Kollyva: The Christian Memorial Service Superfood from Ancient Greece
-
Loading... - Natalie Bryon
- 12 Feb 2025
- 58 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
Kollyva is a traditional boiled wheat-based sweet that holds significant cultural and religious importance in Greek Orthodox memorial services. This ancient dish, which has its roots in Greece, is offered in remembrance of the deceased and symbolizes the connection between life and death.
The term "kollyva" derives from the ancient Greek word "kollyvos" (κόλλυβος), which refers to a small coin. The earliest documented use of the word can be traced back to the play Eirini (Peace) by Aristophanes in 421 BC. Over the centuries, kollyva has transitioned from a ritual food of the ancient Greeks to a staple in early Christian practices in Byzantium, eventually spreading throughout the Orthodox world with added layers of symbolism.
Kollyva represents the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, embodying the idea of what is planted in the earth and what emerges from it. It is typically served during memorial services held three, nine, or forty days after a funeral, as well as on the first and third anniversaries of a person's death and on All Souls' Day.
During the memorial service, known as mnemosynon, kollyva is placed on a memorial table or in front of an icon of Christ. The priest blesses the dish by sprinkling it with holy water, after which it is shared among attendees in the church's refectory.
In Greek Orthodox Christian symbolism, the wheat in kollyva represents the human body, as it is a fundamental source of nourishment. Jesus Christ himself likened his divine body to a grain of wheat, stating in the Gospel of John: “The grain of wheat, if it falls to the ground and does not die, stays there and does not multiply. But if it dies, it bears plenty of fruit.” This analogy underscores the themes of death, burial, and resurrection, suggesting that the deceased will rise again with an indestructible body, much like the grain of wheat.
As a way to honor the memory of the departed, kollyva is brought to the church during memorial services and shared with participants. At the conclusion of the memorial, attendees recite the phrase: “Eternal the memory, eternal the memory, eternal the memory.” This prayer serves as a heartfelt wish for the eternal remembrance of the deceased, ensuring that their memory remains alive until the Second Coming.
In summary, kollyva is not just a dish; it is a profound symbol of faith, remembrance, and the continuity of life, deeply rooted in both ancient Greek traditions and Christian beliefs.
