Sticharion

The sticharion is a liturgical vestment worn by clergy in many Eastern Christian churches, including the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and Eastern Catholic traditions. It serves as the basic inner garment worn during services and forms the foundation for other vestments such as the epitrachelium, phelonion, or orarion.

Etymology and description: The term comes from the Greek sticharion (στιχάριον), meaning a tunic or robe. The sticharion is typically a long-sleeved tunic that reaches to or near the ankles and is fastened at the waist with a girdle or belt (the zone). It is usually made of linen, cotton, or silk and is often white, though colors can vary to reflect the liturgical season or feast. The garment may be ornamented with embroidery or cross motifs.

Usage and variations: The sticharion is worn by all clergy during services. It is commonly worn beneath other vestments, such as the epitrachelion (priest’s stole) and phelonion (outer vestment), and by deacons with the orarion (a long stole draped over the shoulder). Subdeacons and other ranks also wear versions of the sticharion, sometimes differing in length or decoration. Colors are chosen to correspond with the liturgical calendar, with white or gold often used for festive occasions and darker or more ornate options for specific feasts.

History: The sticharion originated in early Christian tunics and remains a distinct Eastern vestment. In Western liturgical dress, the sticharion contributed to the development of the alb, while in the East it remains a separate garment essential to the clergy’s liturgical attire.