The Holy Qurbono

The emphasis on the mystery of the resurrection explains the longstanding tradition in all Eastern Churches of standing during the Qurbana. Standing was the normal posture for prayer among the Jews, and this custom was adopted by the early Church from the time of the Apostles. The ancient Church universally practiced standing for prayer, with hands raised and facing east, as a gesture of anticipation and reverence.

In contrast, kneeling was considered a posture of penitence and was generally reserved for fast days. One of the Syrian Fathers articulated this distinction, saying: “Kneeling is a sign of our fall; standing, of our resurrection.” Therefore, it became the universal custom to stand for public prayer, especially on Sundays and during Paschal time, to honour the resurrection.

This practice was so significant that it was codified in a Canon of the Ecumenical Council of Nicaea (325 A.D.), which declared: “On the Lord's day and the days of Pentecost, prayer should be made to God standing.” From this time, standing became the norm throughout the Church, both in the East and the West, until the Middle Ages.

In the Eastern Churches, this tradition has been preserved to the present day and serves as a meaningful expression of the joy of the Resurrection and the active participation of the faithful in the Sacrifice. By standing, the people affirm their role as members of the Body of Christ, offering the Sacrifice together with the priest.

Note:

The custom of kneeling during Mass developed in the Western Church during the late Middle Ages. This was partly due to a shift in perception, where the Mass came to be regarded less as a Sacrifice offered collectively by the priest and the people, and more as one offered solely by the priest. Consequently, the people’s role became more passive, focusing on adoration and worship rather than active participation.

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