The Don Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos was painted, according to art historians, by Theophan the Greek. Being at the very epicenter of hostilities, the Don Icon of the Mother of God protected and gave strength to the defenders of Rus' from the Mongol yoke on the day of the Battle of Kulikovo, which took place on September 8, 1380, on the day of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. According to legend, the shrine was brought by the Don Cossacks from the town of Sirotin on the eve of the battle. In honor of this great victory, the icon was named Donskoy. After accepting the image as a gift from the Don Cossacks, Dmitry Donskoy transported this icon to Moscow. Initially it was placed in the Assumption Cathedral of the Kremlin.
Date of celebration: September 1
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”
Celebrated on May 18th. They pray for deliverance from drunkenness.
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
Celebrated on July 9th. The meaning of the image is that it protects the northern borders of Russia.
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"
Celebrated on July 11 and 25. Means the omnipotence of God's miracles.
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"
Celebrated on May 21st. Provides assistance during childbirth.
In the 14th century it was located in the Annunciation Cathedral of the Kremlin. Glorified by many miracles.
"Annunciation"
Celebrated on April 7th.
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"
Celebrated on November 6th. The icon means the mercy of the Mother of God to the offended and suffering.
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"
Celebrated on January 25th. They ask for a healthy birth and feeding.
The image was transported to Serbia from Jerusalem by St. Savva in the 6th century.
"Fadeless Color"
Celebrated on April 16th.
Signifies the purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Read more about the icon of the Mother of God Unfading Color.
"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"
Celebrated on January 8th.
Helps with difficult childbirth.
"Self-Written"
Celebrated on July 12th. Its special significance is in the conversion of people of other faiths to Orthodoxy.
Locally revered on Mount Athos. It miraculously manifested itself in a pious icon painter from the city of Iasi in 1863.
"Quick to Hear"
Celebrated on November 22. Signifies quick condescension and mercy towards those praying.
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"
Celebrated on October 1st. Famous for numerous healings.
Meaning: comfort to the sick. Often decorates hospital churches.
History of the icon
During the battle between Prince Dmitry Donskoy and the Mongol Khan Mamai, the icon of Our Lady of the Don was among the Russian soldiers. It was received by the commander as a gift from the Don Cossacks. The prayers of the Most Pure Virgin and their miraculous power helped the Russian army win the battle for the liberation of Rus' from the Tatar-Mongol yoke. Returning victoriously to Moscow, Dmitry Donskoy brought with him an icon and named it Donskoy, in honor of the great victory over the Tatars for Rus'.
According to church traditions, there is another victory associated with the Don Icon of the Mother of God, won with the help of the intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos. After 200 years of the Battle of Kulikovo Field, during the reign of Theodore Ioannovich, Tsar and Grand Duke, the Crimean Tatars, led by Khan Kazy-Girey, attempted to capture Moscow. They had already approached the walls of the city, and Theodore Ioannovich came out with his army against the horde, taking with him an icon brought from the Don. A divine service and religious procession were held, after which the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos was placed in the regimental church. And the next day, the Tatars, having been defeated with the help of the miraculous icon, were expelled from Moscow. The Crimean Tatars never attacked the city again.
To pay tribute to the Mother of God’s gratitude for the victory, the Grand Duke gave the order to build a stone temple at the location of the Russian army in anticipation of the battle with the Tatar invaders, and then place the Donskaya Icon of the Mother of God Theophanes the Greek there, and after these events they began to call the monastery Donskoy. Today it is a functioning monastery. Every year a solemn service is held here.
Icon “Protection” of the Blessed Virgin Mary - what it helps with
All requests for protection addressed to the Mother of God will be heard if they come from the depths of the heart. Prayer to this image can protect from all evils, troubles and illnesses. She surrounds everyone with her sacred omophorion, giving a feeling of security and grace.
How many times did the Virgin Mary appear in Rus' and save those in need of protection? Even victory came when, according to all the laws of military strategy and tactics, there should have been defeat. All thanks to sincere prayer.
Prayer in front of the icon also helps to cope with our internal enemies, since Mother gives us an internal shield that protects our heads and souls.
Appearance of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos to Andrey the Holy Fool
The 10th century was a turbulent time in the history of the Byzantine Empire. The state was often attacked by barbarian peoples. During one of these raids, the enemies approached the walls of Constantinople. All the townspeople gathered together, filled the Christian Church of the Most Holy Mother of God in Blachernae, offering prayers to the image of the Mother of God, and tearfully asked to protect the city from destruction and desecration.
Among everyone at the all-night vigil, the youth Andrei tearfully prayed on his knees, who accepted the ascetic feat of foolishness, patiently enduring humiliation and ridicule from those around him. At the end of the service, he saw a glow in which the Mother of God appeared, surrounded by saints and angels. The Most Pure Virgin listened to the prayer, then took the cloth (maforium) from her head and covered all the worshipers who were in the church with it. Even those who had not seen the bright face felt extraordinary joy and grace at that moment. Thus, the Mother of God protected Christians and hid them from enemy attacks. Soon after the miraculous vision, the enemy army retreated. Since that time, the Christian Church has venerated the icon of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos.
The collection of Great Cheti-Minea, describing this event, does not mention a specific date or any day of the week. The vision descended upon Andrei the Fool in the Blachernae Church during the all-night vigil at the fourth hour. The Holy Virgin passed through the air through the Royal Doors. Next to her were John the Theologian and John the Baptist. The saints supported the Mother of God on both sides. There were also many other saints in white robes. Some walked in front of the Mother of God, others followed her. Everyone sang spiritual chants. The procession stopped in front of the altar near the pulpit. The Queen of Heaven took off her shining omophorion, extended her arms, spreading it over the people praying in the temple. Then the Great Intercessor withdrew with the saints, leaving grace to the people.
Researchers cannot determine exactly when the described event occurred. There is evidence of him in the life of Andrei Yurodivy. But his years of life are estimated tentatively. Some lean toward the date 910, while other sources point to 926.
There is an interesting version of why the holiday and icons of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary are of great importance and are especially revered by the residents of Russia. Some historians believe that those who attacked Constantinople were the Russian princes, whose names were Askold and Dir. The miracle that happened impressed them so much that they wanted to accept the true Christian faith.
Mother of God - defender of the Russian land
As soon as people accepted Christianity, they came to the realization that they needed the intercession of the Mother of God and the help of the Lord. The Russian people have always sincerely believed that God will not abandon them and will protect them from misfortunes and troubles. The Mother of God is an intercessor before her Dream for all who believe in it and want to save their soul. And the Lady does not leave people in grief.
Since ancient times, the icon “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” was considered the intercessor of the Cossacks. Before any battle, they came with faith and hope to pray in front of the image and returned victorious.
Prayers before the icon
Troparion, tone 4
The Most Blessed and Swift Intercessor of the faithful,/ Most Pure Virgin Mary!/ We pray to Thee before Thy holy and miraculous image,/ Yes, even as Thy intercession is of old from it/ Granted to the city of Moscow Thou art, / so even now, mercifully deliver us from all troubles and misfortunes, / / and save our souls, as the Merciful One.
Translation: Defender of the faithful, Offering and Swift, Most Pure Virgin Mary! We pray to You before Your holy and miraculous image, just as You previously granted Your protection to the city of Moscow from it, so now You will graciously deliver us from all troubles and misfortunes, and save our souls, like the Merciful One.
Troparion, tone 4
All-sung and All-glorious Queen Theotokos,/ Mother of all creation, Creator,/ Christian hope and Intercessor,/ quick hope for the hopeless and despairing, we pray to Thee:/ be merciful to us sinners, / do not forsake your servants and do not deny the prayers of the unworthy. / We pray, looking to Your honorable image/ Your holy and miraculous icons and crying out:/ May Your mercy abide with those who sail and travel./ O Lady, through Your robe of honest protection,/ and in all places Keep these evil things faithful, / and pray to Christ God, born of You ours,// may he save our souls from sin.
Translation: O Queen Theotokos, glorified and glorified by all, Mother of the Creator of all created things, Christian hope and Defender, for those who are hopeless and despairing of quick help, we pray to You: be merciful to us sinners, do not abandon Your servants and do not reject the prayers of the unworthy. We pray, looking at the revered image of Your holy and miraculous icon and cry: may Your mercy be with those who sail and travel. O Lady, with the robe of Your precious protection, protect the faithful in all difficult situations, and pray to Christ our God, born of You, that He may save our souls from sins.
Kontakion, tone 8
To the chosen Voivode, victorious,/ as having got rid of the evil ones,/ let us write thanksgiving to Thee, Thy servants, to the Mother of God,/ but, as having an invincible power,/ free us from all troubles, let us call Thee: // Rejoice, Neve ́sto Unbride.
Translation: To You, the Supreme Commander who defends us, for deliverance from terrible troubles, we institute victory celebrations for You, we, Your servants, are grateful, Mother of God! But You, as having irresistible power, free us from all dangers, so we cry to You: “Rejoice, Bride, who has not known marriage!”
In Kontakion, voice 2
In the heavenly abodes you moved with flesh, / existing on earth, you left in no way, O Mother of God, / the Divine and many-wonderful image of your most pure face / to behold and worship thee to those who love you this,/ as a sign of Your grace;// we honor him, kissing him.
Translation: Having moved to the Heavenly abodes with your body, You did not leave those living on earth, Mother of God, having granted the opportunity to contemplate and worship Your sacred image, glorified by miracles, to all who love You, as a sign of Your grace, we honor it by kissing.
First prayer
Oh, Most Holy Lady, Virgin Mary, our good and speedy Intercessor! We sing to You all thanksgiving for Your wonderful deeds. Since ancient times we have hymned Thy indispensable intercession for the city of Moscow and our country, which is always revealed in Thy miraculous image of the Don: the alien troops are put to flight, hail and remain unharmed. We are preserved, but people are delivered from cruel death. The teary eyes are dried up, the lamentations of the faithful are silenced, crying is transformed into common joy. Bring us, O Most Pure Mother of God, consolation in adversity, rebirth of hope, an image of courage, a source of mercy, and grant us inexhaustible patience in sorrowful circumstances. Give to everyone according to his request and need: educate babies, teach chastity and the fear of God to young ones, encourage the despondent and support weak old age. Visit those in sickness and sorrow, soften evil hearts, strengthen brotherly love, fill us all with peace and love. Reconcile, O Blessed Mother, those who are at war and justify those who are slandered. Destroy the vices, so that our sins do not arise before the Judge of all, so that the righteous wrath of God does not befall us. With Your prayers, Your all-powerful protection, protect us from the invasions of enemies, from famine, destruction, fire, sword and all other suffering. We hope through your prayers that you will receive forgiveness and erasing of sins from the Almighty God and reconciliation with God. Beg us to gain the Kingdom of Heaven and, at the end of our lives, to the right hand of the Throne of God, where You, O All-Singing Virgin, stand before the Holy Trinity in eternal glory. Honor us also from the faces of the Angels and saints to praise the Most Honorable Name of Your Son, with His Beginningless Father and His All-Holy and Good and Life-giving Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.
Second prayer
Oh, All-Merciful Mother, Most Pure Virgin Mary! You are the light of my mind, the joy of my heart, the strength of my will. Hear and accept my prayer. Look at the ulcers of my soul and body, rich in passions, poor in humility. I am filled with cold for evil deeds and I tremble at the Judgment of God. The sins of youth, oblivion and hidden sins aggravate my conscience. Wash me with streams of tears, remove the heavy, sinful burden, so that I may create fruits worthy of repentance. My path is strewn with thorns of sorrows. We know that God’s truth punishes me. Beg God's mercy for me, look at my tears and correct and save me and my children, be for me a treasure of faith and a repository of piety. Grant indestructible patience in troubles, which flows from faith, take away the spirit of idleness, despondency, and lust. Drive out anger, envy, resentment, uncleanness, laziness, these and greater vices trouble my soul. Reconcile the warring, justify the slandered. Enlighten us with the light of Your Son and grant us to speak the word of truth, solid in righteousness, peaceful for the sake of love, dissolved in prudence. Visit those who exist in their illnesses and sorrows, so that we will preserve everything under Your sovereign protection and safely reach the Kingdom of Heaven, giving praise for everything to the Lover of Mankind. Amen.
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Veneration of the icon today
Many churches and springs were consecrated in honor of the Intercession. Annual religious processions are held for the holiday in Nizhnekamsk, Pokrovsk (Engels), and Kungur. In 2015, a religious procession was organized from Sevastopol-Kerch-Smolensk (2500 km), the main shrine of which was the icon of the Intercession of the Mother of God.
Read about churches in honor of the Intercession:
Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Fili, Moscow Pokrovsky Cathedral in Samara Pokrovsky Cathedral in Voronezh
Religious procession Sevastopol-Kerch-Smolensk in 2015
A religious procession to preserve peace with the same shrine on February 18 takes place at Moscow railway stations. Every year, gathering in church for the Feast of the Intercession, believers prayerfully experience events that are many centuries distant from them. Sincere prayer on this day will definitely be heard by the Holy Intercessor of the human race.
The savior of troubles who saved the Emperor
The icon of the Mother of God, Deliverer from troubles, has been famous for its miracles since ancient times. In Greece, back in 1840, prayer was used to get rid of a locust invasion.
In Russia, the veneration of the “Deliverer” is established on October 17. It was on this day that Emperor Alexander II and his family were saved during a train crash. Everyone who turns to this image with prayer receives salvation from troubles and misfortunes.
Prayer to the icon “Deliverer”:
“Mother of God, our help and protection, whenever we ask, be our deliverer, we trust in You and always call upon You with all our souls: have mercy and help, have pity and deliver, incline Your ear and accept our sorrowful and tearful prayers, and as you wish, calm and give joy to us who love your Beginning Son and our God.” Amen.
Dear friends, you have learned what miraculous icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary are. The value of each icon is that man is not alone in this world. He has a holy Intercessor who will help in any trouble, in any trial. Pray in faith and you will be heard!
What do they pray to the Mother of God of the Intercession?
Before focusing on what the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos is prayed for, it is necessary to note what the holy face symbolizes. The icon of the Intercession of the Mother of God carries within itself a symbol of peace, grace, protection and security. It is not for nothing that it is in a place of honor among many Orthodox believers. After all, by turning to her, many Christians receive protection and intercession.
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Of course, many are interested in how the Mother of God of the Intercession helps. According to the clergy, people turn to the image for help in everything. The face can dispel the negative impact of ill-wishers on a person. It also protects from troubles and misfortunes. In addition to this, the image comes with:
ask for protection at home from evil intentions, protect loved ones from evil, ask for healing in the presence of serious illnesses, ask for the gift of mutual love.
Also read: Prayer for prosperity and prosperity to Spyridon of Trimifuntsky
Moreover, Our Lady of the Intercession helps people who do not have housing to find it, and she helps those who are in difficult financial situations to improve it.
Miraculous shrines to help believers
Particularly revered icons can be found in every temple. If the church is small and you don’t find the shrine you need, then buy an icon in the church shop.
"Unexpected Joy"
Prayers in front of the “Unexpected Joy” shrine bring hope for an unexpected joyful event, for example, the healing of sick people, protection from all sorts of misfortunes, and the fulfillment of large and small joys in life.
The day of veneration of the shrine is May 14.
Icon of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow”
This icon is especially close to the hearts of believers. After all, every person in life has to face misfortunes and illnesses. The Holy Intercessor will always support those who suffer and console those who cry.
What do they pray for in front of the shrine? About family happiness, getting rid of fears, anxieties, fear of everything dangerous and terrible. Prayer will fill a person with such strength that he will be able to endure all trials and overcome his fears.
The day of veneration of the shrine is November 6.
Mother of God "Quick to Hear"
This is a reminder to people of the boundless love of the Almighty for every person. Therefore, you can pray for various needs in front of the holy face. The main thing is that prayer should come from the heart, without wishing harm to anyone.
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).
Most likely, you will find this article useful about how the Guardian Angel icon helps.
Contents of the holy image
The icon of the “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” merges the earthly world and heaven; this is the deep meaning of the image, which indicates the help and intercession that believers receive from higher powers. In order to emphasize this fact, angels are often depicted on both sides of the Virgin Mary, who echo Her prayer, thereby additionally calling on the Lord for help.
The icon depicts the altar and halls of the Blachernae sanctuary. Most of these icons are painted in shades of purple. In the middle, on a raised platform, stands Roman Sladkopevets. He clutches the manuscript in his hands. In decrepit attire, Andrei points out this action to his apprentice Epiphanius. Next to Roman is the patriarch, the ruler of Constantinople, brothers and residents. On top of all is the Heavenly Church with the holy martyrs, prophets, saints, among whom John the Baptist and John the Theologian stand out. In addition, Peter and Paul are easily recognizable there, who also pray for the inhabitants of Constantinople.
According to the description, the content of the icon of the “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” may change slightly, but the image always means one thing - the heavenly church descended in order to support the earthly church. The celestial beings appeared on earth in order to support all believers who require intercession. These saints encourage Christians and help them resist the onslaught of infidels.
And in the very center of the icon stands the Most Holy Theotokos.
She carries her beneficial covering, which can cover the entire believing people
Of course, there is also an indirect meaning here, because the icon of the “Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” tells not only about a specific event, but also about how the Virgin Mary and the entire Heavenly Church helps all believers who are still on earth. In prayer before the image, one should remember this fact, and in general try not to forget about the constant help of the righteous and the Lord.
“Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos” - an icon, what they pray to her for
Orthodox Christians say a prayer before the Blessed Virgin:
when the Motherland needs protection; when you need to overcome an internal enemy; to heal the sick; to add wealth to the poor; to find love and your other half; about housing for the homeless; in despondency and sadness; in the unworthy properties of human nature.
And here is the prayer itself in front of the holy image:
“O Most Holy Virgin, Mother of the Lord of the Highest Powers, Queen of Heaven and Earth, our city and country, omnipotent Intercessor! Accept this singing of praise and gratitude from us, unworthy Thy servants, and lift up our prayers to the Throne of God Thy Son, that He may be merciful to our iniquities and add His grace to those who honor Thy All-Honorable Name and with faith and love worship Thy miraculous image.
We are not worthy of being pardoned by Him, unless You propitiate Him for us, the Lady, for everything is possible for You from Him. For this reason, we resort to You, as to our undoubted and speedy Intercessor: hear us praying to You, cover us with Your all-powerful Protection and ask God Your Son as our shepherd for zeal and vigilance for souls, as a city ruler for wisdom and strength, for judges of truth and impartiality, as a mentor reason and humility, love and harmony for a spouse, obedience for a child, patience for the offended, fear of God for those who offend, complacency for those who grieve, abstinence for those who rejoice; to all of us the spirit of reason and piety, the spirit of mercy and meekness, the spirit of purity and truth.
To her, Most Holy Lady, have mercy on Your weak people; Gather those who are scattered, guide those who have gone astray onto the right path, support old age, bring up young ones with chastity, raise infants and look upon us all with the gaze of Your merciful intercession, raise us up from the depths of sin and enlighten our heartfelt eyes to the vision of salvation; be merciful to us here and there, in the land of earthly arrival, and at the Last Judgment of Your Son: having ceased in faith and repentance from this life, make our fathers and brothers live in Eternal Life with the Angels and with all the saints. For you are, Lady, the Glory of heaven and the Hope of earth, You, according to God, are our Hope and Intercessor of all those who flow to You with faith.
We therefore pray to You and to You, as the Almighty Helper, we commit ourselves and each other and our whole life, now and ever, and forever and ever. Amen".
Prayer (short)
“Remember us in Your prayers, Lady Virgin Mary, may we not perish for the multiplication of our sins, cover us from all evil and cruel misfortunes; We trust in You and, honoring the holiday of Your Protection, we magnify You.”
Troparion, tone 4
“Today, faithful people, we brightly celebrate, overshadowed by Your coming, O Mother of God, and looking to Your most pure image, we tenderly say: Cover us with Your honorable Protection and deliver us from all evil, begging Your Son, Christ our God, to save our souls.” .
Kontakion, tone 3
“Today the Virgin stands in the church and from the faces of the saints invisibly prays to God for us, the angels and the bishops bow down, the apostles and the prophets rejoice: for for our sake the Mother of God prays to the Eternal God.”
Greatness
“We magnify You, Most Holy Virgin, and honor Your honest Protection, for Saint Andrew saw You in the air, praying for us to Christ.”
God bless you!
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You will also be interested in watching a video about the miraculous icon:
Iconography of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God
- The golden background of the icon symbolizes Divine light.
- Over several centuries, the icon was restored and rewritten several times, but the faces were preserved from the original image.
- From under the omophorion - the covering on the head of the Mother of God - the Savior's hand is visible.
- The Vladimir icon belongs to the iconographic type “Eleus”, that is, “Tenderness”. A characteristic feature of this type of Mother of God icons: the Infant Christ sits on the right hand of the Mother of God and hugs Her by the neck, pressing his cheek to Her face.
- The Savior’s left leg is slightly bent and his foot—the “heel”—is visible. The Vladimir Icon is recognized by this detail.
The Vladimir image is a portable icon that was used during ceremonial processions and religious processions. On the reverse side there is an image that believers could also see.
"Etimasia" - that is, "The Throne Prepared"
A throne covered with red cloth, prepared for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, coming to judge the living and the dead. On the throne is the Gospel in a gold setting; nails and the crown of thorns are the instruments of the Savior’s torment; and the white dove is a symbol of the Holy Spirit.
Instruments of Passion
Behind the throne stands the Calvary cross on which Christ was crucified. Nearby is a spear with which they pierced His rib and a cane with a sponge, which was offered to quench His thirst during His suffering on the Cross.
more about the iconography of the image here .
Precious frame of the Vladimir icon
The Vladimir Icon had several precious frames. The surviving frames are located separately from the icon in the Armory Chamber in Moscow.
Troparion of the Mother of God before Her Icon of Vladimir, tone 4:
Today the most glorious city of Moscow shines brightly, / like the dawn of the sun, having received, O Lady, / Your miraculous icon, / to which we now flow and pray to You, we cry out: / O most wonderful Lady Theotokos! / Praying from You to the incarnate Christ our God, / May he deliver this city and all Christian cities and countries/ unharmed from all the slander of the enemy// and save our souls, like the Merciful.
Iconography of the image of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The tradition of depicting the image of the Mother of God formed in Rus' around the 13th-14th centuries. Paintings dating from this time were found on the walls of the Pskov monastery, as well as in the cathedral of the city of Suzdal.
In the Orthodox tradition, there are two main types of depiction of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos:
Novgorod. The Mother of God stands above the closed Royal Doors, raising her hands in prayer. The holy omophorion is held by angels. On the icon (14th century) kept by the museum of the city of Novgorod, a temple with 5 domes is visible behind the Ever-Virgin. Suzdal. The Most Holy Theotokos stopped in front of the temple, holding the veil over the worshipers with her hands. Below the Holy Virgin on the pulpit is depicted Saint Romanus with a scroll in his hands. In the background are rounded church domes, basilicas, and nature reminiscent of Byzantine views. Such a temple image was discovered in a monastery in the city of Suzdal, and now it is kept in the treasury of the Tretyakov Museum.
On various icons made later, the compositions described above could be combined and supplemented with new symbols that carry a certain meaning. Among those praying in the temple, new saints were depicted (Leo the Wise, Patriarch Tarasius, etc.). The omophorion or shawl of the Virgin Mary could be red or white (as on the icons of the 16th century). Only the figure of the Intercessor herself is obligatory on the image of the Intercession of the Mother of God. On modern paintings of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos, the Most Pure One often stands alone at full height, raising her hands up in prayer, and the omophorion hovers over her. In other versions, Saint Mary holds the cloth with both hands, turning her gaze to those praying.
The 17th century changed the pose of the Most Pure One on the images of the Intercession. The Holy Virgin is depicted turned three-quarters with her head raised. This is how her prayer-appeal to Jesus Christ, whose face is located above, is conveyed. This is reminiscent of the composition on the ancient painting of the Suzdal gates. Such a plot can be seen on monuments of the 17th century. For example, the image of the Intercession, stored in the State Russian Museum.
