:14) for the SALVATION of the world. The Holy Scriptures are also called the Word of God, for they reveal the truth of God (Jn 1:1–14; 2Pt 1:19–21). See also INCARNATION.

WORSHIP Literally, “to bow down.” Commanded for God’s people (1 Ch 16:29). In the Christian sense worship is the adoration of God through participation in the services of the CHURCH, the highest act of a Christian (Jn 4:19–24). See also LITURGY.

WORTHY (Gr. axios) Describes those who act in a manner befitting one who is a follower of Christ. No one is worthy of SALVATION in and of himself, but all are made worthy through Christ (1Th 2:10–12) In the Church, when a newly-ordained man is being vested, the faithful shout out, “Axios!”

WRATH OF GOD His anger and its consequences (Nm 32:10–13). His wrath can be caused by sympathy with evil (Lv 10:1–6), by APOSTASY (2Ch 34:24, 25), by association with evil (Jn 3:36), and it can be displayed to demonstrate the greatness of His GLORY (Rom 9:22–26).

Z

ZEAL Devotion; enthusiastic obedience to God; a quality of divine diligence or fervor. Zeal is shown by Moses (Ex 32:19–35), Joshua (Jos 24:14–16), David (1Kg 17:26–51), Elijah (3Kg 19:10, and Timothy (Php 2:19–22). Christians are (1) called to follow Christ with enthusiasm and zeal (Acts 18:25; Rom 12:10, 11) and (2) warned against misguided enthusiasm, a zeal“not according to knowledge” (Rom 10:2).