The first phelonia — ecclesiastical vestments — appeared in Russia in the 14th century, but their current form was established after the Great Moscow Synod of 1666.

Throughout history, the phelonion has been an integral part of liturgical vestments worn by priests. The Orthodox version of the phelonion does not have sleeves and is designed to be shorter in the front, allowing for unrestricted movement of the hands. The upper part of the garment is stiff and high. The upper edge of the phelonion has the shape of a truncated triangle and extends over the shoulders. In order to maintain its shape and stiffness, several layers of linens soaked in a flour solution were placed under the shoulders in the past.

The ancient techniques of making ecclesiastical attire have been preserved in monasteries and passed down from generation to generation. They were equally careful to preserve the symbolic meanings of the garment. The Orthodox vestments were understood as armor for faith, love, and righteousness. The Apostle Paul used the following phrases in his epistles: “putting on the breastplate of faith” and “having put on the breastplate of righteousness”. From this perspective, the liturgical garments can be seen as analogous to military armor.

The second most significant meaning of the phelonion is the radiance of Divine glory and the strength of Divine light. Therefore, as it is being put on, one must pray,