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Every person wants to protect themselves and their loved ones from various troubles and illnesses. Those who believe in God turn for help to one of the most revered Orthodox images - the icon of the Virgin Mary “The Unbreakable Wall”.
This image of the Mother of God is considered a beautiful work of art, and believers say that She is truly miraculous and healing. This shrine is made in mosaic style. The Mother of God is depicted with her hands raised to the sky, on a golden background in her full height.
The name of the icon and its origin
There are several meanings for the image name. The first belongs to the akathist. This is where the name of the icon “Unbreakable Wall” came from, which began to be understood literally. The Mother of God, according to Christians, is a protector, patroness and guardian.
The second meaning has to do with vision. One day, the wandering elder Gabriel dreamed of a rich city that stood on a high hill. The elder set off on his journey. The road was flat and spacious, but on it sat a huge giant who caught people in a net and took them into slavery. The elder wanted to avoid such a fate. Not far away he saw a narrow path that passed under a rock that resembled a wall. The giant's chain could not reach her. Then Gabriel learned the lines from the same akathist and decided that the Mother of God herself was protecting the people there. The old man walked along the path and finally reached a rich city, where he told everyone about the “Unbreakable Wall.”
There are several meanings for the image name
It is believed that the “Unbreakable Wall” icon is not entirely original. Its prototype is the Blachernae Icon of the Mother of God, painted, according to legend, by the Evangelist Luke himself. It was kept in Constantinople for a long time. The icon of the Mother of God and Intercessor was brought to Kievan Rus as a copy. Later, Russian icon painters began to create lists that spread throughout the territory of our state. It is known that the original, which was kept in Byzantium, was brought as a gift to Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Now this icon is in the Kremlin.
The history of the creation of the image of the Mother of God The Unbreakable Wall
There is a legend that one day a monk from the Spasovo-Eliazarov Hermitage had an amazing dream. The elder saw in the distance a wonderful, unearthly city, to which two different roads led. One of them was wide and flat, the other was narrow and located on a high wall. Then the elder saw a terrible picture: those who were walking along the wide road were caught in a net by a terrible monster and devoured them. Those who climbed the narrow path on the wall entered the beautiful city without hindrance. The net did not reach them because the wall protected them from the monster. And the wall was created by the Queen of Heaven. The monk reached a wonderful city along a narrow road and saw the Mother of God raising her hands to the Lord.
Afterwards, the legend spread throughout Kievan Rus, and has been helping people for nine centuries. The image itself was copied from the original image located in Constantinople.
Meaning of the image
From the very name of the icon its meaning is clear. The Mother of God in this icon is a protector, intercessor and patroness. Its first image in the form of a mosaic has remained for more than 1000 years on the wall of St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. Despite the time, each piece of it is clearly distinguishable, of which, by the way, there are more than 170. It is interesting that the cathedral itself has suffered greatly over time. Often the temple was almost completely destroyed, but the part where the “Unbreakable Wall” was depicted always remained intact. They say that Kyiv will not fall as long as it is protected by the ancient mosaic of the Virgin Mary of the “Unbreakable Wall”.
The meaning and how the “Unbreakable Wall” icon helps
It received this name due to its indestructibility. After all, the image of the Mother of God in the Kiev monastery survived countless disasters and wars over many centuries, but nevertheless remained intact.
This proves the miracle of the indestructibility of this shrine, since it was not affected by fires or elements. Although the Cathedral of St. Sophia itself and Kyiv itself were plundered and destroyed more than once. It is an accident? Or a real miracle? Or maybe something unique and mysterious for the human mind? Who knows? That is why Christians seek protection from her from all ailments and negative influences.
They ask for help and intercession from this Christian shrine. The image of the Mother of God “The Unbreakable Wall” helps protect your home from disasters and illnesses. An icon can ward off troubles from your family, and your home will be avoided by ill-wishers, thieves and fires. It also helps to strengthen family well-being and happiness. Many say that thanks to this shrine their family is healthy, friendly and strong.
The ancient meaning of the icon and its description have been preserved to this day. The essence of the image of the Mother of God is this:
“The Mother of God is represented by gigantic growth - like all Her deeds on the Russian land. She stands on a stone of gold, this stone is the unshakable, indestructible foundation of all those in need of Her protection. The Mother of God is wearing a tunic of heavenly color, a scarlet belt, and on that belt hangs a lention, and with it She wipes away a sea of tears. On her arms, raised to the sky, there are azure arms, and from Her head a veil descends, so golden. The veil in the form of an omophorion is hung over the shoulders. On the bright forehead of the Mother of God there is a bright star burning, and there are two more bright stars on her shoulders, for She Herself is the Mother of the Never-Setting Light, the dawn of the Never-Setting Sun.”
Also in honor of this miraculous shrine, the Absheron Convent, which is located in Kuban, was named. The face of the image of the Mother of God has been a very revered shrine for pilgrims for many centuries. Many believers treat the icon with very deep and great respect. All because this creation is miraculous, and its miraculous properties are proven by time.
What to pray for
The icon is called "The Unbreakable Wall". This name also defines her powers. You can pray to this image in the following cases:
- a long departure from home, a trip, and so on;
- if you are leaving and are worried about the safety of the house and its inhabitants;
- illness of someone dear to you;
- family problems, quarrels, separations.
The Mother of God on the icon is a protector, intercessor and patroness
Examples of miracles
The Icon of the Unbreakable Wall is known for its ability to perform miracles if you pray to it periodically. For example, the most famous miracles are associated with the holy list, which was created for the Resurrection-Myrrh Monastery. In the temple, where the image of the Mother of God has been kept for the last 50 years, several miracles have occurred during this time. With her help, spouses and relatives were repeatedly reconciled. Also, prayer to the saint’s face helped to find a person who was considered missing for more than ten years.
Where to place the icon in the house
It is believed that the best way to approach the “Unbreakable Wall” icon is to visit the Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. Of course, not everyone has this opportunity. Salvation will be the nearest temple, which has a list, or an icon in your home.
Since the image is popular, finding a copy in a church store will not be difficult.
It is better to hang the icon opposite the entrance to a house or apartment. The Mother of God will protect home peace and family relationships, protect from quarrels and illnesses. If you can’t hang the icon opposite the entrance, you can place it above the front door. In this case, the Queen of Heaven will influence not so much on you as on the people who enter your house. If their thoughts are pure, then being around you will be pleasant and useful. However, if a person brings evil to you and your family, then he will feel uncomfortable in the house and will try to leave as quickly as possible.
Before hanging an icon in a specific place, you need to read a special prayer, ask for protection and intercession. You should not place the icon next to electrical appliances, near computers and televisions. If you put it on a shelf, then there should be nothing else there except the face. You should not place the icon in the iconostasis. Why is that? Our Lady must see everyone who enters the house. The person entering must meet her eyes. Only then will she be able to protect your family and home.
It is better to place the icon opposite the entrance
History and interpretation of the “Unbreakable Wall” relic
The Cathedral of St. Sophia - the Lord's Wisdom in Kyiv - is the greatest monument of Ukrainian architecture. According to the chronicle, it was ordered to be erected in 1037 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise in honor of his victory over the Pechenegs. Inside the temple, the world's most complete ensemble of mosaics and frescoes from the first half of the 11th century has been preserved. Among them is the famous image of the Mother of God, following whose example the “Unbreakable Wall” icon was created . The name of the relic is borrowed from an ancient akathist to the Virgin Mary, in which She is glorified with the following words: “Rejoice, indestructible wall of the kingdom, possessing an invincible power... Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation!”
The mosaic shrine is located in the conch (as the skyward vault is called) of the central altar apse. The master made it by pressing cubes of glassy mass - smalt - into wet plaster. The richness of the color range of this material is simply amazing - researchers determined that more than 177 different shades were used in the image!
The height of the figure of the Virgin Mary is about 6 meters, thanks to which it dominates over the rest of the interior paintings - the image of the sacrament of the Eucharist and the composition “Holy Rite”. The model for this work was the Byzantine icon “Blachernitissa”. The Heavenly Queen is depicted in the traditional prayer pose “Oranta” - Her hands raised to heaven symbolize intercession for the entire human race, protection, salvation and support that She provides to every Christian. The Madonna is dressed in a blue chiton, a purple maforium with golden folds, and behind Her belt is a white lention scarf with scarlet patterns - a sign of shed tears. Under the feet of the Virgin Mary is a wide yellow platform decorated with precious stones. He reminds us that only ardent faith can serve as an unshakable support in life. On the forehead and shoulders of the Most Pure Virgin there are bright stars, personifying the divine wisdom that has overshadowed Her, as well as Her title “Mother of the Never-Setting Light, the dawn of the Never-Setting Sun.”
This image is deservedly considered miraculous. Over the many centuries that have passed since its creation, the temple has been repeatedly attacked, robbed and destroyed, but not a single disaster could affect the good and peaceful face of the Virgin Mary. Therefore, it is believed that prayer to the “Unbreakable Wall” icon protects against any negative influences, wars of conquest, epidemics, natural disasters, illnesses, problems and misfortunes. According to legend, even Kyiv itself will exist as long as the Heavenly Lady stretches out her hands over it.
The day of remembrance of the relic is the Sunday of All Saints (the first Sunday after Trinity). On this holiday, many believers come to the shrine, asking for salvation, healing and the bestowal of grace.
Miracles Revealed
The Mother of God herself often appears to people and works miracles. The stories can be listed endlessly, but we will tell you about the most famous ones.
Let's go back to the times of the Great Patriotic War. Mothers, wives, daughters saw off fathers, husbands, sons and brothers to the front. Everyone understood that they might not return. At that time, most prayers were addressed specifically to the “Unbreakable Wall” icon as a protector. Front-line soldiers have repeatedly said that during bloody battles a woman appeared in the clouds with her hands raised to the heavens. She directed her gaze towards the enemy. One of the fighters recognized her as the Holy Mother of God, who was depicted on the “Unbreakable Wall” icon.
There are people who talk about a miracle that came to them during illness. At the hospital, the woman was diagnosed with cancer. Doctors did not give guarantees for a long life. Sincere faith and prayer helped to heal from the disease.
Lost children were returned to their parents. Thus, there is a known case when a son returned to his home after 12 years of separation. He was considered missing. Disagreements and quarrels subsided, married couples came together again when it seemed there was no longer a chance.
Holy face of the Virgin Mary
On the vault of the St. Sophia Cathedral, the image of the Mother of God is six meters high. The pose is graceful and full of solemnity. Hands are raised to the sky, which symbolizes the intercession of Christians before the Savior.
A special feature of the composition is its symmetrical arrangement, which allows everyone to see the eyes of the Mother of God, who watches over the believers and inspires hope from any corner of the cathedral. Artfully laid out at different angles, pieces of mosaic under the sun's rays begin to cast glare, and the illusion of Divine light surrounding the figure is created.
A scarf in a belt symbolizes comfort to those in need. On later icons, the Mother of God is depicted in blue robes, with a scarf tucked into her belt, which is intended to comfort saddened people.
The head is covered with a red veil, hands are raised to the sky. Often the Mother of God stands on a golden quadrangle of regular shape, implying heaven. The background glows with a golden light denoting the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Temples and lists of icons
Despite the popularity of the icon, there are quite a few lists of her. The most ancient and miraculous image, as mentioned above, is located in the St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. In Russia it is:
- Cathedral in the Kaliningrad region
- Church of the Holy Apostles in Moscow
If we talk about the churches of the same name dedicated to the “Unbreakable Wall” icon, then these are:
- Temple in the vicinity of Yalta
- Temple in Essentuki
- Monastery in Apsheronsk
Monastery in Apsheronsk
Church of the Holy Apostles in Moscow
Cathedral in the Kaliningrad region
Where is the shrine located
The main monastery of the icon of the Mother of God “The Unbreakable Wall” has always been the St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. The image is located at the main altar above a mountainous place.
Today there is another image of the Mother of God of the “Unbreakable Wall”, which was painted in the image of the icon in the St. Sophia Cathedral and the monastery at Constantinople. This shrine is located in the Resurrection-Myrrh-Bearing Monastery in the village of Nikolskoye. It was safely hidden and appeared to the world only in the second half of the twentieth century. They say that only in the new millennium did this image in the Resurrection-Myrrh-Bearing Monastery begin to endow believers with miraculous power.
Archival records indicate that this shrine was consecrated by the All-Russian prayer book John of Kronstadt. During the period of atheism, the monastery was looted and destroyed, but one pious parishioner managed to save the icon. She kept it in her house, and after the storm subsided, she gave the shrine to the temple.
- All over the world, the image of the Mother of God has brought many incredible phenomena, inexplicable healings and miracles. And the miraculous lists of the “Unbreakable Wall” can be viewed:
- in the Moscow Church of the Apostles Peter and Paul;
- in the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary;
- in the chapel of the Kaliningrad Cathedral;
- in the Monastery of the Icon of the Mother of God, Krasnodar Territory;
- in the Essentuki Church of the Stavropol Territory.
The best article for you, go to: Icon of Blaise of Sebaste
The shrine of the Mother of God in the Cathedral of the city of Kaliningrad is very popular. Here you can constantly see a huge number of people asking. After all, it is believed that if you pray in front of Her image, your prayer will certainly be heard. Day of celebration: All Saints Sunday (first Sunday after Trinity).
Prayers to the icon of the Mother of God “The Unbreakable Wall”
To my Queen, my hope, to the Mother of God, friend of the orphans and the strange, to the Representative, to the sorrowing, to the Joy of the offended, to 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 if by will: for I have no other help except You, no other intercessor, no good comforter, except You, O Mother of God, for you will preserve me and cover me forever and ever. Amen.
Oh, our gracious Lady Theotokos, Ever-Virgin, accept from us this song of gratitude and offer up to our Creator and Creator your warm prayers for us unworthy, may He, the Merciful, forgive us all our sins, evil and unclean thoughts, nasty deeds. Oh, Most Holy Lady, have mercy and send down a gift according to each need: heal the sick, comfort the sorrowing, bring the lost to reason, protect the infants, raise and teach the young, encourage and instruct men and wives, support and warm the old, be with us both here and in life eternal Wall, Indestructible, deliver us from all troubles and misfortunes and from eternal torment, and always singing Your Motherly love, we praise with all our hearts Your Son, with His Father and the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.
Do not forget that the prayer of any person will always be heard. This does not require gilded frames or even the icon itself. Only sincerity and real faith.
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Where to hang the holy image
Before prayer, do not forget to light a candle. Of course, like any icon, the “Unbreakable Wall” should be placed in the home iconostasis. But a more favorable location is considered to be a special shelf installed opposite the front door.
So the Mother of God will directly observe those entering the home. Her face, facing the entrance, will protect against the invasion of dark forces and negatively-minded guests. A person with bad intentions will soon leave the home, and then stop making visits altogether.
You cannot place household items, equipment or various symbols next to the icon.
