The humeral veil is a liturgical vestment worn by Catholic and Anglican clergy during special Masses. The spelling of this word can be explained through IPA phonetic transcription as /hjuːmərəl veɪl/. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "u" sound followed by a short "e" sound. The second syllable contains a schwa sound, while the final syllable consists of a long "a" sound followed by an "l" sound. The word humeral is derived from the Latin word humerus, which means shoulder, while veil refers to a piece of fabric that covers the head and face.
The humeral veil is a liturgical vestment worn by ordained clergy within the Catholic and Anglican denominations during specific religious services, particularly during the celebration of the Eucharist. It is a long and semi-circular, shoulder-to-shoulder fabric, typically made of silk or satin, and adorned with intricate embroidery or liturgical symbols.
The humeral veil is worn over the shoulders of the celebrant, extending down the front and back of the body, and is typically held in place by two cords or ribbons that cross over the chest. Its purpose is to symbolically cover and protect the hands of the celebrant during the consecration of the Eucharistic bread and wine.
The humeral veil holds a deep symbolic meaning within the context of the Eucharistic ceremony. It is believed to represent the humble submission of the celebrant to the divine authority of Christ, while also signifying the sacredness and profound mystery of the act of consecration. Additionally, the humeral veil is often considered a reminder of the burial shroud of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the belief in his resurrection and the transformative power of the Eucharist.
Throughout history, the humeral veil has evolved in terms of design and style, reflecting different cultural and artistic influences. Its use is confined to specific liturgical occasions and is considered an important visual element that enhances the solemnity and reverential atmosphere of the religious service.
The term "humeral veil" is derived from the Latin words "humerus" meaning "shoulder" and "velum" meaning "veil" or "covering". The word "humerus" refers to the bone in the upper arm or shoulder, and "velum" specifically denotes a cloth used as a cover or veil. In Christian religious context, a humeral veil is a liturgical vestment that covers the shoulders of a priest or other clergy during certain parts of the Mass, particularly when carrying the Eucharist or performing blessings. The term "humeral veil" is believed to have originated in medieval Latin.