An icon with many images of the Virgin Mary. Icon of the Mother of God “healer”

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

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

Four types of icons of the Virgin Mary

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

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

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

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

The akathist view of the icon is a collective image. It is created in iconography under the impression of the Gospel texts. This is more like an illustration of the actions of the Mother of God, her participation in the fate of the Son. Bright icons of this species - “ Unexpected joy», « Burning bush", "All creation rejoices in you, rejoicing."

Patronage of icons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are prayers:

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

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

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

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

Miraculous icons

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

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

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

Icon "Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

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

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

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

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

"The Sign of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Tenderness of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary"

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

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

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

Meaning of the icon

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

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

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

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

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

Believers have always treated the Icon of the Mother of God with special reverence; many miracles and signs are associated with it. And if you are going to receive quick consolation in your troubles and grief, run with faith and prayer to the Queen of Heaven, and she will certainly answer your prayers with help and consolation.

Let's look at what icons of the Mother of God there are, and find out which image to resort to in which problems.

Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God

People have always treated the Vladimir Icon with special reverence; many miracles and signs are associated with it. Before her, the anointing of sovereigns and emperors took place. When electing all-Russian metropolitans, and then patriarchs, the lot was placed in a shroud in the icon case of the Vladimir icon, hoping that the Mother of God herself would indicate the person pleasing to Her.

According to legend, this icon was painted by the Evangelist Luke on a board from the table at which the Savior dined with the Most Pure Mother and Righteous Joseph. In the middle of the 12th century, the shrine came to Russia. When she was being taken to Suzdal, not far from Vladimir the horses stopped and could not move. The Assumption Cathedral was erected on this spot, where the miraculous icon, since then called the Vladimir Icon, was installed. With the transfer of the capital from Vladimir to Moscow, the icon also moved. In 1395, the Vladimir Mother of God appeared in a dream to the invader Tamerlane and forced him to retreat from Moscow. Since then, the icon has been considered the patroness of the capital and all of Rus'.

It is not only in protecting Russia from enemies that its miraculous power is manifested. Since the time of Prince Bogolyubsky, a very large number of people have received spiritual and physical healing by sincerely asking the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God for help.
Protects against accidents

When Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky took the icon to the Rostov lands, a deep river stood in his way. The prince sent a man to look for a ford, but found himself in the middle wild river sank like a stone. The prince prayed to the icon, and a miracle happened - the man got out of the water unharmed.
Makes childbirth easier

The chronicles claim that Prince Andrei's wife suffered greatly and could not be relieved of her burden for more than two days. The prince defended the service and when it ended, he washed the icon with water, and sent the water to the princess. Having taken a single sip, she immediately gave birth healthy child and recovered on her own.

Treats heart and vascular diseases

It shows greatest power in the treatment of diseases associated with blood vessels and the heart. There is a lot of evidence about this from times almost forgotten to the present day. There is a well-known story about a woman from Murom who suffered from a heart disease. Having sent all her jewelry to Vladimir, she asked for holy water from the icon of the Mother of God. And when she drank the water that was brought, she was immediately cured.
Saves you from fatal accidents

Prince Bogolyubsky built the Golden Gate in Vladimir. Many people came to see them. But suddenly, with a large crowd of people, the gate separated from the walls and fell. The reason for this was undried lime. As many as 12 people remained trapped under the rubble. Having learned about the tragedy, Prince Bogolyubsky began to pray in front of the icon of the Mother of God. The sincere prayer was heard. The gates were raised and all the people were alive, no injuries were found on anyone.

Icon of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow”

Somehow, grieving people are not translated either in Russia or on the planet. The image of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow” already in its title alone gives hope - and not even hope, but the confidence that sorrows will be overcome and healed, and the joy so desired by the human heart will be found. One of the prayers before this image says the following about the Mother of God: “Visiting the sick, protecting and intercessoring the weak, patroness of widows and orphans, all-reliable comforter of sad mothers, a fortress for weak babies, and always ready help and a true refuge for all the helpless.”

Therefore, before the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Joy of All Who Sorrow” all the offended, oppressed, suffering, those who are in despair or sorrow, as well as those who are terminally ill, pray. In it, everyone who has nowhere else to get it seeks consolation and protection - and receives what they ask for through their prayers.
Especially powerful icon, even cancer is cured for those who resort to it with strong faith, seeking help. It was written in the 17th century and is located on Mount Athos.
The history of the manifestation of her miraculous power is also interesting. One day, when the pilgrims arrived at the monastery, one approached the icon a strange man, muttering something inaudibly. And suddenly the face of the Mother of God shone, and the guy was thrown to the ground with force.
Everyone was shocked, and the guy fell to his knees and began to pray, shedding tears. He admitted that he was involved in magic, and came specifically to see if he could influence the icons. And he received such a lesson from Heavenly strength that he repented, and even became a monk of that monastery.

Icon of the Mother of God “It is Worthy to Eat” (or “Merciful”)

There was an icon of the Mother of God, which was called “The Merciful”. And in the 10th century, a wanderer appeared to one novice of the Kareya monastery, which is located on Mount Athos, at night while praying to the Mother of God. He asked to go to his cell and began to sing prayers with him. And then with his finger on a block of stone that became softer than wax, write the song “It is worthy to eat...” and said, his name is Gabriel. And disappeared.

Then the stone block was examined, and it was confirmed that what was written could be the Archangel Gabriel, and this song began to be sung in prayers in full, as it was written by the heavenly guest. And the icon received another name.

Before the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Merciful”, or “It is Worthy to Eat”, they pray during mental and physical illnesses, at the end of any business, during epidemics, for happiness in marriage, during accidents.

Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

Once Matrona, the ten-year-old daughter of one of the fire victims, archer Daniil Onuchin, had a vision: the Most Holy Theotokos appeared to her in a dream and ordered her icon to be removed from the ground at the site of the fire. The next morning the girl hastened to tell about her wonderful dream, but no one - not even her parents, not even the archbishop - took her words seriously.

And only when the dream repeated itself on the second and then on the third night, Matrona begged her parents to start searching for the icon. And in the very place that was indicated to the baby in the dream, they found a shining icon, as if new - not at all spoiled by time.

The news of the amazing find and its miracles instantly spread throughout the city. When the icon was solemnly carried to the Annunciation Cathedral, two blind men regained their sight during the religious procession. And now the residents who had already lost their faith believed again, having gotten rid of spiritual blindness, and went to the found icon to pray for forgiveness, healing and protection from adversity.

There is another date, November 4, 1612, when Russian militia troops drove the Polish invaders out of Kitay-Gorod. The victory is associated with the image of the icon of the Kazan Mother of God, since wars prayed to her before the battle.

Now the celebration of the Icon of the Kazan Mother of God takes place on July 21 and November 4 in memory of these events.

• In front of the icon of the Kazan Most Holy Theotokos, Orthodox Christians pray for healing from any bodily infirmity, but first of all they ask for healing from blindness. They also ask for spiritual insight, for guidance on Right way, if the fire of faith suddenly began to weaken in your soul.
• They also pray to the Queen of Heaven for support in difficult life situations, when the strength to fight the circumstances is no longer enough. In any sorrows and sorrows, they go to the Mother of God for consolation and guidance.
• It’s not for nothing that the Kazan Icon is called the Guide: it helps to accept right decisions, guides you on the path to a good goal, protects you from misfortunes and mistakes. Often in descriptions of miracles it is said that the Mother of God appeared in dreams to people asking her for help, and told them what not to do and what to do in order to avoid trouble or correct its consequences.
• They ask not only for themselves and their loved ones, but also for the whole country: they pray to the Mother of God for deliverance from enemy invasions, for help to soldiers in defending the Motherland, for the well-being of Russia. After all, the Kazan Icon helped to win many great victories and save the country from invaders.
• They come to the Kazan Icon not only in trouble, but also in joy. It is used to bless newlyweds upon marriage. There are many signs associated with this icon. For example, if you get married on the day of the celebration of the Kazan Icon mother of god, then the marriage promises to be good and happy.
• And not only young people, but any family, the Mother of God helps to maintain harmony and well-being, saves them from quarrels and troubles. Houses that have the Kazan Icon are under its protection. Bowing before the infinite Love and Mercy of the Mother of God, girls and women of all ages turn to her with a request to help them maintain their home.
• And, of course, the Mother of God treats children especially favorably. It is not for nothing that the vision of the Kazan Icon was revealed to the little girl. Therefore, parents often place the image of this icon next to the crib and ask the Mother of God to take the child under her protection. And she helps the child on life path, protecting him from sadness and misfortune.

Icon of the Mother of God “Mammal”

This icon is a joy to all those giving birth, breastfeeding, and who pray for the health of their babies.

Unusual iconography, where the Mother of God breastfeeds the Infant God. This image was originally located near Jerusalem, in the monastery bearing the name of Saint Savva the Sanctified. And in the 18th century it was given to the son of the Serbian sovereign, and he brought it to Mount Athos. The image is still located there, in the Khiledar Monastery. In Russia, the image appeared completely unexpectedly - on the top of a tree, where a temple was built in honor of the newly found icon. And many healings were received near her at different times.

There are many still famous icons of the Mother of God; Russian people often resorted to her help and received what they asked for. Because the Most Pure One, who herself was once a person on earth, especially understands us, people, and often provides her blessed help. And it helps many in birth, and in finding marriage, and in various sorrows, and in various illnesses. Everything is within Her power; the Savior graciously answers all Her requests.

Iveron Icon of the Mother of God

The Iverskaya Mother of God is approached with prayers for prosperity, for protection from illnesses, enemies, slander and dark forces.

The Iveron Mother of God herself called herself the Great Protector for believers when she miraculously found herself in the Iveron Monastery on Athos (Greece). In the 9th century, the soldiers of King Theophilus the Iconoclast were sent to destroy the holy icons. In one house, one of them hit the Virgin Mary’s cheek with a spear, and blood flowed from the wound. To save the image, the owners gave it to the sea, and the icon moved standing along the waves. One day, the monks of the Iveron Monastery saw a pillar of fire on the sea - it rose above the image of the Mother of God standing on the water. The icon was placed in the temple, but in the morning it was discovered above the monastery gates. This was repeated several times until the Mother of God, appearing to one of the monks in a dream, said that she did not want to be kept, but that she herself would be the Guardian. The icon was left above the gate, which is why it is often called the “Goalkeeper”.

Icon of the Mother of God “Seven Arrows”

Usually the Virgin Mary is painted with her Son or with saints and angels, but here she is depicted alone, and the swords (arrows) symbolize the pain she experienced Holy Virgin Mary on earth. The number seven also denotes the seven main human sins-passions, which the Mother of God easily reads in every human heart. She is also ready to pray to the Son for each of us who pray for her intercession and for the eradication of these sinful thoughts in us.

In front of the “Semistrelnaya” prayers are read from irreconcilable enemies. During war, they read so that the weapons of enemies will bypass the defenders of the Fatherland and the relatives of soldiers. At least seven candles are placed in front of the icon. This icon can show seven miracles, or help you find out the future for seven years. A prayer service before this image will help with outbreaks of family or neighborly enmity. The icon protects against people’s intolerance towards you. It will also help with outbursts of irritation, anger or anger.

Icon of the Mother of God “Healer”

The miraculous icon “Healer” has gained its fame since the 4th century after the Nativity of Christ. An ancient church tradition that the Queen of Heaven herself helped heal a person and is the subject of this miraculous icon.

In front of the miraculous “Healer” icon they pray for healing from various diseases. Through prayers in front of the miraculous icon “Healer”, any disease is cured, even those that modern scientists doctors hopelessly give up.

Icon of the Mother of God “Tenderness”

When turning to the Mother of God “Tenderness,” they pray for healing from ailments.

The icon was in the cell of St. Seraphim of Sarov. We oil ourselves from the lamp that burned in front of the cell icon, Venerable Seraphim anointed the sick, and they received healing. In front of this icon, the monk departed to the Lord. Another name for the icon is “The Joy of All Joys.” This is what St. Seraphim himself often called this icon.

Every person, with his appearance in the world, is called to glorify his God, the one who created him, the world, the earth, animals, people and everything else. But have you ever wondered how much you know about your faith, its traditions and saints, and the significance of the Orthodox Church in the world today? Orthodoxy is the name given to true, real knowledge of God.

Traditionally, all Orthodox believe in the Holy Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. But, besides this, in any Orthodox Church you can find icons of saints. When faced with various life difficulties, believers turn for help not only to the Almighty, but also to the saints, through their and certain prayers. Everyone has their own guardian angel and saint, in whom a person believes more than in others. But in order for the life situation to be resolved for the better, and the person asking to be heard, it is necessary to know all the icons and their meaning.

Icons of all saints photos and their meaning.

To begin with, let's look at the question of what icons are. An icon is a sacred image of the faces of saints, as well as events of church history presented in the Bible. In other words, an icon is a path and a way of communication and unification with God. Different icons help in different situations.

Nicholas the Wonderworker will help you in any need. They say that his icon, located in your home, will protect you and your loved ones from poverty and want. You can ask the saint for prosperity and prosperity in your home. Nicholas the Pleasant is worshiped by everyone: travelers, pilots, drivers, sailors, and everyone who simply believes in him.

Orthodox Christians celebrate the feast of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker twice a year - on May 22 and December 19. These two dates are fixed, unlike some other church holidays.

2. Mother of God

The Mother of God is one of the most revered iconographic images among Orthodox believers. The image of the Mother of God has always been and is still considered a symbol of the guardian and intercessor of the Russian people. One of the proofs is the victory of the Russian people in the Great Patriotic War under the protection of the Mother of God. It was from that time that it became customary in Rus' that the image of the Mother of God helps and protects the Russian land.

Despite general meaning, in Orthodoxy there are different icons of the Virgin Mary. Each type has its own special meaning for believers. We will give, for example, five types of images of the Virgin Mary:

• Guidebook -

According to biblical data, it was she who was first written by the Evangelist Luke. The Virgin Mary is depicted here from the waist up, less often to the shoulders. There is also a slight tilt of the head towards Jesus Christ, and the right hand points to him. This type means a mutual relationship between mother and son.

• Tenderness - Eleusa

IN in this case The Mother of God presses her baby to her cheek, there is no distance between them, and this is a symbol of boundless love and tenderness between son and mother. Tenderness conveys the boundless love of God for all people; the image reminds us of his great sacrifice for the salvation of the entire human people.

• Praying - Oranta, Panagia, Sign

The Mother of God is depicted from the waist up or at full height with her hands raised up, her son Jesus is depicted in the center, at the level of his mother’s chest. The meaning here is the foreshadowing of the Nativity of Christ.

• All-Merciful - Panahranta,

The Virgin Mary sitting on the throne and Jesus sitting on her lap, this all just shows her greatness as an earthly intercessor.

• Intercessor - Agiosoritissa

Here the Virgin is depicted alone, without the son of God. Her hands are directed towards God, which means a prayer for the protection of humanity by the Blessed Virgin Mary before Jesus Christ.

John the Baptist is the last prophet Old Testament, who presented the people of Israel as a savior - Jesus Christ. He is also called by another name - John the Baptist - emphasizing his specific role as the forerunner and predecessor of Jesus. It was John who baptized Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. People turn to the icon for help in soil fertility and a rich harvest.

The feast of John the Baptist is celebrated several times and is associated with various episodes from his life and veneration. July 7 - Nativity of John the Baptist; September 11 - Beheading of John the Baptist; January 20 - Synapsis of John the Baptist.

4. St. George the Victorious

- Orthodox saint. He is depicted sitting on a horse and holding a dragon sword in his hands. It is he who will help you in dealing with your children, as well as in protecting your pets. The Feast of St. George the Victorious is celebrated on May 6th.

5. John of Kronstadt

Father John of Kronstadt, one of the most famous saints of recent history, had evangelical zeal and, above all, was Orthodox tradition and the faith and life of the Orthodox Church. Father John, one might say, the family saint, was an expressive and impressive preacher, a man who moved the hearts of rejected sinners to repentance, a man with great depth love and spiritual healer. Huge crowds flocked to him from all parts of Orthodox Russia to hear him and be healed by him (in body and soul). Until now, people turn to his icon with requests for healing from serious illnesses. January 2 is considered the day of remembrance of St. John of Kronstadt.

6. Holy Martyr Boniface

If the problem of alcoholism has settled in your home, your advice would be to turn to Boniface for help. In addition, it will help you cope with gluttony.

7. Blessed Matrona of Moscow

Matrona was endowed with a special feeling, spiritual insight, miraculous and healing powers. Also in early age her family, as well as neighbors, noticed that she knew absolutely everything not only about human sins, but also about their thoughts. In addition to everything, she could easily see approaching dangers and social disasters.

The icon of the Blessed Matrona is one of those to which you can come to worship and ask for absolutely everything, especially healing. It is also worth remembering that believers should know the icons and prayers to them. The holiday in honor of Matrona of Moscow is considered to be November 22 of each year.

8. Ksenia Petersburgskaya

Everyone should know which icons are needed for what, for example, the icon of Xenia of St. Petersburg will help everyone in family problems. You can turn to her icon not only with requests for happy marriage, but also in grief. The day of Blessed Xenia of St. Petersburg is considered to be February 6.

Saint Seraphim of Sarov is one of the most beloved and famous Orthodox saints of recent times. He spent 1000 days and nights on the stone, praying to God for forgiveness. He was a hermit, spiritual guide and priest. He led many Christian souls on the path of apostolic Christianity in Russia during the 19th century.

There are different icons, for example, family icons, including . Pray to Seraphim of Sarov for healing from pain in the joints, arms, legs and spine. The holiday of the discovery of the relics of Seraphim of Sarov in Orthodoxy is celebrated on August 1.

10. Saints Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia.

The martyrs Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia believed in God and proved that people, strengthened by the grace of the Holy Spirit, have no obstacles to the manifestation of strength of spirit and courage. You, too, can ask for the intercession of the saints on the day of their prayer service - September 17 - and on any other day.

A few words about how to pray

Regardless of whether you are a woman or a man, before going to the Temple you need to cleanse yourself both physically and mentally. Only then will he go to the temple with good intentions. A woman must wear a skirt, preferably one that covers her knees. Men come in ordinary clothes, but without a headdress. All women must cover their heads with a scarf.

Before entering the temple and praying, you must cross yourself before entering the church. After which, you can approach the icon. Our list will help you choose an icon. In front of the icon you need to be baptized, read a prayer and be baptized again three times. Each icon requires its own prayer, usually prayer can be found near the icon. After finishing your prayer in the temple, you need to cross yourself three times on the way out, and only then go about your business with a pure soul.

In the Orthodox faith, many icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary are venerated. More often you can find shrines where the Mother of God holds a baby in her arms.

But there is a bright image of the Virgin Mary, depicted on the eve of the birth of Jesus Christ, but after the Annunciation.

Soon she will go to Elizabeth, cousin, who will say the words that have become the hymn of the Mother of God: “Virgin Mother of God, rejoice!” We sing this song to Her to this day.

What the image of the Most Holy Theotokos “Tenderness” looks like and how it helps, we will discuss in this article.

Image of Our Lady of Tenderness

There is a whole iconographic series of holy images of the Mother of God, united under one name - “Tenderness”. But the most famous of them is the icon “Joy of all Joys”, where the Virgin Mary is depicted at the very happy moment when the Archangel Gabriel brought good news that She was about to give birth to the son of God. The hands of the Mother of God are crossed in a prayer gesture, the head is slightly bowed, and the eyes are half-lowered. Such a face personifies tenderness.

History of the icon “Joy of all Joys”

The history of the icon of the Tenderness of the Blessed Virgin Mary goes back several centuries. The original image of the Virgin Mary of Tenderness was painted on canvas attached to a thin cypress board. This icon belonged to the Venerable Elder and Wonderworker Seraphim of Sarov (1759-1833), patron and creator of the Diveyevo monastery. Saint Seraphim was glorified by the church in 1903 thanks to Emperor Nicholas II and is still the most revered ascetic of Orthodoxy in the history of the Russian Church.

In his hermit life, Seraphim of Sarov was never separated from the face of the Mother of God “Tenderness,” which he called “the Joy of all Joys” and carried with him everywhere in his shoulder bag. That ancient shrine brought many miracles. Even the lamp oil located near the face had healing properties. The venerable wonderworker anointed sick pilgrims who flowed to him like a river for help, said prayers to the Tenderness icon, and this helped recovery.

After his death, the elder bequeathed to transfer his beloved shrine to the Diveyevo sisters, where it remained for more than 150 years. The Seraphim-Diveyevo icon is considered one of the main images that capture the face of the Mother of God, because it testifies to the imminent birth of the son of God, Jesus Christ. The bright image is permeated with joy and meekness, precisely the same feelings that the Mother of God experienced at that happy moment.

The history of writing and the author of the original Seraphim-Diveyevo image are unknown, and the origin of the icon dates back to the years of the life of Seraphim of Sarov, that is, the end of the 18th century. After the death of the elder, the image was kept in the Holy Trinity Cathedral of the Diveyevo Monastery. A special chapel was built there, and an elegant shrine with glass (case) was carved under the icon itself. There was a tradition in the monastery when all the nuns stood behind this icon case with the face of the Mother of God during the service. In 1902, Nicholas II made a priceless gift for this icon in the form of a gilded robe and a silver lamp.

And in 1991, the original shrine “Tenderness” was transferred to the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate and is still located in the patriarchal residence. In the Diveyesky Monastery, instead of the original, it was left exact copy miraculous image. But every year on the Day of Praise of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Saturday of the fifth week of Lent) from Patriarchal Church the original is transferred to public worship at the Epiphany (Elokhovsky) Cathedral. For the last 70 years, it is the Epiphany Cathedral that has been the heart of Orthodox Russia, the center of its spiritual life.

Anyone can see the wonderful image of “Tenderness” and venerate the beloved icon of Seraphim of Sarov once a year.

Other famous images of Tenderness

Over time, it was made from the original a large number of copies on which the Virgin Mary is depicted from the waist up, with her arms folded crosswise, most often in a blue veil. Above the Virgin’s head are written the words from the akathist - “Rejoice, unbridled bride.” The images speak of forgiveness and eternal life, about death in the name of love and the salvation of all humanity. The Lord is already coming to earth to atone for the sins of the world. Some of these copies are also known to have miraculous properties like the original.

But besides the most famous “Joy of all Joys”, there are many images depicting the Mother of God, under common name"Tenderness." There are icons where the Virgin Mary is depicted not alone, but with a baby in her arms, and her head is lovingly tilted towards him. Little Christ reaches out his arms to the Mother of God and presses his cheek to hers. These shrines are permeated with such warmth that can only exist between a mother and child. Therefore, such faces also belong to iconographic image"Tenderness."

IN Orthodox Church Several types of icons of the Mother of God are venerated. Tenderness, from the Greek word “Eleus”, means merciful, touched. Icons from the category “Eleusa” depict the Mother of God with a baby in her arms. Here are some of them:

The Lokot icon appeared quite by accident, when it was noticed on calendars sold in a regular store by a resident of the village, Natalya Shishkova. She told the saleswoman that it was inappropriate to treat photographs in which the Mother of God was in this way. To this, the saleswoman replied that the calendars were outdated and would have to be thrown away anyway.

Natalya, a true Christian believer, bought the two remaining calendars with the face of the Virgin Mary, cut off unnecessary dates and hung these “Tenderness” icons (photo) in her home. One day, while reading a church book in silence, a woman felt a pleasant aroma, but did not attach any importance to it. A few minutes later, I saw an oil stain on the image, and the fragrance came from it.

She consulted with the priest of the local church, who confirmed frequent cases of myrrh streaming from images not located in the temple. Meanwhile, the fragrant myrrh flow increased, and soon myrrh flowed from the photograph onto the wall.

And on holiday Happy Easter In Natalya’s house, all the icons, of which she had quite a lot, were filled with myrrh. After this, it was decided to transfer the image to the frame. Having removed it from the wall, the owners were surprised to discover that myrrh did not cover the entire sheet, but only the face of the Mother of God. The fragrant oil soaked the paper and reverse side, where the image of the All-Tsarina appeared, and the rest of the surface of the calendar was dry. This is how a double face appeared, and the icon began to be called double-sided.

And after some time, they noticed that healings occurred from this image. People began to come to the house and read prayers and akathists. Behind past years The Lokot icon took part more than once in religious processions. With her, more than 13 thousand kilometers were traveled through different cities of Rus', and along the entire route of the procession, the peace-bearing face of the Mother of God helped those suffering to cope with life’s adversities, gave healing to believers, and turned the eyes of non-believers to God.

• Pskov-Pechersk image of “Tenderness”, which is a copy of the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God, was painted by the monk Arseny Khitrosh in 1521. The icon was taken to the Pskov-Pechersk monastery in 1529 by the abbot of the monastery, Venerable Cornelius. The image became famous for defending Pskov in 1581, when the Polish king Stephen bombarded the city with fire cannonballs. One shell hit directly the icon of “Tenderness,” which the inhabitants of the fortress hung on the top of the wall as the only Protector. But the shrine miraculously was not damaged.

The same image was given credit when in 1812 the city of Polotsk was recaptured from the army of Napoleon Bonaparte. Russian soldiers and commanders attribute victory precisely to the help of the miraculous “Tenderness” icon.

There are other stories of this image associated with miraculous healings from various ailments, including blindness.

In the Pskov-Pechersk icon, the Mother of God holds little Jesus, clinging to his mother’s cheek.

This symbolizes the endless connection between children and parents, great power filial love.

The faces of the Virgin Mary belong to the same type (Eleus):

• Donskoy;
• Vladimirskaya;
• Yaroslavl;
• Grebnevskaya;
• Pochaevskaya.

There are also lesser known varieties of the images of the Mother of God “Tenderness”, for example “Leaping of the Child”, which also belongs to the “Eleus” type. For many centuries, all these shrines have delighted the Orthodox with their help, bringing tenderness and meaning in the image of the Mother of God icon.

Image of the Mother of God Tenderness

Help from the shrine

The meaning of the Tenderness icon is important for everyone. But basically, the images of the Mother of God are considered to be female intercessors. Turn to the Holy Face women, mothers and unmarried girls . Men also ask for support from the Mother of God, calling on Her for help, remembering their mother. The icon will definitely help everyone, you just have to believe, and The stronger your faith, the sooner what you want will come.

What do they pray to the icon for?

Tenderness - the embodiment of purity, chastity and restrained joy. Sublime image of the Virgin Mary revered by the people, especially by girls. The Virgin Mary can speak in their sincere prayers:

• assistant in choosing a groom;
• moral teacher of chastity;
• a teacher of pure thoughts for a fragile girl’s heart;
• a leader in choosing a life path.

Women pray before Her:

• about a strong marriage;
• the desired conception of a child;
• successful delivery.

The miraculous image helps the suffering:

Today, many needlewomen embroider the image of “Tenderness” with their own hands. During this work, it is recommended to pray sincerely. There are cases when women who could not conceive, after completing the image, found out that they were pregnant. And the embroidered picture plays the same role as the church icon, which you can now pray to at home.

The main image of “Tenderness” is considered to be the Seraphim-Diveyevo Icon. She is revered and celebrated every year, July 28th And 9th December. Other faces of the Mother of God are also venerated in every city, in all churches and temples:

Apart from these days, every Sunday, before the start of the service, all churches hold the Paraklis of the Mother of God (church hymns in Her honor).

Prayers before the image of the Mother of God

The face of the Mother of God “Tenderness” shows everyone that any news or trials must be met with humility, showing meekness and submission. Fathers and mothers turn with all their hearts to the Mother of God with a request that their children be healthy and happy.

Prayer 1

Oh, Most Holy Lady, Mother of God! Accept my unworthy prayers, save me from evil slander and from death in vain, give joy and grant a place in sorrow. Deliver us, O Lady, from all evil, help us, Thy sinful servants, protect and stand in Your coming for us before Thy Son and Christ God, and Their heirs, grant us to be in order to achieve the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life, with all the saints for endless centuries. Amen.

Prayer 2

Accept, Most Pure Lady, Lady, these honorable gifts, brought to You alone from us, Your unworthy servants. Chosen from all generations, the highest manifestation of all creatures of earth and heaven, be with us, recognizing the Son of God and being worthy to see His holy Body and His most pure Blood; In the same way, You are holy in the generations of generations, God-blessed, brightest of the cherubim and most honorable of the seraphim, the real Mother of God.

And now, glorified Most Holy Theotokos, do not stop praying for us, Thy unworthy servants, deliver us from all evil advice and every evil circumstance, and keep us unharmed from the poisonous intention of the devil; Keep us until the end with your prayers, as through Your intercession and help we are saved. Glory to You, praise, worship and thanksgiving for everything. We ask the One Trinity, God and all the Saints, and we cry to the Creator, now, forever, and forever. Amen.

People turn to her with prayers for help, requests for healing or intercession. They say thank you for the help provided in difficult life situations. She is considered a symbol of the highest kindness, meekness, chastity and wisdom. She is the Mother of God, whose icons are in every Orthodox church, and all the images are difficult to list and review. It is also present in the homes of people who believe in God and keep his commandments.

Various icon options

The Mother of God is represented in icons in different ways. Each of them has its own name; the meaning of the icon of the Virgin Mary may also differ in some details. It helps resolve certain life situation that happened in the life of someone in need of help. Her appearance is always depicted as a little sad, meek. This is the only way Virgo can look at people, because they live in constant trouble, suffer, and sin.

It would take a huge catalog to list all the icons of the Mother of God with names, because in addition to the originals there are numerous lists, which were often glorified separately. Therefore, first it is better to consider the main types of icons of the Virgin Mary:

• Hodegetria - these icons of the Mother of God are depicted with a baby on her left hand, can be used with different names, but the Mother of God always points to Christ, and the Infant God makes a blessing gesture, and it also happens with the baby on right hand, the situation with the names is identical here, they are different, but the canonical is common;
• Eleusa - They pressed their cheeks to each other, symbolically such icons of the Mother of God indicate high significance for each person reverent attitude to the Lord;
• Oranta - this type of Mother of God icons includes those where a medallion with Christ is depicted on the chest of the Virgin Mary, and she raises her hands to the sky, praying for people and asking for the mercy of the Lord;
• Akathist - the name of the icons is conditional, it is also possible to call these images plot, here icons of the Mother of God and saints are often combined, the essence is to glorify a certain quality of the Mother of God, which is noted in the akathists.

It is impossible to list how many icons of the Mother of God there are, but there is an opportunity to try, based on the previous classification, let us consider the most famous images:

• Hodegetria - the miraculous icon of Kosinskaya (Modena), the Damascene icon, which is also called the Three-Handed One, the Hearer, the icon with the ladder, Corfu, Gerbovetskaya,
• Eleusa – Yaroslavl icon, Volokolamskaya, Balykinskaya, Feodotyevskaya, Eletskaya, Rozhkovskaya,
• Oranta - Novgorodskaya, Alabatskaya, Unbreakable Wall, Inexhaustible Chalice;
• Akathist - Trubchevskaya (although it can also refer to the first type), Augustovskaya, Kiprskaya.

Separately, we should highlight miraculous icons Mother of God, that is, those who were given from above. These images were imprinted on some surface or people simply found an icon somewhere

These rare icons of the Mother of God are venerated in a special way, are often miraculous.

General details of the image

On the canvases there are icons of the Virgin Mary common features Images. Her hair is hidden under a cape (maforia) hung over her shoulders. This was done because in ancient times, in Israel, this was a mandatory requirement for appearance women. According to tradition, this cape is red, so that all people remember that She herself is from the royal family, and this also reflects the great suffering that the Mother of God endured. The lowest layer of clothing is depicted in blue color, denoting the heavenly purity and perfection of the Mother of God. Icon painters thus show her connection with God.

It is difficult to ignore the description of the symbolism of the icon of the Virgin Mary, which means and reveals the full depth of meaning of the drawing. Studying Christian traditions, the image of the Mother of God means not only certain person, but also the whole church as a whole.

The image of the sleeves on the Virgin’s clothing is made in the form of handrails, that is, the traditional attire of all clergy. The Virgin Mary, with the entire church, calls to serve together with Christ, who is the very first priest. The image of stars on the shoulders and head of the Mother of God speaks of her divinity and purity. It is also considered a symbol of the unity of the Trinity. In many countries around the world, entire temples have been erected in honor of the Virgin Mary, which can be visited by anyone. In some of these churches there are icons that work miracles, helping those in need who turn to them.

Prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary

In fact, there are a huge number of prayers, as well as icons. Different images can be glorified in different days church calendar.

Prayer 1

To my queen, my hope, to the Mother of God, friend of the orphans and the strange, to the representative, to the mourning, to the joy of the offended, to the patroness!

See my misfortune, see my sorrow; help me, for I am weak, feed me, for I am strange!

Weigh my offense - resolve it, like voles!

For I have no other help but You, no other Representative, no good Comforter, except You, O Mother of God!

May you preserve me and cover me forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer 2

It is worthy to eat as truly the blessedness of Thee, the Mother of God, the Ever-Blessed and Most Immaculate and the Mother of our God. The most honorable cherub and the most glorious without comparison seraphim, without the corruption of God the Word, who gave birth to the real Mother of God, we magnify Thee.

Prayer 3

Rejoice, Virgin Mary, Blessed Mary, The Lord is with You; Blessed are You among women and blessed is the Fruit of Your womb, for You have given birth to the Savior of our souls.