Wooden seal, stencil, for the decoration of the Koliva. The seal depicts a big Cross with elaborate designs in the center and the symbol IC XC NIKA. Also, it 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.
