An altar rail is a low barrier that separates the altar from the rest of the church. It is often made of wood or stone and may be decorated with carvings or other adornments. The altar rail is an important feature of many religious traditions, and it serves several functions in the context of worship.
Definitions
An altar rail is a low barrier that separates the altar from the rest of the church. It is often used in Christian churches to mark the boundary between the sanctuary and the nave. The altar rail may be a simple wooden or stone structure, or it may be more elaborate and decorated with carvings or other adornments.
Origin
The altar rail has been used in Christian churches for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to the early Middle Ages. In the early church, the altar was often located in a separate room or chamber, and only the clergy were allowed to enter this sacred space. Over time, the altar was moved to the front of the church, and the altar rail was introduced as a way to mark the boundary between the sacred space of the altar and the rest of the church.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of altar rail is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as a low barrier that separates the altar from the rest of the church.
Associations
The altar rail is associated with several religious traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. In Christian churches, the altar rail is often used as a place for communicants to kneel and receive the Eucharist. In Judaism, the bimah serves a similar function, separating the Torah from the rest of the synagogue. In Islam, the mihrab marks the direction of Mecca and serves as a focal point for prayer.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for altar rail, including communion rail, chancel rail, and rood screen. These terms are often used interchangeably to refer to the low barrier that separates the altar from the rest of the church.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for altar rail, as it is a unique feature of religious architecture. However, some religious traditions may not use an altar rail, opting instead for a different way to mark the boundary between the sacred and the secular.
The same root words
The root words of altar rail are altar and rail. Altar comes from the Latin word altare, meaning “high place,” while rail comes from the Old French word reille, meaning “railing” or “fence.”
Example Sentences
- The priest knelt at the altar rail to receive the Eucharist.
- The chancel rail was decorated with intricate carvings of biblical scenes.
- The rood screen served as a barrier between the nave and the sanctuary.