Oval wooden perforated seal for the decoration of the Koliva, crafted by Greek orthodox monks here on Mount Athos. The seal bears in the center a large Cross and around the symbol IC XC NIKA and perforated designs. It has two handles for easier use on the grain.
Use: We cover the Koliva with powdered sugar and place the seal on the Koliva, in the center of the container. Sprinkle with cinnamon to capture the design of the seal. Care must be taken when removing the stamp so as not to damage the design.
Symbolism: Koliva are a fairly old custom of our Orthodox church that concerns the dead, their resurrection and the Lord's. They are offered by the faithful to the church on Memorials and at All Soul’s Day. The ingredients with which the Koliva are made have their own significance. It is said that the ingredients must be 9, because nine are the orders of angels. In particular, the wheat symbolizes the dead, the sugar symbolizes the sweetness of Paradise, the breadcrumbs symbolize the soil, the raisins symbolize the Lord who is the Vine. Parsley symbolizes rest and cinnamon fragrance. Also, the pomegranate symbolizes the splendor and mercies of Heaven, the nuts symbolize the new life, and the sugared-almonds, silver or white, symbolizes the bones that remain unchanged while the body decays.
Dimensions: 17 χ 24.5 cm / 6.69 x 9.64 in
