Initiation

[Nazarani]

There are four steps, and thus three traditional levels of initiation for Christians in Aramaic. Each one represents a progressive step in the process by which each person eventually comes to an understanding of God and Church; and thus creates new Christians, fully prepared for a life of righteousness.

AELON אעלון

A novice, or Catechumen. These are people who are uninitiated in the tradition, but who have a strong desire to learn. These are said to be standing at the entry to the "Baba Nazaranayin" (Which means 'Gate of the Nazarani' or, “the gate of the branches”).

AHUMADIN אחומדין

This means, “one who is considered upright” and refers to those who have been "reconciled" by the Church and thus received through baptism in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, in living water.

AMSHAKHT אמשחת

This refers to “one who have been anointed”. This is done on the forehead, eyes, ears, neck, chest, hands and feet by the bishop in a ritual ceremony symbolizing the creation of that person into the body of Christ. The English word “Christ” is a translation, through Greek of the Aramaic word Masikha משיחא, which means literally “The Anointed”. Thus Christ, ‘the Anointed’ becomes the anointer of those who are then welcomed and integrated into His anointed Body.

 

TZADEK צדק

True Nazarani are known as Tzadek (or plural: tsadekim). The word Tzadek means literally “the righteous”, who upon reception of the Eucharist, have accepted Christ into themselves for Eternal Life.