Epigonation

[1]: xxxviii  Its origin may be traced to the practice of Byzantine Emperors awarding ceremonial swords to their military commanders in recognition of their valour in defending the empire.

[2] According to another theory, the garment may be traced to the Roman mappa, an aristocratic handkerchief carried in hand (which is also postulated to be the origin of the Western Christian maniple).

Supporting this interpretation are early pictorial depictions which show both bishops and the Virgin Mary holding a decorative piece of fabric in hand or hanging from their girdles.

[3] The vestment is a stiff, lozenge-shaped cloth that hangs on the right side of the body below the waist, suspended by one corner from a strap drawn over the left shoulder.

During the Mystery (Sacrament) of Ordination, a priest or deacon is taken in procession three times around the Holy Table (altar), after each circuit he bows down before the bishop and kisses his epigonation and his right hand.

Good luck have thou with thine honour: ride on, because of the word of truth , of meekness, and righteousness; and thy right hand shall teach thee terrible things.