iconostasis

Noun

Meaning

iconostasis (plural iconostases or iconostaseis)

(Eastern Orthodoxy) A wall of icons between the sanctuary and the nave in an Eastern Orthodox church.

Synonyms

Examples

At the front, or eastern end of the church, is a raised dais with an icon-covered screen or wall ( iconostasis or templon ) separating the nave from the sanctuary. Source: Internet

In the center of this wall is the entrance to the altar known as the "Royal Doors" through which only the clergy may pass. There is a right and left side door on the front of the iconostasis, one depicting the archangel, Michael and the other Gabriel. Source: Internet

In Hagia Sophia itself, drunken soldiers could be seen tearing down the silken hangings and pulling the great silver iconostasis to pieces, while sacred books and icons were trampled under foot. Source: Internet

In front of the iconostasis is the bishop's chair, a place of honor where a visiting bishop or metropolitan will often sit when visiting the church. Source: Internet

In Russian churches, the nave is typically separated from the sanctuary by an iconostasis (Russian ikonostás) a wall of icons. Source: Internet

In Russian churches, the nave is typically separated from the sanctuary by an iconostasis (Russian ikonostas, иконостас), or icon-screen, a wall of icons with double doors in the centre. Source: Internet

Close letter words and terms