Matthew 23:6

The word "cathedral" derive from the Greek word καθέδρα (kathédra), which means "seat" or "chair".

The evolution of the word goes like this:

1. καθέδρα in Ancient Greek: It originally referred to a seat, often of authority, such as the seat of a judge or a ruler. It came from the verb καθίζω, meaning "to sit."

2. Latin: "cathedrālis": In Latin, the term cathedrālis meant "pertaining to a seat" or "of a bishop's seat." A cathedrālis ecclesia referred specifically to the church that housed the bishop’s official seat (the cathedra).

3. English "cathedral": This Latin term cathedrālis was borrowed into English as cathedral, which refers to the principal church of a diocese, where the bishop’s seat (the cathedra) is located.

Thus, the word "cathedral" directly stems from the concept of the bishop’s seat in the church, symbolizing the authority of the bishop over the diocese.

The term cathedratio refers to the enthronement or installation of a bishop, particularly the act of placing a bishop in his cathedra (seat) within his cathedral. The word cathedratio is derived from cathedra, the Latin word for seat or chair, which specifically refers to the seat of authority in a church, signifying the bishop’s office and jurisdiction over a particular diocese.

Historical Context:

The act of cathedratio involves the formal ceremony where a bishop is consecrated and then enthroned in his cathedra, signifying the commencement of his duties as the leader of the local church. This ritual can be seen as the bishop being given the authority to teach, rule, and guide his flock. The cathedra is not merely a physical seat; it symbolizes the bishop's spiritual authority and role in overseeing the diocese.

In the "Inventio Amundensis", a medieval text, the term is used to describe the enthronement or installation of St. Peter in his episcopal seat. The phrase "habetur in paruris historia B. Petri, que incipit ab ejus vocacione de navi et desinit in ejus ~one" roughly translates to something like: "It is contained in the small history of St. Peter, which begins with his calling from the ship and ends with his enthronement." The reference to vocatio de navi (his calling from the ship) ties into the biblical account of Peter's calling by the Christ, while cathedratio (enthronement) signifies the completion of his spiritual journey to becoming the first pope and bishop.

Symbolic Significance:

• Cathedra as a symbol: The bishop's cathedra represents his role as the authoritative teacher and leader of the Church. It is often placed in the cathedral as a symbol of the bishop's jurisdiction over the diocese.

• Enthronement: The enthronement of a bishop is a public acknowledgment of his authority and spiritual responsibility, which also marks the beginning of his service.