RENBAVDVS

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The Original Sin.

It was not something explicitly mentioned in the Bible. First pointed out by Irenaeus, the idea of the Original Sin was further developed by St Augustine of Hippo in the 5th century. Because Adam had eaten the famous apple, he had sinned and all humanity carried this sin. Augustine explained that the consequence was lust and guilt for all men. At the beginning of the 11th century St Anselm would disagree with this view and suppress the guilt part.

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St Augustine + Anselm here and here

Supreme pontiff.

One of the non official names of the pope. It was used in medieval era not only for popes but also for bishops. It has a similar story as Pontifex Maximus (greatest Pontiff) used today to call the pope. The origin of the word pontiff or pontifex comes from Roman pagan times where the highest priest was considered a ‘bridge builder’ between men and gods. It also had a significance anchored in reality since ancient Rome needed bridges over the Tiber which was itself a deity. The priest might have also been involved in bridge building.

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May he rest in peace. (R.I.P.)

Also used and carved on funeral stones: Hic Requiescit In Pace (Here rests in peace). Ealier versions used Hic Iacet (here lies).

The Holy Land.

That was the most common name used by medieval Christians to name the land around Jerusalem. There was no Canaan, Palestine or Israel. The latter was used by Jewish communities.

Cross with a handle.

Latin name of the Egyptian Ankh cross.

Office of the Groom.

Symbolic gesture in which a head of state holds the stirrup of the pope in a submission homage. It originated from the forged Donation of Constantine where the Roman Emperor held the bridle of the then pope. In 1095, Urban II used it to get King Conrad, son of Emperor Henri VI, to support him against his father. Conrad dutifully performed the Office and thus submitted to the pope’s authority.

The Crusading vow.

An innovation from pope Urban II, this was a votum volontarium and the peregrinatus (pilgrim) was making a promise to God. He was staking his salvation on the fulfillment of this promise. It had to be taken publicly and just after he could wear the famous cross of cloth on his tunic or cloak. Suddenly, with this badge, he was a different person. On the other hand, if the deed was not accomplished the Votum Crucis carried the sanction of excommunication.

Wood of the Cross

Pilgrim. Term used to name those participating to the First Crusade. The term Crucesignatus (crusader) will come later.