What does iconostasis symbolize?

The Iconostasis is the link between heaven (the Holy of Holies) and the nave (The Holy Place). Therefore, everything is symbolic upon the Iconostasis. The Icons of Christ, the Theotokos, and various saints and feasts are there because Christ, the Theotokos, the saints etc., lead us and guide us into the Holy of Holies.

What is an Orthodox iconostasis?

The iconostasis represents one of the most important architectural features of Orthodox churches. It is an unbroken screen, composed of icons, separating the Sanctuary, where the sacrament of the Eucharist is celebrated, from the central part, the nave, where the congregation stands.

What is the genesis of iconostasis?

The iconostasis had originally been some sort of simple partition between the altar and the congregation; it then became a row of columns, and the spaces between them were eventually filled with icons. In later churches it extends the width of the sanctuary, though the height may vary, and is covered with panel icons.

In which church would you find the iconostasis?

Christian Iconostasis The iconostasis is the vertical element commonly found in the altar area of Christian Orthodox churches and Eastern Catholic churches, on which several religious figures are represented.

What does Pantocrator mean in Greek?

All-powerful
The word Pantocrator means “Almighty,” or “All-powerful.” In the Greek version of the Old Testament (LXX), pantocrator is the translation of “Lord of Hosts” and “God Almighty.” In the book of Revelation, pantocrator appears nine times as a title that emphasizes God’s sovereignty and power.

What does IC XC mean?

Jesus Christ Conquers
IC XC is a Christogram abbreviation for Jesus Christ and NIKA is Conquers = Jesus Christ Conquers.

Why do Russian churches have onion domes?

Basil’s Cathedral. Others argued that onion domes first appeared in wooden architecture of the Russian North, above tent-like churches. According to this theory, onion domes were strictly utilitarian, as they prevented snow from piling on the roof. This theory became firmly entrenched in Soviet architectural theory.