Liturgical and Theological Significance of QUDASA in the East Syriac Qurbana

Abstract

The Syriac term "Qudasa" holds significant importance in the East Syriac liturgical tradition, encapsulating the dual essence of "the sanctification of man" and "the glorification of God." It serves as a measure of the quality of the Church's liturgical practice, emphasizing that the ultimate goal of liturgical worship is the anabatic Qudasa—the glorification of God. However, this glorification is authentic only when accompanied by katabatic Qudasa, which refers to the sanctification of man. The Eucharist, performed by sanctified believers, embodies the most authentic form of anabatic Qudasa. The balance between anabatic and katabatic Qudasa is integral to the East Syriac Qurbana, where the Eucharistic Prayer is referred to as Qudasa, highlighting the harmonious interaction between human sanctification and divine glorification in the liturgical process.