"…и на том цъеловаша крестъ". Етика і культура міжкнязівських взаємин на Русі у вимірі інституту хрестоцілування

Abstract

This article ponders the tradition of crucifix-kissing brought to Rus from Byzantium as early as in Pagan times. The author proves that this religious ceremony became the necessary element of oath-making and the norm of political interaction since Rus was baptised. In political culture and ideology of Rus crucifixes became universal means, capable of both saving, blessing, and punishing. Kissing the crucifix as a symbol of oath-making sprang to life due to the special status of princes.