prawosawna

Prawosawna is a term that refers to something related to Eastern Orthodox Christianity. It is derived from the Church Slavonic word "prawoslawie" meaning "right glory" or "right belief." This term is commonly used in Slavic countries to distinguish the Eastern Orthodox Church from other Christian denominations, particularly Roman Catholicism and Protestantism.

The Eastern Orthodox Church is one of the oldest Christian churches, with roots tracing back to Jesus Christ and his apostles. It is characterized by its rich liturgical traditions, theological doctrines, and hierarchical structure. The churches that adhere to Prawosawna traditions are found primarily in Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and parts of the Middle East.

Key aspects associated with Prawosawna include the veneration of icons, the use of liturgical vestments, the celebration of specific feasts and fasts, and a strong emphasis on asceticism and monasticism. The theological understanding within Prawosawna traditions often emphasizes the concept of deification, or theosis, which is the process by which believers are united with God.

The term Prawosawna encompasses a collection of autocephalous (self-governing) churches, such as the Russian Orthodox Church, the Serbian Orthodox Church, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, and the Greek Orthodox Church, among others. While they are distinct in their administrative organization, they share a common faith and liturgical practice, recognizing the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople as their spiritual leader.