What is the symbolism of an Orthodox priest wearing a beard?
I am Orthodox, and my priest has a beard. Every other Orthodox priest I know has one as well. Is there a symbolism to this, or is it just a style and there are priests out there who don't have one?
It's in the canons (Canon 96 of the Sixth Oecumenical Synod) that clergy are not to cut their beards, under pain of excommunication. Some take the canon to be for another time, and are either clean-shaven or (not quite able to do away with the canon altogether ) with goatees or have the three-day-stubble look.
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June 19 2009 12:28 am | Uncategorized
Marysia on 19 Jun 2009 at 6:12 am #
i believe it means they are married but i'm not 100% positive
References :
Stephen P on 19 Jun 2009 at 6:51 am #
It's in the canons (Canon 96 of the Sixth Oecumenical Synod) that clergy are not to cut their beards, under pain of excommunication. Some take the canon to be for another time, and are either clean-shaven or (not quite able to do away with the canon altogether ) with goatees or have the three-day-stubble look.
References :
http://orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/clergy_hair.aspx
http://orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/clergy_dress.aspx