Oil in the Mysteries of Christian Initiation in the Syro-Oriental Liturgical Tradition

Mateusz Rafał Potoczny

Wydział Teologiczny Uniwersytetu Opolskiego

Abstract

Oil belongs to the most important natural elements that have entered the Christian liturgy. Although it is used in various sacramental and extra-sacramental rites, the richest theological meaning it gained in the rites of Christian Initiation. This study reflects on the role and significance of oil in the baptismal liturgy in the Syro-Oriental tradition. The paper starts from the presentation of the nomenclature related to the anointing in Syrian traditions. Then one can learn about the symbolism of oil and anointing found in the works of the most prominent Syriac Fathers. The last part of research presents the anointings in the baptismal rite of the Syro-Oriental Churches.

Keywords:

Baptism, Christian Initiation, Anointing, Oil, Syro-Oriental Tradition