Epigonation

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Fresco from 14th century of a bishop wearing the epigonation

The epigonation (Greek: ἐπιγονάτιον, "over the knee") or palitsa (Russian: палица, "club") is a vestment used in some Eastern Christian churches.

[edit] Description and usage

In Eastern Orthodoxy and Eastern Catholic Churches in the Byzantine tradition it is worn by all bishops and as an award for some priests.

It is a stiff, diamond-shaped cloth that hangs on the right side of the body below the waist, suspended by one corner from a strap drawn over the left shoulder. In the Russian tradition it is an award for service; in the Greek tradition it is usually a sign that the priest has an advanced academic degree and a blessing to hear confessions. If a Russian priest has been awarded both the nabedrennik and the palitsa, he shifts the former to the left side. It is considered to symbolize the weapon of the Holy Word or a sword of Christ.

[edit] History

Its origin is uncertain. According to some authorities it was a decorated thigh-shield awarded to officials in the Byzantine Empire, originally military and later civilian. According to others it was originally an ornamental handkerchief, called at that date encheirion, "hand cloth", which received its present form and name in the twelfth century. In the former case it has no Western counterpart; in the latter it would correspond to the Western maniple.

It is also said that it was used to carry documents relating to one's position in the Church. Papers such as those certifying one's ordination and rank would be most relevant when travelling. Carrying them in the Liturgy would be symbolic of bearing one's authority to conduct the Holy things of the Liturgy.