Wooden seal, stencil, for the decoration of the
Koliva. The seal depicts a big Cross in the center and the symbol IC XC
NIKA. It also has two handles for easier installation and removal.
Dimensions: 17 x 17 cm.
Use: Cover
the koliva with caster sugar and then place the seal on the koliva, on
the center of the pot. Sprinkle with cinnamon in order to capture the
design of the seal. Remove the seal carefully so as not to spoil the
design.
Symbolism: In Orthodoxy, koliva is one of the
oldest traditions and they have special symbolism for our faith. The
faithful bring koliva to the Church at the Memorials and at All Soul’s
Day. Koliva symbolize the Resurrection of the humans and the Lord,
however every single ingredient of the koliva has its own symbolism. In
particular, wheat symbolizes the dead, the souls of our loved ones, who
are gone. Sugar symbolizes the sweetness of the Paradise. Grated toast
or sesame symbolize the soil, while raisins symbolize Our Lord, the
Vine. Pomegranate symbolize the glory of the Paradise and the nuts,
almond or walnuts, symbolize the new life. Finally, the silver or white
sugared-almonds symbolize the bones that remain unchangeable, in
contrast to the body that deteriorate.
