Topical Encyclopedia The term "chalice" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, it is often used in Christian tradition to refer to a cup, particularly in the context of the Last Supper and the Eucharist. The concept of a chalice is deeply rooted in biblical symbolism and Christian liturgical practice.Biblical References: 1. The Last Supper: The most significant biblical reference to a cup, often interpreted as a chalice, is found in the accounts of the Last Supper. Jesus, during His final meal with His disciples, took a cup and shared it with them, instituting the practice of Communion. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded: "Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins'" (Matthew 26:27-28). This cup symbolizes the new covenant in Christ's blood, a central tenet of Christian faith. 2. The Cup of Suffering: The chalice also symbolizes suffering and sacrifice. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39). Here, the cup represents the impending suffering and crucifixion that Jesus was to endure, highlighting His submission to the Father's will. 3. Old Testament Symbolism: In the Old Testament, the cup often symbolizes God's judgment or blessing. Psalm 23:5 speaks of a cup that overflows, symbolizing abundance and blessing: "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows" . Conversely, the cup can also represent divine wrath, as seen in Psalm 75:8: "For a cup is in the hand of the LORD, full of foaming wine mixed with spices; He pours from it, and all the wicked of the earth drink it down to the dregs" . Christian Tradition and Liturgy: In Christian liturgical practice, the chalice holds a place of honor as it is used to contain the wine during the celebration of the Eucharist. This practice is rooted in the Last Supper, where Jesus' use of the cup established a pattern for Christian worship. The chalice, therefore, is not merely a vessel but a profound symbol of Christ's sacrifice and the believer's participation in the new covenant. The design and material of chalices can vary, but they are often crafted from precious metals, reflecting the sacredness of their use. The reverence for the chalice in Christian worship underscores the importance of the Eucharist as a means of grace and a reminder of Christ's atoning work. Theological Significance: Theologically, the chalice represents the unity of believers with Christ and with one another. As the Apostle Paul writes, "Is not the cup of blessing that we bless a participation in the blood of Christ? Is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?" (1 Corinthians 10:16). This participation signifies a deep spiritual communion, reinforcing the bond between the believer and the Savior. In summary, while the term "chalice" itself is not directly mentioned in Scripture, its symbolic and liturgical significance is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative and Christian tradition. The chalice serves as a powerful emblem of Christ's sacrifice, the new covenant, and the believer's communion with God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A cup or bowl; especially, the cup used in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper.Strong's Hebrew 6907. qubbaath -- a cup... 6906, 6907. qubbaath. 6908 . a cup. Transliteration: qubbaath Phonetic Spelling: (koob-bah'-ath) Short Definition: chalice. Word ... /hebrew/6907.htm - 6k 3563a. kos -- a cup Library Meditation iv. The Chalice Used at the Last Supper Heart of Jesus! Golden Chalice Whether the Character is Imprinted on a Priest when the Chalice is ... Whether this is the Proper Form for the Consecration of the Wine ... Whether this is the Form of this Sacrament: "This is My Body," and ... Meditation viii. Institution of the Holy Eucharist. Arrangement and Furniture of the Church Whether Christ's Prayer was Always Heard? How Brother James Della Massa Saw in a vision all the Friars Minor ... Whether the Defects Occurring During the Celebration of this ... Thesaurus Chalice (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) A cup or bowl; especially, the cup used in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. Multi-Version Concordance Chalice (1 Occurrence). ... /c/chalice.htm - 6k Chalk (8 Occurrences) Chaldees (13 Occurrences) Dregs (7 Occurrences) Money (284 Occurrences) Resources Are apparitions of Mary, such as Lady Fatima, true messages from God? | GotQuestions.orgIs intinction the correct way to do communion? | GotQuestions.org Is the little drummer boy in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Chalice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Chalice (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 51:22 Subtopics Related Terms |