ANTIPHONER Meaning and
Definition
-
An antiphoner, also known as an antiphonal or antiphonalisches, is a liturgical book typical to the Western Christian tradition, specifically the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches, containing the chants for celebrating the Divine Office. Derived from the Greek words "anti" (meaning against or opposite) and "phone" (meaning voice or sound), an antiphoner serves as a guide for the alternating chants or responses during the Office, primarily between a cantor or choir and the congregation or officiant.
This liturgical book is primarily used during the monastic hours of the Divine Office, including Matins, Lauds, Prime, Terce, Sext, None, Vespers, and Compline. It organizes the texts of the psalms, hymns, and other scriptural passages to be sung or recited during these specific times of worship. The structure of the antiphoner ensures a cohesive and harmonious flow of sacred music, allowing for the congregation's active participation and creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
The antiphoner contains liturgical texts in Latin, often elaborately decorated with illustrations, initials, or musical notations to guide the musicians performing the chants. Over the centuries, numerous variations and editions of antiphoners have been produced, but they all share the essential purpose of facilitating the proper performance of the Divine Office's musical component. With its historical and religious significance, the antiphoner holds an esteemed position in the liturgical traditions and practices of the Western Christian churches.
Common Misspellings for ANTIPHONER
- zntiphoner
- sntiphoner
- wntiphoner
- qntiphoner
- abtiphoner
- amtiphoner
- ajtiphoner
- ahtiphoner
- anriphoner
- anfiphoner
- angiphoner
- anyiphoner
- an6iphoner
- an5iphoner
- antuphoner
- antjphoner
- antkphoner
- antophoner
- ant9phoner
Etymology of ANTIPHONER
The word "Antiphoner" originates from the Latin term "antiphonarium". It is derived from two parts: "anti", which means "in front of" or "before", and "phonos", which means "voice" or "sound". The term originally referred to a liturgical book used by Christian churches, particularly in the medieval period, containing antiphons – responsorial chants or verses sung before and after psalms or other readings during religious services. Over time, "antiphoner" came to refer to the person who sang or chanted these antiphons, and later on, to any book containing liturgical chants.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
