Mitre

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Mitre

A mitre (also spelled miter) is a type of headgear that is traditionally worn by bishops and certain abbots in Christianity. The mitre is a ceremonial headdress that has a distinctive pointed shape and is often richly decorated. It is a symbol of the office and authority of the wearer.

History

The use of the mitre can be traced back to the early centuries of the Christian Church. It evolved from the ancient headgear worn by Roman officials and was adopted by the church as a symbol of episcopal authority. The design and use of the mitre have varied over time and across different Christian denominations.

Design and Variations

The mitre typically consists of two stiffened pieces of cloth that are sewn together to form a pointed shape. It is often adorned with embroidery, jewels, and other decorations. There are several types of mitres, including:

• Simplex - A plain mitre, usually white, worn during penitential seasons and at funerals.
• Aurea - A golden mitre, often richly decorated, worn on solemn occasions.
• Pretiosa - A mitre adorned with precious stones and gold, worn on the most important liturgical celebrations.

Usage

The mitre is worn by bishops and abbots during liturgical ceremonies, such as the Mass, ordinations, and other significant religious events. It is placed on the head during specific parts of the ceremony and removed at other times, following precise liturgical rules.

Symbolism

The mitre symbolizes the authority and responsibility of the bishop or abbot. It is a visible sign of their role as a shepherd of their flock and a leader within the church. The two points of the mitre are often interpreted as representing the Old and New Testaments of the Bible.

Related Pages

• Bishop
• Abbot
• Christianity
• Mass (liturgy)
• Bible