Hello dear readers. Many people go to church every Sunday to light candles and pray for their loved ones. But not everyone visits the temple of God so often, so many things remain a mystery to them. If you were in church on Easter, you probably tried such a church treat as prosphora. Of course, not everyone has heard of this name, calling it simply “church bread.” But if you do attend church, then you need to know how and when to eat prosphora. Such information will not be superfluous for anyone. But first of all, you need to understand what prosphora is and why it is so important for the church. As you know, it is prepared with wheat flour and holy water, which is what makes these breads so special.

It is with their help that a person can not only cleanse himself of sins, but also draw closer to God.

In order to avoid getting into an uncomfortable situation while in church, you need to become more familiar with such a church treat as prosphora - what it is, what it is for, and when to eat it.

Having received the answer to these questions, you will understand how important this process is for believers, because there are many rules that must be followed in the process of consuming prosphora.

What is prosphora?

The meaning of the word “prosphora” translated from Greek means “offering.” In the first centuries of our era, people brought this bread to church, which is actually why it got its name.

This bread is prepared from the most simple products, which we usually use to make regular bread. That is, wheat flour, yeast, salt and water are used. But the main difference is that prosphora is prepared on the basis of holy water, which gives this bread special properties.

The use of plain flour and holy water is a symbol of the union of humanity and divinity in Jesus. Prosphora is used not only during big church holidays, but also with weekly church attendance.

The bread itself consists of two parts, which are first molded separately, but then joined together. That's why it turns out like this unusual shape. As you may have noticed, a special seal is placed on the top.

The lower part of the prosphora symbolizes the flesh of a person, and the upper part speaks of his spiritual beginning.

That is, such a division of bread into two parts means the division of a person into soul and body, which are components of one whole - a person. Bread combines flour and water, which also makes one bread.

Appearance and types of prosphora

Few people know that the prosphora also symbolizes the bread that Jesus shared with his disciples at the Last Supper. That is why so much attention is paid to the consumption of this bread.

Outwardly, such a flour product bears little resemblance to bread, since it has a round shape, which makes it look like a cookie. The top of the product is decorated with a specific pattern, which was obtained thanks to a special printing.

In the image we can see an equilateral cross, which is surrounded on all sides by church symbols in the form of beeches.

In fact, prosphora differs from ordinary bread in that holy water is used in the process of its preparation. And on its top we can see a stamp with a certain design and inscription, which also make this treat special.

It is believed that such a product cannot spoil or become moldy, because it is sacred. But, of course, it also happens that even such bread becomes moldy or stale. Perhaps it's all due to an incorrect cooking process.

Kinds

Surely, you thought that there was only one prosphora that was used for any occasion. But this is not entirely true, because in total there are five varieties of prosphora, each of which has its own differences not only in purpose, but also in its appearance.

1. Mother of God

This bread is baked in the shape of a triangle, so it is quite easy to distinguish it from other types. At the top we can see the inscription “Holy Mother of God”. The product is laid out on a special dish with which it is served. Usually this type of prosphora is used specifically for church holidays.

2. Agnic

This product is made in the shape of a cube. It is believed that during the chants such bread becomes the body of Jesus Christ. On the bread itself there is also a cross depicted, but in addition to this, a lamb is also carved. That is, initially the bread is baked the same round shape, but only a cube is cut from the finished product. The rest of the bread is simply distributed to the parishioners.

3. Nine-day

Nine equal parts are taken from the middle of the loaf of bread, which are dedicated to all the saints. That is, such bread is consumed for the prophets, apostles and saints.

4. Zazdravnaya

Such bread is divided into two equal parts, and after the service it is divided among all those present.

5. Funeral

In this case, only a small part of the top of the bread is used. It is used for all the dead, but this can only be done within the walls of the church. But eating bread, and even worse, crumbling it on the grave of the deceased, is strictly prohibited.

Artos and Antidor

As you already understand, all types of prosphora are baked from the same products and have a common round shape. The only difference may be in the image placed on the top of the product. So, the finished prosphora is divided into several parts, which can be different shapes. It depends on the purpose of a particular prosphora.

Artos, translated from Greek, means “leavened bread.” This is the name given to the whole loaf of bread, which has a cylindrical shape.

The prosphora is placed in front of the altar long before Easter, but it is consecrated only on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, that is, on Easter. After this, the already consecrated bread is distributed to the believers.

But note that the bread is not eaten on the same day. People take the blessed bread to their home, where it is stored for a certain time. Prosphora is consumed only when a person becomes ill and needs the help of the Lord.

In fact, this bread helps to cope with the illness that has struck a person. That is, ideally, such a flour product can be stored for an unlimited amount of time.

But Antidoron is translated from Greek as “time of communion.” This is the name given to the unused part of the bread, which remains after the inner part of the product is removed. Depending on the purpose of the bread, the shape of the extracted part will change. It can be either triangular or cubic.

This part of the product is distributed to people after the completion of the liturgy. It is believed that this part symbolizes the memory of the suffering of Christ. Please note that only baptized people can eat this part of the bread.

How to store and use prosphora

Such bread is sacred, which means it can only be eaten on special occasions. Prosphora should not be consumed every day, because in this way its direct purpose will be lost.

Usually such bread should be kept at the altar, but if it was distributed to parishioners, then at home it will only be kept near the icons. Otherwise, the bread will begin to deteriorate, which will mean a loss of its properties.

Eating bread also implies observing certain rules. Therefore, you should eat the product slowly, chewing each piece. If there are crumbs left after eating bread, then they should also be eaten.

It is strictly forbidden to throw away such sacred bread, which means you will have to eat the crumbs. But besides this, there are other rules that must be followed.

1. This sacred product must be consumed in complete silence. At the same time, the process must be done slowly. It is strictly forbidden to use foul language at this time, even if the bread is just lying on the table.

2. You should not leave half-eaten bread on the table. The remaining parts must be carefully placed in a special bag, which is placed near the holy icons.

3. Prosphora can only be consumed by those people who have taken Orthodox faith. In addition, eating bread is prohibited during church services.

4. If you brought prosphora home, you can’t eat it right away either. Before you begin this process, you need to read a prayer. Please note that this bread is consumed only on an empty stomach.

As a rule, such a meal helps a person take the right path. In fact, he has the opportunity to start life anew, since his thinking is cleared, which means he is ready to do good deeds. A person feels a lightness that he has not experienced before.

Prosphora - what is it. What to do with it, why, when to eat it

The dough for such bread is kneaded with holy water, which means that all the bread becomes sacred. Thus, a person, consuming such bread, himself is sanctified.

Prosphora should be stored in a separate form, but if this is not possible at home, then there are special bags for storing such bread. It doesn’t matter where the bread will be stored, in a church or at home, the main thing is to place it next to the icons.

As we have already found out, such bread should be consumed only on an empty stomach. It should be noted that women during menstruation are prohibited not only from appearing in church, but also from eating sacred bread.

It is believed that any shedding of blood in the temple is unacceptable. Even if a person has any bleeding wound, he is also prohibited from going to church.

On Good Friday also, sacred bread should not be consumed.

In addition to all of the above, there are other rules for using such a product:

✔ Do not mix prosphora with other products. It's about that you cannot eat other dishes, even lean ones, at the same time as such bread. Bread should be consumed separately, and only on an empty stomach.

✔ Before use, you must read a prayer. Only after this can you begin to eat the sacred bread.

✔ After you have brought bread from church, you need to lay a clean tablecloth on the table , on which you need to put the prosphora. During consumption, you can burn the bread with water, but this water must be consecrated;

✔ You should eat bread carefully so that not a single crumb falls on the floor.

If bread is consumed after the service, and is usually washed down with warmth - warm water, diluted with a small amount of wine. You can replace wine with jam, which will make the drink sweeter.

After the service, people are given a slice of prosphora, which must be washed down with warmth. It is important here that the sacred food is not in any way regurgitated as a result of unexpected coughing or spitting.

That is, if you came to church by car, then it is better for you to refrain from drinking wine. In this case, you can simply ask the church ministers for simple blessed water. But, under no circumstances should you spit out the wine you were supposed to drink.

If the prosphora has spoiled, what should you do with it?

As a rule, prosphora cannot become moldy, since it is prepared in holy water. But sometimes it happens that bread can simply go stale. No amount of holy water can prevent this process.

Of course, you can’t eat bread in this form, and you’re unlikely to succeed. But please note that throwing away church bread is strictly prohibited.

Therefore, if it has already happened that the bread has somehow spoiled, then it is necessary to dispose of it as follows:

✔ Burn the remaining missing bread.

✔ Bury the remaining bread in damp soil.

✔ Place in running water.

Under no circumstances should leftover bread be thrown into the trash, remember this. In addition to the options listed, you can also take bread to church. Give the bread to the church servants, because only they know what to do with the bread that has already become unusable.

Maybe, last option is the simplest, since you do not have to carry out strange rituals of burning or burying church bread. Leaving spoiled bread in your home is also not recommended.

Not everyone goes to church every week, and some don’t always attend on holidays. Therefore, not everyone knows what prosphora is and how it is used correctly.

But regardless of whether you go to church regularly, or visit it only on holidays, you should know how and when prosphora is used. In addition, if you have the opportunity to eat a slice of this sacred bread, then you must know the rules for its use.

In addition, you must understand that throwing away the sacred bread is strictly prohibited, even if it has somehow spoiled. If you, out of ignorance, got rid of the bread by simply throwing it in the trash, then such an action is equivalent to a sin.

In ancient times, the word “prosphora” (translated from Greek as “offered”) was the name given to offerings primarily of bread and wine, with which believers came to church for the Liturgy. Part of these offerings was intended for the celebration of the Sacrament of the Eucharist, the other part was eaten at a fraternal meal.

What is prosphora and what does it symbolize?

Prosphora in the modern Church is a small round loaf of bread used during worship. It is prepared only from leavened wheat dough. The prosphora is two-part (has an upper and lower part) - as a reminder of the unity of the two natures of the Lord Jesus Christ: divine and human.

The upper part of the prosphora is imprinted with a seal depicting a four-pointed cross with the words “IC.XC.NIKA”, meaning “Jesus Christ the Victorious”. There are prosphoras with images of the Mother of God and saints of God. A prosphora consecrated in the altar, from which a piece is taken out, is a shrine.

Particles from the prosphora are taken out by the priest during the proskomedia (preparatory part of the Liturgy) and at this time notes about health and repose are read, which are submitted to the candle box for the proskomedia. After reading each name indicated in the note, the clergyman takes a particle from the prosphora, saying: “Remember, Lord, the health and salvation of your servants...” (and the names from the health notes are pronounced); then - “Remember and rest, Lord, the souls of your departed servants...” (and the names from the notes of repose are pronounced).

At the end of the Divine Liturgy and Communion of the laity, the priest places into the chalice the particles taken out in remembrance of the living and the dead with the words: “Wash, O Lord, the sins of those who were remembered here by Thy Honest Blood, by the prayers of Thy saints.”

This is done so that the living and the deceased, for whose names particles were taken from the prosphora according to notes, having washed themselves in the Most Pure Blood of the Son of God, receive remission of sins and eternal life.

How to handle prosphora?

Prosphora is consecrated church bread; it must be treated with reverence as a shrine. It is good to divide the prosphora into parts, dry it and store it in a special cloth bag in the holy corner next to the icons. It is customary to eat prosphora on an empty stomach after the morning meal. prayer rule, reading the prayer “For the use of prosphora and holy water,” not allowing the crumbs to fall to the floor.

The paper in which the prosphora was wrapped is burned, as crumbs may remain on it. If, as a result of careless storage, the consecrated bread has deteriorated, then it must be burned, and in the future, care should be taken to more carefully store the shrine.

Prosphora should not be given to animals.

What could be the benefit of taking prosphora and holy water?

The prayer for accepting prosphora and holy water contains the following words: “Lord my God, may Your holy gift and Your holy water be for the remission of my sins, for the enlightenment of my mind, for the strengthening of my mental and physical strength, for the health of my soul and body , in the subjugation of my passions and infirmities according to Thy boundless mercy through the prayers of Thy Most Pure Mother and all Thy saints. Amen". If a person uses prosphora and holy water with faith and reverence, then he receives what he asks for in this prayer.

Not only Church Tradition convinces us of the miraculous power of holy water, but also personal experience believers. The grace of God descending on the water through the prayers of the priest gives it the power to heal illnesses, quench passions and weaken emerging sinful attractions, free from all evil, and cleanse from defilement.

Is it possible to give prosphora to the unbaptized?

Giving prosphora to the unbaptized does not make much sense. An unbaptized person, as a rule, either does not have faith, or doubts, and therefore does not have the right attitude towards the shrine, therefore, using it most likely will not bring him spiritual benefit. It is known from the Gospel that the Lord did not perform miracles where people did not have faith (Matthew 13:58).

Is it possible to eat prosphora at the cemetery?

Prosphora is not eaten “for the dead” or “for the living.” This shrine serves to sanctify only those who partake of it. There is no need to eat prosphora at the cemetery, but rather eat it at home, having first read the prayer “For the use of prosphora and holy water,” which is in Orthodox prayer books.

Is it possible to crumble prosphora at the grave?

Since the prosphora is a shrine, there is no need to crumble it at the grave. The deceased do not need bodily food, they only need prayers for them.

What is antidor? When and to whom can it be taken?

Antidoron (translated from Greek as “instead of a gift”) is the cut-off parts of the main prosphora that are not used for the Sacrament of the Eucharist. It is taught instead of the Holy Gifts for the blessing and sanctification of the soul and body of those who were present at the Liturgy but did not receive communion.

Antidor is a shrine that became it through the prayer of the priest and the remembrance of the Savior’s suffering on the cross. Therefore, it is established to use antidor on an empty stomach with attention and caution, so as not to spill crumbs on the floor. It is best to eat this consecrated bread in church, but you can also take it home. Antidor is not supposed to be given to unbaptized people.

What kind of bread is distributed at the all-night vigil?

This is also consecrated bread. In ancient times, when the all-night vigil lasted all night, Christians ate bread and wine to strengthen their strength. Although the duration of the services has now been reduced, this custom has been preserved. Bread consecrated at the all-night vigil can be eaten immediately after receiving it in church, not on an empty stomach.

What is artos? When is it distributed?

Artos (translated from Greek as “leavened bread”) is a special prosphora blessed on Easter night. Invoking God's blessing on the artos, in a special prayer the priest asks the Lord to heal every ailment and illness, and to grant health to all who partake of it.

Throughout Bright Week, the artos remains on the lectern opposite the Royal Doors of the altar and is worn daily for Easter religious processions. On Saturday, Bright Week, it is crushed with special prayer and distributed to believers. Artos is a symbol of the Risen Christ and reminds of His stay on earth.

Particles of artosa are kept by believers in a holy corner and are consumed on an empty stomach with reverence, prayer and the words “Christ is risen!”

What is "holy water"?

This is water that is ordinary in composition and original origin (well, spring, lake, river, tap), miraculously acquiring sanctifying, grace-filled properties after performing a special prayer service called the water sanctification.

What to do if holy water has spoiled?

Spoiled holy water is poured into a stream or river - where there is a current, into the so-called living, running water.

What happens if you add Epiphany water to ordinary water?

Epiphany water will sanctify ordinary water, and all of it will become sanctified.

When is Christmas water blessed and given?

There is no special rite for the blessing of water on Christmas Day.

Is it possible to make soup from the remaining holy water?

Holy water can be added to food to sanctify it; it can be sprinkled on food.

What is agiasma?

Agiasma (translated from Greek as “shrine”) is the name given to water consecrated according to a special great rite on the feast of the Epiphany or on Epiphany Eve.

How to use Epiphany water?

Epiphany water is a shrine that should be in every home of an Orthodox Christian. It is carefully stored. Holy water has the property of not spoiling for many years.

Out of reverence for the shrine they usually use Epiphany water on an empty stomach. However, if you are sick, you can drink it at any time. You can also anoint sore spots with holy water and sprinkle your home. You can sprinkle holy water on unbaptized people and animals.

Is it possible to drink holy water of minor consecration during the day or is this only allowed on an empty stomach?

You can drink the water of minor consecration throughout the day, after praying and with reverence.

How does Epiphany water differ from Epiphany water?

No different. On both the 18th and 19th of January, the water is blessed with the same Great Rite. This consecration of water is called Great in comparison with the other, smaller one, performed on August 1/14 on the holiday of the Origin (destruction) of the Honest Trees Life-giving Cross Lord's Day, and on other days, according to the special solemnity of the rite, imbued with the memory of the Baptism of the Savior by John in the Jordan River. Epiphany and Epiphany are two names for one holiday. The opinion is that this different water: the water that is blessed on January 18 is Epiphany water, and the water that is blessed on January 19 is Epiphany water, is erroneous.

The blessing of water performed on the eve of Epiphany on January 18 serves as a reminder that in ancient times, on the eve of Epiphany, the blessing of water was performed for the baptism of catechumens, and then it is performed in churches where the catechumens were baptized.

After the Liturgy on January 19, the blessing of water is performed in remembrance of the Baptism of the Lord, so there is a solemn procession with a cross, the Gospel, lamps and banners, with bells ringing and the singing of a troparion to water sources.

This holiday is called Epiphany because at the Baptism of the Lord the Divine Holy Trinity appeared: God the Father spoke from heaven about the Son, the Son of God was baptized by John and witnessed by God the Father, and the Holy Spirit descended on the Son in the form of a dove. Since ancient times, this holiday has also been called the day of enlightenment and the holiday of lights, because God is Light and appeared to enlighten “those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death” (Matthew 4:16).

Why does the Church sanctify water and bread?

It is difficult to find something that would be so necessary for people in their earthly life and constitute such an urgent need as bread and water. Bread is the simplest and natural food for man, supporting and strengthening his strength. A person uses water to quench thirst and prepare food, and washes the body and things it uses with it.

These two necessary for a person in his bodily life, substances turn out to be integral elements for him in spiritual life. Bread, consisting of many grains, personifies the Church - One with the plurality of its members. Bread serves the greatest Sacrament - Holy Communion.

By consecrating water, the Church returns primitive purity and holiness to the elements with water, and by the power of prayer and the Word of God, it brings down the blessing of the Lord onto the water. Blessed water is an image of God's grace: it cleanses believers from spiritual impurities, sanctifies and strengthens them for the feat of salvation in God, extinguishes the flames of passions, and drives away evil spirits.

Therefore, holy water is necessarily present during the consecration of churches and all objects used in worship, and during the consecration of residential buildings, buildings, and household items. Believers are sprinkled with holy water in religious processions, during prayer services.

What is the “rite of Panagia”, how is it performed?

The word Panagia (translated from Greek as “Most Holy”) is the name given to the Mother of God. In this rite it is applied to the Mother of God prosphora, which symbolizes the Queen of Heaven. The vessel in which this prosphora is placed is called a panagiar.

This rite is performed in monasteries. After the Liturgy, the brethren leave the church in pairs for a meal, carrying ahead the liturgical prosphora in honor of the Mother of God. This procession is accompanied by the ringing of bells and the singing of the 144th Psalm.

In the refectory, the prosphora is placed in the center of the table. At the end of the meal, the Panagia is raised in front of the icons with the glorification of the Holy Trinity and prayer to the Most Holy Theotokos. Then everyone eats the prosphora particles. The meaning of the rite is to represent the presence of God Himself at the meal and Holy Mother of God. Such an announcement of the rank is also indicated by the legend about its origin.

According to ancient legend, the apostles, after the descent of the Holy Spirit on them, when gathering for a common meal, left an unoccupied place at the table for Jesus Christ, placing bread there. At the end of the meal and after thanksgiving prayer they raised this piece of bread with the words: “Glory to Thee, our God, glory to Thee. Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Great is the name of the Holy Trinity. Lord Jesus Christ, help us."

On the third day after the burial of the Mother of God, the apostles also sat together at a meal. During the offering of bread in memory of Christ, having uttered the words: “Great is the name...”, they saw the Most Holy Theotokos in the air, surrounded by Angels. She promised to be with them always. The joyful disciples of Christ, out of surprise, exclaimed instead of “Lord Jesus Christ, help us” - “Most Holy Theotokos, help us.” Having then gone to the tomb of the Mother of God and opening it, the apostles did not find Her most pure body there and were convinced that She had been ascended to heaven to Her Divine Son.

Religious reading: how to eat prosphora, prayer to help our readers.

Every Christian believer is supposed to know the prayer for accepting prosphora and holy water. It is concise and simple, so learning it by heart will not be difficult.

The ritual of receiving holy water and prosphora

Eating prosphora and taking holy water is a process that must be accompanied by the sign of the cross and saying a prayer. The ritual requires a reverent attitude towards itself.

Prosphora and holy water are taken only on an empty stomach after performing morning prayer: A small sip is taken from the water, and only a small piece is tasted from the prosphora. You need to try to do all this so that even a single crumb of holy bread does not fall by.

The use of prosphora with holy water, according to the recluse George of Zadonsky, protects a person from the machinations of the unclean spirit, sanctifies his body and soul, illuminates his thoughts and brings him closer to the Lord God.

Prosphora cannot be taken on the morning before Holy Communion. On this day, this restriction applies to any type of food.

: text

The text of the prayer accompanying the eating of prosphora and blessed water is as follows:

Prosphora and its origin

The origins of the prosphora are associated with the first centuries of Christianity. The word “prosphora” is translated from Greek as “offering.” Prosphora used to be called a donation that believers brought with them for worship - bread, wine, wax for candles, olive oil(oil). This donation was accepted by the deacons, and the lists of those who came with the offering were mentioned in prayer during the blessing of the food. Moreover, this list could also include dead people when relatives brought prosphora on their behalf.

The deacons separated part of the prosphora - bread and wine - for the purpose of transmutation into the Body and Blood of Christ, the wax was used for candles, and everything that remained was distributed to the believers. Later, only bread used during the liturgy began to be called prosphora. Over time, the church began to bake prosphora in its modern form instead of ordinary bread.

Prosphora is bread assembled from 2 separate parts:

1. The upper part is baked with a special seal in the form of a four-pointed equilateral cross. The symbols IC and XC (Jesus Christ) are placed on the horizontal crossbar of the cross, followed by HI and KA (translated from Greek as “victory”).
2. The lower part resembles a regular loaf of bread.

Prosphora is baked from flour, the creation of which took many grains from countless ears of ears, therefore it symbolizes both the nature of an individual person, created from many natural elements, and all of humanity as a whole, consisting of many people. Its lower part personifies the carnal, earthly principle of man and humanity, the upper part, with the seal, represents the spiritual principle. According to the church, human nature is permeated with God’s presence, therefore holy water and yeast are added to the prosphora dough: consecrated water is a symbol of God’s grace, and yeast is the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit.

The division of the prosphora into 2 parts is not accidental. The parts symbolize the division of man into flesh (water and flour) and soul (holy water and yeast), which are inextricably linked with each other. Believers can receive the prosphora in their hands after the service - to do this, they must submit a note “On health” or “On repose” before the start of the liturgy. For each name indicated in the note, a piece of prosphora is taken out.

Antidor(translated from Greek as “instead of a gift”) - small parts of the prosphora from which the Holy Lamb was taken out at the proskomedia. The Antidoron is distributed to the faithful after the completion of the liturgy. You must eat it within the walls of the temple, on an empty stomach, with reverence in your soul, because this is holy bread, from the Lord’s altar.

Artos- whole prosphora. Together with the image of the Resurrection of Christ, it occupies the main place in the temple during Holy Week. After Easter celebrations it is distributed to believers. People carefully store particles of artos as a spiritual cure for illnesses and infirmities. It is eaten only in special cases and always with the words “Christ is Risen!”

Prosphora and artos should also be stored in the red corner, next to the icons. If they deteriorate, then they must be burned with one’s own hands or taken to church for the same purpose, or set adrift in a clean river.

About the origin of holy water

Holy water is next to a Christian believer all his life. This is one of the greatest shrines of Christianity. It is with this word – “shrine” – that it is translated into Russian. Greek name- “agiasma”.

Holy water symbolizes God's grace: it cleanses believers from spiritual negativity, strengthens both body and soul. Holy water is practically the main attribute of the sacrament of Baptism. Immersion in it three times washes a person from sinful impurities, renews him, and makes him closer to Jesus Christ. Blessed water is also used in all Christian rites of consecration, during prayers, and religious processions.

Every believer Orthodox Christian He collects the blessed water on the day of Epiphany, takes it to his home and keeps it like an expensive shrine throughout the year. Agiasma is given communion for all sorts of illnesses, using it together with prayer.

It has long been proven that holy water has extraordinary properties. It remains fresh throughout the year after Epiphany. And Saint Demetrius of Kherson wrote about her healing abilities. Epiphany water was widely used Venerable Seraphim Sarovsky, giving it to pilgrims. Reverend Ambrose With her help, Optinsky raised even terminally ill people to their feet. Seraphim Vyritsky called holy water the strongest medicine, advised to sprinkle any food with it, and give it every hour to a sick person, a tablespoon.

The blessing of water occurs 2 times - in Epiphany Christmas Eve and on the day of Baptism itself. The Church believes that agiasma is a spiritual-physical being that connects heaven and earth. It should be in every home where they believe in God. Holy water must be stored in the red corner, next to the icons.

Thank you for the text of the prayer! I was just looking for it.

Our prosphora spoiled and I just fed it to the birds. I didn’t know what to burn or take to church. Next time I'll be smarter.

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Prosphora - what is prosphora in the Orthodox Church?

Many people, attending church services, noticed that small breads called prosphora were handed out. They are considered a real shrine that must be honored and protected so that it does not deteriorate. There are known rules regarding the use of such church treats.

What is prosphora and why do they eat it?

A small round loaf of bread made from leavened wheat dough with holy water is called prosphora. There are several facts about this church treat:

1. This word is translated from Greek as “offerings.”
2. No additives are added to such baked goods, with the exception of yeast and salt.
3. When figuring out what prosphora is in the Orthodox Church, it should be pointed out that this pastry consists of two parts, which symbolizes the union of human and divine essence in Jesus Christ.
4. On the upper part there is a seal in the form of a cross with equal sides and in the corners there are the letters: IC XC NI KA. The inscription presented means “Jesus Christ conquers.” The seal itself personifies the invisible seal of the image of the Lord.
5. If you are interested in what the prosphora symbolizes, then it is worth knowing that it depicts the bread of the Last Supper, which Jesus divided among his disciples.

What types of prosphora are there?

There are five main types of sacred bread for the liturgy:

1. Agnichnaya. This is a large prosphora with a cross, from which a lamb is cut out with a special knife - cube-shaped bread. During the liturgy, he becomes the true body of Christ. The part of the prosphora that is not used is called antidor, and it is distributed to believers after the service.
2. Mother of God. On this large prosphora there is a seal “Mary” or an image Mother of God. During proskomedia, a triangular-shaped part is taken out from the top and placed on a special dish along with the lamb.
3. Nine-day. This view is dedicated to all the saints and nine particles are taken from her seal.
4. Zazdravnaya. Two parts are taken from this bread for all participants in the liturgy.
5. Funeral. For all the deceased believers, only one particle is taken from the upper part of the prosphora.

There are special types of prosphora, which include artos - bread blessed on Easter night. The priest asks the Lord for blessings and help in healing illnesses. Artos is located opposite the Royal Doors throughout Bright Week, and on Saturday it is divided into small pieces and distributed to believers. This prosphora symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ and recalls his presence on earth.

Prosphora - recipe

Sacred bread can be prepared at home using an old recipe. It is important to know how prosphora is baked, as there are several features that should be taken into account.

• flour premium fine grinding – 1.2 kg;
• Holy water;
• yeast – 25 g.

1. Pour some holy water into the container, and then pour in about 400 g of flour. Add boiling water and stir until you get a mass like semolina porridge.
2. When everything has cooled down, add a little salt and yeast. Stir and leave to rise. Then add the remaining flour and mix well.
3. Leave for another 30 minutes, and then transfer the dough to the table and roll out the layer. The bottom layer needs a thickness of 18-20 mm, and the top layer 11-12 mm. Cover with oilcloth and leave for another 10 minutes.
4. It is necessary to cut the layer into circles, taking into account that the lower part should be larger than the upper. Cover the lower halves with a towel and oilcloth and leave for half an hour. It is important not to let the dough dry out.
5. If you are interested in how to bake prosphora at home, then it is important to know that the baking sheet must be greased with a thin layer of natural wax, which is a component of solar energy. On top part Place a stamp of the appropriate size.
6. Lubricate the bottom and connect it to the top. Prick both halves with a needle to remove excess air, which will prevent voids from forming.
7. The oven should be heated to 200-250 degrees. Bake until done, which is 15-20 minutes.
8. The finished bread should be covered with several layers: a dry cloth, a wet one, then a dry one again and a blanket. Leave the prosphora in this state for an hour.

Prosphora - how to use?

There are several rules regarding how to properly eat sacred bread. This should be done in the morning on an empty stomach and to begin with, it is recommended to spread a clean napkin on the table and place bread and water on it. When figuring out how to eat prosphora at home, it is worth mentioning that before eating it, a prayer intended for this occasion must be said. They eat bread over a plate so that crumbs do not fall on the floor. It is important to note that prosphora should not be used in cemeteries and crumble on graves.

How to cut prosphora correctly?

In temples, a special knife designed for this purpose is used to cut the sacred bread. It is called a spear and is a flat knife shaped like the tip of a spear. It cannot be stored with other cutlery. Many people are interested in whether it is possible to cut prosphora with a knife, but most clergy argue that ordinary kitchen utensils should not be used.

Prayer for accepting prosphora and holy water

It is believed that when a believer reads a prayer before eating prosphora and drinking holy water, this leads to the sanctification of the body and spirit, the illumination of thoughts, and this will also protect him from evil spirits. Parts of the prosphora are taken out at the end of the liturgy and believers must fold their palms into a cross, with the right hand covering the left. After handing over the prosphora, you must kiss the hand of the clergyman. Having brought the sacred bread home, place it on a clean napkin and before eating it, be sure to read a prayer before accepting the prosphora and holy water.

When can you eat prosphora?

You can eat sacred bread every day, with the exception of a number of restrictions, which will be discussed below. If you are interested in how to eat prosphora correctly, then it is worth knowing that sacred bread is usually consumed on an empty stomach with a sense of humility. The clergy say that it is beneficial for all believers to start their day with prosphora, which should be washed down with holy water.

Is it possible to eat prosphora without an empty stomach?

The rule regarding the use of sacred bread and water on an empty stomach arose for a reason, since they are designed to instill reverence in a person and separate eating from eating. Although the holy gifts are received through the mouth, they still participate in digestion. digestive system, believers must understand that church prosphora bread is not food and its consumption is a sacred act.

Is it possible to eat prosphora during menstruation?

There is an opinion that during menstrual periods a woman should avoid everything that has to do with the church, including she should refuse to eat sacred bread. This is explained by the fact that the woman is “unclean” and the holy prosphora will be desecrated. This topic is controversial, and different clergy have their own opinions on this matter. Saint Athanasius, back in 365, said that a woman during the days of natural renewal of the body cannot be “unclean,” therefore everything is provided for by God. In general, it is impossible to say for sure whether eating prosphora will be considered a sin.

Is it possible to eat prosphora on Good Friday?

Good Friday is considered the strictest day of fasting before Easter and, according to church canons, on this day it is necessary to refrain from consuming any food or drinks. The exception is prosphora and holy water. It is quite possible to last a day on bread and water, but do not forget that these foods should not be eaten to be full, but to receive blessings. As for when to eat prosphora on Good Friday, it is better to do it in the morning, and then, if possible, refrain from taking it.

What to do with dried prosphora?

Many people do not know how to properly treat sacred bread brought from church or made with their own hands. Like any other baked product, prosphora becomes dry after some time and many people don’t know what to do with it. It's simple: you need to soak the bread in holy water and eat it. It is important to know what to do with the prosphora brought from the church, so it must be stored in a holy corner next to the icons and holy water. For long-term storage It is recommended to place the bread in a paper bag.

The prosphora has become moldy - what to do?

If the sacred bread has spoiled, then this is considered the result of a careless attitude towards the shrine and the clergy recommend confessing for this sin. For those who are interested in what to do with moldy prosphora, you should know that it must be dealt with in the same way as with other shrines that need to be destroyed. There are several options:

1. Bury in an untrampled place, that is, where people will not walk.
2. Let it float along the river, but it is important that it does not stick to the shore, so either chop it up or tie it to a stone.
3. You can take the damaged prosphora to the church, where it will be burned.
4. The clergy allow you to crush the bread and give it to the birds, but it is forbidden to throw crumbs on the ground, so put them on a board. It is prohibited to give prosphora to animals.

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Prayer for accepting prosphora and holy water. Its meaning and significance

The Orthodox Church teaches us that God's Grace is poured out to people in different ways. Sometimes this happens through material and very real objects, for example, icons or church utensils. Sometimes - through the blessing of a priest. Sometimes believers receive grace-filled energy through prosphora and holy water, namely believers, since only through faith can God’s help be sent down. Therefore, prosphora and holy water are inseparable from prayer.

What is prosphora

Those who have been to church have seen these small round loaves of bread, decorated on top with an image of a cross or other sacred symbols. They are received in a candle shop and taken home for themselves and their loved ones. The eating of such bread is preceded by a prayer for the acceptance of prosphora and holy water. They came to us from the first centuries of Christianity. Translated from Greek, “prosphora” means “offering.” Once upon a time, believers, when gathering for a common prayer service, brought bread with them as a donation. The deacons accepted him and added the names of donors to special lists. Then special prayers were offered for them. From these depths of history came the prayer before accepting the prosphora.

Blessing of water

To consecrate the water, a special ceremony is performed. The priest lowers the cross into the water three times, accompanying his actions with a special prayer. This is not a prayer before taking holy water, but a prayer for its illumination. As a result of this, water becomes a carrier of Divine energy. With its help, ailments are cured and driven away evil force. In homes sprinkled with holy water, the spiritual atmosphere improves.

Prayer for accepting prosphora and holy water

According to tradition, prosphora and holy water are taken in the morning on an empty stomach. The reason does not lie in the physiology of our body, because we are not talking about ordinary medications. The meaning here is purely symbolic: the day begins with a shrine. In addition, once in the stomach, the bearers of holiness should not be mixed with ordinary food.

However, the most important component of such a morning ritual is the prayer for accepting the prosphora and holy water. But it should not be formal, not a mechanical reading of the text, but an appeal to God with sincere faith and love. Without this, all efforts are in vain. The Lord sends grace to all people, but only a believer is able to receive it.

The prayer begins with a request to the Almighty to enlighten the mind. This is understandable, because in worldly life, and even more so in the spiritual, clarity and sobriety of thought are necessary. A person with a sleeping mind is equally far from both material and spiritual values.

Further, the prayer for accepting prosphora and holy water includes a very important point, this is a prayer for the sending of spiritual and physical strength. In religious terms, there is no contradiction between them - both for ordinary earthly life and for serving the Lord will require both.

Following the request for strength for the soul and body, health is asked for them. Here health should be understood not only as the absence of illnesses, but also as deliverance from sins, because according to the teachings of the church, illnesses are sent to us precisely for sins. The Lord protects us from them, but, mired in sins, we ourselves turn away from His help.

The prayer ends with a request to remove destructive passions from us, as well as bodily and spiritual infirmities. In sending down what is requested, hope is expressed for the prayers of the Most Pure Virgin Mary and all the saints.

Prayer for happiness

The prayer for accepting prosphora and holy water is small in volume of text, but unusually deep in content. Reason, spiritual and physical strength, health and freedom from harmful passions and infirmities - this is what is necessary for human happiness. They ask the Lord for the gift of all this when reading a prayer.

Today, prosphora is prepared in small bakeries established at churches. That’s what they’re called – prosforni. The rules for their baking and the composition of the incoming components are very strictly established. This is a responsible task, and therefore it is entrusted only to pious people. Prosphoras are also needed during the liturgy to prepare holy firewood, which is then used during the sacrament of Communion.

There is hardly a person today who is not familiar with these words: “our daily bread.” But unfortunately, not everyone knows that they are from the “Our Father” prayer, which emphasizes a special respectful attitude towards bread, which appears here not as a trivial food product, but as a symbol meaning everything necessary to support the soul and body of a person. One of its incarnations is the church mallow.

History of origin

Church mallow, or, as it is also called, prosphora, is a small round loaf of bread that is used in church sacraments and during commemoration in Proskomedia. Its name translates as "offering". In the first centuries of Christianity, believers brought bread and everything necessary for worship. The minister receiving all this included their names in a special list, which was announced after prayers during the consecration of the gifts.

Part of the offerings, namely bread and wine, was used for Communion, the rest was eaten by the brethren at the evening or distributed to the believers. In some way, this tradition has survived to this day. After the service, at the exit from the church, ministers distribute pieces of prosphora to the parishioners.

Later, the word “prosphora” began to be used only as a name for the bread that was used for the liturgy. They began to bake it specifically for this purpose.

The symbolism of the prosphora

It represents bread, which by the power of God changes its essence or, as Christians say, is transformed into the Body of Christ. This happens during the execution Divine Liturgy, at the moment when the priest immerses the particles taken out at the proskomedia into the Chalice, in which the Body and Blood of Christ, saying a special prayer.

The round shape of the prosphora is not accidental; it is made this way, acting as a symbolic expression of the eternity of Christ. In addition, there are other, similar interpretations. Many believe this is a sign eternal life both the individual and all humanity in Christ.

The church mallow consists of two parts: upper and lower. This also makes sense. Collected together, the two parts symbolize the special nature of man, which appears in the unity of two principles: Divine and human.

The upper part represents the spiritual beginning of a person. His carnal, earthly state is symbolized by the lower one, which is the church mallow.

The photo allows you to see a seal on its upper part, consisting of a cross and an inscription. The latter, translated from Greek, marks the victory of Jesus Christ.

Church mallow recipe

To prepare prosphora, take the best wheat flour 1.2 kg. To knead the dough, pour one third of it into a deep bowl and add holy water. After stirring a little, pour boiling water over the dough. They do this for the strength and sweetness of the prosphora.

A little later, add a little salt diluted with holy water and 25 grams of yeast to the cooled mixture. All this is mixed and kept for about half an hour. Pour the remaining two-thirds of the flour into the risen dough and knead well. Then they leave again for half an hour, giving the opportunity to approach.

The finished risen dough is rolled out, carefully rubbed with flour. Using a mold, make circles: the upper parts are smaller, the lower parts are larger. After this, the prepared parts are covered with a damp cloth, on which a dry cloth is placed, and left for half an hour.

Next, a seal is placed on the upper part, it is connected to the lower part, wetting the contacting surfaces warm water. The formed prosphora is pierced with a needle in several places, placed on a baking sheet, then in the oven, where it is baked for 15–20 minutes.

The finished mallow is laid out on the table and wrapped, covering first with a dry, then a damp and again a dry cloth, and they are allowed to rest for an hour. Then they are placed in special baskets.

The recipe itself also has a special meaning. Flour and water symbolize human flesh, and yeast and holy water symbolize his soul. All this is inextricably linked, and at the same time, each component has its own meaning. Holy water is God's grace given to man. Yeast is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, which gives life with its life-giving power.

How and when can you use prosphora?

Anyone who attends church knows when they eat church mallow. This happens after the first Liturgy, if the believer receives communion on this day, then a little earlier - after the Eucharist. They eat this sacred bread with a special feeling - humbly and reverently. This should be done before eating.

It is beneficial for every believer to start his day by drinking holy water and eating prosphora. To do this, you need to lay out a clean tablecloth or napkin. On it prepare a meal consecrated by God, consisting of prosphora and holy water. Before using them, you must definitely say a prayer, which is said specifically for this occasion. Church malt is eaten over a plate or sheet of paper. This is done so that its crumbs do not fall on the floor and are not trampled on.

On November 13, the Church honors the day of remembrance of the holy prosphora bearers of Pechersk - the Venerables Spyridon and Nicodemus. In this regard, let's talk about prosphora.

This word means “offering” in translation from Greek. In its own logical sense ancient Church This is every Liturgical offering: bread, wine, water, oil, candles. The deacons wrote down the names of the donors of the prosphora-offering in a special commemoration book and commemorated them at the Liturgy. Later, the word “prosphora” began to refer specifically to the bread intended for the Eucharist.

Why bread? Because the Lord Himself called Himself Bread. “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:48). And during the Last Supper, it was the Lord who broke the bread, saying: “This is my body, which is given for you: do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19).

Prosphora is a round small bread consisting of two parts (a symbol of the dual nature of Christ - Divine and human). The bread must be yeast or leavened - “live”. Let us remember the Gospel parable about leaven (Matthew 13:33). Prosphora is always baked from pure wheat flour. It also consists of water (possibly Epiphany water) and salt. There is a seal at the top of the prosphora. Most often it is a cross and the letters “Is.”, “Xs.” - Jesus Christ and the Greek “Nike” - “victory”. Images of the Blessed Virgin Mary and saints are also possible on seals.

From the prosphora with the seal of Christ, a Lamb is cut out, which at the Liturgy will become the Body of Christ, from the rest pieces are taken out with the commemoration of the names of living and deceased Orthodox Christians. At the end of the Liturgy, the prosphora is taken out of the altar and distributed to the faithful. This is often done in a candle shop.

The prosphora should be treated as a shrine. This is not ordinary bread. He participated in the service (Holy of Holies Orthodox Church) - Liturgy.

At home it should be kept in a special place, you can near icons, consumed with holy water only on an empty stomach with a special prayer: “Lord my God, may Your holy gift be: prosphora and Your holy water for the remission of my sins, for the enlightenment of my mind, for strengthening my spiritual and bodily strength, for the health of my soul and body, for the subjugation of my passions and infirmities according to Your infinite mercy through the prayers of Your Most Pure Mother and all Your saints. Amen". You should be careful about the crumbs, try not to litter or scatter them. Moldy prosphora is traditionally disposed of: thrown into the river - into running water.

From my own experience, I will say that it is most convenient to store prosphora in the following way. While it is fresh, cut it into small pieces, put them in a linen bag to dry (you can also put it in a plastic bag, just do not close it so that there is air access). When the particles dry out, they can be stored for at least several years. Small pieces are more convenient to eat. In addition, whole prosphora will mold much faster because moisture is retained inside it, which can become a breeding ground for mold spores.

The meaning of the prosphora is similar to the meaning of the antidor. It is also pieces of the prosphora from which the Lamb was carved. The word "antidor" translated from Greek means "instead of communion." That is, we cannot receive communion every day, but we have the opportunity to eat prosphora and drink holy water reverently as a kind of symbol of communion. Not a substitute. These are not equivalent things. The Body and Blood of Christ are immeasurably higher. But as a symbol of the Liturgy, a symbol of the Holy Eucharist, the embodied memory of which is the prosphora, and, of course, with proper faith, reverence and fear of God, the prosphora revives and supports our spiritual and bodily strength.