Riha (Mandaeism)
Incense used in Mandaean religious rituals
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In Mandaeism, riha (Classical Mandaic: ࡓࡉࡄࡀ, Modern Mandaic pronunciation: [ˈriːha]) is incense used for religious rituals. It is offered by Mandaean priests on a ritual clay tray called kinta in order to establish laufa (communion) between humans in Tibil (Earth) and uthras (celestial beings) in the World of Light during rituals such as the masbuta (baptism) and masiqta (death mass), as well as during priest initiation ceremonies.[1] Various prayers in the Qulasta are recited when incense is offered.[2] Incense must be offered during specific stages of the typically lengthy and complex rituals.
In the Qulasta
Associated ritual objects
The brihi is a ritual clay fire saucer that is narrow end faces north. It is used for the riha and pihta.[3]
The qauqa is a small terra-cotta cube with a depression on top to hold the riha.[3]
See also
- Incense offering in Judaism
- Incense offering in rabbinic literature
- Kyphi in Ancient Egypt
- Religious use of incense
