Orthodox icon | Mother of God of Kazan | Metal oklad in a Kiot | 24727

Orthodox icon | Mother of God of Kazan | Metal oklad in a Kiot | 24727.

The icon:

This sacred icon showcases a distinct representation of the Mother of God with Jesus. Instead of Jesus resting on His mother’s hand, He stands to her left, with His right hand uplifted in blessing. The Mother of God’s head subtly tilts towards Jesus, reflecting her affection and nurturing nature.

This icon resides within a protective frame, a Kiot, which boasts a radiant gold inner lining. The meticulous artistry and preservation of this sacred depiction amplify its spiritual resonance, encouraging believers to indulge in deep reflection and respect.

The Legend:

This esteemed icon’s roots lie in Kazan, from the year 1579. A young girl, Matrona, aged nine, received divine visions during her sleep. In these visions, the Mother of God expressed a wish. She asked Matrona to inform the archbishop and city leaders about her buried icon under the remnants of a recently burnt house. Initially, Matrona’s appeals fell on deaf ears.

Intent on accomplishing what the Mother of God had asked of her, Matrona sought her mother’s assistance. On July 8th, the duo began their search. While their first efforts bore no fruit, a persistent Matrona continued and eventually discovered the sacred icon. Remarkably, the icon looked pristine, as if it was newly made.

The icon then journeyed to Moscow before finding a home in St. Petersburg’s Kazan Cathedral, built explicitly to enshrine this revered image. In Russia, the Kazan Mother of God’s icon enjoys profound respect. It’s a treasured item in churches and pious homes, symbolizing the bond between the faithful and the divine.

Newlyweds often receive blessings using this icon, and families pray in its presence for their well-being. Celebrations dedicated to this icon take place on July 8th and October 22nd, marking times of profound devotion.

Source: Orthodox icon | Mother of God of Kazan | Metal oklad in a Kiot | 24727 © 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