Encolpion

/ɛnˈkoʊlpiən/ noun

Definition

A small ornamental vessel or amulet worn on the chest or hung around the neck in ancient times.

Etymology

From Greek 'en-' (in) + 'kolpos' (bosom). This singular form refers to a specific type of ancient jewelry or religious pendant, likely Byzantine or early Christian.

Kelly Says

Byzantine Christians wore encolpia as protective amulets containing holy relics—it's the ancient ancestor of modern lockets and medals, sacred containers close to the heart!

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