Agiasmos: Understanding its use and purpose

·

In the Orthodox Church, the “Great Blessing of the Water” is an important ceremony with a distinct purpose.

The Great Blessing of the Water happens only twice a year during the Feast of Theophany (Epiphany):

  • January 5 (Theophany Eve): On this day, the blessing is part of the Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil, which is typically held in the morning in places like Greece and Australia. The water blessed on January 5 is traditionally used for external blessings, such as sprinkling homes, gardens, and fields, and is not usually consumed. This is because January 5 is a strict fasting day, requiring no food or drink (or oil if it’s a weekday).
  • January 6 (Theophany Feast Day): On the actual feast day, the water is blessed again and intended for drinking. Since January 5 is a strict fasting day, Orthodox Christians are allowed to consume this holy water the next day. The holy water can be drunk before consuming antidoron or after receiving Holy Communion.

Many people keep some of this blessed water at home for use throughout the year. To drink it properly, one should have fasted the previous evening. This water is considered so spiritually powerful that those unable to take Holy Communion (due to a canonical reason) are encouraged to drink it as a substitute for its spiritual benefits.

    Source: Lessons from a Monastery

    Advertisement

    Share:

    KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

    By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

    Advertisement

    Latest News

    Evzones to lead ANZAC tributes and cultural celebrations in Adelaide and Sydney

    The Evzones will visit Australia from 23 April to 4 May 2025, participating in Anzac Day and a series of cultural events.

    Consent education safe as Chanel Contos responds to Dutton’s ‘indoctrination’ pledge

    Peter Dutton has pledged a Coalition government would review the national school curriculum to eliminate “indoctrination.”

    Alexia Apostolakis joins Matildas as train-on player

    Melbourne City defender, Alexia Apostolakis, has been called into the Matildas squad as a train-on player ahead of the upcoming friendlies.

    Rugby chief Peter V’landys addresses speculation about his future

    Peter V’landys, chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission and CEO of Racing NSW, has addressed speculation about his future.

    Olympiacos President to face trial over death of policeman in fan violence incident

    Vangelis Marinakis, the president of Olympiacos FC, has been ordered to stand trial in Greece, accused of inciting sports-related violence.

    You May Also Like

    Creative writing workshops at Melbourne’s Greek Centre for aspiring storytellers

    An engaging six-week creative writing workshop, hosted by The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), will commence on February 6.

    Dendias meets Patriarch in Istanbul

    Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias is in Istanbul, where he has met the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. Earlier on Christmas Day, Mr Dendias attended Mass at...

    Chris Ikonomidis blasts Melbourne Victory to FFA Cup glory

    Melbourne Victory have claimed FFA Cup glory this year in a dramatic 2-1 final over the Central Coast Mariners.