Baptism
Baptism
is
one
of
the
most
significant obligatory sacraments in the Christian religion, through which one
becomes fully Christian. Also
known as
enlightenment,
it is rich in symbolism. Immersion of the body in water symbolizes the death of
the Lord, while emergence symbolizes the resurrection. The tall candles by the
font represent the “light of the Spirit”, and the white garment worn by the newly baptized
symbolizes the innocence and purity of the soul.
Before Christianity became
predominant those who embraced the new religion were baptized as adults in natural
sources of water, such as lakes, rivers or the sea. But
eventually
the high infant mortality rate in Byzantine times led
to baptism being carried out in infancy or early childhood. From the 3rd
century onwards the sacrament was performed in a purpose-built area of the church,
the baptistry , later replaced by the fonts in use today. Baptisms were performed
by priests in the largest churches in each town, known as “catholic”
(baptismal) churches. Only
in
the case
of
emergency baptism
could the
mystery
be
performed by deacons, monks
or
even
laymen.
The
godfather, who
was
required to
be
orthodox
and
pious, and who essentially became spiritual
parent
of
the
newly
baptized,
would by custom offer the baby gifts that reflected his social and economical
status.
During
the
ritual
of baptism the child received its name. Parents preferred to name their
children after their grandparents or deceased relatives, although the godfather
seems to have had the upper hand in making the final decision.
Similar
traditions
were
observed
at
the baptism of princes, which were held either shortly after their birth or forty
days thereafter. The baptism was usually performed by the Patriarch in the Church of Αgia Sophia (Church of the Holy Wisdom). The ceremony was followed by a procession from the
church to the royal apartments, when money was given to those thronging the
streets to celebrate the event.
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