-
Views
-
Cite
Cite
Theodore de Bruyn, P. RYL. III.471: A Baptismal Anointing Formula Used as an Amulet, The Journal of Theological Studies, Volume 57, Issue 1, April 2006, Pages 94–109, https://doi.org/10.1093/jts/flj089
- Share Icon Share
Abstract
This essay identifies the inscription on P. Ryl. III.471—‘Holy oil of gladness against every hostile power and for the grafting of your good olive tree of the catholic and apostolic church of God. Amen’—as a pre-immersion formula of anointing that was introduced into Eastern baptismal liturgies in the late fourth century. Each element of the inscription is discussed in the light of the earliest witnesses to this formula in patristic writings and liturgical texts. Certain peculiarities suggest that the writer of the papyrus was drawing on a Coptic liturgical tradition. The papyrus thus provides evidence of the early incorporation of the formula into the baptismal rite in Egypt, as well as evidence of the role of the liturgy and clergy of the church in the provision of amulets.