Handmade Seal for Prosphora “Take, Eat” – 18 cm – Holy Cell of Saint Basil

Description

Handmade Seal for Prosphora “Take, Eat”

This handmade seal is crafted by Father Damaskinos at the Holy Cell of Saint Basil in Kavsokalyvia. It is entirely hand-carved on high-quality linden wood, featuring deep engravings, a thick perimeter, and symbolism that strictly adheres to authentic Orthodox iconography. The linden wood used is of superior quality and is safe for contact with food. The perimeter of the seal is carved with the inscription: “ΛΑΒΕΤΕ ΦΑΓΕΤΕ ΤΟΥΤΟ ΕΣΤΙ ΤΟ ΣΩΜΑ ΜΟΥ” (“Take, Eat, this is My Body”). The back of the seal has a handle for easy use, adorned with a carved cross in Byzantine script reading “ΙΗΣΟΥΣ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ ΝΙΚΑ” (Jesus Christ Conquers) and the carved inscription “ΑΓΙΟΝ ΟΡΟΣ” (Holy Mount).

Prosphora Seal of Mount Athos – Symbolism

The Prosphora is the bread we offer at the Church for the celebration of the Divine Eucharist. Along with the wine, as the Precious Gifts (bread and wine), before they are carried in the Great Entrance to the Holy Table, they are placed on the Prothesis (Pro + tithemi = prothesis), where, through the rite of the Proskomide, they are prepared for the Divine Liturgy.

The round design of the Prosphora symbolizes the womb of the Virgin Mary, from which her Only-Begotten Son was born. On the Prosphora, there is a raised design formed by the seal.

At the center of the Prosphora is the Lamb, i.e., the central square of the design with the letters: ΙΣ ΧΣ ΝΙ ΚΑ (Jesus Christ conquers). These letters should be clearly visible. It is called the Lamb (Arnaki), because the prophet Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah, like an innocent lamb, would be led to sacrifice.

The design of the Prosphora also includes the portion of the Virgin Mary with the letters M and Θ, meaning Mother of God. The triangular portion of the Virgin Mary is placed to the right of the Lamb.

From the 9 small triangles, which are on the right side of the Prosphora, the portions for the angels and all the saints are taken and placed to the left of the Lamb. Other sections of the Prosphora are used for the portions offered for the living and the departed, who belong to the Orthodox Church.

Prosphora Seal of Mount Athos – Storage Instructions

Prosphora seals should be stored in a case and kept away from moisture. They should not be wet or oiled. To clean the seal from any dough residue, use a toothpick and a small brush.

Dimensions: 18 cm

Origin: Holy Cell of Saint Basil, Mount Athos