Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Myra | Metal oklad | 24648

Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Myra | Metal oklad | 24648.

The icon:

Saint Nicholas of Myra is depicted as a bishop, adorned in liturgical robes, which symbolize his spiritual authority. Additionally, he holds the Gospel, signifying his unwavering commitment to Christ’s teachings and underscoring his role as a shepherd of the faithful.

Furthermore, the icon of Saint Nicholas is adorned with a metal oklad, exhibiting meticulous craftsmanship and embellished with a layer of gold plating. This artistic touch enhances its visual splendor and adds to the sacredness of the image.

Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Myra | Metal oklad | 24648

The Saint:

Saint Nicholas, who was born around 283 in Patara (now in ruins near Kalkan, Turkey), lived a remarkable life until his passing around 348 in Myra (present-day Demre, Turkey) in Lycia. It is worth noting that both the Eastern and Latin Churches hold him in high esteem and revere him greatly.

Furthermore, believers commemorate his feast days on December 6th, May 9th, and July 29th. These special occasions carry diverse customs and profound significance.

During the first half of the 4th century, Saint Nicholas served as the Bishop of Myra. This region was located in the Lycia area of Asia Minor, which was initially part of the Roman Empire. Later, it transitioned into the Byzantine Empire, and today it corresponds to modern-day Turkey.

His name, derived from the Greek “Nikólaos,” originally meant “victory of the people” and predates the Christian era.

Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of various aspects of life and society. He is particularly revered as the patron saint of Russia, children, expectant mothers, those longing for children, the elderly, travelers, seafarers, judges, lawyers, notaries, pharmacists, landlords, those seeking happy marriages, and individuals seeking the recovery of stolen items.

His extensive patronage reflects the profound impact he has had on people from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

Saint Nicholas’ enduring legacy and intercessory role continue to inspire devotion and hold a cherished place in the hearts of believers worldwide.

Source: Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Myra | Metal oklad | 24648 © 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