History and symbolism of lemons to cleanse chrism

[Digitnomy]

Several years back I read this thread about the use of lemons and bread to cleanse the bishop’s hands of chrism: Of Bishops, Bread, & Lemons

When did his custom start, and what was used prior to lemons?

Other substances can do the trick: any soap, or another acid like vinegar, or an alcohol like cheap white wine or wood alcohol.

However the Church is fond of it’s symbolism, so likely some of these were considered more appropriate and some less so.

What is the current symbolism of lemons, and what was used in earlier times and places when lemons were not available?

 

[edward_george1]

I’m not aware of any symbolism. Lemons are used because the acidity of the juice breaks up the oil.

-Fr ACEGC

 

[Phemie]

I’m not aware of any symbolism. Lemons are used because the acidity of the juice breaks up the oil.

-Fr ACEGC

And it’s more pleasant than vinegar.

 

[Diaconia]

I always enjoyed the ritual, and seeing a plate of lemon pieces and bread arranged for him.

Sadly our current archbishop doesn’t use them, just requests warm sudsy water.

Deacon Christopher

 

[jimXroberts]

The lemon juice breaks down the oil and neutralises the smell of the balsam. After applying lemon, the priest presses his fingers into bread. The idea is that this can then be fed to the birds rather than allowing sacred oils to be thrown in the bin. The remains of the lemon is buried. Afterwards, the bishop washes his hands with soap and water and this goes to the sacrarium.

In our diocese, we no longer use bread. The bishop first presses his fingers into cotton wool which is later burned in the thurible.