Bible Encyclopedias
Flabellum

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

(fan; Gr. ῥιπίδιον ). Among the evidences of the Eastern origin of the Christian religion is the use of this implement during the celebration of the eucharist. Having its birthplace and earliest home in a climate teeming with insect life, where food exposed uncovered is instantly blackened and polluted by swarms of flies, it was natural that the bread and wine of its sacramental feast should be guarded from defilement by the customary precautions. The flabellum having been once introduced among the furniture of the altar for necessary uses, in process of time became one of its regular ornaments, and was thus transferred to the more temperate climates of the West, where its original purpose was almost forgotten.

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