Why in church shout "Axios". What does it mean?

Sometimes in the Orthodox Church you can hear from the clergy shout "axios". What does it mean? From the Greek language the word is translated as "worthy". According to tradition, such a special proclamation should be pronounced by a bishop, deacon, priest by ordination or consecration, with hierarchical decorations or with the enthronement of all Patriarchs.

Axios. What does this mean in the Orthodox Church?

The first mention of the exclamation can be seen on a unique monument in Syria. It is called "Testament of Jesus Christ." It refers to 3-5 centuries. There, the people immediately after the consecration of the bishop pronounce exactly 3 times "Axios". What does it mean? So the clergy confirms, testifies to good morals and absolutely pure behavior in the life of the supplied person.

First the word is pronounced to those who perform the Sacrament. Then the cry should be repeated by all priests present. And only then "axios" is proclaimed by all the clergy. Next, the newly appointed person puts on appropriate sacred costumes.

Simeon of Solunsky describes axios in detail. What does this mean, in his opinion?

1. Exclamation must be sung three times and loudly.
2. This happens outside the altar.
3. Means "axios" that everyone believes in the grace of the person being supplied. He is known by the angels, is worthy before God and must lead his priestly ministry righteously.
4. This is a kind of prayer.
5. Axios is a sign of agreement with choice.

Catholic Church

The Catholics also have an expression, an exclamation, a semblance of axios. Its meaning is a little different. The phrase "Dignus est" is pronounced only during ordination. And this exclamation is pronounced exclusively by the people who are present at this sacrament.

Opposite value

There is another exclamation in church practice - anaxios. From the Greek word is translated as "not worthy." And there were cases when he was loudly used.