01
die Kanzel
pulpit
An elevated platform in a church from which the pastor or priest delivers the sermon.
example
Der Priester bestieg die Kanzel, um seine Predigt zu beginnen.
The priest mounted the pulpit to begin his sermon.
die Kanzel
pulpit
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Meaning in context
You can always recognize the meaning of 'Kanzel' (pulpit / hunting blind / cockpit canopy) from context. In a church, it is the place for the sermon; in the forest, an elevated hide for hunters; and in an aircraft, the glass-enclosed pilot's cabin.
EXAMPLE
Der Pfarrer sprach von der Kanzel zur Gemeinde.
The pastor spoke to the congregation from the pulpit.
Typical verbs (church)
In a religious context, 'Kanzel' (pulpit) is often used with the verbs 'predigen' (to preach) or 'sprechen' (to speak). The movement to it is described with 'auf die Kanzel steigen' (to climb up to the pulpit) or 'die Kanzel besteigen' (to mount the pulpit).
EXAMPLE
Der Bischof wird heute von der Kanzel predigen.
The bishop will preach from the pulpit today.
Hunting terminology
As a hunter's elevated hide, 'Kanzel' (hunting blind) is a technical term from hunting language. It refers to a usually enclosed and covered structure that offers protection from the weather.
EXAMPLE
Vom Waldrand aus konnte man die hölzerne Kanzel gut sehen.
From the edge of the forest, you could clearly see the wooden hunting blind.
Context: aviation
The term 'Kanzel' (cockpit canopy) for an aircraft cockpit is used mainly for older aircraft, bombers, or gliders with large, dome-like glazing. It emphasizes the glassy, dome-like shape of the cockpit.
EXAMPLE
Die Piloten hatten aus der vollverglasten Kanzel eine perfekte Rundumsicht.
From the fully glazed cockpit canopy, the pilots had a perfect all-around view.
Compare with
Kanzel vs Kabine
cabin / booth
'Kabine' and 'Kanzel' can both refer to a separated place or space, but they are used in very different situations. A 'Kabine' is usually a small room, for example for changing clothes, for passengers, or for the driver of a vehicle. A 'Kanzel' is normally an elevated place in a church or a hunting blind for hunters. In aviation, 'Kanzel' can also mean the glass-enclosed cockpit of an aircraft. The words can therefore be confusing, especially when vehicles or airplanes are involved. In everyday language, 'Kabine' is much more neutral; 'Kanzel' only fits in special contexts.
Kanzel
In der alten Kirche steht die Kanzel hoch über den Bänken.
In the old church, the pulpit stands high above the pews.
Kabine
Auf dem Schiff teilt sich Paul eine kleine Kabine mit seinem Bruder.
On the ship, Paul shares a small cabin with his brother.
In real life
Loading video examples...