In the liturgy, I broke a commandment.

By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-08

In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, the Liturgy is "Heaven on Earth," where we stand before the Awesome Altar of God. To feel that you have broken a commandment during this holy time—whether through a lapse in thought, a physical action, or a disregard for the sacred rites—is a matter that requires immediate spiritual attention.

According to the teachings of Bishop Mettaous, the rites (ⲧⲁⲝⲓⲥ - taxis) of the Church are not mere traditions but are divinely instituted. Disregarding these rituals or approaching the Holy Mysteries unworthily is a serious matter.

The Gravity of Liturgical Rites

We see in the Holy Scriptures how God views the violation of liturgical order:

• Nadab and Abihu: The sons of Aaron offered "profane fire" before the Lord, disobeying the prescribed rites. As a result, fire came down from heaven and consumed them (Leviticus 10).
• King Uzziah: When he presumed to enter the Sanctuary to burn incense—a task reserved only for the priests (the sons of Aaron)—he was immediately struck with leprosy and remained isolated until his death (2 Chronicles 26).
• Uzza: When he reached out to steady the Ark of the Covenant, violating the commandment that only the Levites should carry it by its poles, he died instantly before God (1 Chronicles 15).

These examples serve as a reminder that the sanctuary is holy, and we must approach it with "fear and trembling."

The Path to Restoration

If you feel you have sinned or broken a commandment during the Liturgy:

1. Metanoia (Repentance): The word ⲙⲉⲧⲁⲛⲟⲓⲁ (metanoia) signifies a change of mind and heart. You must acknowledge the fault before Ⲫⲛⲟⲩϯ (Phnouti - God) immediately.
2. Confession: You must go to your Father of Confession. The priest acts as the steward of God’s mysteries and has the authority to provide absolution and spiritual guidance. Do not hide the matter; as the Fathers teach, a hidden wound is harder to heal.
3. Humility: St. Anthony the Great and the Desert Fathers emphasize that humility is the only thing the devil cannot imitate. If pride led to the breaking of a commandment, humility is the only way back.

The Liturgy is for the "remission of sins and eternal life to those who partake of Him." However, St. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 11 that anyone who eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

What to do now:

Do not despair, for God is "the Lover of Mankind" (ⲡⲓⲙⲁⲓⲣⲱⲙⲓ - pimairomi). Speak with your priest before you next approach the Holy Chalice to ensure your heart is reconciled with the Church and with God.