Orthodox icons

The icon is a completely unique phenomenon in medieval culture. There are hundreds of them in churches, try to figure out which one you need. This is where questions arise: which icons should we pray to? Who should I pray to? Which saint? Let's try to figure out which icon is for what.

VIRGIN OF KAZAN - the most revered icon in Rus', for several centuries she has been revered as the Patroness and Intercessor of the Russian land and the Russian people. All the main events in life take place with her, starting with baptism. The icon gives a blessing for marriage, and it is also an assistant in work. They bless young people getting married with it, ask the icon for family well-being and happiness, and also hang the icon near children's cribs. An icon that stops fire and helps those with vision problems. The image of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God helps in various troubles, misfortunes, and illnesses

MOTHER OF GOD OF VLADIMIR - one of the most revered, since it was used to crown kings and elect high priests. Before her they pray for the softening of evil hearts, the healing of infirmity, the humility of those at war, the healing of the possessed. She especially protects mothers and their children, gives pregnant women easy childbirth and healthy babies, relieves infertility and diseases of the reproductive organs. The image of a mother as an intercessor in all troubles and sorrows.

Icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary of DESPERATE ONE HOPE -Despite the fact that this icon is little known, one of the believers (and this is not prohibited by the church) composed an akathist for it. They pray before the icon in various sorrows and when a person is despondent. Those whose faith has weakened ask the Mother of God to return to their former state of mind and bestow spiritual vigor. They pray to the icon for deliverance from enemies, for the admonition of quarreling people (especially neighbors), for the eradication of envy. She is an assistant in the treatment of modern diseases - alcoholism, smoking, gaming and computer addiction.

VIRGIN OF POCHAYEV - The Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God is one of the most revered shrines of the Russian Church. When turning to the Mother of God "Pochaevskaya" they pray for protection from internecine enmity, from enemy invasion, for healing from blindness, both physical and spiritual, for liberation from captivity, they pray for the granting of health and miracles of help in need.

Quick to Hear	Iverskaya	Everlasting color	Recovery of the dead

QUICK TO HEAR - they pray, when quick and urgent help is needed, for the healing of mental and physical ailments, including paralysis, blindness, cancer, and also ask for the birth of healthy children and the release of prisoners.

Iverskaya MOTHER OF GOD - Homemaker. She is considered the patroness of all women, their helper and intercessor before the Lord. An icon used to remove the “crown of celibacy” from both men and women. In front of the icon they also pray for the healing of physical and mental illnesses, for consolation in illness.

ENDLESS COLOR -When turning to the icon of the Mother of God “Unfading Color,” they pray for the preservation of a righteous life and the resolution of family troubles. Prayers to this icon help not to make a mistake in choosing a spouse. The flower in the hands of the Mother of God affirms the purity of the Mother of God and symbolizes the unfading of virginity.

Icon of the Mother of God SEEKING THE LOST - seriously ill patients and their relatives make requests. It helps to get rid of vices and alcohol addiction. Repentant sinners who have turned away from God go to these icons. Women ask for a happy marriage and healthy children, helps with eye diseases, fever, headaches. You can address the Blessed Mother with simple, sincere words that come from the heart.

Icon of the Mother of God QUEEN MY SORROWS - pray for deliverance from various illnesses, both physical and mental.

Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos merciful - or “It is worthy to eat”, they pray during mental and physical illnesses, at the end of any business, during epidemics, for happiness in marriage, during accidents..

Feodorovskaya icon of the Mother of God - has long been revered by believers not only as miraculous, but also as especially protective of family well-being, the birth and upbringing of children, and helping in difficult childbirths. Tradition connects her with the calling of the founder of the dynasty, Tsar Mikhail Fedorovich, to the kingdom in 1613. Kept in the Epiphany Cathedral in the city of Kostroma.

JERUSALEM Icon of the Mother of God - they pray in grief, sadness and despondency, for healing from blindness, eye diseases and paralysis, during a cholera epidemic, for deliverance from the death of livestock, from fire, during relaxation, and also during an attack by enemies..

TIKHVINSKAYA- The icon is considered a child’s icon; it is also called a “guidebook”. She helps children in illness, calms the restless and disobedient, helps them choose friends, and protects them from the bad influence of the street. It is believed that it strengthens the bond between parents and children, that is, children do not abandon their parents in old age. Helps women during childbirth and pregnancy.

Our Lady of Pochaevskaya - they pray for protection from internecine hostility, from enemy invasion, for healing from blindness, both physical and spiritual, for liberation from captivity., they pray for the granting of health and miracles of help in need.

KOZELSHANSKAYA icon of the Mother of God- pray for the healing of orthopedic diseases, especially helping girls who came to her with a prayer to arrange family happiness.

THREE HANDLE - in front of the miraculous image of the Mother of God, they pray for healing from pain in the hands and feet or their injuries, from fire, as well as from illness, grief and sadness. .

Softening Evil Hearts

Tenderness

Icon of the Mother of God LOOK AT HUMILITY - they pray to the Most Holy Theotokos for the granting of humility and repentance both for themselves and for sinners who do not want to repent, for easing the afterlife fate of the deceased, for protection from false and evil teachings. Prayers before the icon also help in solving housing issues.

Icon of the Mother of God GRACEFUL SKY - helps women get married, find happiness in marriage and motherhood. They pray to the icon for deliverance from drunkenness and other addictions. If you have a cherished wish, pray in front of the “Blessed Heaven” icon, and it will come true. It is believed that the icon provides patronage to paratroopers and helps them in their service.

Icon of the Mother of God SOFTENING EVIL HEARTS - in front of the icon they ask for a family truce or that there is no hostility between neighbors, as well as for peace between entire states. In our culture, the image of the Mother of God, whose chest is pierced by arrows, is one of the most emotional and expressive in icon painting. It makes it possible to feel mercy and compassion. Before her, they pray to soften the hearts of those who come to you with evil thoughts.

Our Lady of Tenderness - the icon is an intercessor both in national disasters and in the lives of ordinary people. Mothers pray for the successful marriage of their daughters, for happiness and prosperity.

Smolenskaya

Barskaya

Zhirovitskaya

Affectionate mother

Icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary of SMOLENSK - called “Hodegetria-Smolensk” has been known in Rus' since ancient times. "Hodegetria" translated from Greek means "Guide". The icon for all Orthodox Christians is a guide to eternal salvation; the Mother of God of Smolensk helps everyone who turns to her with prayers for healing from incurable diseases, in search of family peace and in other difficult and insoluble situations, as the first intercessor for us before God.

BARSKIY icon of the Mother of God - they pray for good relationships in the family, for children and health, she shows miracles of healing and God’s mercy to all those who suffer, who resort to her in their sorrows and prayers.

Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos ZHIROVITSKAYA - they pray in case of persecution of Orthodoxy, in case of doubts, for deliverance from fires, in case of any bodily weakness, they also pray for the arrangement of a girl’s destiny, for a happy marriage.

Icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary TENDER MOTHER - pray for children, so that children will be a support in life.

Unexpected joy

Three joys

The Holy Trinity

SEMISTRELLNAYA

UNEXPECTED JOY - they pray for the conversion of the lost, for the health and well-being of children, for the healing of deafness and ear diseases, for the preservation of marriage in love and harmony, they pray for the granting of spiritual insight.

Icon of the Mother of God of the THREE JOYS - They pray for the return of what was lost, for salvation from enemies, for release from captivity, for healing and for the successful resolution of any matter. People who came to the icon noticed that after fervent prayer, joy came to their house threefold, for which the icon received its modern name.

THE HOLY TRINITY - The symbol of the “Trinity” is God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, or wisdom, reason, love. One of the three main icons that should be in every home. In front of the icon they pray for forgiveness of sins. It is considered confessional.

SEMISTRELLNAYA - This is the strongest icon in protecting the house and any premises, as well as the person on whom it is located, from evil, envious people, from the evil eye, damage and curses. She reconciles warring parties, brings peace and harmony, and is also hired for important matters. At home, she should be in front of the front door so that she can see the eyes of the person entering.

Healer.	Inexhaustible Chalice	Unbreakable Wall	Mother of God of the Intercession

HEALER - they pray for healing of the soul and body, it protects from various misfortunes, troubles, sorrow, eternal condemnation, and takes care of liberation from imprisonment. Childbirth assistant.

INEXHAIBLE CHALICE - they pray for all sinners, the icon calls for an inexhaustible source of spiritual joy and consolation, proclaims that an inexhaustible cup of heavenly help and mercy is prepared for those who ask with faith. It brings prosperity to the home, and also helps to heal from bad habits, drunkenness, drug addiction, and gambling.

UNBREAKABLE WALL- In front of the icon for every need: healing for the sick, consolation for the grieving, admonition for the lost, protect babies, educate and teach the young, encourage and instruct husbands and wives, support and warm the old, deliver from all misfortunes. For more than ten centuries, this miraculous icon remained intact. That's probably why it's called that

Our Lady of Intercession - they pray for deliverance from troubles, for the protection of the country from enemies...

BLESSED MATRONA - A very strong saint of our time. People turn to her for any difficult issue. She is our “first helper” and intercessor, intercessor for us before the Lord. The relics are located in the Intercession Monastery on Taganka, where every day countless people come and turn to her for help.

NICHOLAY THE PLEASER THE WONDERWORKER - This is the most revered saint in the world. He protects from poverty and need: when his icon is in the house, he makes sure that there is prosperity in the house, protects from need for anything, patronizes women, children, the poor, innocently convicted people and animals. In addition, he is the patron saint of all travelers, drivers, sailors, pilots and just people on the road.

HOLY GREAT MARTYR PANTELEMON - they pray for healing from serious illnesses, he is the patron saint of warriors, since warriors, who receive wounds more often than others, are the ones in greatest need of a doctor-healer.

SERGIUS OF RADONEZH - Founder of the Sergievo-Trinity Lavra in the 14th century. He is the patron saint of all students. They take the icon with them when taking exams and tests. It is very good for the icon to always be in the pocket of your purse or briefcase every day when the child goes to school.

GUARDIAN ANGEL - pray: for help with headaches; about your protection, from insomnia, in grief, about happiness in marriage, about driving away evil spirits, about getting rid of harm from wizards and sorcerers. About the intercession of widows and orphans in despair, about deliverance from sudden or sudden death, about the expulsion of demons. Those going to bed pray to him for deliverance from prodigal dreams. The task of the guardian angel is to contribute to the salvation of the ward, intercede for them during their earthly life, pray to God for them, do not abandon them, finally, after death and take the souls of those who have ended earthly life into eternity.

SAVIOR PANTOCRANT - often simply “Savior” or “Savior” is the central image in the iconography of Christ, representing Him as the Heavenly King. “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end,” says the Lord, “Who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” The Chief Physician of souls and bodies, who knows about everything, and to whom our prayer appeal should first of all be directed. According to the rules, this icon is placed at the head of the iconostasis.

SAVIOR NOT MADE BY HANDS - they pray for guidance on the true path, for the salvation of the soul, deliverance from bad thoughts and healing. According to church tradition, the first icon was the image of the Savior - the Savior Not Made by Hands.

Icon– not a portrait or a genre painting, but a prototype of ideal humanity. Therefore, the icon provides only a symbolic image of him. Physical movement on the icon is reduced to a minimum or completely absent. But the movement of the spirit is conveyed by special means - the pose of the figure, hands, folds of clothing, color and most importantly - the eyes. All the power of moral achievement, all the power of the spirit and its power over the body are concentrated there.

Clothing on icons- not a means to cover bodily nudity, clothing is a symbol. She is a fabric from the deeds of a saint. One of the important details is folds. The nature of the arrangement of folds on the clothes of the saints indicates the time of painting of the icon. In the 8th – 14th centuries, folds were drawn frequently and small. They talk about strong spiritual experiences and a lack of spiritual peace. In the 15th – 16th centuries, folds were drawn straight, long, and sparse. All the elasticity of spiritual energy seems to break through them. They convey the fullness of ordered spiritual forces.

Around your head The Savior, the Mother of God and the holy saints of God are depicted on icons with a radiance in the shape of a circle, which is called a halo. A halo is an image of the radiance of light and Divine glory, which transforms a person who has united with God.

There are no shadows on the icons. This is also due to the peculiarities of the worldview and the tasks that faced the icon painter. The heavenly world is the kingdom of spirit, light, it is incorporeal, there are no shadows there. The icon shows things created and produced by Light, and not illuminated by Light.

Symbolism of gestures

HAND pressed to the chest - heartfelt empathy.
A HAND raised up is a call to repentance.
A HAND extended forward with an open palm is a sign of obedience and submission.
TWO HANDS raised up - a prayer for peace.
HANDS raised forward - a prayer for help, a gesture of request.
HANDS pressed to the cheeks - a sign of sadness, grief.

An icon is a very important object for every believer, because it depicts saints and Gods, before whom people bow and pray. There are hundreds of them in temples and churches, and each depicts images of different saints. Believers who often go to church and take part in church rituals know who is depicted on each icon, what its meaning is and what it is intended for. But a person who has visited the temple for the first time may be confused and not understand which one he needs for prayer. We will help you figure this out and determine what function different icons are responsible for and what they help with.

The icon is a completely unique phenomenon in medieval culture. There are hundreds of them in churches, try to figure out which one you need. This is where the question arises: which icons should we pray to? Let's try to figure out which icon is for what.

1. "Seven-shot"- this is the strongest icon in protecting the house and any premises, as well as the person on whom it is located, from evil, envious people, from the evil eye, damage and curses. She reconciles warring parties, brings peace and harmony, and is also hired for important matters. At home, she should be opposite the front door so that she can see the eyes of the person entering. Before installing the icon, you need to read a prayer, and then observe who stops coming to your house.

2. “Inexhaustible Chalice”- The Mother of God prays for all sinners and calls for an inexhaustible source of spiritual joy and consolation, proclaiming that an inexhaustible cup of heavenly help and mercy is prepared for those who ask with faith. It brings prosperity to the home, and also helps to heal from bad habits, drunkenness, drug addiction, and gambling.

3. Icon of the Mother of God “Healer” You can always recognize it by the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary near the bed of a sick person. It was famous for its miracles of healing from various mental and physical illnesses back at the end of the 18th century. The help of the Most Holy Theotokos from Her miraculous icon continues in our time.

4. “Unexpected Joy”- an icon about forgiveness of sins and grateful healing. Before the icon they pray for the conversion of the lost, for the health and well-being of children, for the healing of deafness and ear diseases, for the preservation of marriage in love and harmony.

5. “Three-handed”- the miraculous image of the Mother of God was painted in the eighth century in honor of St. John of Damascus, a church hymn writer who was innocently slandered. In front of the icon they pray for healing from hand pain or injury, from fire, as well as from illness, grief and sadness.

6. “Quick to Hear”- the image was painted in the 10th century. They pray in front of the icon when quick and urgent help is needed, for the healing of mental and physical ailments, including paralysis, blindness, cancer, and also ask for the birth of healthy children and the release of prisoners.

7. “Seraphim of Sarov”- one of the beloved and revered saints of Russia. He devoted his entire life to serving our Lord and founded the Diveyevo convent in the Nizhny Novgorod province. Prayer to Holy Father Seraphim of Sarov helps very well with diseases of the musculoskeletal system, spine, and joints.

8. “St. George the Victorious”- patron of Moscow, as well as an assistant to those people whose work involves weapons, risking their lives - military, police, firefighters, rescuers. In addition, these include athletes and people starting a new business.

9. “Nicholas the Wonderworker”- beloved saint of the Russian people. He protects from poverty and need: when his icon is in the house, he makes sure that there is prosperity in the house, and protects from the need for anything. In addition, he is the patron saint of all travelers, drivers, sailors, pilots and just people who are on the road and worship St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. The relics of St. Nicholas the Pleasant are located in Italy.

10. “Vladimir Mother of God”- written by the evangelist Luke. The icon is considered one of the most revered images of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Rus'. Tsars were crowned and high priests were elected in front of this icon. Before her they pray for the humility of those at war, for the softening of evil hearts, for the healing of bodily and mental weaknesses, as well as for the healing of the possessed.

Icons of the Mother of God evoke a special feeling among Orthodox Christians. Photos with the names of the most famous images in Russia are presented on this page.

Through icons, believers turn to the Mother of God with prayers for strengthening faith, healing illnesses, and saving the soul.

How many icons of the Mother of God are there?

No one knows exactly how many different images of the Mother of God have been written. In the monthly book published by the Moscow Patriarchate, 295 names are mentioned.

But according to iconography, the images of the Mother of God are divided into only three types: Oranta (looks with arms raised up), Hodegetria (the baby blesses the Mother of God), Eleusa (tenderness, clinging to each other).

Icons of the Mother of God with photos and descriptions

Below is a list of Holy Faces, the most popular or, on the contrary, little known, whose history or description is very interesting.

"Kazan" Icon of the Mother of God

Celebrated on July 21 and November 4. The miraculous image saved the country in times of unrest, disasters and wars. Its significance is to preserve the country under the shadow of the Mother of God.

The most revered image in Rus'. Found in 1579 in Kazan in a fire during the persecution of Christians. They bless married couples, pray for the healing of eye diseases, and to repel foreign invasion.

Icon of the Mother of God “Inexhaustible Chalice”

In 1878, one retired soldier suffering from heavy drinking had an apparition of St. Varlaam to go to the city of Serpukhov and pray there in front of a certain image. This icon turned out to be the now famous “Inexhaustible Chalice”.

Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Theodorovskaya”

Celebrated on March 27 and August 29. They ask her for a happy marriage and healthy children.

Possibly written by the Apostle Luke. It was located in the 12th century in the city of Gorodets. She miraculously moved to Kostroma: she was seen in the hands of St. the warrior Theodore Stratilates, who walked with her through the city. Hence the name “Feodorovskaya”.

"Sovereign" Mother of God

Celebrated on March 15th. The meaning of the image is that power over Russia passed from the Tsar directly to the Virgin Mary.

Revealed in 1917 in the village of Kolomenskoye, in the Moscow region, on the very day on which Nicholas II abdicated the throne. The Most Holy Theotokos seemed to have received the power from the Tsar.

"Vladimir" icon

Celebrated on June 3, July 6, September 8. The significance of the image for Orthodox Christians in preserving Russia from foreign warriors.

Written by the Apostle Luke on the tabletop of the Holy Family. Saved Moscow from the invasion of Tamerlane. Under Soviet rule, she exhibited at the Tretyakov Gallery.

"Tikhvin" Mother of God

This image, according to legend, was written by the evangelist and apostle Luke. He miraculously appeared near the city of Tikhvin. Particularly remarkable among the many miracles revealed by the image was the salvation of the Tikhvin monastery during the Northern War in 1613.

"Three-handed"

So named after a miracle that happened to St. John of Damascus. His severed hand grew back into place through prayer at the image of the Mother of God. In honor of this event, a silver hand was attached to the frame of the image.

"Unexpected Joy"

Celebrated on May 14 and December 22. The meaning of the image lies in the mercy of the Mother of God even towards unrepentant sinners, leading them to repentance.

The icon is named in memory of the conversion of one lawless man, who, with the Archangel's greeting, asked for a blessing for his lawless deeds.

"Blessed Womb"

In the 14th century it was located in the Annunciation Cathedral of the Kremlin. Glorified by many miracles.

"Annunciation"

The image is dedicated to the twelfth holiday of the same name.

"Blessed Sky"

Celebrated on March 19th. The meaning of the image is that it is in this form that, according to the assumption, the Blessed Virgin Mary will descend to earth, preparing people for the second coming of Christ.

The image was brought to Moscow by the Lithuanian princess Sofia Vitovtovna at the beginning of the 15th century.

"Joy of All Who Sorrow"

In 1688, the sick Euphemia, a relative of the patriarch, suffering from an incurable disease, was miraculously healed in front of this image.

"Upbringing"

Celebrated on March 18th. The significance of the icon is associated with the upbringing of the younger generation in the Orthodox faith.

This is a Byzantine image known for many miracles. Provides assistance to parents and their children.

"Life-Giving Source"

Celebrated on the fifth day after Easter. They pray for the preservation of prudence and a sinless life.

The icon is named in memory of the holy source of water near Constantinople. In this place, the Virgin Mary appeared to Leo Marcellus and predicted that he would become emperor.

"Deliverer"

Celebrated on October 30th. In 1841 in Greece, a prayer vigil in front of this image miraculously stopped a locust invasion.

The icon was with the family of Alexander III when their train was wrecked. It was on this day that the name day of the icon began to be celebrated, in commemoration of the salvation of the emperor.

"Key of Understanding"

They pray for children who have difficulty learning. The icon is locally revered and is located in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

Appeared in Russia in the 16th century, related to the image of “Addition of mind”.

"Mammal"

The image was transported to Serbia from Jerusalem by St. Savva in the 6th century.

"Fadeless Color"

Signifies the purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

"Otrada"

Celebrated on February 3. It means the great mercy of the Mother of God to sinners, despite even her Son.

The image is associated with a miraculous deliverance from the robbers who attacked the Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos.

"Assistant in childbirth"

Helps with difficult childbirth.

"Self-Written"

Locally revered on Mount Athos. It miraculously manifested itself in a pious icon painter from the city of Iasi in 1863.

"Quick to Hear"

Athos icon. From her, a miraculous healing of the disobedient monk’s vision occurred.

"Quiet my sorrows"

Celebrated on February 7th. Relieves mental anguish. Many healings came from her.

Brought to Moscow in 1640 by Cossacks. She poured myrrh in 1760.

"Healer"

Meaning: comfort to the sick. Often decorates hospital churches.

Conclusion

Turning to these icons has always helped Orthodox Christians in difficult moments of life. And now, in the modern world, healings and miracles continue. New miraculous icons of the Virgin Mary appear.

The intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos will continue until the end of the history of the human race.

The Orthodox Church teaches us that the Lord sensitively listens to the prayers of the holy saints, who, even during their lifetime, through spiritual deeds, created themselves temples of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we often resort to their mediation in our communication with God. It is generally accepted that in the upper world everyone receives a special grace-filled power to help in that in which they had a similar virtue during their lifetime.

The Holy Church is of the opinion that certain saints of God are especially quick to fulfill certain requests. In this case, it is customary in specific life situations to rely on the help of these particular saints, offering prayers before their images. So, for example, those who go on a trip need an icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker of Myra of Lycia, since he is considered to be the patron saint of travelers. Prayer in front of the icon of John the Warrior can help in the search for a missing item, and those suffering from eye diseases ask for help from St. Alexis.

Having opened the prayer book, everyone can find in it detailed instructions on what special grace this or that saint has from God. Usually prayers corresponding to specific requests are combined into special sections. In the table of contents you can see: prayers for the sick, traveling, captives, and so on.

God's help through the prayers of the holy saints for us

However, it would be a mistake to believe that this or that saint has a purely narrow focus in his petitions to God. Of course no. This division is very conditional. The Lord God helps us, in His holy Will, to incline our ears to the prayers of certain saints for us. They themselves are not given the power to perform miracles, but they are intercessors and “conductors” of these miracles. Since the topic of conversation is icons of saints and their meaning, let us turn to some of the most famous and revered images in the Orthodox world.

Icon - pantheon of holy saints of God

The icon of all saints, a photo of which can be seen at the beginning of the article, represents the entire host of God's saints. They shone at different times with their exploits, the strength for which they drew from the single Grace of the Holy Spirit, which was so abundantly poured out on them. The holiday in honor of which this icon was written appeared at the turn of the 4th and 5th centuries. The text of the sermon composed by St. John Chrysostom for the day of this holiday has been preserved. The Monk Ephraim the Syrian also mentions him in his chants.

The meaning of the holiday is that all people are given a clear example that holiness is not the lot of only the elect, but the goal of the earthly path of everyone who professes the teachings of Christ. All people are created in the image and likeness of God. This alone indicates the inherent capacity for holiness in us. The image of God is inalienably present in us, but His likeness has been largely lost by us due to original sin. Restoring it is the path to the likeness of the Creator.

Celebrating All Saints' Day in Rus'

In Rus', All Saints' Day is celebrated on the first Sunday after Trinity. This makes some sense. The Church reminds us of the inextricable connection between holiness and the Grace of the Holy Spirit, without which it is impossible. On this day, at a church service, a prayer is said, ending with the words: “All saints, pray to God for us!” What do we ask God to pray for? Of course, about granting us the strength to be worthy recipients of all whose images are brought to us by the icon of all the saints. A photo of an icon cannot convey the spiritual depth of each individual face depicted on it, but it also gives an idea of ​​the grandeur of this great host of God’s saints.

Holy Trinity and its iconography

One of our most revered icons is the Holy Trinity icon. This does not mean the Old Testament Trinity, but specifically an episode from the Old Testament describing the appearance of God to the forefather Abraham. The Lord appeared to him in the form of three angels, representing the triune essence of the Divine. This scene is extremely popular in icon painting. All famous masters turned to her more than once. The most famous icon is the Holy Trinity by Andrei Rublev. In the Orthodox tradition, it is customary to offer prayers of repentance in front of this image.

Icons of saints and their meaning are different, but they always have one thing in common - they are intermediaries, and in this case they provide the opportunity for direct communication with God. In this regard, the most perfect icon of the Holy Mother of God. The Most Pure Virgin, constantly in prayer for us, also has the gift of working miracles. Before Her honest image, we ask both for prayers for us and for the sending of help coming directly from Her.

Guardian Angel and his icon

Every believer probably has an icon of the holy Guardian Angel among his home icons. The Lord sends it to us on the day of our Baptism and it accompanies us throughout our lives, not leaving us even after death. The Guardian Angel protects us from various troubles, from enemies visible and invisible. He rejoices at our good deeds, which elevate the soul, and grieves immensely for the sins into which we fall. It’s hard to even imagine how many troubles he protects us from in our lives. Often we are not aware of the dangers that were avoided thanks to it. Standing in front of the icon of the Guardian Angel, you can pray about everything in the world, because everything that is close to us is close to him. He will always hear because he is always nearby. Behind us we can hear the rustling of its wings, indistinguishable to others.

Holy Martyrs for the Faith of Christ

Among other icons, an important place is occupied by the icons of the holy Martyrs Faith, Nadezhda, Lyubov and their mother Sophia, whose memorial day is celebrated on September 30. Their names express the entire path to God, which includes faith in the Holy Trinity, hope in God’s mercy and love for God and neighbors. This icon is considered the patroness of family and family happiness. They turn to her with requests for peace in the family, for the health of children and, in case of need, for the gift of an early pregnancy.

The holy martyrs help those who suffer from various female diseases, as well as diseases of the joints of the hands and feet. They also provide important assistance to everyone who has suffered a bereavement in life associated with the loss of loved ones. In this case, prayer in front of the icon restores peace of mind and brings relief from sorrow.

Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker

Among Christians all over the world, Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker of Myra of Lycia enjoys extraordinary respect. He is known as the patron saint of sailors and travelers. With the power of his Grace, the saint provides assistance to all those in trouble and difficult life situations. The icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is an integral part of every church iconostasis. For most believers, it is included in their home congregation.

Love for him is not accidental. Throughout his earthly life, he fought for the truth, healed the suffering, and set everyone a personal example of serving God. The saint's memorial day is celebrated not once a year, but three. The day of his death is celebrated on December 19. People call this holiday “Winter Nikola”. Birthday - August 11 - is called "Nikola's summer". In addition, a holiday has been established on May 22. This is a memory of how in 1087 his honest relics were transferred from Greece to the Italian city of Bari, where they are kept to this day.

Blind Elder Matrona

Almost every church in our capital has an icon of St. Matrona of Moscow. She is revered here in the same way as St. Xenia the Blessed in St. Petersburg. To a woman who was blind from birth, the Lord sent down to her the gift of working miracles, and the saint became widely known for this even during her earthly life. And although her life was very difficult - revolution, war, political repression, and also her own physical blindness, she managed to rise to the unattainable heights of the spiritual feat of love, patience and self-denial.

The icon of Saint Matrona helps from many troubles and misfortunes. People turn to her in case of family problems and troubles at work. She is asked to protect her from both evil people and natural disasters. Just as in the days of her earthly life Saint Matrona was responsive and unfailing in helping people, so now she helps everyone who prays before her gracious icon. The Orthodox Church celebrates her memory on May 2.

Icon of Saint Luke

It is impossible to understand the icons of saints and their meaning without knowing the lives of those saints of God to whom we turn. Standing in front of the icon of St. Luke, Archbishop of Crimea, it is necessary, first of all, to see with one’s inner gaze the feat that is his entire earthly journey. An outstanding surgeon, the author of numerous scientific works and at the same time a high-ranking clergyman, he went through Stalin's prisons and camps without losing his love for his neighbor.

Saint Luke tirelessly helped people both as a doctor and as a shepherd. For those who were responsible for his torment, he prayed to God in the same way as for his fellow sufferers. Saint Luke gave his entire earthly life to people. An icon and a scalpel - that’s what became its symbol. Having bowed low to the memory of this ascetic, let us pray to him to grant health to us and our loved ones, to protect us from evil people, and, most importantly, to soften our own hearts. His memorial day is celebrated on March 18.

Icon of the Holy Venerable Seraphim of Vyritsky

One cannot help but recall the image of another saint of God, who lived at the same time as Saint Luke. The icon of St. Seraphim of Vyritsky is well known to most believers. The feat of his life deserves to be discussed separately. He was born in 1866. In the world, Vasily Muravyov, a wealthy entrepreneur and a happy family man, turned to God with all his soul. At a certain stage of life, he and his pious wife decided to leave the world and each took monastic vows, donating their entire enormous fortune to the holy monasteries in which they became involved. In 1927, he accepted the Great Schema with the name Seraphim. From this time his work as an elder begins - the highest monastic feat.

In the most difficult times of repression, Father Seraphim brought the word of God's truth to people. When the Lord sent him a heavy cross - an illness that confined him to bed until the end of his days, he continued his tireless labors even then. He spent the last twenty years of his life in the village of Vyritsa near Leningrad, where he survived Stalin’s terror, occupation and the difficult post-war years.

Until the end of his earthly life, the elder did not stop caring for his spiritual children. He left this world in 1949. In front of his icon, it is customary to pray for healing from illnesses, for deliverance from drunkenness, for the sending of spiritual peace and tranquility.

Icon of Saint Tatiana

The Holy Great Martyr Tatiana came to us from those ancient times when the Roman authorities cruelly persecuted Christians. Secretly professing the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, she helped all the sick and unfortunate, often visited prisoners, trying to alleviate their suffering. Like many on whose holy blood the church grew and strengthened, Tatyana accepted the crown of martyrdom. Her memorial day is January 25th. The icon of St. Tatiana helps those who have lost their homes, who suffer from illnesses and are in prison. In addition, the Great Martyr Tatiana is the patroness of students. Everyone who is about to take exams is recommended, in addition to diligent preparation, to also pray in front of her icon.

Icon of the Great Radonezh Wonderworker

Help in learning can also be found in prayer to the icon of St. Sergius of Radonezh. At the dawn of his earthly life, the future saint learned to read and write with great difficulty. No matter how hard he worked, he could not remember the lessons taught to him. And then one day, after much prayer, the Lord sent him an angel in the form of an old man who blessed him. After this miracle, the youth’s mind was opened and he comprehended the wisdom of the sciences. You can also pray to the saint to help children who have difficulty studying.

In addition, St. Sergius of Radonezh is one of the heavenly defenders of Russia from enemies. During his earthly life, in 1380, he blessed the holy Prince Demetrius Donskoy before the Battle of Kulikovo. This allows us to bring our prayers to St. Sergius for the strengthening of our army. In general, his life is inextricably linked with the history of Russia. “The great sad man of the Russian land” - this is how he entered Russian history. Saint Sergius of Radonezh is not only our hope and hope, but also a source of national pride. He is one of those whose life should be studied by all Russians. Without this, the icons of saints and their meaning will never be fully revealed to us. His memory is celebrated on July 19.

At the end of the article, I would like once again, bowing before those who have found the crowns of holiness, to make the sign of the cross and exclaim: “Holy saints of God, pray to God for us!”

The Kiev Pechersk Lavra was founded by the righteous Anthony and Theodosius in 1051. Russian monks became the first selfless workers of monasticism, one of whom was Zechariah the faster. Their spiritual deeds in the future inspired their descendants to an ascetic lifestyle.

Kiev Pechersk Lavra - the birthplace of Russian monasticism

The relics of the first founders Anthony and Theodosius of Pechersk are not stored in distant caves, only their symbolic coffins in their cells. During the invasion of Batu Khan in the fourteenth century, the remains of the saints were securely hidden and to this day it is unknown where.

The monastery existed on donations from princes and ordinary people; the monks helped orphans, the disadvantaged and the poor. A shelter for the sick was built near the monastery. Also from…

The life and death of Matrona of Thessaloniki serves as a model for Orthodox Christians. This martyr chose to die; no amount of torment or beating made her give up her faith in the Lord and Savior, who will always come to the rescue in any circumstances.

Life of the Martyr

The girl was a servant of the Jewish woman Pantilla, the wife of the military commander of the city of Thessalonica. The maid professed the Orthodox faith and prayed secretly from her mistress, so as not to attract her attention. Every day the lady went to the synagogue and took Matrona with her:

• the girl always walked with her to the door;
• as soon as Pantilla went inside, the girl ran to the temple to pray to the Lord.;
• When the hostess left the synagogue, she waited at the exit.

…

The history of Orthodoxy is majestic and endless, and the images of the saints amaze the consciousness with examples of their lives for the good of the Lord and people. There are a huge number of them, and each is a separate example for admiration and imitation. One of these can be called Saint Jonah, whose name is little known, but his deeds became a vivid example of a righteous life. And the troparion to Jonah, Metropolitan of Moscow is still read in churches today and helps Christians find their spiritual path.

Life of a Saint

Jonah comes from Galich, a descendant of a family distinguished by special piety. At the age of 12, the young man was ordained as a monk in the monastery of his native city, and soon moved to the famous Simonov Monastery (Moscow), where he was for a long time...

Moscow saints Peter, Jonah, Philip, Alexy were metropolitans at different times, but during difficult periods for Russia. They took care of their flock, built churches and monasteries, and contributed to the spread of the Orthodox faith.

Moscow Metropolitans Peter, Jonah, Philip, Alexy

Saint Peter settled in a monastery at an early age. For obedience and worthy work, Patriarch Athanasius of Constantinople elevated him to Moscow Metropolitan. A heavy burden fell on the Saint - the management of the metropolis during the time of the Tatar invasions.

The saint spent a lot of spiritual and physical strength to establish the Orthodox faith:

• called for an end to the feud between the princes;
• moved the metropolitan see from Vladimir to Moscow, which was an important event in those troubled times.

Saint Alexis by origin...

During his lifetime, Theodore Trikhin Vlasyanichnik performed a large number of miracles, helping the suffering. Miro, which came from his relics, helps to cope with many difficult situations.

Life of Saint Theodore

Theodore was born into a fairly wealthy Constantinople family. Having reached a young age, he decided to go to a monastery in Thrace. There he was accepted as a monk. He devoted all his time to strict observance of the laws of the Lord, fasting and other teachings. He recognized only coarse clothing, or more precisely, a prickly hair shirt. He always tried to come to the aid of those who needed his help.

What does it help with?

Like other saints, he shows his power in some specific situations. More often …

Saint Innocent is truly a great man in world Orthodoxy. His deeds are noble and honest, for their basis is righteous faith in the Lord. And the icon of St. Innocent, Archbishop of Irkutsk to this day amazes with the power of its miraculousness.

Life of Saint Innocent of Irkutsk

The future bishop was born into the family of a clergyman. At baptism he was named John and was brought up in the spirit of great goodness and kindness.

He graduated with honors from the Theological Academy in Kyiv. Towards the end of his studies, he took monastic vows and received the name Innocent, with which he entered the world of the clergy. Afterwards, the monk worked as a teacher in Moscow, from there he moved to the newly founded Nevsky Monastery, in order to serve as a true example there...

Zosimus and Savvaty of Solovetsky - these saints never crossed paths, but through their deeds they created a common cause. That is why they are revered by the Orthodox as a single whole. The main asset for them is that they were the founders and important figures of the Solovetsky Monastery.

Lives of the Saints

Since they are among the leading positions of the most revered saints, it is not surprising that there are several days of memory of Zosima and Savvati. Here is their list:

• April 30;
• June 3;
• July 7;
• 12th of August;
• August 21 and 22;
• The 20th of October.

Regarding the lives of Zosima and Savvaty Solovetsky, it is worth knowing that they were zealous followers of Christianity and practiced for a long time...

The Holy Martyr Basil of Ancyra and Caesarea was one of the noble citizens of the city of Anira, in Turkey. Throughout his life he helped people. Everyone in the immediate area knew about him as a deeply religious and devout person.

Life of the Martyr Vasily Aankirsky

Vasily served as a priest in the Ancyra Church. In those days, the bishop fell into the opposite heresy, which the saint did not support and did not share. He steadfastly believed in the Almighty and preached only one faith, Jesus Christ. When Julian took the throne as emperor, he began to restore paganism. Feeling an unknown support, Vasily redoubled his efforts on preaching and strengthening his faith.

Then the monk was accused of...

Saint Innokenty Veniaminov, Metropolitan of Moscow and Kolomna, is a well-known and respected person in the Russian Church. And his social and spiritual activities for the benefit of the Lord and the people became a worthy example for many true believers, which is still used in the history and culture of world Orthodoxy to affirm the faith and Word of God for everyone who needs them.

Life of Innocent of Moscow

The future metropolitan was born into the family of a church minister, to which he was initiated quite early. Later he graduated from theological seminary. It was there that he, as the most diligent student, was given the surname Veniaminov, in memory of the deceased archbishop. Afterwards he was elevated to the rank of priest.…

The story of the sisters Agapia, Irene and Chionia is known to many. With their rejected faith in Christ, they showed disobedience to pagan principles, for which they accepted martyrdom.

Lives of the Holy Martyrs

The events took place quite a long time ago, but the memory of them is preserved and passed on from generation to generation. They were born near the Italian city of Aquileia. At a fairly early age they were left orphans. The girls led a godly lifestyle and wanted to devote themselves to serving the Lord. One day Elder Zinon had a vision, which said that he would soon die, and Saint Agapia and her sisters would be given over to torture.

He told Anastasia the Pattern Maker about all this. She supported...