Analavos of the Great Schema

The Analavos of the Great Schema is a distinctive vestment worn only by the highest degree of monastics in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, emblematic of their monastic habit. It is a symbol of their total devotion to the cross and to the Orthodox Faith, and is adorned with the Instruments of the Passion and other religious symbols.

Description
The word analavos (Analav in Church Slavonic) comes from the Greek αναλαμβάνω, meaning "to take up." This phrase comes from Luke 9:23, "Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'" A garment called simply the Many Crosses serves to hold the analavos in place and can reach from the ankles to the neck. The garment itself takes the form of a cross when worn, spreading over the wearer's shoulders and front and back torso. The crosses on the analavos represent a Christian monk's constant crucifixion with Christ, a scriptural theme present in Paul's Epistles.

Symbology
The Analavos of the Great Schema contains many symbols which glorify the cross and Passion of Christ. Not all the symbols listed are present on every analavos, and there may be additional ones.