There are a lot of icons on which the Mother of God is represented, and each image has its own history and meaning. The icon "Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos" is especially venerated, in which the important meaning is that death is not a dead end and not the end of life for a person.
Icon «Assumption of the Blessed Virgin» - description
The image represents the transition (ascent) of the Mother of God from the world of the living to heaven. This episode is clearly described in the Bible, where it is narrated that for a long time she addressed the Lord with prayers, asking to be taken to heaven. Once Gabriel came to her and said that soon she will find peace. At the hour of her fastening, a divine light appeared, surrounding the death bed. The icon "The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin", the significance of which is enormous for believers, is present in almost all churches.
Who is depicted on the icon of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin?
The image is unique in that almost all the moments indicated in the story about the Assumption fit on it. The iconography of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin includes the following details:
- In the center there is a bed, on which the body of the Mother of God is. In most images, it is covered with a crimson color that indicates the royal dignity of the Queen of Heaven. The majesty of the Virgin is also evidenced by sandals of a purple color.
- The icon "Assumption" depicts the apostles, which are located around the bed. The number of upcoming figures depends on the size of the image, but the obligatory participants are Peter (he has a censer, which he fumigates bed) and John (mourns the Virgin). Even together with the apostles, people can be portrayed who have a connection with the Mother of God.
- A candle is often shown in front of the bed. On some icons on the edge of the bed, you can see the severed wrists, and next to the bed and the man himself with crippled hands. This is Athos, who made an attempt to overturn the bed, but he was stopped by an angel with a sword.
- Behind the bed is the Savior, who is surrounded by a huge nimbus, symbolizing divine glory. In his hands, he holds a baby baby, which represents the soul of the Mother of God.
- On some icons of the "Assumption of the Blessed Virgin" one can see one more detail - a free field in the upper part of the image, which is covered with clouds, and on them are figures of people and angels. The icon painters presented the apostles so that they could not come to Jerusalem for forgiveness.
Ancient Icons of the Assumption
The image of the death of the Virgin was very ancient, her composition was developed around the 9th century. At that time, the church was going through important times, as the most significant theological positions were fixed. In the same period, the Feast of the Dormition was formed and introduced with its traditions and rules. Initially, the icon "Assumption of the Virgin" was laconic and little figured, but over time the image was revealed more clearly.
What helps the icon of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin?
Praying before the image of the Mother of God can be every day to gain confidence in their abilities. In addition, prayer texts eradicate the fear of physical death. The icon "The Assumption of the Mother of God" is gathered in front of millions of believers who ask for the forgiveness of their sins to enter the Kingdom of the Lord. Regular prayer petitions help not only to heal the soul, but also the body, saving from various diseases. The icon "The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin" can be used for confession .
Icon of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin - meaning for the home
It is believed that the Orthodox images are the most powerful protection that helps to protect the house and all residents from various problems. The icon "The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin" will surround everything with positive energy and will repel the negative in any of its manifestations. The Feast of the Dormition falls on August 28 (15) and on this day it is recommended to pray before the image in the church or at home, begging for your sins and asking for the strengthening of faith. There is a basic prayer to the icon "Assumption of the Blessed Virgin."