History and description of the icon
Sophia Cathedral was built by the son of Yaroslav the Wise, and its splendor is indescribable and delights. There is a special belief that as long as the integrity of this mosaic is preserved, Kyiv will stand and prosper as a city. From here the general meaning of the image is extrapolated, which generally helps in various intercessions of the territory, home, country. This statement has been confirmed more than once by historical facts.
The cathedral itself (Kiev) was often destroyed when the Pechenegs and Cumans raided. The holy place received the most serious destruction from the Tatar-Mongols, who wanted to conquer and subjugate vast territories. But at the same time, the wall located above the main altar was never destroyed. It was there that the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “The Unbreakable Wall” was located, which always remained unharmed.
In addition, the image is revered in many other territories. There are well-known lists that are located in Moscow churches. It should be noted the Kaliningrad icon, which is located in the Cathedral and attracts a significant number of prayer books. The famous icon of the Mother of God “The Unbreakable Wall” was found in the sixties of the previous century in the village of Nikolskoye.
This icon was most likely consecrated by John of Kronstadt himself. We should also remember the Absheron Convent of the Icon of the Mother of God “The Unbreakable Wall”, which appeared in Kuban relatively recently. It was founded with the blessing of the patriarch.
Kontakion 1
Chosen from all generations to the Mother of God and the Queen, before Her most pure image, the Indestructible Wall called, we offer thanksgiving praise to You, O Blessed One.
You, who have incomprehensible power and unspeakable love, save us from all troubles and sorrows, and let us call to You: Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Ikos 1
A representative angel was quickly sent from God to You, Most Pure One, to bring You worldwide joy, as You conceived God the Word, the Savior of the world, from the Holy Spirit in Your womb. We, leading the fulfillment of this annunciation, believe that the Lord, Most Blessed One, has shown You with an Indestructible Wall and protected us from all sin, troubles and misfortunes. For this sake, let us please Thee, Mother of God, and joyfully cry out:
Rejoice, for the Lord is with You and You with us; Rejoice, for in Cana of Galilee you appeared as a representative to Your Son for the people. Rejoice, for with Your omophorion you cover the faithful wider than the clouds; Rejoice, for with Your grace you wipe away the tears of the suffering. Rejoice, for You lift up Your hands to protect us from all defilement; Rejoice, for according to Your word you are now and ever blessed. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 2
The visionary prophets, with their clever minds, combed through Your grace-filled appearance, proclaimed the Nativity in the flesh from You of the Son of God, and having known all the fulfillment of the prophetic prophecies, they reverently cried out to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 2
Having a blessed mind, Jacob, Moses, David and many others depicted Your wonderful Nativity and the mystery of Your Ever-Virginity in words, visions, and dreams. We, unable to comprehend the full power of prophetic broadcasts, from the depths of our believing hearts sing to You with love:
Rejoice, high Ladder, uniting earth with Heaven; Rejoice, O God, who appeared on earth, who bore in Your womb and, like the Burning Bush, remains incorruptible. Rejoice, luminous Cloud, from Him the Lord of all, like rain on the fleece, descending to the earth; Rejoice, as the Life-Giving Source, who kindles the hunger and thirst for eternal truth in people. Rejoice, Christ, who has contained the manna of life in His womb and saturates our souls with the bread of immortality; Rejoice, wonderful Rod, adorning the flowers of the virtues of the faithful. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 3
The power of the Most High autumn of Thee, the Most Pure One, having made Thee the Mother of the Lord, and after Thy Nativity abides abundantly in Thee, Mother of God. Rejoicing at such God's good will towards You, all, praising the Savior of the world, cry out to Him joyfully: Alleluia.
Ikos 3
Having in Yourself abundantly the grace of God, You, Most Immaculate One, have given Your entire life to good cares for Your Son and the Lord, keeping all His words in Your heart. We, sinners, remembering Your sorrowful life on earth, give You the following praises:
Rejoice, thou who gave birth to the Lord of the universe in a wretched den; Rejoice, you who fled to Egypt from the lawless Herod with Your Son. Rejoice, you who sought Your Son with great sorrow in Jerusalem during the days of Easter; Rejoice, you who have contemplated hatred and envy of Your Son from His enemies with a sorrowful heart. Rejoice, you who crucified Him with your Mother’s heart, when you contemplated His suffering and death on the Cross; Rejoice, having found your son in John the Theologian, according to the word Jesus. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 4
Our Russian country has been repeatedly tested by the storm of invasion of foreigners, and in difficult trials our fathers have cried out for help to the Blessed Virgin Mary. That, like the Indestructible Wall, by His intercession at the Throne of His Son and God, graciously sends down His power, and with the hope of the Mother of God’s help, the people of Russia drive out the hordes of the enemy from the Russian borders. For this reason, praising the Mother of God, we joyfully sing to the Lord: Alleluia.
Ikos 4
The whole world hears and knows how the Most Holy Theotokos kindles courage in the hearts of the Russian people, and gives strength for exploits and defense of the fatherland, fights against foreigners, and sends Her gracious help to the entire Russian army. Confessing our faith and the miraculous intercession of the Queen of Heaven in the days of the war invasions on our land, we thus sing to the Most Gracious One:
Rejoice, help to the Russian people against their enemies; Rejoice, blessed reinforcement from our land for the expulsion of foreigners. Rejoice, secret admonition and wisdom for the leaders of the Russian army; Rejoice, shame on the haters of the human race. Rejoice, terrible Punisher who kindled the flame of enmity; Rejoice, invincible Helper of all who care for the peace of the whole world. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 5
Thou art the God-bearing star, O Ever-Blessed One, who has appeared to all those wandering in the darkness of passions and vices, for through Thy admonition many grave sinners turn away from lawless deeds and resort to God with repentance, crying out to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 5
Seeing the death of many souls into the power of sin and defilement by Satan, the Most Merciful Lady, out of indescribable love for the human race, advances them to help, turns them away from the disastrous path and instructs them on the path of salvation. Rejoicing at the wondrous mercy of the Queen of Heaven, all the faithful say this:
Rejoice, you who show us all the path of salvation; Rejoice, forbidding pride and anger to rule our hearts. Rejoice, strict admonition to gluttons and drunkards; Rejoice, strong motivation for the lazy and weak-willed. Rejoice, you who lead those who live in fornication to repentance; Rejoice, sinners who come running to You with faith, speedy correction. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 6
Preachers of miracles revealed by Your icons, our pious fathers, saved by You, Mother of God, and delivered from troubles and misfortunes. In the same way, thanking God, who has bestowed such a good Intercessor on the human race, all silent lips sing to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 6
The light of Your ineffable goodness, O Blessed One, shines forth to all those who grieve, weep, to all of us in temptation, for through our tearful prayers You, the Mother of God, grant us miraculous deliverance from troubles. Although we have no words worthy of praising Thee for Thy mercy towards all, with sinful lips we exclaim to Thee in tenderness:
Rejoice, you who transform our sorrows and tears into joy; Rejoice, O Merciful Helper to those who suffer from temptation. Rejoice, saving our houses from fire and other destruction; Rejoice, you who protect the faithful from thieves and evil people. Rejoice, destroyer of the slander and intrigues of our enemies; Rejoice, conquering the fear of death and sudden death in our souls. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 7
Although the All-Merciful Lord showed His Divine love for us unworthy, giving us Your Mother of God icon, called the Indestructible Wall, and seeing miracles from the holy icon, all people with faith and hope for Your miraculous help with tenderness cry out to the Source of miracles, the Lord: Alleluia.
Ikos 7
A new testimony that is always inherent in You, Most Pure One, of the grace and miraculous powers the Creator showed to us, always Your wondrous image, depicted on the altar wall of the ancient St. Sophia Cathedral in the city of Kiev, was preserved intact for nine centuries, for the hordes of filthy enemies of the Orthodox faith did not dare to damage this gracious image, protected by Your power. Truly, for us, sinners and mourners, this holy icon appears as an unbreakable wall, inspiring all the faithful to cry out to you:
Rejoice, clothed in a tunic shining with heavenly light; Rejoice, thou who by the lifting of Thy most pure hands manifests unceasing prayer for the whole world. Rejoice, for you have not damaged Your honorable image and the length of centuries; Rejoice, for this image remains in all its glory even after the invasion of the power of the enemy. Rejoice, for in this way the hearts of those praying are reverently touched; Rejoice, for the grace-filled power inherent in this image of Yours frightens the demons. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 8
It is strange for non-believers to hear that You, Mother of God, have special care for babies. We, remembering the words of our Lord, said: leave the children to come to Me, for such is the Kingdom of God, we confess with firm faith that You, Most Holy Virgin, protect babies and their mothers with Your love, and we cry to Your Son: Alleluia.
Ikos 8
With all your heart, Queen of the world, offer up prayers for all of God’s creatures to Your Son, as the Mother according to the flesh of the Son of God, You comfortably accommodate in Your soul the sorrows and labors of mothers. For this reason, as the Mother of the Infant Jesus, we sing to You:
Rejoice, faithful Helper and refuge of childbearing mothers; Rejoice, protection and strength of infants. Rejoice, quenching maternal sorrows; Rejoice, preserving every age of infancy. Rejoice, good Teacher of pious mothers in raising children; Rejoice, O children helpless in illness to the Healer. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 9
Every angelic and human nature sings of Your ever-virgin purity, Most Immaculate, for this sake we honor You, as the vigilant Guardian of the purity of virgins, the purity of widows, the chastity of young men; and we entrust every age of people to You, that You may preserve them in holiness, singing to Your Son: Alleluia.
Ikos 9
Superstitious spirits cannot contain in their hearts the truth of Your, Mother of God, Ever-Virginity. We, who believe in the power of the incomprehensible mystery, reverently praise Thee:
Rejoice, for the Bridegroom, redder than all the sons of men, desired Your red and bright kindness; Rejoice, for this Bridegroom has united virginity and Christmas in You. Rejoice, all-wise Teacher of immaculate virginity; Rejoice, thou who preservest pious widows in celibacy. Rejoice, teaching pure virgins and widows to work for the glory of Christ for the good of their neighbors; Rejoice, thou who hast helped all who are able to embrace the path of chastity. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 10
Wanting to save Your people from the falls of sin, You, Lady, vigilantly guard the holiness of an honest marriage and command those who are in marriage to keep the commandments of the Lord: to raise their children according to God and to accustom them to acts of mercy. Giving thanks to God, who has given us such a wise Teacher, we sing to Him with all our hearts: Alleluia.
Ikos 10
You are the Wall and Guardian of pious Christian families, the Most Holy Virgin, who wisely instruct believers in marriage, how to accept the good yoke and preserve fidelity to each other until death. For this reason, we, rejoicing in Your care for a good Christian marriage, say with tenderness to You:
Rejoice, blessing of honest marriage; Rejoice, you who teach spouses how to live according to the teachings of Christ and the apostles. Rejoice, you who bring love and like-mindedness into the hearts of those living in marriage; Rejoice, protector of family ties. Rejoice, good Guardian of the domestic Church; Rejoice, formidable accuser of violators of adultery. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 11
All-contrite singing is brought to Ti, Most Blessed One, by the entire Christian race, seeing Thee as the all-powerful Prayer Book for the whole world. You, Mother of God, accept the prayers of the young, and do not despise the prayers of the weak elders and old women, instruct the young in good deeds for salvation, and remind the elders of their imminent transition to the afterlife. For this reason, praying to the Lord to grant us all the memory of death, we cry to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 11
The teaching of Christ the Savior about the life of the future century is an edifying and luminous luminary in our sinful life. But You, All-Merciful One, kindle in our hearts the gracious desire to be cleansed from sins by repentance and to decorate our lives with good deeds. Rejoicing in Your care for us, so that we may receive eternal salvation, we cry out to You with tears of tenderness:
Rejoice, you who show great love for the infirm elders; Rejoice, faithful people who want to end their lives in piety, O All-merciful Helper. Rejoice, elderly parents, abandoned by their children, receiving under Your honest roof; Rejoice, O terrible Punisher, such cruel children who neglect their elders. Rejoice, reminding us all of the terrible Second Coming of Christ; Rejoice, warm prayer book for the souls of the departed faithful servants of God. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 12
Divine grace clearly abides in Your miraculous icon, worthily and righteously for our consolation called the Indestructible Wall. Pouring out our joys and sorrows before this icon, we pray to You, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, do not forsake us with Your intercession, but we cry out to the Lord with gratitude for You: Alleluia.
Ikos 12
Singing Your powerful intercession for the whole world, remembering the miracles You showed through Your holy icon, the Indestructible Wall, we pray to You, the zealous Intercessor: be our country's unceasing Helper, beseech Your Son, who fulfills Your prayers, to establish throughout the world the peace desired by the peoples, and all They will gratefully praise Tysitsa:
Rejoice, gladdened by the appearance of Your Son and His Resurrection; Rejoice, in Your immortal Dormition You joyfully betrayed Your soul into His hands. Rejoice, strengthening good shepherds on their way of the cross; Rejoice, invisible help to those who lead the monastic life. Rejoice, protecting this temple and those who pray in it with Your grace; Rejoice, unchanging Protection and Indestructible Wall for our Fatherland. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 13
O All-Singing Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, accept now this small prayer, protect us from sins and all kinds of defilement, deliver us from the troubles and needs that befall us, save us from despondency and despair, human slander, unbearable diseases, and through Your prayers we may take the path of salvation Eternal, let us sing with gratitude to Your Son: Alleluia.
Kontakion 13
O All-Singing Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, accept now this small prayer, protect us from sins and all kinds of defilement, deliver us from the troubles and needs that befall us, save us from despondency and despair, human slander, unbearable diseases, and through Your prayers we may take the path of salvation Eternal, let us sing with gratitude to Your Son: Alleluia.
Kontakion 13
O All-Singing Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, accept now this small prayer, protect us from sins and all kinds of defilement, deliver us from the troubles and needs that befall us, save us from despondency and despair, human slander, unbearable diseases, and through Your prayers we may take the path of salvation Eternal, let us sing with gratitude to Your Son: Alleluia.
Ikos 1
A representative angel was quickly sent from God to You, Most Pure One, to bring You worldwide joy, as You conceived God the Word, the Savior of the world, from the Holy Spirit in Your womb. We, leading the fulfillment of this annunciation, believe that the Lord, Most Blessed One, has shown You with an Indestructible Wall and protected us from all sin, troubles and misfortunes. For this sake, let us please Thee, Mother of God, and joyfully cry out:
Rejoice, for the Lord is with You and You with us; Rejoice, for in Cana of Galilee you appeared as a representative to Your Son for the people. Rejoice, for with Your omophorion you cover the faithful wider than the clouds; Rejoice, for with Your grace you wipe away the tears of the suffering. Rejoice, for You lift up Your hands to protect us from all defilement; Rejoice, for according to Your word you are now and ever blessed. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 1
Chosen from all generations to the Mother of God and the Queen, before Her most pure image, the Indestructible Wall called, we offer thanksgiving praise to You, O Blessed One. You, who have incomprehensible power and unspeakable love, save us from all our troubles and sorrows, and let us call to You:
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
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The meaning of the icon of the Mother of God “The Unbreakable Wall”
The sacred understanding of this holy image is simple - the need to protect the house and the people living in it. Thus, the “Unbreakable Wall” icon helps to protect yourself from various negative influences. It was made by the hands of Russian and Byzantine masters, and later became a real model for imitation and copying, thanks to which many images of the Blessed Virgin were created.
The military and people engaged in similar activities attach particular importance to the “Unbreakable Wall” icon.
There is a lot of evidence about how the military themselves, who participated in the hostilities and saw the Virgin on the battlefields precisely in the pose of Oranta, facing the opponents.
Oranta is the Virgin Mary depicted without a baby. She stands and spreads her arms to the heavens. This is the canonical spelling of the image and the history of the “Unbreakable Wall” icon goes back to the very first versions of the image. She is usually dressed in a dress of heavenly color, and there is a blue glow around her, making her stand out from the rest and emphasizing the heavenly grace. She wears a handkerchief in her belt, which she uses to wipe away the tears of sad people.
As a rule, the canonical image includes a medallion with the Savior on the chest, a blue lower dress (a symbol of purity) and a red upper dress, which indicates the high position and suffering of the Mother of God.
Similar icons, such as the “Unbreakable Wall,” must be hung at home in front of the entrance to the apartment. She must protect the house and not let enemies into it. It is recommended to hang it at home when you are going to leave it for a long time. In addition, it is customary to pray in front of the “Unbreakable Wall” before leaving the house.
It helps to pray in front of the “Unbreakable Wall” icon in order to protect yourself from various negative influences. Candles are often lit for someone in a church, so that the Mother of God protects these people. It is also good to choose where to hang the “Unbreakable Wall” icon in the work space, for example, in the company’s office. Then the company will be protected by the Most Pure Virgin. If the workers are believers, they will also be able to say prayers in front of this image.
Portal "Wonderful Diveevo"
Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos in front of Her Icon, called the “UNBREAKABLE WALL” Kontakion 1 Chosen from all generations of the Mother of God and the Queen, before Her most pure image, the Indestructible Wall, called the “UNBREAKABLE WALL”, we offer thanksgiving praise to You, O Blessed One. You, who have incomprehensible power and unspeakable love, save us from all troubles and sorrows, and let us call to You: Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Ikos 1 A representative angel was quickly sent from God to You, Most Pure One, to bring You worldwide joy, as You conceived of the Holy Spirit in Your womb God the Word, the Savior of the world. We, leading the fulfillment of this annunciation, believe that the Lord, Most Blessed One, has shown You with an Indestructible Wall and protected us from all sin, troubles and misfortunes. For this sake, we please Thee, Mother of God, and joyfully cry out: Rejoice, for the Lord is with Thee and Thee with us; Rejoice, for in Cana of Galilee you appeared as a representative to Your Son for the people. Rejoice, for with Your omophorion you cover the faithful wider than the clouds; Rejoice, for with Your grace you wipe away the tears of the afflicted. Rejoice, for You lift up Your hands to protect us from all defilement; Rejoice, for according to Your word you are now and ever blessed. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 2 The visionary prophets, with their clever minds, combed through Your grace-filled appearance, proclaiming the Nativity in the flesh from You of the Son of God, and having known all the fulfillment of the prophetic prophecies, they reverently cried out to God: Alleluia. Ikos 2 Having a blessed mind, Jacob, Moses, David and many others depicted Your wonderful Nativity and the mystery of Your Ever-Virginity in words, visions, and dreams. We, unable to comprehend the full power of prophetic broadcasts, from the depths of our believing hearts sing to You with love: Rejoice, high Ladder, joining earth with Heaven; Rejoice, O God, who appeared on earth, who bore in Your womb and, like the Burning Bush, remains incorruptible. Rejoice, luminous Cloud, from Him the Lord of all, like rain on the fleece, descending to the earth; Rejoice, for you are the Life-Giving Source, who kindles the hunger and thirst for eternal truth in people. Rejoice, Christ, who has contained the manna of life in His womb and saturates our souls with the bread of immortality; Rejoice, wonderful Rod, adorning the flowers of the faithful virtues. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 3 The power of the Most High autumn of Thee, the Most Pure One, having made Thee the Mother of the Lord, and after Thy Nativity abides abundantly in Thee, the Mother of God. Rejoicing at such God's good will towards You, all, praising the Savior of the world, cry out to Him joyfully: Alleluia. Ikos 3 Having in Yourself the grace of God abundantly, You, Most Immaculate One, have given Your entire life to good cares for Your Son and the Lord, keeping all His words in Your heart. We, sinners, remembering Your sorrowful life on earth, say the following praises to You: Rejoice, Thou who gave birth to the Lord of the universe in a wretched den; Rejoice, you who fled to Egypt from the lawless Herod with Your Son. Rejoice, you who sought Your Son with great sorrow in Jerusalem during the days of Easter; Rejoice, having contemplated hatred and envy of Your Son from His enemies with a sorrowful heart. Rejoice, you who crucified Him with your Mother’s heart, when you contemplated His suffering and death on the Cross; Rejoice, having found your son in John the Theologian, according to the word Jesus. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 4 Our Russian country was repeatedly tested by the storm of invasion of foreigners, and in difficult trials our fathers cried out for help to the Blessed Virgin Mary. That, like the Indestructible Wall, by His intercession at the Throne of His Son and God, graciously sends down His power, and with the hope of the Mother of God’s help, the people of Russia drive out the hordes of the enemy from the Russian borders. For this reason, praising the Mother of God, we joyfully sing to the Lord: Alleluia. Ikos 4 The whole world hears and knows how the Most Holy Theotokos kindles courage in the hearts of the Russian people, and gives strength for exploits and defense of the fatherland, fighting against foreigners, and sends Her gracious help to the entire Russian army. Confessing our faith and the miraculous intercession of the Queen of Heaven in the days of the military invasions of our land, we thus sing to the Most Gracious One: Rejoice, help to the Russian people against their enemies; Rejoice, blessed reinforcement from our land for the expulsion of foreigners. Rejoice, secret admonition and wisdom for the leaders of the Russian army; Rejoice, shame on the haters of the human race. Rejoice, terrible Punisher who kindled the flame of enmity; Rejoice, invincible Helper of all who care for the peace of the whole world. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 5 The God-bearing star appeared, O Ever-Blessed One, to all those wandering in the darkness of passions and vices, for through Your admonition many grave sinners turn away from lawless deeds and run to God with repentance, crying out to Him: Alleluia. Ikos 5 Seeing the death of many souls into the power of sin and defilement by Satan, the Most Merciful Lady, out of ineffable love for the human race, precedes them to help, turns them away from the path of destruction and instructs them on the path of salvation. Rejoicing at the wondrous mercy of the Queen of Heaven, all the faithful say this: Rejoice, you who show us all the path of salvation; Rejoice, forbidding pride and anger to rule our hearts. Rejoice, strict admonition to gluttons and drunkards; Rejoice, strong motivation for the lazy and weak-willed. Rejoice, you who lead those who live in fornication to repentance; Rejoice, sinners who come running to You with faith, speedy correction. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 6 Preachers of miracles revealed by Your icons, our pious fathers, saved by You, Mother of God, and delivered from troubles and misfortunes. In the same way, thanking God, who has bestowed such a good Intercessor on the human race, all silent lips sing to Him: Alleluia. Ikos 6 The light of Thy ineffable goodness has risen, O Blessed One, to all those who grieve, those who cry, to all of us who are in temptation, for through our tearful prayers You, the Mother of God, have given us miraculous deliverance from troubles. Otherwise, not having words worthy of praising Thee for Thy mercy towards all, with sinful lips we exclaim to Thee in tenderness: Rejoice, thou who transformest our sorrows and tears into joy; Rejoice, O Merciful Helper of those who suffer from temptation. Rejoice, saving our houses from fire and other destruction; Rejoice, protecting the faithful from thieves and evil people. Rejoice, destroyer of the slander and intrigues of our enemies; Rejoice, conquering the fear of death and sudden death in our souls. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 7 Although the All-Merciful Lord showed His Divine love for us unworthy, giving us Your icon, the Mother of God, called the Indestructible Wall, so that those who saw miracles from the holy icon were, all people with faith and hope for Your miraculous help with tenderness cry out to the Source of miracles, the Lord: Alleluia. Ikos 7 A new testimony that is always inherent in You, Most Pure One, of the grace and miraculous powers shown to us by the Creator, always Your wondrous image, depicted on the altar wall of the ancient St. Sophia Cathedral in the city of Kiev, preserved intact for nine centuries, for the hordes of filthy enemies of the Orthodox faith did not dare to damage this image gracious, protected by Your power. Truly, for us, sinners and mourners, this holy icon is an unbreakable wall, inspiring all the faithful to proclaim to You: Rejoice, clothed in a tunic, shining with heavenly light; Rejoice, thou who by the lifting of Thy most pure hands manifests unceasing prayer for the whole world. Rejoice, for you have not damaged Your honorable image and the length of centuries; Rejoice, for this image remains in all its glory even after the invasion of the forces of the enemy. Rejoice, for in this way the hearts of those praying are reverently touched; Rejoice, for the grace-filled power inherent in this image of Yours frightens the demons. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 8 It is strange for unbelievers to hear that You, O Mother of God, have special care for infants. We, remembering the words of our Lord, said: leave the children to come to Me, for such is the Kingdom of God, we confess with firm faith that You, Most Holy Virgin, protect babies and their mothers with Your love, and we cry to Your Son: Alleluia. Ikos 8 With all your heart, Queen of the world, loving every creature of God and offering prayers for all to Your Son, as the Mother according to the flesh of the Son of God, You unceasingly contain in Your soul the sorrows and labors of mothers. For this reason, as the Mother of the Infant Jesus, we sing to You: Rejoice, faithful Helper and refuge of childbearing mothers; Rejoice, protection and strength of infants. Rejoice, quenching maternal sorrows; Rejoice, preserving every age of infancy. Rejoice, good Teacher of pious mothers in raising children; Rejoice, O children helpless in illness to the Healer. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 9 Every angelic and human nature sings of Thy ever-virgin purity, Most Immaculate, for this sake we honor Thee, as the vigilant Guardian of the purity of virgins, the purity of widows, the chastity of young men; and we entrust every age of people to You, that You may preserve them in holiness, singing to Your Son: Alleluia. Ikos 9 The superstitious Vitias cannot contain in their hearts the truth of Your, Mother of God, Ever-Virginity. We, who believe in the power of the incomprehensible mystery, reverently praise Thee: Rejoice, for the Bridegroom, most beautiful above all the sons of men, desired Your red and bright kindness; Rejoice, for this Bridegroom combines virginity and Christmas in You. Rejoice, all-wise Teacher of immaculate virginity; Rejoice, thou who observest celibacy among pious widows. Rejoice, teaching pure virgins and widows to work for the glory of Christ for the good of their neighbors; Rejoice, thou who hast helped all those who are able to accommodate them on the path of chastity. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 10 If you want to save Your people from the falls of sin, You, Lady, vigilantly guard the holiness of an honest marriage and command those who are in marriage to keep the commandments of the Lord: to raise their children according to God and accustom them to works of mercy. Giving thanks to God, who has given us such a wise Teacher, we sing to Him with all our hearts: Alleluia. Ikos 10 You are the Wall and Guardian of pious Christian families, O Most Holy Virgin, who wisely instruct believers in marriage, how to accept the good yoke and preserve fidelity to each other until death. For this reason, we, rejoicing in Your care for a good Christian marriage, say with tenderness to You: Rejoice, blessing of an honest marriage; Rejoice, for teaching spouses how to live according to the teachings of Christ and the apostles. Rejoice, you who bring love and like-mindedness into the hearts of those living in marriage; Rejoice, protector of family ties. Rejoice, good Guardian of the domestic Church; Rejoice, formidable accuser of adulterers. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 11 All-contrite singing is brought to Ti, Most Blessed One, by the entire Christian race, seeing Thee as the all-powerful Prayer Book for the whole world. You, Mother of God, accept the prayers of the young, and do not despise the prayers of the weak elders and old women, instruct the young in good deeds for salvation, and remind the elders of their imminent transition to the afterlife. For this reason, praying to the Lord to grant us all the memory of death, we cry to Him: Alleluia. Ikos 11 The teaching of Christ the Savior about the life of the future century is an edifying and luminous luminary in our sinful life. But You, All-Merciful One, kindle in our hearts the gracious desire to be cleansed from sins by repentance and to decorate our lives with good deeds. Rejoicing in Your care for us, so that we may receive eternal salvation, with tears of tenderness we cry out to You: Rejoice, you who show considerable love for the infirm elders; Rejoice, faithful people who want to end their lives in piety, All-merciful Helper. Rejoice, elderly parents, abandoned by their children, receiving under Your honest shelter; Rejoice, O terrible Punisher, such cruel children who neglect their elders. Rejoice, reminding us all of the terrible Second Coming of Christ; Rejoice, for the souls of the departed faithful servants of God, warm prayer book. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 12 Divine Grace clearly abides in Your miraculous icon, worthily and righteously for our consolation called the Indestructible Wall. Pouring out our joys and sorrows before this icon, we pray to You, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, do not forsake us with Your intercession, but we cry out to the Lord with gratitude for You: Alleluia. Ikos 12 Singing Your powerful intercession for the whole world, remembering the miracles You showed through Your holy icon, the Indestructible Wall, we pray to You, the zealous Intercessor: be our country's unceasing Helper, implore Your Son, who fulfills Your prayers, to establish throughout the world the peace desired by the peoples, may everyone gratefully praise You: Rejoice, rejoicing at the appearance of Your Son and His Resurrection; Rejoice, thou who in Thy immortal Dormition joyfully betrayed Thy soul into His hands. Rejoice, strengthening good shepherds on their way of the cross; Rejoice, you who lead the monastic life with invisible help. Rejoice, protecting this temple and those who pray in it with Your grace; Rejoice, unchanging Protection and Indestructible Wall for our Fatherland. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation. Kontakion 13 O All-Sung Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, accept now this small prayer, protect us from sins and all kinds of defilement, deliver us from the troubles and needs that befall us, save us from despondency and despair, human slander, unbearable diseases, so that through your prayers we may become the path of eternal salvation, let us sing with gratitude to Your Son: Alleluia. (This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)
Prayers before the icon
Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos before the “Unbreakable Wall” icon
Kontakion 1
Chosen from all generations to the Mother of God and the Queen, before Her most pure image, the Indestructible Wall called, we offer thanksgiving songs of praise to You, O Blessed One. You, who have incomprehensible power and unspeakable love, save us from all our troubles and sorrows, and let us call to You:
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Ikos 1
A representative angel was quickly sent from God to You, Most Pure One, to bring You worldwide joy, as You conceived God the Word, the Savior of the world, from the Holy Spirit in Your womb. We, leading the fulfillment of this annunciation, believe that the Lord, Most Blessed One, has shown You with an Indestructible Wall and protected us from all sin, troubles and misfortunes. For this sake, let us please Thee, Mother of God, and joyfully cry out:
Rejoice, for the Lord is with You and You with us;
Rejoice, for in Cana of Galilee you appeared as a representative to Your Son for the people.
Rejoice, for with Your omophorion you cover the faithful wider than the clouds;
Rejoice, for with Your grace you wipe away the tears of the suffering.
Rejoice, for You lift up Your hands to protect us from all defilement;
Rejoice, for according to Your word you are now and ever blessed.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 2
The visionary prophets, with their clever minds, combed through Your grace-filled appearance, proclaimed the Nativity in the flesh from You of the Son of God, and having known all the fulfillment of the prophetic prophecies, they reverently cried out to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 2
Having a blessed mind, Jacob, Moses, David and many others depicted Your wonderful Nativity and the mystery of Your Ever-Virginity in words, visions, and dreams. We, unable to comprehend the full power of prophetic broadcasts, from the depths of our believing hearts sing to You with love:
Rejoice, high Ladder, uniting earth with Heaven;
Rejoice, O God, who appeared on earth, who bore in Your womb and, like the Burning Bush, remains incorruptible.
Rejoice, luminous Cloud, from Him the Lord of all, like rain on the fleece, descending to the earth;
Rejoice, as the Life-Giving Source, who kindles the hunger and thirst for eternal truth in people.
Rejoice, Christ, who has contained the manna of life in His womb and saturates our souls with the bread of immortality;
Rejoice, wonderful Rod, adorning the flowers of the virtues of the faithful.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 3
The power of the Most High autumn of Thee, the Most Pure One, having made Thee the Mother of the Lord, and after Thy Nativity abides abundantly in Thee, Mother of God. Rejoicing at such God's good will towards You, all, praising the Savior of the world, cry out to Him joyfully: Alleluia.
Ikos 3
Having in Yourself abundantly the grace of God, You, Most Immaculate One, have given Your entire life to good cares for Your Son and the Lord, keeping all His words in Your heart. We, sinners, remembering Your sorrowful life on earth, give You the following praises:
Rejoice, thou who gave birth to the Lord of the universe in a wretched den;
Rejoice, you who fled to Egypt from the lawless Herod with Your Son.
Rejoice, you who sought Your Son with great sorrow in Jerusalem during the days of Easter;
Rejoice, you who have contemplated hatred and envy of Your Son from His enemies with a sorrowful heart.
Rejoice, you who crucified Him with your Mother’s heart, when you contemplated His suffering and death on the Cross;
Rejoice, having found your son in John the Theologian, according to the word Jesus.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 4
Our Russian country has been repeatedly tested by the storm of invasion of foreigners, and in difficult trials our fathers have cried out for help to the Blessed Virgin Mary. That, like the Indestructible Wall, by His intercession at the Throne of His Son and God, graciously sends down His power, and with the hope of the Mother of God’s help, the people of Russia drive out the hordes of the enemy from the Russian borders. For this reason, praising the Mother of God, we joyfully sing to the Lord: Alleluia.
Ikos 4
The whole world hears and knows how the Most Holy Theotokos kindles courage in the hearts of the Russian people, and gives strength for exploits and defense of the fatherland, fights against foreigners, and sends Her gracious help to the entire Russian army. Confessing our faith and the miraculous intercession of the Queen of Heaven in the days of the war invasions on our land, we thus sing to the Most Gracious One:
Rejoice, help to the Russian people against their enemies;
Rejoice, blessed reinforcement from our land for the expulsion of foreigners.
Rejoice, secret admonition and wisdom for the leaders of the Russian army;
Rejoice, shame on the haters of the human race.
Rejoice, terrible Punisher who kindled the flame of enmity;
Rejoice, invincible Helper of all who care for the peace of the whole world.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 5
Thou art the God-bearing star, O Ever-Blessed One, who has appeared to all those wandering in the darkness of passions and vices, for through Thy admonition many grave sinners turn away from lawless deeds and resort to God with repentance, crying out to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 5
Seeing the death of many souls into the power of sin and defilement by Satan, the Most Merciful Lady, out of indescribable love for the human race, advances them to help, turns them away from the disastrous path and instructs them on the path of salvation. Rejoicing at the wondrous mercy of the Queen of Heaven, all the faithful say this:
Rejoice, you who show us all the path of salvation;
Rejoice, forbidding pride and anger to rule our hearts.
Rejoice, strict admonition to gluttons and drunkards;
Rejoice, strong motivation for the lazy and weak-willed.
Rejoice, you who lead those who live in fornication to repentance;
Rejoice, sinners who come running to You with faith, speedy correction.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 6
Preachers of miracles revealed by Your icons, our pious fathers, saved by You, Mother of God, and delivered from troubles and misfortunes. In the same way, thanking God, who has bestowed such a good Intercessor on the human race, all silent lips sing to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 6
The light of Your ineffable goodness, O Blessed One, shines forth to all those who grieve, weep, to all of us in temptation, for through our tearful prayers You, the Mother of God, grant us miraculous deliverance from troubles. Although we have no words worthy of praising Thee for Thy mercy towards all, with sinful lips we exclaim to Thee in tenderness:
Rejoice, you who transform our sorrows and tears into joy;
Rejoice, O Merciful Helper to those who suffer from temptation.
Rejoice, saving our houses from fire and other destruction;
Rejoice, you who protect the faithful from thieves and evil people.
Rejoice, destroyer of the slander and intrigues of our enemies;
Rejoice, conquering the fear of death and sudden death in our souls.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 7
Although the All-Merciful Lord showed His Divine love for us unworthy, giving us Your Mother of God icon, called the Indestructible Wall, and seeing miracles from the holy icon, all people with faith and hope for Your miraculous help with tenderness cry out to the Source of miracles, the Lord: Alleluia.
Ikos 7
A new testimony that is always inherent in You, Most Pure One, of the grace and miraculous powers the Creator showed to us, always Your wondrous image, depicted on the altar wall of the ancient St. Sophia Cathedral in the city of Kiev, was preserved intact for nine centuries, for the hordes of filthy enemies of the Orthodox faith did not dare to damage this gracious image, protected by Your power. Truly, for us, sinners and mourners, this holy icon appears as an unbreakable wall, inspiring all the faithful to cry out to you:
Rejoice, clothed in a tunic shining with heavenly light;
Rejoice, thou who by the lifting of Thy most pure hands manifests unceasing prayer for the whole world.
Rejoice, for you have not damaged Your honorable image and the length of centuries;
Rejoice, for this image remains in all its glory even after the invasion of the power of the enemy.
Rejoice, for in this way the hearts of those praying are reverently touched;
Rejoice, for the grace-filled power inherent in this image of Yours frightens the demons.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 8
It is strange for non-believers to hear that You, Mother of God, have special care for babies. We, remembering the words of our Lord, said: leave the children to come to Me, for such is the Kingdom of God, we confess with firm faith that You, Most Holy Virgin, protect babies and their mothers with Your love, and we cry to Your Son: Alleluia.
Ikos 8
With all your heart, Queen of the world, offer up prayers for all of God’s creatures to Your Son, as the Mother according to the flesh of the Son of God, You comfortably accommodate in Your soul the sorrows and labors of mothers. For this reason, as the Mother of the Infant Jesus, we sing to You:
Rejoice, faithful Helper and refuge of childbearing mothers;
Rejoice, protection and strength of infants.
Rejoice, quenching maternal sorrows;
Rejoice, preserving every age of infancy.
Rejoice, good Teacher of pious mothers in raising children;
Rejoice, O children helpless in illness to the Healer.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 9
Every angelic and human nature sings of Your ever-virgin purity, Most Immaculate, for this sake we honor You, as the vigilant Guardian of the purity of virgins, the purity of widows, the chastity of young men; and we entrust every age of people to You, that You may preserve them in holiness, singing to Your Son: Alleluia.
Ikos 9
Superstitious spirits cannot contain in their hearts the truth of Your, Mother of God, Ever-Virginity. We, who believe in the power of the incomprehensible mystery, reverently praise Thee:
Rejoice, for the Bridegroom, redder than all the sons of men, desired Your red and bright kindness;
Rejoice, for this Bridegroom has united virginity and Christmas in You.
Rejoice, all-wise Teacher of immaculate virginity;
Rejoice, thou who preservest pious widows in celibacy.
Rejoice, teaching pure virgins and widows to work for the glory of Christ for the good of their neighbors;
Rejoice, thou who hast helped all who are able to embrace the path of chastity.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 10
Wanting to save Your people from the falls of sin, You, Lady, vigilantly guard the holiness of an honest marriage and command those who are in marriage to keep the commandments of the Lord: to raise their children according to God and to accustom them to acts of mercy. Giving thanks to God, who has given us such a wise Teacher, we sing to Him with all our hearts: Alleluia.
Ikos 10
You are the Wall and Guardian of pious Christian families, the Most Holy Virgin, who wisely instruct believers in marriage, how to accept the good yoke and preserve fidelity to each other until death. For this reason, we, rejoicing in Your care for a good Christian marriage, say with tenderness to You:
Rejoice, blessing of honest marriage;
Rejoice, you who teach spouses how to live according to the teachings of Christ and the apostles.
Rejoice, you who bring love and like-mindedness into the hearts of those living in marriage;
Rejoice, protector of family ties.
Rejoice, good Guardian of the domestic Church;
Rejoice, formidable accuser of violators of adultery.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 11
All-contrite singing is brought to Ti, Most Blessed One, by the entire Christian race, seeing Thee as the all-powerful Prayer Book for the whole world. You, Mother of God, accept the prayers of the young, and do not despise the prayers of the weak elders and old women, instruct the young in good deeds for salvation, and remind the elders of their imminent transition to the afterlife. For this reason, praying to the Lord to grant us all the memory of death, we cry to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 11
The teaching of Christ the Savior about the life of the future century is an edifying and luminous luminary in our sinful life. But You, All-Merciful One, kindle in our hearts the gracious desire to be cleansed from sins by repentance and to decorate our lives with good deeds. Rejoicing in Your care for us, so that we may receive eternal salvation, we cry out to You with tears of tenderness:
Rejoice, you who show great love for the infirm elders;
Rejoice, faithful people who want to end their lives in piety, O All-merciful Helper.
Rejoice, elderly parents, abandoned by their children, receiving under Your honest shelter;
Rejoice, O terrible Punisher, such cruel children who neglect their elders.
Rejoice, reminding us all of the terrible Second Coming of Christ;
Rejoice, warm prayer book for the souls of the departed faithful servants of God.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 12
Divine grace clearly abides in Your miraculous icon, worthily and righteously for our consolation called the Indestructible Wall. Pouring out our joys and sorrows before this icon, we pray to You, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, do not forsake us with Your intercession, but we cry out to the Lord with gratitude for You: Alleluia.
Ikos 12
Singing Your powerful intercession for the whole world, remembering the miracles You showed through Your holy icon, the Indestructible Wall, we pray to You, the zealous Intercessor: be our country's unceasing Helper, beseech Your Son, who fulfills Your prayers, to establish throughout the world the peace desired by the peoples, and all They will gratefully praise Tysitsa:
Rejoice, gladdened by the appearance of Your Son and His Resurrection;
Rejoice, in Your immortal Dormition You joyfully betrayed Your soul into His hands.
Rejoice, strengthening good shepherds on their way of the cross;
Rejoice, invisible help to those who lead the monastic life.
Rejoice, protecting this temple and those who pray in it with Your grace;
Rejoice, unchanging Protection and Indestructible Wall for our Fatherland.
Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos before the “Unbreakable Wall” icon
Kontakion 1
Chosen from all generations to the Mother of God and the Queen, before Her most pure image, the Indestructible Wall called, we offer thanksgiving songs of praise to You, O Blessed One. You, who have incomprehensible power and unspeakable love, save us from all troubles and sorrows, and let us call to You: Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Ikos 1
A representative angel was quickly sent from God to You, Most Pure One, to bring You worldwide joy, as You conceived God the Word, the Savior of the world, from the Holy Spirit in Your womb. We, leading the fulfillment of this annunciation, believe that the Lord, Most Blessed One, has shown You with an Indestructible Wall and protected us from all sin, troubles and misfortunes. For this sake, we please Thee, Mother of God, and joyfully cry out: Rejoice, for the Lord is with Thee and Thee with us; Rejoice, for in Cana of Galilee you appeared as a representative to Your Son for the people. Rejoice, for with Your omophorion you cover the faithful wider than the clouds; Rejoice, for with Your grace you wipe away the tears of the afflicted. Rejoice, for You lift up Your hands to protect us from all defilement; Rejoice, for according to Your word you are now and ever blessed. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 2
The visionary prophets, with their clever minds, combed through Your grace-filled appearance, proclaimed the Nativity in the flesh from You of the Son of God, and having known all the fulfillment of the prophetic prophecies, they reverently cried out to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 2
Having a blessed mind, Jacob, Moses, David and many others depicted Your wonderful Nativity and the mystery of Your Ever-Virginity in words, visions, and dreams. We, unable to comprehend the full power of prophetic broadcasts, from the depths of our believing hearts sing to You with love: Rejoice, high Ladder, joining earth with Heaven; Rejoice, O God, who appeared on earth, who bore in Your womb and, like the Burning Bush, remains incorruptible. Rejoice, luminous Cloud, from Him the Lord of all, like rain on the fleece, descending to the earth; Rejoice, for you are the Life-Giving Source, who kindles the hunger and thirst for eternal truth in people. Rejoice, Christ, who has contained the manna of life in His womb and saturates our souls with the bread of immortality; Rejoice, wonderful Rod, adorning the flowers of the faithful virtues. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 3
The power of the Most High autumn of Thee, the Most Pure One, having made Thee the Mother of the Lord, and after Thy Nativity abides abundantly in Thee, Mother of God. Rejoicing at such God's good will towards You, all, praising the Savior of the world, cry out to Him joyfully: Alleluia.
Ikos 3
Having in Yourself abundantly the grace of God, You, Most Immaculate One, have given Your entire life to good cares for Your Son and the Lord, keeping all His words in Your heart. We, sinners, remembering Your sorrowful life on earth, say the following praises to You: Rejoice, Thou who gave birth to the Lord of the universe in a wretched den; Rejoice, you who fled to Egypt from the lawless Herod with Your Son. Rejoice, you who sought Your Son with great sorrow in Jerusalem during the days of Easter; Rejoice, having contemplated hatred and envy of Your Son from His enemies with a sorrowful heart. Rejoice, you who crucified Him with your Mother’s heart, when you contemplated His suffering and death on the Cross; Rejoice, having found your son in John the Theologian, according to the word Jesus. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 4
Our Russian country has been repeatedly tested by the storm of invasion of foreigners, and in difficult trials our fathers have cried out for help to the Blessed Virgin Mary. That, like the Indestructible Wall, by His intercession at the Throne of His Son and God, graciously sends down His power, and with the hope of the Mother of God’s help, the people of Russia drive out the hordes of the enemy from the Russian borders. For this reason, praising the Mother of God, we joyfully sing to the Lord: Alleluia.
Ikos 4
The whole world hears and knows how the Most Holy Theotokos kindles courage in the hearts of the Russian people, and gives strength for exploits and defense of the fatherland, fights against foreigners, and sends Her gracious help to the entire Russian army. Confessing our faith and the miraculous intercession of the Queen of Heaven in the days of the military invasions of our land, we thus sing to the Most Gracious One: Rejoice, help to the Russian people against their enemies; Rejoice, blessed reinforcement from our land for the expulsion of foreigners. Rejoice, secret admonition and wisdom for the leaders of the Russian army; Rejoice, shame on the haters of the human race. Rejoice, terrible Punisher who kindled the flame of enmity; Rejoice, invincible Helper of all who care for the peace of the whole world. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 5
Thou art the God-bearing star, O Ever-Blessed One, who has appeared to all those wandering in the darkness of passions and vices, for through Thy admonition many grave sinners turn away from lawless deeds and resort to God with repentance, crying out to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 5
Seeing the death of many souls into the power of sin and defilement by Satan, the Most Merciful Lady, out of indescribable love for the human race, advances them to help, turns them away from the disastrous path and instructs them on the path of salvation. Rejoicing at the wondrous mercy of the Queen of Heaven, all the faithful say this: Rejoice, you who show us all the path of salvation; Rejoice, forbidding pride and anger to rule our hearts. Rejoice, strict admonition to gluttons and drunkards; Rejoice, strong motivation for the lazy and weak-willed. Rejoice, you who lead those who live in fornication to repentance; Rejoice, sinners who come running to You with faith, speedy correction. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 6
Preachers of miracles revealed by Your icons, our pious fathers, saved by You, Mother of God, and delivered from troubles and misfortunes. In the same way, thanking God, who has bestowed such a good Intercessor on the human race, all silent lips sing to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 6
The light of Your ineffable goodness, O Blessed One, shines forth to all those who grieve, weep, to all of us in temptation, for through our tearful prayers You, the Mother of God, grant us miraculous deliverance from troubles. Otherwise, not having words worthy of praising Thee for Thy mercy towards all, with sinful lips we exclaim to Thee in tenderness: Rejoice, thou who transformest our sorrows and tears into joy; Rejoice, O Merciful Helper of those who suffer from temptation. Rejoice, saving our houses from fire and other destruction; Rejoice, protecting the faithful from thieves and evil people. Rejoice, destroyer of the slander and intrigues of our enemies; Rejoice, conquering the fear of death and sudden death in our souls. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 7
Although the All-Merciful Lord showed His Divine love for us unworthy, giving us Your Mother of God icon, called the Indestructible Wall, and seeing miracles from the holy icon, all people with faith and hope for Your miraculous help with tenderness cry out to the Source of miracles, the Lord: Alleluia.
Ikos 7
A new testimony that is always inherent in You, Most Pure One, of the grace and miraculous powers the Creator showed to us, always Your wondrous image, depicted on the altar wall of the ancient St. Sophia Cathedral in the city of Kiev, was preserved intact for nine centuries, for the hordes of filthy enemies of the Orthodox faith did not dare to damage this gracious image, protected by Your power. Truly, for us, sinners and mourners, this holy icon is an unbreakable wall, inspiring all the faithful to proclaim to You: Rejoice, clothed in a tunic, shining with heavenly light; Rejoice, thou who by the lifting of Thy most pure hands manifests unceasing prayer for the whole world. Rejoice, for you have not damaged Your honorable image and the length of centuries; Rejoice, for this image remains in all its glory even after the invasion of the forces of the enemy. Rejoice, for in this way the hearts of those praying are reverently touched; Rejoice, for the grace-filled power inherent in this image of Yours frightens the demons. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 8
It is strange for non-believers to hear that You, Mother of God, have special care for babies. We, remembering the words of our Lord, said: leave the children to come to Me, for such is the Kingdom of God, we confess with firm faith that You, Most Holy Virgin, protect babies and their mothers with Your love, and we cry to Your Son: Alleluia.
Ikos 8
With all your heart, Queen of the world, offer up prayers for all of God’s creatures to Your Son, as the Mother according to the flesh of the Son of God, You comfortably accommodate in Your soul the sorrows and labors of mothers. For this reason, as the Mother of the Infant Jesus, we sing to You: Rejoice, faithful Helper and refuge of childbearing mothers; Rejoice, protection and strength of infants. Rejoice, quenching maternal sorrows; Rejoice, preserving every age of infancy. Rejoice, good Teacher of pious mothers in raising children; Rejoice, O children helpless in illness to the Healer. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 9
Every angelic and human nature sings of Your ever-virgin purity, Most Immaculate, for this sake we honor You, as the vigilant Guardian of the purity of virgins, the purity of widows, the chastity of young men; and we entrust every age of people to You, that You may preserve them in holiness, singing to Your Son: Alleluia.
Ikos 9
Superstitious spirits cannot contain in their hearts the truth of Your, Mother of God, Ever-Virginity. We, who believe in the power of the incomprehensible mystery, reverently praise Thee: Rejoice, for the Bridegroom, most beautiful above all the sons of men, desired Your red and bright kindness; Rejoice, for this Bridegroom combines virginity and Christmas in You. Rejoice, all-wise Teacher of immaculate virginity; Rejoice, thou who observest celibacy among pious widows. Rejoice, teaching pure virgins and widows to work for the glory of Christ for the good of their neighbors; Rejoice, thou who hast helped all those who are able to accommodate them on the path of chastity. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 10
Wanting to save Your people from the falls of sin, You, Lady, vigilantly guard the holiness of an honest marriage and command those who are in marriage to keep the commandments of the Lord: to raise their children according to God and to accustom them to acts of mercy. Giving thanks to God, who has given us such a wise Teacher, we sing to Him with all our hearts: Alleluia.
Ikos 10
You are the Wall and Guardian of pious Christian families, the Most Holy Virgin, who wisely instruct believers in marriage, how to accept the good yoke and preserve fidelity to each other until death. For this reason, we, rejoicing in Your care for a good Christian marriage, say with tenderness to You: Rejoice, blessing of an honest marriage; Rejoice, for teaching spouses how to live according to the teachings of Christ and the apostles. Rejoice, you who bring love and like-mindedness into the hearts of those living in marriage; Rejoice, protector of family ties. Rejoice, good Guardian of the domestic Church; Rejoice, formidable accuser of adulterers. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 11
All-contrite singing is brought to Ti, Most Blessed One, by the entire Christian race, seeing Thee as the all-powerful Prayer Book for the whole world. You, Mother of God, accept the prayers of the young, and do not despise the prayers of the weak elders and old women, instruct the young in good deeds for salvation, and remind the elders of their imminent transition to the afterlife. For this reason, praying to the Lord to grant us all the memory of death, we cry to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 11
The teaching of Christ the Savior about the life of the future century is an edifying and luminous luminary in our sinful life. But You, All-Merciful One, kindle in our hearts the gracious desire to be cleansed from sins by repentance and to decorate our lives with good deeds. Rejoicing in Your care for us, so that we may receive eternal salvation, with tears of tenderness we cry out to You: Rejoice, you who show considerable love for the infirm elders; Rejoice, faithful people who want to end their lives in piety, All-merciful Helper. Rejoice, elderly parents, abandoned by their children, receiving under Your honest shelter; Rejoice, O terrible Punisher, such cruel children who neglect their elders. Rejoice, reminding us all of the terrible Second Coming of Christ; Rejoice, for the souls of the departed faithful servants of God, warm prayer book. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 12
Divine grace clearly abides in Your miraculous icon, worthily and righteously for our consolation called the Indestructible Wall. Pouring out our joys and sorrows before this icon, we pray to You, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, do not forsake us with Your intercession, but we cry out to the Lord with gratitude for You: Alleluia.
Ikos 12
Singing Your powerful intercession for the whole world, remembering the miracles You showed through Your holy icon, the Indestructible Wall, we pray to You, the zealous Intercessor: be our country's unceasing Helper, beseech Your Son, who fulfills Your prayers, to establish throughout the world the peace desired by the peoples, and all They will gratefully praise You: Rejoice, rejoicing at the appearance of Your Son and His Resurrection; Rejoice, thou who in Thy immortal Dormition joyfully gave Thy soul into His hands. Rejoice, strengthening good shepherds on their way of the cross; Rejoice, you who lead the monastic life with invisible help. Rejoice, protecting this temple and those who pray in it with Your grace; Rejoice, unchanging Protection and Indestructible Wall for our Fatherland. Rejoice, Mother of God, Indestructible Wall, our Intercessor and consolation.
Kontakion 13
O All-Singing Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, accept now this small prayer, protect us from sins and all kinds of defilement, deliver us from the troubles and needs that befall us, save us from despondency and despair, human slander, unbearable diseases, and through Your prayers we may take the path of salvation Eternal, let us sing with gratitude to Your Son: Alleluia.
(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)
