Orthodox icon | Five Saints | 24475

Orthodox icon | Five Saints | 24475.

Saint Martyr Paul, the Apostle (June 29), holds a significant place in early Christianity. He was a remarkable missionary and one of the earliest theologians mentioned in the New Testament. He underwent a profound transformation, transitioning from persecuting Christians to becoming an apostle of the nations. Like Saint Peter, Paul met martyrdom by the sword, bearing witness to his unwavering faith.

Saint Martyr Philip of Nicomedia (August 17) fearlessly preached the truth of Christ to pagans. Alongside a devoted group, he ventured to the entrance of the amphitheater, aiming to persuade them to abandon idolatry and vices. After enduring torture, they were arrested, beheaded, and achieved martyrdom.

Saint Great Martyr George, the Victorious (April 23), faced martyrdom during early Christian persecution. He rescued a princess and led the conversion of a city to Christianity. Saint George holds a place among the fourteen Holy Helpers, known as intercessors in times of need.

Saint Hieromartyr Cyril the Deacon (March 29) faced persecution for destroying idols. He demonstrated unwavering commitment to his faith, meeting his death at the hands of pagans.

Saint Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessaloniki (October 26) played a significant role in the Orthodox Church. Despite his young age, he was appointed as a general and proconsul. When his Christian identity was exposed, he confessed his faith and was pierced with spears.

Saints on the border:

On the left side of the icon is Saint Great Martyr Nicetas the Goth (September 15), who embraced martyrdom during Gothic persecution of Christians.

On the right side stands Saint Prophet Elijah (July 20), a revered figure in biblical history. He lived during the reigns of Kings Ahab and Ahaziah in the 9th century within the northern Kingdom of Israel. His ascension prefigures the eventual ascension of Christ.

Above these figures, the icon displays the Mandylion, a depiction of Christ known as the “non-human-made image” from the city of Edessa, symbolizing divine presence.

The gilded halos surrounding the figures add splendor to the sacred icon.

Source: Orthodox icon | Five Saints | 24475 © Ikonen Mautner. Typing errors, other errors or changes reserved. For more information: “Das Synaxarion. Die Leben der Heiligen der Orthodoxen Kirche.” (http://www.prodromos-verlag.de/buecher.html) and Joachim Schäfer: Das Ökumenische Heiligenlexikon – https://www.heiligenlexikon.de