A genuflection — the bending of the right knee — is reserved for the Most Blessed Sacrament. But when exactly do the faithful genuflect, and why do we bow our heads every time the name of Jesus is spoken?
Catholic Genuflection and Bowing: Sacred Gestures of Reverence at Mass
The Roman Missal (GIRM 274–275) distinguishes two gestures: the genuflection, made by bending the right knee, which "signifies adoration" and is reserved for the Blessed Sacrament and the Holy Cross; and the bow, of either the head or the body, which "signifies reverence and honor." Dr. Pitre grounds both in Scripture. Every knee will bow at the name of Jesus (Philippians 2:9-11); the soldiers ironically "knelt before" Christ on the cross (Matthew 27:28-29); Moses "bowed his head" at the name of the LORD (Exodus 34:5-8); Israel "bowed down in worship" as the high priest blessed them (Sirach 50:19-21). The session traces how genuflection — a medieval development, per the Catholic Encyclopedia — gradually replaced the earlier profound bow, and why the faithful bow at the name of Jesus and during the Creed's "and became man."
Key passages & sources examined: Exodus 34:5-8; Sirach 50:19-21; Matthew 27:28-29; Philippians 2:9-11; GIRM 274–275; Liber Pontificalis (Anastasius); Narsai of Nisibis; Caesarius of Arles; Ordo Romanus I; Geoffrey of Beaulieu (St. Louis IX); Augustine, Exposition of the Psalms 98; William Durand; CCC 2666; USCCB, Introduction to the Order of Mass
What is genuflection in the Catholic Church? Genuflection is bending the right knee to the ground as an act of adoration, reserved for the Most Blessed Sacrament and the Holy Cross. Dr. Pitre traces its scriptural and historical roots in the session.
Why do Catholics bow at the name of Jesus? Because "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow" (Philippians 2:10). The Missal calls for a bow of the head at the names of the Trinity, Jesus, and Mary — the video explains its significance.
What is the difference between genuflecting and bowing? A genuflection bends the knee in adoration of Christ present in the Eucharist; a bow (of head or body) expresses reverence and honor. The session distinguishes when each is used.
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Once logged in, you can access everything by going to 'Membership' in the main menu bar of our website, then 'Mass Readings Explained' and then pick one of the options there. The calendar view works well for finding those Mass Readings that are in the near future and The Mass Explained will take you to videos in that series.
I love getting the mass readings/readings explained, every week. Dr Brandt Petrie it’s truly amazing in his knowledge of the Old Testament and the New Testament.!
I’ve subscribed for many years and have shared Brant Pitre’s excellent work as gifts to friends and colleagues around the world. Keep up the good work. Team!
