Ex Cathedra
In Catholic theology, the Latin phrase ex cathedra, literally
meaning "from the chair", refers to a teaching by the pope that cannot be questioned.
The "chair" referred to is not a literal chair, but a metaphorical reference to the pope's position or office as the official teacher of Catholic doctrine. The chair was the symbol of the teacher in the ancient world, and modern day bishops have a cathedra, a seat or throne, as a symbol of their teaching and governing authority.
The "chair" referred to is not a literal chair, but a metaphorical reference to the pope's position or office as the official teacher of Catholic doctrine. The chair was the symbol of the teacher in the ancient world, and modern day bishops have a cathedra, a seat or throne, as a symbol of their teaching and governing authority.
