ANTIOCHI HIERA Meaning and
Definition
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Antiochi hiera is a Latin term that can be translated to English as "sacred grain of Antioch." It refers to a customary practice in ancient Roman religious rituals where grain from the city of Antioch, located in modern-day Turkey, was used as a sacred offering to the gods.
In ancient Roman society, grain held great importance as it was a staple food source for the population. The Romans believed that certain grains possessed spiritual qualities and could be employed in religious ceremonies as a means of communication with the divine. Antiochi hiera specifically refers to the grain obtained from the city of Antioch, which was renowned for its agricultural produce and known for its quality.
The use of Antiochi hiera in religious rituals involved the offering of the grain to the gods, either by placing it on altars or by scattering it during ceremonies. It was believed that this act of offering the sacred grain would establish a connection with the divine realm and invoke blessings from the gods. The specific choice of Antioch grain might have been based on its association with abundance, fertility, or potent spiritual properties.
Antiochi hiera exemplifies the profound connection between food, religion, and cultural practices in ancient Roman society. It showcases how certain foods were attributed with sacred significance and used as offerings to express devotion and seek divine favor.
Etymology of ANTIOCHI HIERA
The term "Antiochi hiera" has Greek origins.
"Antiochi" refers to the ancient city of Antioch, which was located in present-day Turkey. Antioch was a significant city in the Hellenistic period and later became an important center of early Christianity.
"Hiera" is the Greek word for "sacred" or "holy".
When combined, "Antiochi hiera" roughly translates to "sacred Antioch" or "holy Antioch". The term might have been used to emphasize the religious or sacred nature of the city in a specific context or historical account.
