What is a surplice, and what are its basic characteristics?

A surplice is a liturgical vestment used in Western Christianity. It is typically a tunic made of white linen or cotton fabric, reaching to the knees, and features wide or moderately wide sleeves. Historically, it was a longer garment, but in modern Western Christian traditions, it often has shorter, closed sleeves and square shoulders.

What is the etymological origin of the word 'surplice'?

The word 'surplice' derives from the Late Latin term 'superpelliceum'. This term is a compound of 'super', meaning 'over', and 'pellicia', meaning 'fur garment'. This naming suggests its original purpose was to be worn over the fur garments formerly worn in churches for warmth during services.

How has the physical form of the surplice evolved over time?

Originally, the surplice was a long garment that reached nearly to the ground. By the 13th century, it began to shorten, reaching the middle of the shin by the 15th century. In Continental Europe, it became considerably shorter during the 17th and 18th centuries. Modern surplices often have shorter sleeves and square shoulders compared to their historical predecessors.

What are some of the less common or modified forms of the surplice that have appeared historically?

Several subsidiary forms of the surplice have developed over time. These include a sleeveless version with holes for the arms, surplices with slit arms or decorative lappets ('wings') instead of sleeves, garments similar to a dalmatic with the body slit up the sides, and a bell-shaped mantle with a head hole that required arms to stick out from under the hem. Some of these variations, particularly those with slit arms, are still worn today by organists for ease of movement.

Where is the surplice believed to have originated, and how did its use spread?

It is most probable that the surplice first appeared in France or England, from where its use gradually spread to Italy. Its adoption may have been influenced by the founding of the Augustinian Canons in the latter half of the eleventh century, and it was imported into Roman use from outside Rome, likely during the 12th century.

What is the symbolic meaning of the surplice in Roman Catholicism?

In the Roman tradition, the surplice, often referred to as a 'cotta', is considered a miniature alb. The alb itself symbolizes the white garment received at Baptism, signifying purity. Therefore, the surplice represents this purity and is appropriately worn by various liturgical ministers.

Who is permitted to wear a surplice in the Roman Catholic tradition?

In the Roman tradition, the surplice can be worn by any cleric, as well as by lectors, acolytes, and altar servers. It is also commonly worn by seminarians attending Mass and by non-clerical choirs. Deacons and priests may wear it under a stole for liturgical ceremonies or sacraments outside of Mass.

How is the surplice worn in Roman Catholicism, and what is it never worn with?

The surplice is typically worn over a cassock and is never worn alone. It is also never gathered by a belt or cincture. When worn by deacons and priests for sacraments outside of Mass, it is worn under a stole, and sometimes a cope is worn over the cassock, surplice, and stole.

Which high-ranking clerics in the Roman Catholic Church do not typically wear a surplice, and what do they wear instead?

Prelates such as the Pope, cardinals, bishops, monsignori, and some canons generally do not wear the surplice. Instead, these clerics wear the rochet, which is considered a variant of the surplice, as part of their choir dress.

Does the surplice require a special blessing before being worn?

No, the surplice is classified as a sacred vestment (vestes sacrae), but it does not require a specific benediction before it is worn.

What role did the surplice play in the Church of England following the Reformation?

Following the Reformation, the surplice was retained as a primary vestment for ministers in the Church of England, as mandated by the Act of Uniformity in 1558. While more extreme reformers opposed its use, it survived, often alongside a tippet or academic hood, and was considered the sole authorized vestment for ministers (other than bishops) until 1965, except for the cope.

How did the surplice's appearance change in the Church of England due to fashion trends?

Towards the end of the 17th century, coinciding with the fashion for large wigs, surplices began to be constructed more like gowns, opening down the front and buttoning at the neck. This style still partially survives, particularly at universities. However, the general trend, influenced by continental styles, was towards curtailing the surplice's proportions, leading to unpleated, knee-length garments in many churches.

What is the significance of the 'tippet' or 'scarf' worn by clergy in the Church of England?

In the Church of England, the tippet or scarf, a broad band of black stuff or silk worn stole-wise, served as a distinctive mark for clergy. It is important to note that this tippet has no liturgical significance and was originally merely part of the outdoor dress for high-ranking or degree-holding clerics, and it should not be confused with the liturgical stole.

What was the historical custom regarding the 'black gown' during sermons in the Church of England?

Historically, clergy in the Church of England would wear the surplice during services but would exchange it for a 'black gown' during the sermon. This black gown was either a Geneva gown or the gown of an academic degree. However, this custom has become almost entirely obsolete due to the High Church movement, though preachers delivering university sermons sometimes retain the custom.

In which non-Roman Catholic Western Churches is the surplice still in regular use?

The surplice has continued in regular use in Lutheran churches, the Anglican Communion, and among various Old Catholic denominations.

What is the practice regarding the surplice in German Lutheran and United Churches concerning academic gowns?

In German Lutheran and United Churches, where black academic gowns with preaching bands have been common since the early 19th century, the surplice is sometimes worn over the academic gown and bands. This practice serves as a compromise between the black gown, which has become a symbol of Protestantism in Germany, and the traditional Christian symbolism of white representing grace and the sacrament.

How are surplices being reclaimed in contemporary paleo-orthodox and emerging church movements?

Within paleo-orthodox and emerging church movements in Protestant and evangelical circles, clergy are increasingly reclaiming traditional vestments. This includes the cassock and surplice, often in a full-length Old English style, worn with an appropriate liturgical stole, or a cassock and Geneva gown for Services of the Word.

What is the origin of the term 'cotta' as used in relation to the surplice?

Anglicans often refer to a Roman-style surplice as a 'cotta', a term derived from Medieval Latin. 'Cotta' essentially means 'cut-off' in Italian and refers to the garment being derived from a shortened version of the alb.

What is the significance of the mosaics in the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna concerning the surplice?

Some scholars suggest the use of the surplice dates back to the 5th century, citing garments worn by clerics in the mosaics of the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna. However, this interpretation may be mistaken, potentially confusing the dalmatic with the surplice.

What are the earliest documented mentions of the surplice?

The earliest documents that specifically mention the surplice date from the 11th century. These include a canon from the Synod of Coyaca in Spain (around 1050) and an ordinance by King Edward the Confessor.

Did the Eastern Churches historically use a vestment analogous to the surplice?

No, the Eastern Churches do not use a surplice or any vestment that is analogous to it.

What are the typical materials used for making a surplice?

A surplice is traditionally made from white linen or cotton fabric.

What is the primary function of a surplice in liturgical contexts?

The surplice serves as a liturgical vestment, worn over other garments during religious services in Western Christianity. It signifies purity and readiness for liturgical functions.

Can a surplice be decorated, and if so, how?

Yes, in the Roman tradition, a surplice, or cotta, can feature decorations such as liturgical lace or embroidered bordures.

What is the relationship between the surplice and the alb?

The surplice is often considered an expansion or a miniature version of the alb, another white liturgical vestment. This connection likely stems from the historical necessity of wearing the surplice over thick fur garments, similar to how the alb is a basic liturgical tunic.

In the Anglican tradition, what is the difference between a surplice and a rochet?

In Anglicanism, the rochet is practically regarded as the episcopal version of the surplice, meaning it is the surplice worn by bishops. For other ministers, the white surplice is the standard vestment.

What were the 'massing vestments' that were ordered to be destroyed under Elizabeth I's Act of Uniformity?

Under Elizabeth I's Act of Uniformity in 1558, 'massing vestments' were ordered for destruction. These included chasubles, albs, and stoles, which were associated with the older Catholic liturgy. Copes, however, survived this destruction as they were not considered explicitly superstitious.

What is the typical length of a surplice?

A surplice is generally described as reaching to the knees. Historically, it was longer, and while modern versions are typically knee-length, some traditional forms, especially in Anglicanism and Lutheranism, can be longer.

What is the significance of the image showing a seminarian with a thurible?

The image of a seminarian vested in a surplice and holding a thurible illustrates the use of the surplice by those in training for the priesthood and its association with liturgical actions, such as the use of incense during services.

What does the image of the Anglican priest wearing a cassock, surplice, hood, and tippet demonstrate?

This image demonstrates the specific combination of vestments used as choir dress in Anglicanism, highlighting the distinct elements like the white surplice worn over a black cassock, accompanied by an academic hood and a black tippet.

How does the painting 'The Death of St. Bede' depict the use of surplices?

The painting 'The Death of St. Bede' shows monastic clergy wearing surplices over their cowls, indicating the historical use of the surplice within monastic communities as part of their clerical attire during religious contexts.

What does the depiction of Abbess Joanna van Doorselaer de ten Ryen in choir dress signify?

The depiction of Abbess Joanna van Doorselaer de ten Ryen in choir dress signifies the use of specific liturgical attire, including elements like the surplice or similar garments, for religious leaders within monastic orders, even for female abbesses.

What does the image of the school choir wearing surplices over cassocks illustrate?

The image of a school choir in surplices over cassocks illustrates the continuation of traditional liturgical dress in educational settings, often used by young people participating in church music or services.

What is the difference between the Roman-style and English-style surplice mentioned in the text?

The text mentions a Roman-style surplice, often pleated and sometimes with lace inserts, and an English-style surplice, which historically was a fuller, plain white linen tunic, pleated from the yoke and reaching near the feet. In Anglicanism, the term 'cotta' is sometimes used for the Roman-style surplice.

Why might variations like sleeveless or slit-armed surplices have been developed?

Variations such as sleeveless surplices or those with slit arms and lappets instead of sleeves likely developed for practical reasons, such as increased ease of movement for the arms, particularly for tasks like playing musical instruments or performing other duties during services. These modifications also sometimes reflected contemporary secular fashions.

Are surplices used in any non-Christian religious traditions?

Based on the provided text, the surplice is exclusively described as a liturgical vestment within Western Christianity, specifically used in Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, Lutheranism, and Old Catholic denominations. It is not mentioned in relation to non-Christian traditions.

What is the relationship between the surplice and the 'black gown' in historical Anglican practice?

Historically in the Church of England, the surplice was worn during services, but clergy would change into a 'black gown' (either a Geneva gown or an academic gown) for the sermon. This practice has largely fallen away, with the black gown now sometimes seen as representing Low Church views, though it persists for university sermons.

What is the significance of the surplice being worn over a cassock?

Wearing the surplice over a cassock is a common practice in several traditions, including Roman Catholicism and Anglicanism. The cassock is the basic clerical garment, and the surplice is worn over it as a specific liturgical vestment, signifying readiness for service and purity.

What is the 'cotta' in the context of Roman Catholicism and Anglicanism?

The 'cotta' is a term sometimes used, particularly in Anglicanism, to refer to a Roman-style surplice. It is derived from the idea of a 'cut-off' alb and may feature lace or embroidery. In Roman Catholicism, 'cotta' can refer to a shorter, often fuller, surplice.

What liturgical functions might a deacon or priest perform while wearing a surplice (and stole) outside of Mass?

A deacon or priest might wear a surplice and stole for liturgical ceremonies or the celebration of sacraments outside of Mass. Examples could include baptisms, weddings, or the administration of other rites where a stole is prescribed.

How does the surplice's use in Lutheranism differ from its use in Roman Catholicism or Anglicanism regarding specific services?

In Lutheranism, the surplice is traditionally reserved for non-sacramental services like morning prayer, Vespers, and Compline, especially when the Eucharist is not being celebrated. In contrast, Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions may use the surplice more broadly for various liturgical functions, including the celebration of sacraments.

What is the historical context for the surplice being worn over fur garments?

The historical context for wearing the surplice over fur garments relates to the need for warmth in unheated churches during colder months. The name 'superpelliceum' directly translates to 'over fur garment', indicating this practical origin.

What is the 'Gesamtkunstwerk' mentioned in the example Q&A, and how might it relate to vestments?

The provided text does not mention 'Gesamtkunstwerk'. However, based on general knowledge, Gesamtkunstwerk is a German term meaning 'total work of art', often associated with Richard Wagner's concept of integrating music, drama, and visual elements. While not directly related to the surplice itself, the concept emphasizes the holistic nature of artistic and liturgical presentation, where vestments could be considered part of the overall visual and symbolic design.

What is the significance of the surplice being white?

The surplice is white, which is a traditional liturgical color symbolizing purity, grace, and the sacrament of Baptism. This symbolism is consistent across various Christian traditions that use the surplice.

What is the 'Ornaments Rubric' mentioned in the Anglican section?

The 'Ornaments Rubric' refers to specific instructions within the Book of Common Prayer concerning the vestments to be used during services. The text notes that the question of vestments prescribed by this rubric is a complex one, often debated within Anglicanism.

What is the purpose of the external link to Wikimedia Commons?

The external link to Wikimedia Commons provides access to a collection of media files, specifically images and other multimedia content, related to the topic of surplices. This allows users to view visual examples of the vestment.

What is the difference between the 'Mass of Paul VI' and the 'Tridentine Mass'?

The provided text does not detail the differences between the 'Mass of Paul VI' and the 'Tridentine Mass'. However, based on general knowledge, the Mass of Paul VI refers to the reformed liturgy promulgated after the Second Vatican Council, while the Tridentine Mass refers to the traditional Roman Rite Mass codified after the Council of Trent.

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What is a Surplice?

Definition and Form

A surplice is a liturgical vestment central to Western Christian traditions. It is characterized by its form: a tunic crafted from white linen or cotton fabric, typically reaching the knees, and featuring wide or moderately wide sleeves. Historically, it evolved from a longer garment with open sleeves, but in its modern Western Christian iterations, it often presents with shorter, closed sleeves and square shoulders.

Etymology and Symbolism

The name "surplice" originates from the Late Latin term superpelliceum, a combination of super ("over") and pellicia ("fur garment"). This nomenclature suggests its historical function: worn over the fur garments previously donned by clergy for warmth during services. In Roman Catholic tradition, the surplice is often viewed as a symbolic representation of the white garment received at Baptism, signifying purity and renewal.

Historical Context

While its precise origins are debated, the surplice likely emerged in France or England before its use spread. It may be connected to older Gallican Rite vestments. The establishment of the Augustinian Canons in the 11th century appears to have influenced its wider adoption, where it served not only as a choir vestment but also as part of the order's habit.

Origin and Variation

Evolution of Form

The surplice originally extended to the feet. However, by the 13th century, it began to shorten. While it still reached the shin in the 15th century, it became considerably shorter in Continental Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. This evolution was partly influenced by secular fashions and, more significantly, by a desire for greater convenience.

Over time, various subsidiary forms emerged alongside the original type:

Sleeveless Surplice: Featured holes on the sides for the arms.
Slit Arms or Lappets: Instead of traditional sleeves, often worn by organists for ease of movement.
Slit Body: The garment itself was slit up the sides, resembling a modern dalmatic.
Bell-Shaped Mantle: A form with a hole for the head, requiring arms to extend from under the hem, primarily seen in Venetia.

Despite prohibitions by synods in some regions, these variations, particularly the first two, persisted.

Scholarly Debate

The exact historical trajectory of the surplice remains somewhat obscure. Some scholars suggest a possible link to the 5th century, referencing depictions in mosaics at the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna. However, this interpretation may confuse the dalmatic with the surplice. It is more widely accepted that the surplice evolved as an adaptation of the liturgical alb, necessitated by the need to wear it over warm fur garments.

Roman Catholicism

Role and Wearers

Within the Roman tradition, the surplice, sometimes referred to as a "cotta," can feature decorative liturgical lace or embroidered borders. It symbolizes the purity of Baptism and is appropriately worn by various members of the clergy and lay ministers. This includes instituted clerics, lectors, acolytes, altar servers, seminarians, and choir members. It is typically worn over a cassock and is never worn alone or secured by a belt or cincture.

Distinction for Prelates

For deacons and priests performing liturgical ceremonies or administering sacraments outside of Mass, the surplice may be worn beneath a stole. In certain contexts, a cope might be worn over the cassock, surplice, and stole. Notably, prelates such as the Pope, cardinals, bishops, and monsignori typically do not wear the surplice. Instead, they wear the rochet, which is essentially a variant of the surplice, as their choir dress.

Sacred Vestment Status

The surplice is classified among the vestes sacrae, or sacred vestments. While it holds this status, it does not require a specific benediction before being worn, distinguishing it from some other liturgical garments.

Anglicanism

Historical Mandate

The 1552 Book of Common Prayer in the Anglican tradition prescribed the surplice, along with a tippet or academic hood, as the sole vestment for ministers during all services. Despite strong opposition from more radical reformers, Queen Elizabeth I's Act of Uniformity in 1558 retained the surplice, ordering the destruction of other "massing vestments" like chasubles and albs, though copes were permitted.

Clergy and Choir Attire

Until 1965, the surplice, excluding the cope, was the primary authorized vestment for ministers in the Church of England. It was worn by clergy and also by vicars-choral and choristers in cathedral and collegiate churches, as well as fellows and scholars in chapels. The tippet or scarf, a band of black stuff or silk worn stole-wise, served as a distinctive mark for higher-ranking or degree-holding clerics.

Modern Practice

The traditional, full-length, pleated surplice of pre-Reformation design persisted for some time. However, influenced by continental styles and the High Church movement, the garment often became shorter, reaching the knee. In some Anglo-Catholic churches, surplices follow the Roman cotta style. Today, cottas may be worn by servers, and clergy might wear surplices in services where eucharistic vestments are not required.

Lutheranism

Traditional Usage

In Lutheran traditions, the surplice is traditionally worn for non-sacramental services, such as morning prayer, Vespers, and Compline, when the Eucharist is not celebrated. It is typically worn over a cassock and is expected to be full-length in the arm and extend at least to the knee.

A Compromise Vestment

In German Lutheran and United Churches, the black academic gown, often worn with preaching bands, became a symbol of Protestantism. In some instances, the surplice has been adopted as a compromise, worn over the academic gown and bands. This practice seeks to balance the traditional Christian symbolism of white vestments with the established Protestant identity associated with the black gown.

Paleo-Orthodox & Emerging Movements

Reclaiming Tradition

Within certain Protestant and evangelical circles, particularly among Methodist, Lutheran, and Presbyterian adherents associated with paleo-orthodoxy and emerging church movements, there has been a resurgence in the use of traditional liturgical vestments. This includes the adoption of the cassock and surplice, often in a full-length Old English style, worn with a liturgical stole. Additionally, the cassock and Geneva gown are employed for services of the Word.

Related Vestments

Stole

A long band of cloth worn around the neck, hanging down the front of the body. It is a liturgical vestment worn by deacons, priests, and bishops in many Christian traditions.

Rochet

A knee-length garment, similar to a surplice but typically with narrower sleeves. It is traditionally worn by bishops and other prelates as part of their choir dress.

Choir Dress

Refers to the specific vestments worn by members of a choir or clergy when participating in liturgical services, often including the surplice, cassock, and sometimes academic hoods or tippets.

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The Surplice

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What is a Surplice? ℹ️

🕊️ Definition and Form

✝️ Etymology and Symbolism

🌍 Historical Context

Origin and Variation 📜

⏳ Evolution of Form

🧐 Scholarly Debate

Roman Catholicism 🇻🇦

⛪ Role and Wearers

👑 Distinction for Prelates

✨ Sacred Vestment Status

Anglicanism 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

📖 Historical Mandate

🎓 Clergy and Choir Attire

🔄 Modern Practice

Lutheranism 🇩🇪

🙏 Traditional Usage

⚖️ A Compromise Vestment

Paleo-Orthodox & Emerging Movements 💡

🌿 Reclaiming Tradition

Related Vestments 🔗

👔 Stole

👑 Rochet

🎶 Choir Dress

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is a Surplice?

Definition and Form

Etymology and Symbolism

Historical Context

Origin and Variation

Evolution of Form

Scholarly Debate

Roman Catholicism

Role and Wearers

Distinction for Prelates

Sacred Vestment Status

Anglicanism

Historical Mandate

Clergy and Choir Attire

Modern Practice

Lutheranism

Traditional Usage

A Compromise Vestment

Paleo-Orthodox & Emerging Movements

Reclaiming Tradition

Related Vestments

Stole

Rochet

Choir Dress

Teacher's Corner

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Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice