Quick Overview:
Commonly scapulars (from the Latin scapula, meaning shoulder) refer to two pieces of cloth that are connected by ribbon to be worn around the neck (see picture, above). One piece rests on the chest and the other on the back. Scapulars are reminders of a commitment that one takes to live a life as that of a saint. Scapulars are sacramentals, which mean that they are blessed objects that help in our prayer life.
Little More Information:
Typically when someone is talking about a "scapular" they are usually referring to the Third Order Scapular (see overview, above), but I have also included the Monastic Scapular to help explain the origins of the sacramental.
Monastic Scapular: This is a single piece of cloth that covers the front and back of a person and hangs from the shoulders. It is wide enough to cover the entire chest and is long enough to almost touch the floor. These scapulars are worn by those in the monastic life, and are usually placed over a habit or other religious clothing.
Third Order (most common) Scapular: This scapular refers to two small squares of cloth (usually just over an inch of wool) that are connected by two ribbons of material. A ribbon is worn over each shoulder, so that one piece of cloth hangs against the chest and the other piece hangs on the back. This is usually worn underneath the clothing. The wool cloth typically has a religious symbol or picture on it and can be accompanied by a phrase or quote. These scapulars are associated with a devotion that the wearer follows.
Quick History
Monastic Scapular: These scapulars most likely originated and became popular with the Benedictine Order. The symbolic workman’s apron demonstrated the idea of combining manual labor and prayer that is so much a part of the Rule of Benedict. A variety of scapular designs have been created by other Orders. A well known variation is used by the Domininican Order, which adds a hood to the scapular. The Carthusian monks also use the hood and changed to the color to white.
Third Order Scapular: In the Middle Ages, non-monastic (mostly laypeople), would affiliate themselves with an order and wear the monastic scapular. As time went on, the scapular was reduced in size for the non-monastic people (they are now referred to as “Third Order”), until the scapulars became the small squares of material that are used today.
Why Wear a Scapular:
It is said that the wearer can receive special graces. Depending on the type of scapular, the individual needs to pledge to a particular confraternity, a saint, or a way of life. The scapular itself acts as a reminder of the pledge and the benefits that can occur if one is faithful to the devotion. It is not a magic charm to ward off evil or promise eternal life.
Rules of the Scapular:
Some of the rules are:
--The wearer must have the scapular blessed by a Priest. A scapular associated with a confraternity must be invested by an ordained representative of that group.
--The scapular must be worn constantly.
--The cloth of the scapular is to be made of woolen cloth, and have the proper color and depictions which are dictated by the type of scapular.
--The scapular must always be in good condition.
--One or more scapulars can be replaced by a single medal. The medal has to have Jesus Christ and His Most Sacred Heart on one side and the Mother of God on the other side.
Example of a Popular Scapular:
A very popular scapular is the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which is also referred to as the “brown scapular” due to its color. It was given to St. Simon Stock by the Blessed Virgin Mary in a vision. The Blessed Mother said that those who died wearing this scapular would not “suffer eternal fire”. This could be interpreted as the Holy Mother’s promise to help those after death, in Purgatory, who had a devotion to the brown scapular while they were alive.
It is also said that if a wearer of the brown scapular is chaste and recites the Office every day, that person will be freed from Purgatory the Saturday after his or her death (this is know as the Sabbatine Privilege). Although popular, the Catholic Church has never given its approval of this privilege.
For more information about the brown scapular: http://www.ocarm.org/eng/scapoeng.htm