Genuflexion (the bending of the knee) is a natural sign of adoration or reverence. It is frequently used in the ritual of the Church. Thus, the faithful genuflect in passing before the tabernacle where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved; the priest repeatedly genuflects at Mass in adoration of the Eucharist. The double genuflection is still required in some countries before the exposed Blessed Sacrament. Those who make it kneel briefly on both knees and incline the head reverently, hands joined together palm to palm with the right thumb crossed over the left and held at the breast.
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