Miraculous phenomena: the most famous icons of the Mother of God. The phenomenon of the most famous icons in Rus'

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The earliest prayer icons that have survived to this day date back to the period no earlier than the 6th century. They were made using the encaustic technique (gr. ἐγκαυστική - burning out), when the paint was kneaded on heated wax. It should be noted that all paints consist of paint powder (pigment) and a binder - oil, egg emulsion or, as in this case, wax.

Encaustic was the most common painting technique of the ancient world. It was from ancient Hellenistic culture that this painting came to Christianity.

Encaustic icons are characterized by a certain "realism" in the interpretation of the image. The desire to document reality. This is not just a cult object, it is a kind of "photo" - a living evidence of the real existence of Christ, the Virgin, saints and angels. After all, the holy fathers considered the very fact of the true incarnation of Christ to be the justification and meaning of the icon. The invisible God, who has no image, cannot be depicted.

But if Christ was truly incarnate, if His flesh was real, then it was pictorial. As later wrote Rev. John of Damascus: “In ancient times, God, incorporeal and without form, was never portrayed. Now, when God appeared in the flesh and lived among people, we portray the visible God. It is this testimony, a kind of "documentary" that permeated the first icons. If the Gospel, in the literal sense, is good news - a kind of reportage about the incarnate Lord, crucified for our sins, then the icon is an illustration of this reportage. There is nothing surprising here, because the very word icon - εἰκών - means "image, image, portrait."

But the icon conveys not only and not so much the bodily appearance of the depicted. As the same Rev. John: "Every image is the discovery and indication of the hidden." And on the first icons, despite the "realism", the illusory transmission of light and volume, we also see signs of the invisible world. First of all, it is a halo - a disk of light surrounding the head, symbolizing the grace and radiance of the Divine (St. Simeon of Thessalonica). In the same way, the icons also depict symbolic images of incorporeal spirits - angels.

The most famous encaustic icon now is probably the image of Christ the Pantocrator, kept in the monastery of St. Catherine in Sinai (it is worth noting that the collection of icons of the Sinai monastery is completely unique, the oldest icons have been preserved there, since the monastery, being from the 7th century outside the Byzantine Empire, did not suffered from iconoclasm).

The Sinai Christ is painted in the free pictorial manner inherent in the Hellenistic portrait. Hellenism is also characterized by a certain asymmetry of the face, which in our time has caused a lot of controversy and inspired some to search for hidden meanings. This icon, most likely, was painted in one of the workshops of Constantinople, as evidenced by the high level of its execution.

Christ Almighty. VI century. Monastery of St. Catherine. Sinai

The same circle, most likely, also includes the icons of the Apostle Peter and the Mother of God on the throne, accompanied by saints and angels.

Apostle Peter. VI century. Monastery of St. Catherine. Sinai

The Theotokos with the upcoming Saints Theodore and George. VI century. Monastery of St. Catherine. Sinai

The Mother of God is depicted as the Queen of Heaven, seated on a throne, accompanied by saints dressed in court robes and angels. Mary’s royalty and humility are both interestingly demonstrated: at first glance, she is dressed in a simple dark tunic and maforium, but its dark purple color tells us that this is purple, and purple robes in the Byzantine tradition could only be worn by the Emperor and Empress.

A similar image, but painted later in Rome, represents the Mother of God - already without any hints - in full imperial vestments and a crown.

Mother of God - Queen of Heaven. Early 8th century. Rome. Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastavere

The icon has a ceremonial character. It follows the style of ceremonial imperial images. At the same time, the faces of the depicted characters are filled with softness and lyricism.

Mother of God - Queen of Heaven. Angel. Fragment

The image of the saints in court clothes was supposed to symbolize their glory in the Kingdom of Heaven, and to convey this height, the Byzantine masters resorted to familiar, understandable forms for their time. The image of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, now kept in Kyiv in the Bogdan and Varvara Khanenko Museum of Art, is executed in the same style.

Sts. Sergius and Bacchus. VI century. Kyiv. Museum of Arts. Bogdan and Varvara Khanenko

But, in addition to the refined art of the cultural centers of the Empire, early icon painting is also represented by a more ascetic style, which is distinguished by greater sharpness, a violation of the proportions of the depicted characters, and an emphasized size of heads, eyes, and hands.

Christ and St. Mina. VI century. Paris. Louvre

Such icons are characteristic of the monastic environment of the East of the Empire - Egypt, Palestine and Syria. The harsh, sharp expressiveness of these images is explained not only by the level of provincial masters, undoubtedly different from the capital, but also by local ethnic traditions and the general ascetic orientation of this style.

Bishop Abraham. VI century. State Museums of Dahlem. Berlin.

Without any doubt, one can be convinced that long before the iconoclasm era and the 7th Ecumenical Council, which condemned iconoclasm, there was a rich and varied tradition of icon painting. And the encaustic icon is only a part of this tradition.

Orthodox icons, their names and meanings are an important aspect of the study of Christian science. Any dwelling of a Christian is very difficult to imagine without a variety of icons, each of which has its own meaning. As the history of religion says, many of them became known to believers many centuries ago. The religious beliefs of people have been formed for a very long time, but the icons do not lose their special cultural and historical significance for the parishioners of many churches and temples. Orthodox icons, photos and their names play an important role in the human and its approach to the Lord.

It is believed that every saint can invisibly help even in the most seemingly hopeless situation. It is worth turning to some of the saints for help in any serious life situation. The names of Orthodox icons and their meanings will be presented in this article. In addition to descriptions and stories about the miraculous properties of each image, photos of the most revered of them will also be given.

This material will tell about the meaning of each icon presented, as well as the rules of prayer and the miracles that a particular holy face can create. It also happens that the names of icons with a photo already carry information about what troubles this image can save from. Each described icon in the rubric will be given a special place. The icon of the Mother of God, painted and kept for a long time in the walls of the temples of the city of Kazan, has the greatest authority among believers both in Russia and all over the world. This majestic and large-scale icon is considered the main protector of the inhabitants of our country. Any significant holiday in the life of a Russian person cannot do without the ritual of worshiping this image, whether it be baptism or a sacred wedding ceremony for loving hearts.

The revered icons of the Mother of God will be described below. Photo and name, and their meaning will also be revealed.

It is known that the icon of Our Lady of Kazan helps single believers soon find family happiness, and long-established couples overcome discord in relationships and begin to live happier. Since she protects families, it is customary to hang her in any home near the crib so that the baby is under the protection and protection of the Lord.

In order to quickly find out which image of the Mother of God to pray in a given situation, it is better to learn in advance the icons of the Virgin with names. Speaking about the icon of Our Lady of Vladimir, it is worth noting that it is considered no less revered among many believing citizens. There is evidence that this icon was awarded during the coronation of the most influential tsars in the Russian Empire. You can pray to this icon to become kinder, to find a family and be healed of serious illnesses, and also to make peace with those with whom there was a serious conflict. Also, this image invisibly protects mothers and young children who are in a difficult life situation from misfortunes and sorrows. On top of that, this icon helps with infertility and other disorders of the reproductive organs, as well as pregnant women and nursing mothers. These are the most popular icons of the Virgin. Photos and names of other images will also be presented in this article.

As it has already become clear even from the description of these two icons, the power of the Mother of God is practically omnipotent, however, like many other icons of the Orthodox Church. That is why it is so important for every believer to know the icons of the Most Holy Theotokos with names. Every Christian needs to know at least some facts about the meaning of certain images, as well as some information about the life of this or that Orthodox saint.

As you know, the Lord hears those people who follow Him, observing all church and spiritual laws. Believe in God and be happy. Below are the most revered icons of the Virgin, the names and meanings of each of them.

Icon of the Mother of God "Blessed Sky"

Prayers are offered to this miraculous icon to take the true path, and also that dead people in the next world be calm and well. They praise this icon in the old way, and on March 19 in a new style.

Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos "Desperate One Hope"

Some names of icons can rarely be heard in church life, but this does not deprive them of their power. Despite the fact that indicates the low popularity of this image, in the Orthodox Church there is even an akathist for her. Prayers in front of this icon can heal despondency, mental decline and sorrow. Those believers who are disappointed and have lost their divine spirit pray to the Almighty to perk up, forgive offenders and reconcile with enemies. In addition, the icon is prayed for deliverance from envy and reconciliation of warring people, including neighbors.

Modern addictions (gambling, drug addiction, alcoholism, smoking, computer addiction) are subject to healing when referring to this image of the Mother of God.

Bogolyubskaya Icon of the Mother of God

This icon helps in the treatment of plague, cholera, pestilence and other serious illnesses. It is revered in this image either on June 18 or June 1.

Icon of the Mother of God "Search for the Lost"

This famous icon is prayed for to cure toothache and headache, vision problems, fever and epilepsy, for well-being in marriage, for the return of faith in the Lord to the heart, as well as for very severe, almost incurable childhood ailments. In addition, the same icon is addressed with a request to cure addiction to alcohol. The date of the day of praise is February 18 or 5.

Icon of Our Lady of Vladimir

This icon is known primarily for the fact that in the days of ancient Rus' the most noble gentlemen and kings were crowned with it. It is also known that with the participation of this image, elections of primates were held. They pray to this icon to become kinder, to be healed of serious illnesses, to expel demons from the body. Mothers and their little children can fully rely on the patronage of the Virgin in this image, and for those who are just waiting for the baby to appear, this face will give an easy birth and health to a newborn baby. Barren women can turn to the icon with a request to grant long-awaited children.

The Vladimir and Kazan Mother of God are the most beloved icons of the Virgin. Photos and names of these shrines can be found in the homes of even not very devout people.

Icon of the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow"

Sometimes the names of the icons speak for themselves. This icon is popular among people who have suffered severe resentment, suffering, severe seizures and diseases of the respiratory organs, tuberculosis patients. In addition, here you can pray for the healing of the hands of a sick person. The name day of the icon is celebrated on October 6 or 24.

Icon "The Tsaritsa"

There are quite rare, but very strong icons of the Mother of God, photos with names of which will be presented below.

The icon of the Mother of God "The Tsaritsa" helps those people who suffer from cancer and endure a number of courses of chemotherapy and radiation.

Prayers are offered to this icon during epidemics of plague, fever, ulcers, blindness, and hearing impairment. The name day of the holy image is celebrated on August 6 or 22.

This icon is prayed for the normalization of relations in the country, for justice, for finding joy in the heart, for the absence of hypocrisy in love. The day of this icon is celebrated on March 15 or 2.

This image of the Holy Mother of God is prayed in the presence of severe vices of the soul and body, and also after any important business has ended. The name day of this icon is celebrated on June 11 or 23.

Those who are currently suffering serious illnesses of soul and body, as well as those who are obsessed with infirmity, offer their prayers to this image. True believers, when referring to this wonderful icon, receive complete healing for an indefinite period. The name day of the icon "Life-Giving Spring" is celebrated on the day of Bright Week.

Prayers are addressed to this holy image against cholera, visual impairment and other similar ailments. It is customary to celebrate the name day of this icon on September 8 or 21.

Name days are celebrated on Tuesday of Bright Week, and it helps with strong fires, as well as with various problems and in need of consolation in spiritual hardships. Memorial Day February 12 or 25.

It is customary for Orthodox citizens to turn their prayers to this icon in case of mass death of livestock, in case of plague, in case of cholera, as well as in the presence of blindness and problems of the musculoskeletal system. Treatment in a huge number of cases guarantees a complete recovery.

This icon, endowed with miraculous properties, is prayed for with pronounced paralysis, with smallpox infection, with diseases of the legs, with suspicions of attacks by "evil spirits", and also protecting themselves from a sudden death. The days of memory of the icon are celebrated on March 16 or 29.

in cases where there is a danger of invasion by foreigners, as well as the return of sight to blind people and the successful entry into God's union for people who love each other. In addition, such a prayer helps to survive cataclysms. The icon celebrates the name day on June 8.21 and in October on the 4th and 22nd.

Those who suffer from significant hearing impairments, as well as other similar ailments, bow and pray to this image. This icon celebrates the name day on September 2 and 15.

"Kozelshchanskaya" Icon of the Mother of God

A prayer appeal to this wonderful, life-giving icon is useful for any injuries to the limbs, serious injuries and upcoming serious surgical interventions. This icon of the Mother of God celebrates the name day on February 6 and 21.

Icon of the Mother of God "The Mammal"

This divine face is usually worshiped by women in childbirth, pregnant and lactating mothers. This icon celebrates Memorial Day on January 12 and 25.

Before this majestic icon, they pray in the name of piety, the triumph of truth, for the revival of mercy and compassion in people's hearts, for the acquisition of a healthy physical body and mind, for the preservation of the Christian faith throughout the country. The glorification of this icon and its name day takes place on April 12 and 25.

This icon of the Most Holy Theotokos is designed to save people sincerely praying to Her from fires, floods and other damage to property. Memorial Day is celebrated on September 4 and 17 every year.

The icon helps not to deviate from the right path of life, to preserve a righteous way of life, and it helps lonely believers to find true love. By sincerely praying before this image and asking for help and advice, you can solve any, the most difficult problems in family life and relationships between spouses. In addition, the icon helps seriously ill believers to heal as quickly as possible. Memorial Day is celebrated on April 3 and 16.

There are usually queues of deaf and hard of hearing people to this icon. The name day of the icon is December 9 and 22.

All sinful people pray to this icon, and relatives of gamers, drug addicts and alcoholics also turn with hope. This icon appeals to the education of mercy and kindness, as well as to a sense of joy from every day. The saying on the image reads: “To all who ask by faith it will be given!”.

Those who want to be healed from the most serious ailments offer their prayers to this icon. Name days are celebrated on January 21 or 3.

From time immemorial in mi-well-you-one-hundred-tea-shih stra-da-ny at the birth of children, when death is so close, women shchi-we come-be-ha-yut with especially-ben-but-ho-ho-whose mo-lit-howl to Spa-si-te-lu and Pre-chi-stand His Ma-te-ri. In blessed families and in our time, you can see iko-well Bo-go-ma-te-ri, na-zy-va-e- Muyu "Help in childbirth." and all pregnant women who want to give birth to healthy babies without any problems pray to the unusually blessed icon of the Mother of God.

This truly miraculous icon is prayed for the prevention of wars and schisms, for protection from various heresies, for protection from the invasion of foreigners and strangers, for protection from spiritual and bodily blindness. Days of honor 23 and 5 July.

This image of the Mother of God is designed to protect believers from cholera and complete loss of vision. The name day of this miraculous image of the Virgin is celebrated on September 16 or 29.

This icon, better than any other, can protect from the evil eye, damage and unkind thoughts of passing people. It is customary to place this icon in the left corner of the hallway so that every person entering the house can be seen at a glance. This icon feels envy and curses like no other, therefore, where there is this image, they do not take root. The best location for such an icon is opposite the front door.

Before this image, sailors who have crashed a ship, as well as in the presence of blindness, weakness of the legs, deafness, problems with their hands, as well as those who unwittingly became hostages of terrorists, pray. The day of veneration of the icon is celebrated on November 9 or 22.

This icon is prayed for if there is a suspicion of fetal pathology so that the birth is successful and the child is born healthy. The name day of the icon is celebrated on March 9 and 22.

This icon is prayed by those who work in professions that are associated with immersion in water. Name days are celebrated on December 20 or 2.

It is customary for this icon to offer prayers in the name of deliverance from drought, disease and general hunger. The name day of this Holy image is celebrated on October 15 and 28.

This uplifting icon is prayed for in case of terrible despondency, grief and impotence. Also, a clouded state of mind will become a reason for praying to this icon. The name day of this icon is celebrated on March 7 and 20.

"Passionate" Icon of the Mother of God

This icon is able to give a miracle of healing from cholera, vision problems, muscle weakness, and protect from the impending "big fire". Name days are celebrated on August 13 and 26.

This icon is worshiped in the healing of the blind and those possessed by demons, with epilepsy, with muscle weakness, with the healing of young children, with paralysis of the lower and upper limbs. You can also pray to this icon when attacking foreigners. This icon celebrates the name day on June 26 and 9.

To this image, believing parishioners pray for the elimination of drought and craving for vices, including atheism. The memorial day is celebrated on August 8 and 21.

This icon is prayed for the return of lost or stolen valuables, for the justification of the obviously innocent and the release of hostages from captivity. Celebrate the day of this icon on December 26 or 8.

This icon belongs to St. Seraphim of Sarov and gives seriously ill people quick relief from suffering and strengthening their faith in the Lord. The name day of this masterpiece of icon painting is celebrated on July 28 and 10, as well as on July 19 and 1.

This icon is prayed to moderate the ardor of sinful passions, to interrupt the series of harmful addictions. Orthodox believers celebrate a memorable day for the icon on January 25 and 7.

Feodorovskaya Icon of the Mother of God

This icon has long been held in high esteem by believers because it patronizes happy families and the health of young children. On top of that, this icon can help with long and difficult births. This image of the Mother of God is kept in the Epiphany Cathedral of the city of Kostroma, and it appeared in 1613 and fell into the hands of the Tsar of the Russian State, Mikhail Fedorovich.

Icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary "Healer"

This icon speaks for itself. Seriously ill Christians usually turn to her for help. The icon celebrates its birthday on September 18 or 1.

Chernigov Icon of the Mother of God

Those who are possessed by demons, as well as blind or visually impaired people come to pray to this icon. Name days are celebrated on September 1 and 14.

Icon of the Mother of God "Three Hands"

This icon can very easily heal diseases of the hands and feet, as well as severe mental and spiritual suffering. The date of the celebration of the name day of the icon is June 28 or 11.

Above were the most revered icons of the Mother of God. Photos with names will help you quickly find a particular image and find out its meaning.

Icon "Holy Trinity"

The most famous version of the image of the icon "Holy Trinity" belongs to the brush of the famous master of icon art Andrei Rublev. There are also images painted by the hands of other equally famous icon painters. The icon shows the faces of the members of the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), soaring in the sky. This icon must be present in every home, since its action is universal. At the moment, the main copy is located within the walls of the Trinity Church in the city of Kaluga.

Also in the Orthodox Church, other saints are revered icons. Their name and meaning, of course, should be known.

Icon of the Holy Great Martyr Pantileimon

The image of the Great Martyr is known for its miraculous healing properties. Parishioners who put candles next to this icon and asked for healing receive the real Grace of the Lord. At the moment, the most important copy of the Pantileimon icon is in the church of John the Baptist.

Holy Blessed Matrona of Moscow

This saint is one of the most revered religions in the world. The main monastery, where to this day her relics are located, is located in the capital of our country on the Taganskoye Highway. The monastery, in which the relics of Matrona lie, is purely feminine. Every day, crowds of believers come to the monastery in order to turn to Matronushka with a prayer for help or with gratitude. In the vicinity of Moscow, namely in Kaluga, there is also an icon of the Matrona, and it is located in the temple of wives - Myrrhbearers.

Peter and Fevronia

In the same temple there is an icon of the Holy couple Peter and Fevronia, to whom they turn for help in love and family life.

Unfortunately, all the icons are Orthodox, their photos and names cannot be described within the framework of one article, because there are a huge number of them. But still, the main shrines still managed to be consecrated.

The fate of miraculous icons is often difficult. Some were lost in the hard times, others, fortunately, survived. To them, as many centuries ago, people go with a bow.

1. Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God

Location: Temple of the Tretyakov Gallery
The Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, which is located in the church of the Tretyakov Gallery, got its name thanks to Andrei Bogolyubsky, who in 1155 moved it to Vladimir from the city of Kyiv, where it had been until that moment. According to legend, the Evangelist Luke created the icon.

2. Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

Location: The most revered list is kept in one of the most beautiful churches in Russia - the Kazan Cathedral in St. Petersburg
An equally famous image of the Mother of God is depicted on the Kazan icon. In 1579, after a great fire in Kazan, the Mother of God appeared in a dream to the nine-year-old Matrona Onuchina and ordered her icon to be found in the ashes. Having gone to the indicated place, the girl found a shrine. The icon of the Kazan Mother of God was one of the most beloved and revered in Russia, people went to her for help in everyday affairs, affairs and marriage. She was considered the patroness of the Romanov family.

In 1904, the icon was stolen from the Bogoroditsky Monastery, after which it was burned by an intruder. The riza was sold, according to some versions, to the Old Believers.
Several lists from the icon have come down to us. The most revered of them is kept in St. Petersburg in the Kazan Cathedral. The icon was delivered to the new capital in 1721 by decree of Peter.

3. Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God

Location: Assumption Cathedral in Smolensk
The Evangelist Luke, the creator of the Vladimir icon, presented the world with another equally revered shrine - the Smolensk icon, which is also called "Hodegetria", which means "Guide". It was written during Mary's lifetime. In 1046, the daughter of the Emperor of Byzantium, Constantine IX, was blessed with this image. Anna's son moved the icon to Smolensk.

The Smolensk icon "Hodegetria" is asked for protection along the way and a cure

In 1941, during the occupation, the icon was taken by the Germans from the Dormition Church. Currently, the most revered lists from the icon are in Moscow in the Novodevichy Convent, as well as in Smolensk. People go to them to ask for help in making a difficult decision, curing diseases, resolving family troubles and protecting them along the way.

4. Don Icon of the Mother of God

Venue: Tretyakov Gallery
This image of the Mother of God was painted by Theophanes the Greek. In 1380, the Cossacks handed it over to Dmitry Donskoy, who, before the Battle of Kulikovo, carried it in front of the army. In honor of the victory, the icon began to be called Donskoy. Since 1919, it has been kept in the Tretyakov Gallery, and is annually taken by the Donskoy Monastery for the procession.

5. Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God

Location: Tikhvin Assumption Monastery
The Tikhvin icon was painted by the Evangelist Luke. It was acquired near Novgorod in 1383. It is stored in a monastery specially built for her. The icon is considered the patroness of infants and adolescents, she is turned to cure mental illness and protect against invasion.

6. Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God

Venue: Cathedral of the Sign of the Synod of Bishops in New York
In 1295, after the ruin of Kursk, the Kursk Root Icon appeared in the roots of a tree. A source appeared at the place of acquisition. According to legend, in 1383 the Horde cut the icon into pieces, but after connecting the individual parts, it grew together. In 1920, the retreating Wrangel troops took the shrine out of Russia. You can bow to her at the Znamensky Cathedral of the Synod of Bishops in New York.

7. Iberian Icon of the Mother of God

Location: Iberian Monastery on Mount Athos
The Iberian icon was also painted by the Evangelist Luke and for a long time was kept in the city of Nicaea in the house of a pious lady, who, saving the shrine, lowered it into the sea. The icon appeared before an Athos monk. She rocked on the waves, surrounded by a pillar of fire.

She was brought to the temple, placed in a place of honor, but in the morning she was above the gate. According to legend, several times they tried to return it to the monastery itself, but invariably the shrine turned out to be outside its walls, above the gates. She was given the name Gatekeeper. Now it is still in storage in the Iberian Monastery on Athos. The list came to Russia in 1648.

8. Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God

Location: Assumption Pochaev Lavra in Ukraine
The Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God "The Burning Bush" was found in 1559. She is known for her miraculous power, they turn to her for healing and admonition of sinners. Currently located in Ukraine in the Assumption Pochaev Lavra.

9. Pskov-Pechersk icon "Tenderness"

Location: Assumption Cathedral of the Pskov-Caves Monastery.
The icon "Tenderness" is a list from the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, made by the pious monk Arseniy Khitrosh in 1521. People go to this shrine for help in childbirth and in conception. Mothers ask for the health of their children. Located in the Assumption Church of the Pskov-Pechersky Monastery.

What distinguishes the Orthodox faith from other areas of Christianity? This is the veneration of holy icons. Although they are not rejected in Catholicism and some other denominations, they are so widely recognized only in the Byzantine tradition. By the numerous faces that look from each wall, decorate the altar, it is easy to distinguish an Orthodox church from any other.

There are thousands of officially recognized images, the Mother of God alone has more than 600, and there are also non-canonical ones. But how to navigate in such diversity? This material dedicated to icons and their meaning will help.

What are icons for?

Officially, the dogma (the truth that cannot be doubted) about the veneration of icons was established in 787, at the 2nd Council of Nicaea. Until that time, the use of images had long been practiced in churches. The first images of the Lord Jesus Christ, the saints and the Mother of God are known from the 2nd century.

• According to church tradition, the first icon painter was one of the evangelists, namely, St. Luke.

The well-known fathers of the Church - Basil the Great, John Chrysostom, John of Damascus - encouraged painters to depict the exploits of martyrs for the faith. But not everything was so clear. For example, Eusebius of Caesarea believed that a person is not able to reflect the divine nature of Christ.

Who is depicted on the consecrated images:

• Trinity (in the form of angels);
• The Lord Jesus Christ in His human incarnation;
• Mother of God;
• Angels and other heavenly powers;
• Righteous, martyrs, saints, etc.

Church icons have a very specific purpose. This is not at all an ornament, not a reminder of eternal torment for sinners. Looking at them, believers should remember the prototypes, cultivate in their souls a feeling of love for the Creator, the saints.

How icons were painted

The Orthodox tradition knows hundreds of variants of images of the Virgin. How could the icon painters, who lived long after the earthly life of Christ, know what it looks like? Church historians wrote about it.

The appearance of the Most Pure One fully reflected her spiritual purity: she spoke with discretion, her voice was even and pleasant, anger and indignation were alien to her. Humility shone in her eyes, her heart thought only of God, strove for Him day and night. Medium height, with dark eyes, slightly elongated face, long nose and blooming lips, long fingers. But the main thing that all authors note is that Mary was truly a living receptacle of the Holy Spirit, a Divine chamber, a city of God.

• The icons of the Mother of God are intended, first of all, not to reflect a portrait resemblance, but to describe in colors her role in the theology of Christianity, her high mission in saving people from eternal damnation. And even more so, they are not intended to fulfill certain human desires. This should be remembered when purchasing another shrine.

The Blessed Virgin Mary is mostly written in the same clothes:

• omophorion - a wide quadrangular cape covering the shoulders and head, they were worn by married women in Judea, usually purple;
• tunic - an elongated dress with long sleeves, blue.

Maforium is decorated with three stars, they symbolize the ever-virginity of Mary: before Christmas, after Christmas and at the time of the birth of Christ. The instructions, like those of the clergy, denote service to Christ.

Each consecrated image has its own story, often miraculous. In fact, it does not matter which image to read the prayer before. The Lord penetrates into the very heart of a person, sees any movement of the soul. Therefore, it is important what thoughts come from there, and not how many times bows will be made and prayers will be read.

The icons of the Mother of God are the most revered in Orthodoxy, their names, a brief history, a description of the composition and theological significance can be found below.

The meaning and interpretation of the Icons of the Mother of God

Kazanskaya

Closely connected with the fate of the Russian state. The acquisition took place in Kazan, on the city's ashes, at the insistence of a local girl. The Queen of Heaven appeared to her in a dream and ordered her to find her image. It happened in the 16th century. Miracles began to happen immediately after the shrine was transferred to the temple - two blind men received their sight. The local bishop Hermogenes, later the All-Russian Patriarch, compiled a story about miraculous phenomena.

It was this pious man who later blessed the militias to fight the invaders. The revered image was sent into battle along with the people's army. Then the Kazan intercessor gained nationwide fame. It is believed that the original was stolen from the monastery in Kazan, where it was kept, at the beginning of the 20th century. The thieves claimed to have destroyed the shrine. But it is quite possible that she was sold and many believe that the Mother of God will still show her face to the Russian people.

• It is a somewhat smaller version of the "Hodegetria" - the Mother of God is depicted only on the shoulders. She slightly bowed her head to Christ, who is depicted in full face, his right hand blesses the worshipers.

The Kazan Mother of God is blessed by the young after the wedding, and the Kazan Mother of God is often included in triptychs along with the face of the Savior and St. Nicholas.

Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God - meaning

One of the compositions, whose author was the apostle Luke (not literally, I mean the list from the original, which was once made by the evangelist). Came to Russia from Byzantium, like many other miraculous faces. At first she was in a convent not far from Kyiv, then Andrei Bogolyubsky transferred her to Vladimir (1115), and the name appeared.

The shrine was solemnly transported to the capital at the end of the 14th century. All the townspeople came out to meet her, and at this place is now the Sretensky Monastery (meeting - meeting). Moscow was threatened by the troops of Tamerlane. But quite unexpectedly, they turned around before reaching their destination. This was considered a manifestation of the intercession of the Mother of God.

But even before these events, Vladimirskaya was considered miraculous, it’s not for nothing that she has several days of memory - all testify to heavenly protection from enemies. Now the relic can be seen in the temple-museum at the Tretyakov Gallery. It is a rare case when such an ancient artifact was saved despite wars and revolutions.

They pray for deliverance from ailments, for reconciliation with their neighbors, Vladimirskaya helps to get pregnant and feed the child.

Icon "Blessed Sky"

Appeared in Russia at the end of the 17th century, brought from Lithuania by the wife of one of the Moscow princes. An unusual composition - the Mother of God is depicted in full growth, the sun's rays surround her, on her left hand is the divine Infant. On the heads of Mary and Christ are royal crowns. Heavenly forces in the form of Angels soar around.

Helps with mental anguish, relieves physical suffering. If a loved one has strayed from the true path, they come to pray in front of the "Blessed Sky". It is especially revered in the capital of Russia, since it has long been in one of the cathedrals of the Kremlin.

"Recovery of the Lost"

Dated 17th century. She became famous thanks to the story of a certain monk Theophilus, who made a deal with the devil, but later repented and was forgiven by the Queen of Heaven. True, for this he had to pray relentlessly.

There is also a case when a certain peasant got lost during a snow storm. He was about to die when the locals found him. The horse took the unfortunate man straight to the gate, and people heard a voice in the house that called to meet the guest.

The composition is interesting in that the Divine Infant is depicted in full growth, His bare feet rest on the Mother's thigh. He is dressed in a white shirt (a symbol of the purity of the soul), the Child tightly hugs the Mother of God by the neck. She bowed tenderly to the face of her Son. The Mother of God sits on a throne. The one who prays is seized with a feeling of tenderness when he sees the tender love that binds Mary and Christ.

Before the "Recovery of the Lost" sinners, drunkards, drug addicts are reprimanded. It helps with headaches, relieves the condition of epileptics, saves children from serious illnesses.

"The Tsaritsa"

The famous image from the Vatopedi monastery on Athos became famous in the 17th century. One young man who was fond of witchcraft came to test his "strength". But the Queen of Heaven pushed him away. When the young man came to his senses, he immediately repented.

Known "Vsetsaritsa" and the fact that it provides assistance to cancer patients, especially children. In Russia there is a list specially made on Athos. He stays in Moscow, in the temple of the Alekseevsky Monastery, sometimes being transported to the chapel at the children's oncology center (Kashirskoye Highway). They reproach before the "All-Tsaritsa" those who are carried away by sorcery, black magic, fortune-telling. These are very terrible sins, today, unfortunately, many are addicted to them.

The composition goes back to "Hodegetria" - here the Mother of God also points to Jesus Christ. She sits on a throne in royal attire. Christ is wearing a scarlet cape, a green shirt. In his left hand he holds a scroll, with his right he blesses the faithful. Behind the throne, angels are circling, one folded his hands in prayer, the other raises them in a gesture of greeting.

"Seven-strelnaya"

The prehistory of the appearance remains a mystery - scientists believe that the shrine is at least half a thousand years old. In 1830, it was found in the temple, where it served as a step to the bell tower. During the epidemic, cholera managed to save the inhabitants of Vologda from mass death. Many received from the Mother of God healing from ailments, relief of mental suffering.

A rather rare type of image, where the Virgin is shown alone. It is believed that this is the moment before the birth of the Savior. Seven blades are pointed at her heart. 7 - a symbolic image of fullness, that is, the Mother of God knew suffering and pain in full. The swords represent the spiritual anguish of Mary at those moments when Christ set off on the Way of the Cross, then died for human sins.

It reconciles the warring, it is necessary to pray near the "Seven-strelnaya" before starting a responsible business. It is believed that if hung near the front door, it will protect the home from robbers, unkind people. Clears the mind, uplifts the mood.

"Guide of sinners"

It became famous for miracles at the end of the 19th century, but the icon from the Oryol province was painted long before this event. After the prayer service, a seriously ill boy was healed. An exact copy was sent to Moscow, which began to stream myrrh, then exude healing. The owners gave the shrine to the temple, believing that everyone should have access to it.

Spiritual health is very important for a Christian. When the soul is despondent, the consequences will be a lack of strength, an unwillingness to work and even just live. The Queen of Heaven will help you get out of this dangerous state. They turn to the "Guide of sinners" also to solve family difficulties, in illnesses.

The Blessed Virgin is depicted here waist-deep, the Infant holding his mother by the hand. This indicates a close relationship between God and the entire human race. The Theotokos and Christ have royal crowns on their heads - this shows the influence of the Western style, since the "Guide of Sinners" comes from Ukraine or Belarus.

"Birth Assistant"

The honored face resides in Serpukhov. Where and when the image appeared is unknown. The image, which is rare in composition, belongs to the Immaculata type. On it, the Child is depicted in front of the Virgin, he is enclosed in a certain aura, over which Mary stretches out her hands. The Virgin herself is shown with her head uncovered, her hair loose over her shoulders - just as is customary during childbirth.

The name itself indicates situations in which women seek help from the Holy Virgin. Every mother-to-be asks for relief from suffering during the resolution of the fetus. In addition, many during these hours are tormented by fear of sudden death, excitement for the child. How will the birth go, will the baby be okay? All this is in the hands of God, so women turn to their Intercessor. When a baby appears, they pray for a sufficient amount of breast milk, the health of the newborn.

"Burning bush"

The oldest example can be seen today in the Armory, it dates back to the 17th century.

The bush is a thorn bush, one of the Bible chapters tells how the Lord appeared to Moses in a bush of fire. Symbolically, the fireproof bush denotes the Queen of Heaven, who was able to maintain spiritual purity in the midst of a sinful world.

The composition is very complex, contains many symbols designed to reveal all the prophecies about the Virgin Mary and the Savior. In the center is the Mother of God Hodegetria. On her chest is depicted a ladder leading to heaven, which Jacob saw. The evangelists are symbolically shown in the form of an angel, an eagle, a lion and a calf. There are also Archangels, biblical stories and other symbols. Above all this, the Lord Jesus Christ sits on the throne.

The "Burning Bush" patronizes firefighters, she is asked to protect the home from fire, attacks by thieves, unfriendly visitors. They also pray that the soul does not descend into hellfire.

Icon "Inexhaustible Chalice" - Meaning

It is of Byzantine origin. The exact time of writing is unknown. Until our time, only copies have been preserved, which are stored in the monasteries of the city of Serpukhov. It was there that he turned at the end of the 19th century. a soldier perishing from the sin of drinking wine. He dreamed of an old man and told him to go to the monastery. Although the peasant's legs were already failing, he trudged with the last of his strength to the monks. He managed to find an image of the Most Pure. After the prayer, the soldier received complete liberation from his craving for wine, his legs were healed.

Since then, the afflicted have been drawn to Serpukhov. And today, many men and women who are prone to alcoholism or drug addiction come to the monastery. Many get healed, return to their families, find jobs, and settle down in their lives.

In front of the Virgin Mary stands a cup, in which is Christ. The Mother of God prays with raised hands, both look directly at the faithful. The composition is very beautiful, completely symmetrical and reminds of the perfection of the Lord, of His sacrifice for the whole world. Most often, before the "Inexhaustible Chalice" they ask for getting rid of the obsession with alcohol, drugs and other addictions.

"Fadeless Color"

A very beautiful composition in which the Mother of God holds white flowers. On one of the Greek islands, there is a tradition - on the day of the Annunciation, parishioners bring bouquets of fresh lilies to the temple. They remain in the church until the end of summer, when another great feast of the Mother of God is celebrated - the Dormition. On this day, a miracle happens - dried lilies open their buds again! In memory of the miraculous events, “Fadeless Color” was written.

In Russia, a copy of the Greek image appeared between the 17th and 18th centuries. The iconography is most likely of Western origin. The Blessed Virgin tenderly holds the Christ Child. He raises his right hand in a gesture of blessing. The Most Pure One bowed her head slightly to her Son. In her right hand, the Queen of Heaven holds white flowers (sometimes they depict grapes or scarlet roses, but it was the white lily that the Archangel Gabriel presented to Mary on the day of the Annunciation).

"Fadeless Color" especially patronizes the female sex:

• girls ask for a good husband;
• married - about giving healthy children;
• helps the Most Pure return joy in life;
• restores peace of mind.

The Blessed Virgin protects the family from strife, averts temptations, helps the girls to maintain purity before marriage.

Icon "Sign"

The first well-known miracle was helping the inhabitants of Novgorod during the siege (1170). The miraculous icon is still kept in the Novgorod Cathedral. It shows the type of image "Oranta" - the Mother of God raised her hands to heaven in prayer, her palms are visible. In this gesture, the Most Pure One, as it were, opens her soul to meet the Savior. Christ is depicted at the level of the chest of the Virgin Mary, he is written in a medallion, on the Lord - the clothes of a priest.

Many cases are known when healing from eye diseases was given through the "Sign". Helps during long journeys, protects from enemies, during conflicts.

Iberian Icon of the Mother of God

Appeared in one of the Athos monasteries at the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries. It is believed that initially the face of the Most Pure One appeared on the board thanks to a miracle - the Virgin Mary washed her face and applied her face. This imprint was sent to Georgia along with the Apostle Andrew - hence the name (Iveria is Georgia). The Athos image was revealed in a pillar of fire. He protected the monks from enemy raids for a long time.

One of the most common types is Hodegetria. The Mother of God with her right hand points to Christ as the only way to salvation. The image is half-length, on the head of Mary is a crown.

Gives relief from bodily ailments. Helps to gain strong faith, returns the lost to the path of righteousness. It protects those houses in which it is located - it is not for nothing that it is also called the Goalkeeper. Protects against fires and prevents theft.

"Bread Conqueror"

A very unusual writing of the Mother of God - she sits on a cloud, blessing the grain field below. The elder Ambrose (Optina Pustyn) blessed this image, the date of creation is called 1890. The lists quickly spread throughout the district - that year turned out to be a poor harvest and the people asked for the intercession of heavenly forces.

The Holy Synod tried to ban the non-traditional image, but it was very popular among the population. In 1993, Patriarch Alexy officially added the icon to the church calendar. They ask the "Controversial" for help in getting rid of the drought, for a rich harvest.

Meaning of other important icons

The Holy Trinity

The most famous composition, written by the righteous Andrey Rublev. He was able to express the most complex theological dogma about the Triune God, using images, perspective, various small details. Each of them has its own deep meaning. It is no coincidence that even the position of the hands, the tilt of the head of each Angel.

Such a shrine should be in a place of honor in any home where there are baptized people. The Lord is the source of life; our existence depends on Him. Daily prayers are read before the faces, and any request can be addressed to Jesus Christ, God the Father or the Holy Spirit:

• about the success of good undertakings;
• about the health and well-being of loved ones;
• about solving everyday problems;
• about the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the salvation of the soul.

In the form of three Angels, the hypostases of Almighty God are depicted. Rublev captured the Trinity at the moment of the council, where the plan of Redemption is being discussed. In the center, according to the fathers of the church, is the Father, to the left of the worshipers is the Son, to the right is the Holy Spirit. On the table is a bowl, where the expiatory Sacrifice is symbolically depicted.

Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon

The image of a handsome young man in a raincoat can be found in any Orthodox church. Who is this young man? During his lifetime, he was a doctor - he healed human bodies, and after a righteous martyr's death he became a saint. By his example, he inspired many to accept Christianity. Thus the physician of the body became a physician and spiritual. But until now, believers throughout Russia and beyond its borders pray near the icon at the moment when they are weighed down by illness.

• Healing can be asked for any ailment, not only bodily, but also spiritual.

The Great Martyr Panteleimon abandoned the brilliant career of a court physician - he was a member of the imperial palace. All in order to help the prisoners, the poor for free - in the name of Christ. Envious people reported on him, the young doctor was arrested, interrogated, then severely tortured. But the saint joyfully endured all the torments, glorifying the name of God. Voluntarily, he lowered his head to the chopping block, his executioners wept. Joyfully departing to heavenly abodes, from there he continues to pray for us sinners.

The healer is depicted with a spoon in his hand - it contains medicines. He is wearing a blue robe (a sign of the innocence of the soul) and a red cloak - a symbol of martyrdom. Panteleimon can be easily recognized by his blond curly hair.

About the icon.

Blessed Matrona of Moscow

One of the favorite saints in the capital, in recent decades has become known throughout Russia. On the image, the old woman stands against the backdrop of the city walls and receives the blessing from Christ, which is sent to her from heaven. Matrona spent her whole difficult life in prayer. She had the gift to prophesy the future, knew how to heal and physical ailments. I never took money for my help.

The blessed old woman herself constantly suffered from various ailments - she was blind, her legs did not obey well, and over time they completely failed. The woman did not have her own corner, she ate what she had to. But she never lost heart and did not grumble at God, who sent these trials. It only increased her love for people. Today, the relics of the righteous are in the Intercession Monastery in Moscow. What do they ask the blessed Matronushka?

• Assistance in conceiving and having children.
• About a successful marriage.
• Resolving financial difficulties.
• About physical health for yourself and loved ones.

There are no restrictions on requests and there cannot be. Help will be provided in any righteous deed that a person cannot handle on his own.

Reverend Seraphim of Sarov

A well-known elder of the Russian land, who during his lifetime received a visit from the Mother of God. He was not educated, did not write works and did not preach sermons. But everyone knew and loved Father Seraphim. With wise spiritual eyes, he saw through every visitor. But he never condemned, but only instructed with a kind word.

The monk said that the purpose of human existence is to receive the Holy Spirit. For this, the main constancy and faith. Batiushka even compiled a special prayer rule for those who work hard during the day. He himself communicated with the heavenly inhabitants a lot, standing up for the human race.

When the elder was alive, many sought support and consolation from him. This continues even after his departure to the other world. It will help disperse the blackness of despair, gain spiritual strength, and get rid of grave temptations. Saint Seraphim is able to drive away physical ailments. It helps to successfully conduct business - but only to those people who do not try to "cheat" their neighbor.

The miracle worker is depicted in monastic robes, this is a cassock, a black mantle. Gray hair and beard, gaze collected, attentive. In his left hand he holds a rosary - an indispensable attribute of the monks. The right hand is raised in blessing.

Peter and Fevronia

A pious married couple who lived in the city of Murom. Peter was a prince, Fevronia once healed him of a serious illness and became a faithful wife. Legends about the couple have been preserved in church history. Today, the righteous serve as an example to the younger generation. They had patience, wisdom, humility. They brought up children in the Christian faith, and when life began to decline, both devoted themselves to God.

Of course, they are asked for help in marriage: to find mutual understanding, to build relationships based on biblical truths, to raise children so that they become good people. Girls can ask for a worthy spouse, married ladies - a long-awaited heir.

Usually a couple is depicted together, they are in clothes befitting their rank in life. Peter and Fevronia raise their heads to heaven, above them is the image of the Savior.

Saint Nicholas

The image of an old man in the attire of a bishop can be seen in any Orthodox church, so great is the people's love for him. In his hometown, the young priest was known for his kind heart. He quickly responded to any trouble, helped everyone. Over time, he was elected bishop. And then the saint continued to intercede for the poor, unjustly condemned. He built temples, carried the good news to people.

An old man with gray hair is depicted on the holy face. His eyes express both severity and mercy at the same time. The Bishop of the World of Lycia carefully holds the Gospel, his right hand sends a blessing to those who pray.

Nikolai Ugodnik supports in any good deeds, but he especially patronizes sailors and those who travel - it is not for nothing that his face is often placed in cars. It helps to successfully marry off daughters, stop strife, heals ailments.

The image is an integral part of Orthodoxy. They are in temples, houses and even in car interiors. You should not give in to the desire to buy as many icons as possible and hang them all over the apartment. The faces of the Savior, the Virgin and several saints are enough. The number of shrines does not affect the quality of prayer. It is very good if the images of the righteous direct thoughts to heaven, strengthen faith - this is their main task.

November 20 is the day of the appearance of the icon of the Mother of God "Jumping the Baby" Ugreshskaya. Before the Battle of Kulikovo, the icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker appeared to Grand Duke Dmitry Donskoy. The prince took this phenomenon as a special sign of God and exclaimed: “This is all sinning my heart!” and vowed to build a monastery if he became the winner. After some time, the Ugreshsky Monastery was built, and a little later, the icon of the Mother of God appeared there, which was called the “Leaping”. Despite all the statements and conjectures of skeptics, the phenomenon of icons remains an unexplored and mysterious manifestation of superhuman strength. Today we will talk about the most famous icons in Rus'.

The icon of the Kazan Mother of God was acquired on July 8, 1579 in Kazan. 25 years have passed since Ivan the Terrible conquered the Kazan Khanate. And there was a terrible fire in Kazan, which turned half of the Kazan Kremlin and part of the city into ashes. The Muslims gloatingly declared that the Almighty was angry with the Christians, but it turned out that the Kazan fire was an omen of the irrevocable establishment of the Orthodox faith in the land of the Golden Horde.

A few days after the fire, archer Daniil Onuchin decided to start a new construction site on the site of the burnt house. But his 10-year-old daughter Matrona said that the Mother of God appeared to her in a dream and ordered her to announce that they would find her at the site of a recent fire. The words of the girl did not attach any importance, then the Mother of God appeared to her for the second time, and for the third. The girls heeded the insistence and, raking the ashes, found the icon of the Kazan Mother of God.

The icon healed the sick (it all started with the insight of the blind men Nikita and Joseph), inspired the Russian army in the Time of Troubles, Peter I prayed before it on the eve of Poltava, and in 1812 Mikhail Kutuzov.
In 1904, the wonder-working Kazan Icon of the Mother of God was stolen and, having removed the precious vestments from it, they destroyed it. Numerous ancient copies of this icon have been distributed all over the world. Today, the Russian Orthodox Church is making great efforts to return these shrines to their homeland. The earliest copy of this icon can be seen today in the Tretyakov Gallery.

Another highly revered icon in Russia is the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God. According to legend, the icon was painted by Luke. The chronicles say that in 1383 the icon of the Mother of God with the Divine Infant appeared over the lake, and an unknown force carried it through the air. The icon stopped near Tikhvin. There they built a temple of stone, and later the Tikhvin Mother of God-Assumption Monastery appeared on this site.

In 1944 the icon was taken to Europe and then to the USA. In 1982, Archbishop John ordered Archpriest Sergius Garklavs to return the icon to Russia when the attitude towards the Church in the country changes and the Tikhvin Monastery is restored. In June 2004 the icon returned to Russia.

The icon is especially revered among mothers who pray to the icon to guide their unreasonable children on the true path and protect them from harm.

Another legendary icon is the Iberian Icon of the Mother of God. The first mention of it dates back to Byzantine sources dating back to the 9th century. Then the icon was in the house of a pious widow, who lived not far from the city of Nicaea (today it is Turkey). At that time, malicious heretics destroyed the holy icons of the Mother of God by order of the authorities. When they arrived at the widow's house, she begged them to leave her a shrine for a reward. The greedy people agreed, but as they left, one of them hit the face with a spear, and blood flowed from the icon. The widow hurried with the icon to the sea and lowered it into the water, but it did not lie on the water, but moved along the sea, standing upright.

After 200 years on Athos, the monks saw a pillar of fire reaching to the sky, at the base of which was this icon. According to legend, after the prayer service, Elder Gabriel walked on the water, as the Mother of God commanded him in a dream, took the icon, and hung it in the temple.
The miraculous Iberian Icon of the Mother of God was well known in Russia. In the 17th century, Nikon, the archimandrite of the Novospassky Monastery, who later became the Patriarch of All Rus', asked for blessings on Athos to send a list of this icon. The icon was painted for Russia by the priest Iamblikh Romanov. After a great prayer service from evening to dawn, in which 365 monks took part, the legendary icon was sprinkled with holy water, and then a new board made of cypress wood. They painted the icon with paints mixed with particles of relics.

The icon was kept in the Iberian chapel at the Resurrection Gate, and the Russian sovereigns, before entering the Kremlin, always prayed in front of this miraculous icon. In 1929 the chapel was destroyed and the icon disappeared. Only the movable icon has been preserved, which today is located in Sokolniki, in the Church of the Resurrection of Christ.

This icon appeared to the inhabitants of Kursk after the destruction of the city by the troops of Batu Khan in 1295. According to legend, hunters found the icon, not far from the city under a stump in the roots. Several times they brought her to the city temple, but she miraculously disappeared and again ended up in the same place where she was found. Then a chapel was built on the site of the appearance of the icon.

The next time the Kursk-Root Icon was mentioned in 1383. Then the icon fell into the hands of the Horde, they cut it in half. The priest who found the icon folded the halves with faith, and they grew together. The chapel was rebuilt, and the icon remained there. Later, a monastery appeared on this site - the Root Hermitage.

Another attempt to destroy the icon took place in 1898. The attackers blew up the temple, but the Kursk-Root Icon of the Mother of God remained unharmed. Even the glass in the icon case was not damaged.

During the October Revolution, the miraculous image was taken out of Russia, and today it is one of the main shrines of the Russian Orthodox Church abroad.

Another very famous icon, painted by Luke himself, allegedly on the board of the table of the Holy Family. For a long time the icon was in Kyiv, but in 1155 it was taken to Vladimir by Andrei Bogolyubsky. This is where the name of the icon comes from.

The icon is revered as especially valuable in several cities of the Russian lands. The Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God is especially famous for saving Moscow from the invasion of Tamerlane. Today the icon is kept in the Tretyakov Gallery.

It is not known who brought this icon, painted by the Evangelist Luke, to Russia, but already in 1164 it was in a chapel near the city of Gorodets and was revered as miraculous. During the invasion of Batu, the chapel burned down. They thought that the icon had also died. But in 1239, the Kostroma prince Vasily Yuryevich saw this icon on a tree while hunting. She didn't let go of him, rising into the air. After a common prayer, the icon was removed from the tree.

With the Feodorovskaya icon, Mikhail Feodorovich Romanov ascended to reign in 1613, and from that time it began to be revered by the imperial House of Romanov. All foreign princesses who were taken as wives by Russian grand dukes and emperors received the patronymic Feodorovna after baptism.

Today the icon is in the Epiphany-Anastasia Cathedral in Kostroma.