Symbolism Coronation of the Russian monarch

anointing of tsar nicholas ii of russia during coronation in 1896

the orthodox concept on subject explained russian bishop nektarios (kontzevich), prelate of russian orthodox church abroad:

the tsar , anointed god. mystery performed church during coronation, , anointed of god enters royal doors altar, goes altar table , receives holy mysteries priest, body , blood taken separately. holy church emphasises great spiritual significance of podvig (struggle) of ruling monarch, equalling holy sacrament of priesthood... (the tsar) sacramental image, carrier of special power of grace of holy spirit.

since no orthodox layperson, regardless of societal or political rank, ever permitted pass through royal doors or partake of communion in both kinds separately, permission given tsar both during coronation ritual intended demonstrate both solemn nature of ritual, , spiritual duties , authority devolving upon new monarch. sacred , secular, church , state, god , government welded coronation service in person of anointed tsar—or many russians believed.

since newly ascended sovereign permitted privileges of rule upon accession, coronations not held right away. instead, 1 or more years might permitted elapse between initial accession of tsar , ceremony itself. allowed court finish mourning new sovereign s predecessor, , permitted completion of immense arrangements involved in staging ritual.