The answer
a. The iconostasis has three doors: the Royal Gate or the Holy Gate, which is the
entrance to the main sanctuary; and two other doors on either side for the side sanctuaries. It was called “Royal” because it is usually at this door where the offerings are offered and the priest chooses the Holy Bread which becomes sanctified and transformed into the Body of Christ, the King of kings, the Holy One.
b. As the iconostasis declares the reconciliation between God and humanity, and the
unity between heaven and earth, the three gates refer to the function of the Holy Trinity in realizing such reconciliation and achieving such unity.
c. In some cases, the iconostasis of the main sanctuary protrudes towards the nave in
relation to the iconostases of the side sanctuaries, as the case in the churches of Abu- Serga and Haret Zewela in Old Cairo. This arrangement allows access to the main sanctuary via two side doors. These are used in the rite of processions during the feasts, and through them the deacons enter the sanctuary.
d. Upon entering the sanctuary, the priest must face the altar with his head bent
forwards, as he steps inside through the right-hand side of the gate using his right foot, as if stepping into the Kingdom of heaven. A similar protocol is observed upon stepping out of the sanctuary. This time he leaves by the left side of the gate, in reverence, keeping his eyes fixed on the altar, as if affirming that his inner eyes are focused on God’s Altar or on the throne of God.
e. In ancient churches, the archdeacon kept the keys of these gates with him.
f. These gates are usually decorated with icons and carvings. Also verses from the Holy
Scriptures may be written on them such as: “Be lifted up, you everlasting doors and the King of Glory shall come in” (Ps. 23:9), or “This is the gate of the Lord, through which the righteous shall enter” (Ps. 118:20). Occasionally the following words are inscribed on the top of the gate: “Hail to the sanctuary of God the Father.”
Fr. Tadros Yacoub Malaty