Icons of the Mother of God - photos with names and descriptions. Icon of the Iveron Mother of God: meaning and how the image helps

What measure of grief and suffering can an earthly woman endure? Early orphanhood, life at the temple, suspicions of a spouse about treason - this is the beginning of the life path of the Most Holy Theotokos. The Virgin Mary endured a lot of grief and suffering... The crowd’s mockery of the Son, his martyrdom and long years of life without Him testify to the suffering of the Mother. Her sacrificial love and endless patience helped her rise to the highest spiritual level.

The icons of the Most Holy Theotokos seem radiant and humble. Her experiences, hardships, and sufferings were replaced by Heavenly glory and the joy of the reunion of the Mother and the Son. The miraculous icons of the Mother of God are revered in many cities and countries. They ease grief and bring faith, heal illnesses and reward forgiveness. Prayers at the image of the Mother of God help soldiers on the battlefields and deliver them from enemies. At the same time, they provide simple family joys and consolation in troubles.

Four types of icons of the Virgin Mary

In the Orthodox calendar, many days are marked by the veneration of the miraculous icons of the Mother of God. Through her face she does good deeds, changes the destinies of people, and saves the fallen. The icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary differ from each other. There are 4 main types of such icons.

Hodegetria (translated from Greek - Guide). In the icon of this type, the Mother of God holds the Child Christ, pointing at him with her hand. Her eyes reflect the entire life path of a Christian. The most famous images of this type are the Smolensk, Georgian and Kazan icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Eleusa (translated from Greek - Merciful). Here the Mother of God clung to the Baby, they hug each other. This image is a symbol of the love of Mother and Son, their unity. The most famous icons of Eleus are the Vladimir and Don Mother of God.

Oranta (translated from Greek - Sign). In the iconography of this view, the Mother of God raised her hands to the sky in an outburst of prayer. The baby has not yet been born, but is already present on the medallion, symbolizing the divine and human principles. The most famous icons are “The Inexhaustible Chalice”, “Yaroslavl Oranta”.

The akathist view of the icon is a collective image. It is created in iconography under the impression of the Gospel texts. This is more like an illustration of the actions of the Mother of God, her participation in the fate of the Son. Bright icons of this type are “Unexpected Joy”, “The Burning Bush”, “All creation rejoices over you.”

Patronage of icons

Icons of the Mother of God in Rus' had the widest distribution. This explains such an abundance of images of the Mother of God. Her face is loved and revered by the people. She is considered a protector, comforter and intercessor. The image of the Mother of God carries within itself love and forgiveness for all sinners and those who have repented.

People turn to the Holy Image in sorrow and illness, asking for protection from enemies and ill-wishers. Prayers before the icons of the Most Holy Theotokos help women during pregnancy, grant easy childbirth and health to children. Men come for protection and consolation. Each of the miraculous icons of the Mother of God can help after sincere prayer.

Before the image of “Recovery of the Lost” they pray for headaches, toothaches, for dying children, a grace-filled marriage, and for aversion from alcohol addiction.

In front of the icon of the Feodorovskaya Mother of God they ask for relief from difficult childbirth. Our Lady of Ostrabram will protect marriage from evil forces and make it prosperous. The “Burning Bush” will protect the house from fires. The icon “The Sign of the Blessed Virgin Mary” protects from national troubles, protects from danger, helps mothers, and gives happiness to their children.

The image of the Vladimir Mother of God brought victory to Russian troops over Tamerlane in 1395. They say that the miraculous icon frightened the enemy, and the khan’s hordes simply fled.

The image of the Don Mother of God helped on the day of the Battle of Kulikovo in 1380. And in 1558, Ivan the Terrible prayed for a long time before going to Kazan. The icon granted victory to the Russian troops and the capture of the city.

How to pray in front of the icon of the Virgin Mary

There are many ready-made prayers that are read before the face of the Mother of God. These are requests for help, glorification of the Mother during church holidays, Akathists. They are so simple that with constant reading they can be easily learned by heart.

There are prayers:

• when hungry;
• in sorrow and illness;
• in case of danger of drowning;
• for injuries and pain;
• for eye diseases and blindness;
• when protecting a house from fire;
• for hearing diseases and deafness;
• for cancer;
• about the disease of drunkenness;
• about the gift of patience;
• about getting rid of thoughts of suicide.

This is only a small part of the prayers with which people turn to the image. It is not without reason that icons of the Most Holy Theotokos are considered miraculous. There are known facts when the image helped in curing serious illnesses, gave faith and patience.

The Mother of God is a protector and intercessor. If you approach the image with a pure heart and bright thoughts, then the reward will not be long in coming. Prayers can be read at home, in front of the home iconostasis. Or in church, after the service. Formal pronunciation of the words of the text does not grant a miracle. Only sincere faith in the power of God will help the request be fulfilled.

The clergy assure that if the text of the prayer is difficult to learn, then it can be read in written form. Or state your request in your own words. We should not forget that after fulfilling a wish, you must come to the icon and thank it.

Miraculous icons

The icon represents the connection between God and man. This is an opportunity to join and receive Grace. This is a belief in a happy deliverance from torment and sinfulness. This is the understanding that only suffering can cleanse the soul, bring peace to the heart, and teach patience and forgiveness.

The miraculous icon is a concentration of Divine power. Not all images have survived to this day. And not all icons, being miraculous, were recognized by the church administration. There must be indisputable evidence of healing, evidence of power, for the image to be officially recognized. Only after this does the icon receive miraculous status. Basically, such testimonies tell about healing during an epidemic, about saving the state from enemies, or about healing from various diseases.

Miraculous icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary can be found in different cities and countries of the world. People come to them with requests, prayers, hopes. What unites them is the power of an image that is capable of bringing a miracle into ordinary human life.

Icon "Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

Evidence of the Dormition (bodily relocation) of the Virgin Mary can be found in various sources. However, the Holy Scriptures say nothing about this. The only known facts are that during the VI Ecumenical Council a decision was made to open the tomb. They saw only funeral clothes and a holy belt in it. The latter can still be found on the holy Mount Athos (Greece) in the monastery of Vatopedi.

Before her death, Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Mother of God with the news that her life’s journey would end in 3 days. Afterwards the Lord will take her to himself. The funeral of the Mother of God took place in the Garden of Gethsemane. The sick, touching her bed, were healed. And 3 days after the funeral, the apostles did not find her body in the cave; only funeral clothes remained there.

On August 28, the celebration of the image of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary takes place. The icon is exhibited in churches in Moscow and Kyiv.

The image helps to cope with the fear of death. You can ask for strengthening of faith and humility. The “Assumption of the Most Holy Theotokos” also grants relief from illnesses. The icon, among other things, helps to comprehend one’s actions, strengthen oneself in virtues, and walk one’s path in life with dignity.

"The Sign of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

This name of the image is associated with the events of 1170. The troops besieged Veliky Novgorod. The townspeople constantly prayed for salvation. The Archbishop of Novgorod, while asking for help, heard the command of the Mother of God that her icon be raised to the city walls. The face was taken to the wall and turned towards the enemy troops. One of the arrows hit the image. The miraculous icon turned away from the attackers, depriving them of light and Grace. She turned to the besieged, granting them a miracle of salvation. At the same moment, confusion occurred in the enemy’s camp, fear seized them, and the enemies were defeated.

• Velikiy Novgorod;
• Moscow;
• Saint Petersburg;
• Barnaul;
• Moore;
• Belgorod;
• Severodvinsk;
• Nizhny Tagil;
• Kursk

The miraculous icon “The Sign of the Blessed Virgin Mary” protects soldiers and the population in military conflicts. Helps travelers, reconciles warring parties. Saves from diseases during epidemics, heals eye diseases and blindness.

The Annunciation is good news. Archangel Gabriel informs the Virgin Mary that Grace has visited her. She will give birth to the Son of God and name him Jesus. The day of celebration of this miraculous icon falls on April 7th.

There is a legend according to which the icon of the Annunciation appeared on the wall of one of the Kremlin towers during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. It was in this tower that the unjustly accused governor was imprisoned. He prayed and asked for a miracle. In confirmation of his innocence, there was the appearance of the face of the Mother of God.

The icon of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary survived the fire in 1737. Then the Annunciation Church and the Tsar Bell burned down. But the icon remained untouched by the flame. It can be found in the temples of the following cities:

• Moscow;
• Saint Petersburg;
• Pereslavl-Zalessky;
• Nizhny Novgorod;
• Kazan.

They pray to the miraculous icon for deliverance from imprisonment and unjust attacks, for the healing of spiritual and physical illnesses, for sorrows and temptations.

According to legend, this image was painted by the Apostle Luke. Allegedly, during the life of the Mother of God, with her blessing, Luke created from 3 to 70 faces of the Mother.

The Virgin Mary had four inheritances - Iveria (Georgia), Athos, Kievan Rus, and the Diveyevo monastery. There she was supposed to carry the word of God and sermons. The Mother of God did not have time to visit everywhere during her lifetime. But even after death, she participated in the spread of the Christian faith with signs and visions.

The Iveron Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Goalkeeper” is a symbol of the protection of all true believers. She appears as an intercessor, guardian, and comforter in all troubles and misfortunes.

The Iveron Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos is located in churches in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Samara, Rostov-on-Don, and Orel. It also exists in churches in the Novgorod, Kursk, Pskov, and Tambov regions. The days of celebration fall on February 25, October 26 and Tuesday of Holy Week.

There are many written and oral testimonies of healing after prayer. The icon helps to find the strength for repentance and cleansing. Sinners come to her in search of a righteous path, asking for protection and consolation. The icon relieves physical and mental illnesses. In front of it you can pray for the preservation of the house from fires, floods and other disasters.

The icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Goalkeeper” leaves mysteries to this day. In 1981, a Greek monk created an image copied from the original. The icon turned out to be myrrh-streaming. It was brought to Montreal (Canada) in 1982 by Joseph Muñoz Cortes. After akathists and prayers before the image, severe, incurable diseases (leukemia, paralysis) were healed. The icon returned people to spiritual life and freed them from unbelief. In 1997, the keeper of the image of Cortes was killed. The icon has disappeared.

"Tenderness of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

There are several famous miraculous “Tenderness” icons. Many lists have been made from them that do not lose their beneficial power.

The Smolensk Icon of the Tenderness of the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared in 1103. Polish invaders besieged the city. For 20 months, with the help of a miraculous image, the Smolensk troops held Smolensk and did not surrender it to the enemies.

The Pskov-Pechora Icon is famous for its miraculous healings. Evidence dating back to 1524 has been preserved in the chronicles of Pskov and Veliky Novgorod.

The Seraphim-Diveyevo icon “Tenderness of the Most Holy Theotokos” was in the cell of the holy elder Seraphim of Sarov until his death. Afterwards, several lists were made, which later also turned out to be miraculous. The Elder of Sarov anointed the sick with oil from the lamp that burned in front of the icon, and they were healed.

The Novgorod icon “Tenderness” in 1337 hovered in the air above the church doors. Tears fell from her eyes. Later that same year, a pestilence began in the city. The townspeople prayed to the holy image to intercede for them. Soon the disease subsided.

Prayer in front of the icon helps in troubles and misfortunes. Eliminates temptations, saves marriage. Grants pregnancy and easy childbirth. This image is considered feminine and helps in many illnesses and sorrows. Relieves eye diseases and blindness. Almost all miraculous images of the Virgin are capable of healing physical and mental illnesses after prayers and Akathists.

"Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

Prophecies about the birth of the Virgin, who will become the mother of the Messiah, are already heard in the Old Testament. She came from an ancient family that included many high priests, patriarchs, and kings. Jokaim and Anna, the parents of the Mother of God, did not have children for a long time. They fervently prayed for a child to appear in the family. After 50 years of marriage, they were given the happy news of the conception and birth of the Queen of Heaven.

The icon “Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary” tells about a joyful event. The birth and entire subsequent life of Mary is imbued with faith, calmness, and patience. It is not for nothing that she is considered the intercessor and comforter of all Christians and lost souls. The day of celebration is September 21st.

Often the icon “Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary” gave desperate parents a long-awaited child. Any prayer in front of the image can calm and heal the soul from insults and injustice. Particularly effective are requests for lost souls, the return of faith, cleansing from sins, and the granting of spiritual and moral foundations. Prayers for children, family reunification, elimination of grievances and quarrels between spouses will also be heard.

Meaning of the icon

Icons of the Most Holy Theotokos personify the unity of God and man. As a simple woman, she gave birth to the Savior, as the Holy Virgin Mary stood next to him in Heaven. This is a combination of higher spirituality and understanding of human weaknesses. The image of the Mother of God is a collective image of a mother who knows how to forgive her children, intercede for them, and understand them. That is why there are so many icons, prayers, holidays, and memorable dates dedicated to the Mother of God.

The priests teach that there is no greater suffering on earth than standing nearby and seeing the death of your own child. The Most Holy Theotokos passed through the pangs of sacrifice to spiritual transformation. The icon, the meaning of which lies not in external splendor, but in internal virtues, teaches the laity much...

The Mother of God spent her entire life in humility and patience. I lost my parents early. She married a widower whose sons did not love her and did not believe in Divine Grace. Her meekness and suffering became an amazing combination of earthly spirituality and heavenly holiness.

Formal reading of prayers and indifferent attendance at church will not grant the favor of the Mother of God. Only through repentance, a pure heart, and sincere love can one achieve the intercession of the Virgin.

The miraculous icons of the Most Holy Theotokos teach humanity and the ability to remain virtuous in any life situations. To endure difficulties and trials with humility and to know that even in sin you can repent and regain Grace.

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 icon of the “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” and the meaning of her intercession before God were valued by people at all times. No believer has ever been left without her help.

The place of the Intercession of the Mother of God in the cycle of the Mother of God holidays

There are special days when the church glorifies the Virgin Mary. They are among the twelve holidays that are dedicated to events from the life of Jesus Christ and his Mother. The Theotokos cycle includes the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, Her Entry into the Temple, as well as the Annunciation and peaceful death - the Dormition - all of them are the most important dates in her life. The Orthodox also honor the parents of the Mother of God - Joachim and Anna, and celebrate the conception of the Virgin Mary.

The Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos is celebrated with special solemnity by the Church. October 14 is a significant day for Orthodox Christians. After all, the Mother of God at all times was considered the intercessor and protector of people before God. It is not for nothing that the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos is found in almost every home.

The Greatness of the Queen of Heaven

The Church believes that the Mother of God is the only person who lived in the world who is able to constantly ask the Lord for the salvation of people. This is the greatness of the Mother of God. Her appearance was already predetermined, like the Incarnation itself. Old Testament history contains evidence of Mary's childhood and adolescence. When the girl was still a three-year-old child, she was able to climb the high steps into the temple herself, and then the priest, at the direction of the Divine, led her into the Holy of Holies of the temple. All women were prohibited from entering there.

In images of the Virgin Mary, three stars are always visible, which are located next to her head and hands. This means that she has always been and remains a Virgin: before Christmas, at Christmas and after the Nativity of Jesus Christ. Mary's holiness allowed her to become a vessel of the Divine Spirit and preserve the mystery of the incarnation of God. Even after her Dormition, she does not leave people, but prays for them, which is why the icon “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” is especially revered. How does the Mother of God help? The main thing is that the Virgin Mary asks God for the salvation of the entire human race.

Celebration of the Intercession on Russian soil

Since ancient times, people remembered the saints of God. On the days of their veneration, they went to the temple and prayed to the saints. The Russian people treated the Mother of God with special reverence and love. During the dedication to the Virgin Mary, all believers tried to attend services. She was especially revered. What does the Mother of God protect from? Everyone can get the answer to this question by turning to her in prayer.

On this day, people, standing at the divine liturgy, with hope and faith appealed to the Lady of heaven and earth with requests for protection, patronage, and solutions to important everyday issues. After leaving the temple, the people gave alms to those in need. Currently, all traditions have been preserved. Those who cannot go to church on this day pray to the Mother of God at home, since the icon of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos, the photo and meaning of which are discussed in this article, is found in almost every Orthodox family.

The history of the appearance of the icon

In the 10th century, the Byzantine Empire was often attacked by barbarians. Once, during such a raid, the enemy attacked Constantinople. The people who lived there gathered in the temple and began to offer their prayers to the Mother of God, tearfully asking her to protect them from harm. By Sunday, Andrei the Holy Fool saw the Mother of God along with a host of angels and saints. According to legend, she first walked through the air, and then, kneeling down, began to fervently pray to her divine Son to protect the people and grant them salvation from the enemy.

Then she took off the wonderful, brilliant veil from her head, which fell over all those praying. The vision disappeared, and the people in the Blachernae temple felt an extraordinary surge of grace and joy. The enemies immediately retreated from the city. The people were saved by the "Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos" - icon. What people pray to the Mother of God for will remain only in their hearts.

Nowadays this may seem like a miracle, but there is a lot of historical evidence that the siege actually took place, and then the storm happened. Since then, the icon of the Mother of God “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” has been especially revered. What the Blessed Virgin protects from, people can always see by praying to her.

Description and meaning of the Intercession icon

Most often, the Virgin Mary is depicted in full height. Her head and upper part of the figure are covered with a huge quadrangular board - maforium. The Virgin Mary's lower clothing - the tunic - reaches the floor. Mostly her robes are colored blue and red-brown. The first shows purity and purity, and the second symbolizes that Jesus Christ borrowed flesh and blood from her to come to earth in human form. Three stars at the edges of the maforium indicate Mary’s ever-virginity. In the hands of the Mother of God there is a veil - an omophorion, which she extends over the entire earth.

The icon of the "Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos", the meaning of which is to preserve peace and harmony between people, should occupy a place of honor on the iconostasis of every Orthodox Christian. The main thing is to trust in the mercy of the Mother of God, and she will certainly help in all everyday needs.

Iconography of the Intercession

The miracle of the appearance of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Andrei the Fool, unfortunately, was not captured in Byzantine images. In Rus', over time, two types of icons dedicated to the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos were formed: Central Russian and Novgorod. This began to happen after the introduction of the holiday by Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky, who, after hearing the story of the vision of the holy fool, paid attention to this event. Thus, he entrusted the Mother of God with the care of our entire earth.

In the Central Russian (Vladimir-Suzdal) iconographic tradition, a connection can be traced between the Bogolyubskaya Icon of the Mother of God and the “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos”. In this type of image, the Heavenly Queen herself holds the veil, sitting at her foot, distinguished by the image of the Mother of God in the form of Oranta (praying). Angels hold a veil over her. Every detail of her image was thought out by the artists, because the icon “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos,” the meaning and meaning of which lies in the heavenly help of the Intercessor of all Christians, gives people hope for the mercy of the Lord.

Mother of God - defender of the Russian land

With the beginning of the adoption of Christianity, people gradually realized that they needed the help of the Lord and the intercession of the Mother of God. The Russian people believed with all the directness and sincerity of which they were capable that the Lord would protect them from any troubles and misfortunes. The Mother of God was considered an intercessor in the face of her Son for all who truly believe in him and want to save their souls in order to later enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Most Orthodox churches have an icon of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. What does the Lady of heaven and earth protect the Russian people from? We have always had many troubles and sorrows: famine, wars, natural disasters.

And the Virgin Mary never leaves people in grief. Since ancient times, the icon “Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary” was considered the intercessor of the Cossacks. How does the Mother of God help soldiers? During the invasion of enemies and all kinds of oppression, when they had to go fight for their native land, they went into battle with faith in God and trust in his mercy and returned with victory. Then, while in the temple, they thanked the Mother of God and the Lord.

In what matters does the Mother of God help?

There is hardly an Orthodox person who has never experienced the intercession of the Virgin Mary. The holiday itself, called the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos, the icon, what people pray for - all this suggests that people often resort to the help of the Queen of Heaven. Nowadays, people ask her for a successful marriage, protection from harassment at work and service, healing of illnesses, and peace in the family.

It is the “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” - an icon (which means “image” in Greek) that helps the people become purer and kinder. Expressing their gratitude, they bring jewelry to the temple: rings, earrings, chains and other donations. There are also certain ones dedicated to the glorification of the Mother of God.

Traditions associated with the Intercession

Since ancient times, people have had their own peculiarities of celebrating October 14th. On this day it was customary, first of all, to glorify the Mother of God. Along with others there was an icon of the “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos”, the significance of which for the Russian people was simply invaluable. Also required:

• first attend the Divine Liturgy, and then be sure to give alms to the poor and needy standing at the entrance to the temple;
• bake pancakes, covering all the corners of the apartment with them, and then leave an offering to the brownie;
• take a branch of an apple tree, set it on fire and smoke the whole house in order to attract prosperity;
• prepare a lot of delicious food and have a fun feast with all your family and friends.

Folk signs on Pokrov

Our ancestors made their forecasts through observations and were rarely wrong. People believed that if the weather on Pokrov was good and it was warm outside, then the winter would not be too cold. When you find out which direction the wind is blowing from, you have to wait for frost from there; if it is in the eastern direction, then cold weather will come later. They mostly began precisely on October 14, so those who did not insulate their houses froze in winter. The smartest ones lit the stove with apple tree branches on this day, attracting heat into the hut.

“Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” is an icon that means and symbolizes peace and harmony. All Russian girls knew the answer to the question of why she should pray. They tried not to be sad on such a day, but spent it cheerfully. It was believed that this would attract the groom. For the holiday, they lit candles to the image of the Queen of Heaven, because the first one who does this will get married before everyone else. The icon of the Mother of God "Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary", the meaning of the holiday itself - all this is very important for the Russian people. People also believed that there would be many weddings if it snowed all day on Pokrov.

Famous churches and monasteries in honor of the Intercession

Everyone in Russia has at least once heard about St. Basil's Church, which is located on Red Square in Moscow. Initially it was the Intercession Cathedral. It was built under Ivan the Terrible in memory of the Russian victory over the Kazan Tatars.

The Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is depicted in all school textbooks. It harmonizes perfectly with the surrounding nature. The church was erected during the reign of Andrei Bogolyubsky, and it is considered the pearl of Russian architecture.

It was founded in Suzdal in 1364. The rise of the monastery is associated with the name of Vasily III, who donated a large sum for its maintenance. Currently, this convent is active. You can always visit it to pray there and see the preserved ancient architectural buildings.

In conclusion, it must be said that the holiday “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos”, the icon, the meaning, the prayer addressed to the Mother of God should be familiar to all true believers.

The Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos - or Intercession, as people say - is a great holiday in Christianity, although it is not part of the 12 main ones. It means a sign of the grace of the Lord. The main image of the celebration is the icon of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which on this day in all churches is brought to the middle of the hall. This holiday is dedicated to the appearance of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The action took place in Constantinople. Around the 10th century, when the Saracens attacked the city, all local residents gathered in the Blachernae Temple, located on the banks of the Bosphorus. At that time, the headdress and robe of the Mother of God were already stored in this place.

All those gathered sincerely prayed to God for salvation and help. And at that very moment, the holy fool Andrei - a resident of the city who was known to everyone else for his deep intelligence and piety - saw the image of the Mother of God, who seemed to be walking through the air along with the saints. She began the prayer with tears in her eyes and also asked for alms for the city. After this, she approached the altar and, taking off her head covering (omophorion), seemed to cover everyone present.

By the morning they were able to defend the city and repel the enemy army. After this majestic event, the icon of the Intercession of the Virgin Mary appeared.

Description and meaning of the icon

If you carefully examine the image of the Intercession of the Holy Mother of God, the icon was perfectly able to unite two worlds: earthly and heavenly. You can also see on it:

• naves of the Blachernae Temple;
• sacred altar;
• a dark red curtain that seems to cover the image of the Mother of God.

You can also notice the fact that the Virgin Mary is not depicted alone. In addition to it, you can see:

• Venerable Roman the Sweet Singer with a scroll on the pulpit;
• Ecumenical Patriarch;
• Many prophets, martyrs;
• John the Baptist;
• Andrey Bogolyubov and others.

It is worth noting the fact that the meaning of the icon of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary is easily read by the way it looks. So, its most important mission is to protect the believing people.

Iconographic features

As for the appearance of icons in Rus' in general, this event can be attributed to the 12th century. And immediately two completely different approaches to depicting holy images arose.

The Moscow version of the image of the Mother of God of the Intercession of the icon, the meaning of which is the depiction of all the details of the scene in the Blachernae Church - reflects as fully as possible all previous events. And everyone around you must be included. It is also obligatory that in this version the Queen of Heaven herself holds the veil.

According to the Novgorod version, the veil is held by angels, The Mother of God holds her hands in an outburst of prayer.

What and who does the shrine help with?

In every church and temple you can see the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary icon, what they pray to her for, it’s worthwhile to figure it out.

Each individual person, first of all, asks for help in the fight against his internal enemies. Thus, the Queen of Heaven gives everyone a protective shield that helps keep the head, soul and physical shell - the body - healthy.

If we consider help in a broader sense, for example for the people, then the icon has long been considered a talisman and the most powerful patroness of the army, which protected from all kinds of attacks and troubles. Quite often the prayer is said in such situations when:

• there is a strong need for protection in the home and family;
• it is necessary to overcome the disease;
• a person is overcome by sadness or despondency;
• need help in love affairs;
• Housing problems and all sorts of issues need to be resolved.

That is why it is imperative to have an icon of the Intercession of the Virgin Mary, the significance of which, undoubtedly, is also great at home.

Folk customs

In Russia, the holiday of the Intercession has long been perceived as a symbol of the meeting of autumn with winter, and also marked the beginning of weddings and folk festivals. All this because on this day work in the fields was completed, and people had a lot of free time.

As echoes of the perception of the church holiday, the people still have the custom of praying in front of the icon of the Intercession, so that the Mother of God would help in a successful marriage, family affairs and health.

As for Christian traditions directly, the church, of course, does not prohibit requests of this kind, but still calls to remember that prayer to the Mother of God is, first of all, awareness of one’s own sins and repentance for what one has done.

On this day, each temple holds a litiya and religious procession. It is on this day, as on other church holidays, that church bells sound unusual and as solemn as possible.

People who deeply believe in God are alien to the use of magical objects of the ancient Slavic cult. The icon is the personification of the supreme powers.

An icon is not a simple cult object, charged with heavenly energy; it is a connecting link between man and God. It is important to understand that an image unconsecrated in a church becomes a simple piece of furniture. An icon that has undergone this ritual will be a reliable protection of home and person from various adversities and evil energy. One should not place images of saints in the house without meaning; this must be done with faith in the soul and pure thoughts.

Icons protecting from thunderstorms and fire:

Protecting your home from theft and enemies:

There are certain rules for placing icons in a room:

• East side of the house.
• The place must be washed and crossed; do not move the image in search of a more advantageous location.
• Before installing, walk through all the rooms with the icon in your hands.
• Paintings and other interior decorations are not hung next to the images.
• Do not place it near a TV or music installations.

Prayer for home protection

An appeal to the Lord can be in thoughts or spoken out loud - this is prayer. Most often this happens in difficult and critical periods of life, if a person especially needs protection from above. Sometimes in a simple situation, when we leave home for some time, we become worried about the safety of our home and property. A devout person can turn to the Saints through a prayer service in order to feel the protective energy of the Almighty far from home. In these cases it reads:

« Lord Jesus, Son of God! Protect my house from fierce envy and from evil people. Save my house from destruction, desecration and fire. Save us from the abyss of sin. Radost b house . Thy will be done Amen ».

Before that, you need to follow a certain ritual:

• Leave notes at church for the health of your loved ones.
• Candles should be placed in front of the images of Jesus Christ, Blessed Matrona of Moscow, John the Warrior, Nikita of Novgorod.
• Buy holy water and twelve candles from the church.
• Light them in front of your home iconostasis.
• Wash yourself and your family with church water and spray the corners.
• Bless your home when you leave.

An icon that protects the family and helps in love

It is believed that the family is strong in faith, therefore every home should have icons in order to gain spiritual support in difficult times or to give grace to the Almighty. A family icon must be passed down through generations, thus establishing a connection with the Family. Such a relic may depict the patrons of the household, the icon with which significant events, healings, or a shrine preserved for generations are associated. Such icons prayed by ancestors carry a powerful charge of energy and are considered powerful for the family. If such a shrine has not survived, you must definitely go to church and purchase an icon, perhaps it will become that family relic. Devout people are well aware of the purpose of icons. Those who have just turned to God should know this. The icons and houses are:

Icons - patroness of home and family - will help preserve love, peace and harmony.

Prayer for family happiness

Good relationships between loved ones are considered the main component of life. Prayers directed to the Almighty and the Patron Saints will help to extinguish outbursts of anger, establish internal harmony, and avert the evil eye.

“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God. Turn away our enemies from our family and cleanse us from envious filth. If discord is happening with demonic help, help me stop it. Grant us a peaceful life and forgive all sins committed out of ignorance. Thy will be done. Amen".

“Lord Heavenly Father! In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray to You for my family happiness. Grant us in our family love for each other. Grant to us that our love may strengthen and multiply. Teach me to love my spouse with all my heart, teach me to love him (her) as You and Your Son Jesus Christ loved me. Grant me to understand what I need to remove from my life and what I need to learn so that we can have a happy family. Grant me wisdom in my behavior and in my words, so that I never irritate or upset my husband (wife) Amen.”

Icon bringing happiness and prosperity to the family

Every family has its own understanding of happiness. Sometimes there are periods when luck bypasses your family ship, and troubles pour in one after another. To gain fortitude to overcome adversity, you need to turn to the Holy Benefactors:

Prayer for prosperity and prosperity

“Money doesn’t buy happiness,” the saying goes, and this is partly true, of course. But every family or individual would like to have a stable income and material wealth. Financial difficulties often cause family discord, housing issues, and often you have to use money to solve health problems. To attract wealth, you need to appeal to the Saints:

• Spyridon of Trimifuntsky;
• Tikhon Zadonsky;
• Xenia the Blessed;
• John the Merciful;

The Almighty powers, of course, will not solve material difficulties. But this will help concentrate your internal reserves, strengthen your spirit, and the Lord and the Saints will direct your energy in the right direction.

“Heavenly Father, I thank You for all the good things that You give me through Jesus. Savior, bless the work You have given me. Give me strength to do my work for the good of Your kingdom. Grant me the joy of seeing the fruits of my labor and my donations. Fulfill your words on me, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” so that I can live in prosperity and not experience poverty. And if I should experience poverty, grant me, Almighty, wisdom and patience, so that I can endure it with dignity, without complaining. Amen".

Strong icons against diseases

How often do people not think about the fact that being healthy is happiness. Such thoughts begin to occur when illnesses happen to loved ones. This may be the result of a wasteful attitude towards your body, unfavorable ecology, or accidents. Medicine in our time has reached incredible heights, but sometimes turning to the Almighty remains the only hope. There are many known cases of miraculous healing through a prayer service in front of the image of the Saints or to God. Illnesses received through the evil eye and damage are beyond the control of medicine; only a word directed to the Almighty will help here:

Prayer for Healing

The divine word addressed to the Lord can work miracles. The main thing is that faith lives in the soul and thoughts are pure, then the Lord will not leave the sufferer alone with pain and torment. Prayers for the health of a sick person have great power. The main thing is that he is baptized. For health, you can read the following prayer:

“Oh, our Creator! I ask for your help. Grant by Your mercy complete recovery to the servant of God (name), wash his blood with Your rays. Only with Your merciful help will his healing come. Touch him with Your miraculous power, grant his body health, blessed lightness to his soul, and Your balm to his heart. May the pain leave him forever and strength return, and the wounds heal, and your holy help come. May Your rays give him strong protection and strengthen His faith. May you hear my words, Lord Almighty. Amen".

Icons protecting children

The child is pure and sinless, therefore he is under the special protection of the highest powers. He resides under the “wing” of the Guardian Angel, the Savior himself and the Most Holy Theotokos. Icons:

The icons are placed in the room where children are most often found.

Prayer for the health of the child

There is nothing stronger than a mother’s prayer for her child. Her prayers are sincere and filled with faith. You need to know that in moments of grief you should not make empty promises when turning to higher powers. Before praying, go to the temple, where you write a note about the child’s health. Place candles in front of the icons of the Mother of God, Christ and the Saint. Ask for forgiveness for personal sins and pray for the health of the servant of God, saying the name, until the age of seven they say “Child of God.”

Bring home the blessed water, placing your palm on the boy’s head, read the prayer and wash him.

You can turn to the powers of Heaven for healing in your own words, most importantly with hope in your soul.

“O Most Holy Lady Virgin Theotokos, save and preserve under Your shelter my children (names), all youths, young women and infants, baptized and nameless, and carried in their mother’s womb. Cover them with the robe of Your motherhood, keep them in the fear of God and obedience to their parents, pray to my Lord and Your Son to grant them what is useful for their salvation. I entrust them to Your maternal supervision, for You are the Divine protection of Your servants. Amen".

Icon asking for marriage

In Orthodoxy, marriage is regarded not only as the creation of a family for the purpose of procreation, but also the spiritual unity of a man and a woman. The need to meet a worthy husband in order to marry him is natural. If a girl asks the Saints for help, there is nothing unnatural about it. The following prayers are addressed to the icons:

Prayer for Marriage

The most blessed day when you need to ask for marriage is the Feast of the Intercession of the Virgin Mary. It is read opposite the icon of the Mother of God. Before that, you need to perform the following ritual:

• Forgive all the men who have hurt you.
• Wash yourself with water to cleanse not only your soul, but also your body.
• Clean up your home.

Turn to your father and mother for a blessing and only then read the prayer.

“To my queen, my hope to the Mother of God, the friend of the orphans and the strange, the intercessor of those who grieve with joy, those who are offended by the patroness. See my misfortune, see my sorrow, help me as I am weak, feed me as I am strange. Weigh my offense, resolve it as you will: for I have no other help except for you, no other intercessor, good comforter, except for You, O Mother of God, for you will preserve me and cover me forever and ever. Amen".

The most powerful Orthodox icon

The myrrh-streaming icon “The All-Tsarina” is located in Greece in the Vatopedi Monastery, its origin dates back to the 17th century. The Mother of God is depicted in her arms with the baby Son of God, holding a scroll in her palms. Behind the shoulders are figures of Angels with open wings. The entire Orthodox world knows this miraculous shrine. There are many examples of parishioners being healed from terrible illnesses. “The Tsaritsa” guides those who have fallen in spirit on the true path, helps them gain faith, turn them away from sinful deeds, and protect them from harm.

Icons that need to be kept in the house

There are many icons, each of them is endowed with a special gift from God for their righteous deeds, piety, and suffering. A believer knows which face to offer a prayer to; for those who have recently converted to Orthodoxy, it is initially difficult to understand which faces to place at home. The most revered icons among Christians:

The images of Christ and the Mother of God should be in every family. Also, the parishioner chooses one icon himself, most often the icon:

• Panteleimon the Healer.
• Nicholas the Wonderworker.
• Guardian Angel.

A prayer everyone needs to know

Turning to the Lord, a person reads a prayer service. For every occasion there is a verbal message to the Lord. There is a prayer-amulet that will help in any life situation.

“Glory to the Father, Glory to the Son, Glory to the Holy Spirit. Lord, save God's servant (name) from all evil. From intrigues, inventions, secret plans, Nets, traps, poisons, swords, conspiracies, excuses, cunning, insidious negotiations. From enemy visitation, from imprisonment. From bribery and the sword, from a word spoken in the heat of the moment. From an enemy meeting, from a false accusation. From the drowning wave, from the flooding water. From the beast, from the fire, God save me. God save me from the violent wind, from the ice, save me. God save me from the evil sorcerer, save me. God save me from the evil sorcerer, save me. From a terrible illness, from an early death in vain, from an inverted cross, God save me, save me. No matter my thoughts, no matter my flesh, no matter my living red blood. Fuck me with a wild, dashing thought. My guardian angel, pray for my soul. Everything I said that I forgot I didn’t say. Come word by word and save God’s servant (name) from all evil. Key, lock, tongue! Amen! Amen! Amen".