Difference between revisions of "Kneeling"
Joe Rodgers (talk | contribs) m (Oh yeah, forgot to give my source) |
Joe Rodgers (talk | contribs) (starting to shape this more) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
| − | '''Kneeling''' is a human position in which the weight is distributed on the knees and feet on a surface close to horizontal. | + | '''Kneeling''', in the english vernacular, is a human position in which the weight is distributed on the knees and feet on a surface close to horizontal. However, historically the Orthodox church has called kneeling what is known in the english language as '''prostration'''. |
| + | |||
| + | The prone position is different than conventional kneeling, with the person moving down and "falling" prone to the ground. That is, when you pronate you lie completely horizontal to the floor. A variation of this is an act of kneeling and touching the forehead to the ground. | ||
Kneeling, similarly to [[bowing]], is associated with [[submission]] and [[obeisance]]. Kneeling is often used as a position for [[prayer]], as a position of submission to God. | Kneeling, similarly to [[bowing]], is associated with [[submission]] and [[obeisance]]. Kneeling is often used as a position for [[prayer]], as a position of submission to God. | ||
Revision as of 05:26, January 19, 2006
Kneeling, in the english vernacular, is a human position in which the weight is distributed on the knees and feet on a surface close to horizontal. However, historically the Orthodox church has called kneeling what is known in the english language as prostration.
The prone position is different than conventional kneeling, with the person moving down and "falling" prone to the ground. That is, when you pronate you lie completely horizontal to the floor. A variation of this is an act of kneeling and touching the forehead to the ground.
Kneeling, similarly to bowing, is associated with submission and obeisance. Kneeling is often used as a position for prayer, as a position of submission to God.
According to custom, the position of kneeling is assumed at different times in the services.
In some church buildings, pews are equipped with kneelers in front of the seating bench so members of the congregation can kneel on them instead of the floor. Although kneelers are less common in Orthodox church buildings, they do appear in some. There appear, obviously, where there are pews in the building, and often when the building was purchased from Protestant or Roman Catholic parishes.
