Alexy the man of God icon. Alexis man of God

The Orthodox have long enjoyed special reverence for the icon of Alexei, the man of God, who rejected earthly riches for the glory of the Lord. His parents were noble Romans - Senator Euthymian and Aglaida, pious Christians. Having remained childless for many years, their son Alexy was sent to God after tireless prayers.

Life of Saint Alexis

The boy grew up very pious: he strictly observed the fast, was generous with alms, and secretly wore a hair shirt under rich clothes. Already in his youth, he wanted to leave worldly life for the sake of serving God, but his parents decided to marry him. However, in the evening after the wedding, Alexey gave his bride his ring, announced that he had decided to devote his life to God's service and, disguised as a commoner, left home.

On the ship, Alexy sailed to Mesopotamia, and from there he reached Edessa, where in the Church of the Most Holy Theotokos there was a shroud with the Image of Christ Not Made by Hands. Here, on the porch, he stayed, selling everything he still had, and distributing the proceeds to the poor. Alexy lived on bread and water, and all the alms that were given to him, he gave to the sick and infirm. He devoted all his time to prayer. The strict fast he imposed on himself changed his appearance so much that even the servants sent in search of inconsolable parents did not recognize him. The servants gave alms to Alexy, not recognizing him as their master.

So 17 years passed, until one day the sexton of the church, on the porch of which Alexy was begging, received a command from the icon of the Mother of God: to bring into her church “a man of God worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven”, on whom the Holy Spirit rests. After a long search, the sexton appealed to the icon, asking him to point to such a person, and the icon announced that the beggar on the porch was the man of God.

The sexton fulfilled the command of the Mother of God and brought Alexy into the church. This case became known, and many began to revere Alexy as a righteous man. He, in order to avoid fame, secretly sailed on a ship to Cilicia. However, the providence of God intervened: because of the storm, the ship was nailed to the Italian coast. Relying on God's will, he went on foot to Rome, to the house of his parents, and asked for shelter. So, unrecognized, he returned to his father's house, where his father showed mercy, gave him a place in the hallway, and ordered him to be fed food from his table.

However, Alexy continued his ascetic life here too: as before, he fasted and prayed day and night, humbly enduring ridicule from the servants because of this. Often at night he heard the sobs of his mother and bride, who remained in their house, and experienced unbearable torment from this, but love for the Lord helped him endure it.

So another 17 years passed, during which Alexy continued to lead an ascetic life. The Lord informed him in advance of the day of his death, and Alexy, taking a charter (papyrus paper), left his biography on it, asking for forgiveness from his relatives.

On the day when the Monk Alexy died, during the liturgy served by Pope Innocent in the presence of Emperor Honorius, a voice from the altar announced: “Find a man of God, departing into eternal life, let him pray for the city.” Everyone was so afraid that they threw themselves on their faces. They searched the whole city, but the search for the righteous did not yield results. During the all-night vigil, the Pope turned to the Lord with a request to point to such a righteous man, and this time the Voice replied that such a person should be sought in the house of Euthymian.

When they arrived there, they found Alexy already dead, but with a luminous face and with a charter clutched in his hand. All attempts to get her out were unsuccessful. And only when the kneeling Pope and the emperor turned to the deceased, as if he were alive, with a request to unclench his hand, it unclenched, and they were able to read the charter. Parents and the bride, sobbing, bowed to the remains of the righteous.

The body of the man of God, on a richly decorated bed, was exhibited in the square. People immediately reached out to her, and healings began to occur. Even after the emperor and the Pope transferred the body to the church, and a week later they placed it in a marble tomb, it continued to smell of peace and give healing to the suffering.

Why is Alexy, the man of God, so honored in Rus'

Saint Alexei, whose icon is in many churches, has always enjoyed special reverence in Rus', and his life was a favorite reading. Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich especially revered him, for whom Alexy was a heavenly patron. And in our time, his icon for Alexei - the namesake of the great ascetic - will be the best gift. Most often, the icon depicts the saint in rags, emaciated, but with an expression of humility and meekness on his face.

It is difficult for us modern people to understand what caused his decision to break with his former life and parents, whom he deeply revered, because he should have understood what suffering his disappearance would cause them and his bride. Why he took this step, allows you to understand the icon of Alexei, the man of God. He wanted to test and atone for the suffering of all the humiliated and suffering, and devoted his whole life to this spiritual feat.

How the icon of St. Alexis protects and helps

Prayer in front of the icon of St. Alexei will help you choose the righteous path, give up the pursuit of material, earthly goods, and always remember the Lord, who sacrificed everything for our spiritual salvation.

In the prayers of the holy ascetic, they ask for healing from bodily and mental ailments, from harmful addictions, for deliverance from fear of life's trials and for the humble acceptance of difficult changes in life.

Prayer to Alexy, man of God

Oh, the great saint of Christ, the holy man of God Alexios, stand with your soul in Heaven to the Throne of the Lord, on the earth given to you from above by grace perform various miracles! Look graciously on the upcoming holy icon of your people, tenderly praying and asking you for help and intercession. Prayerfully stretch out your honest hands to the Lord God and ask us from Him to forgive our sins, voluntary and involuntary, in sickness suffering healing, attacked intercession, grieving consolation, distressed ambulance, all those who honor thee, a peaceful and Christian belly death and a good answer to terrible judgment of Christ. She, the servant of God, do not disgrace our hope, which we put on thee according to God and the Mother of God, but be our helper and patron for salvation, yes, having received grace and mercy from the Lord with your prayers, we will glorify the philanthropy of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, in the Trinity glorify and worship God, and your holy intercession, now and forever, and forever and ever. Amen.

Troparion, tone 4

Having risen to virtue and having purified your mind, / you have reached the desired and the extreme, / having adorned your life with dispassion / and we will receive a fair amount of honor with a pure conscience, / in prayers, as if without flesh, abiding, / you shone, as if with sun, in the world,// Blessed Alexis.

Translation: Rising in virtue and purifying your mind, you have reached the Desired and Highest (Christ), decorating your life with dispassion and with a clear conscience taking upon yourself the feat of a special post, staying in prayers like a disembodied angel, you shone like the sun in the world, blessed Alexy.

John troparion, tone 4

As if the lamp of purity has shown itself brighter, / marvelous Alexis, / for the corruptible chamber / has changed for the incorruptible Kingdom of God, / as if the worker of chastity is exceeded. / For this sake, stand before the Lord, the King of all. great mercy.

Translation: You appeared as a very bright lamp of purity, amazing Alexei, since you exchanged the perishable marital chambers for the incorruptible Kingdom of God, as a special ascetic of chastity. Therefore, you stand before the Lord, the King of all. Pray Him to give us peace and great mercy.

[Greek. ̓Αλέξιος ὁ ἄνθρωπος τοῦ Θεοῦ] († c. 411), St. (commemorated March 17, ref. July 17, cir. Nov. 3). The legend of A. h. B., one of the most revered in Orthodoxy. the world of the saints began to take shape in Christ. East - in Syria, then became widespread in the Middle Ages. European hagiographic tradition. Recognized now as the oldest sir. version of life tells how an unnamed young man from a noble and wealthy Rome. family before the wedding, he left his bride (without ever seeing her), ran away from home and boarded a ship, which delivered him to Seleucia in Syria.

From there he got to Edessa - the largest city of Sev. Mesopotamia. There the young man handed out all his money, put on sackcloth and settled on the porch of the temple. The servants of the father who arrived in the city, sent by him in search of his son to all corners of the world, did not recognize the young man in a wretched beggar. After spending 17 years in prayer and fasting, A.ch.B. died in a homeless shelter and was buried in a common grave. Soon after this, the sexton of the church where the saint labored told the bishop the story of the life of the “man of God” (Sir.), which he told him before his death. The bishop ordered that the relics of such a great saint be reburied with honors, but his body miraculously disappeared from the grave, where only a miserable funeral sackcloth was found. Since Ravvula (412-435) is named Bishop of Edessa, it can be assumed that the life was written, probably on the basis of oral tradition, in the 2nd half. V - early 6th century

Before the ninth century Sir. the legend gained fame in the K-field (perhaps in connection with the resettlement of Sir. Akimite monks there), where the early Greek. life version. Precisely she, probably, used prp. Joseph the Songwriter († 886), compiling the canon to the saint, in which his name was first named - Alexy. According to this version, the saint, seeking to hide from the fame spread in Edessa about his righteous life, left the city. Arriving in Laodicea, he boarded a ship bound for Tarsus, but on the way he was overtaken by a storm and ended up in Rome. Realizing that this was a sign of God, he asked for shelter in the house of his parents (their names are given: Euthymian and Aglaida), but did not reveal himself to them. For 17 years, A.ch.B. labored under the guise of a beggar, being in constant fasting and prayer, enduring bullying from the servants and hearing the sobs of his mother and bride (whom, according to this version, he managed to get married before his flight). Feeling the approach of death, the saint described in detail everything that had happened to him in a letter. At this time, in the church, where there was a service in the presence of “the archbishop and both emperors” and there were many people, a voice was heard from the altar: “Look for the man of God! Let him pray for the city." After a two-day search, the same voice pointed to the house of Evfimian, where the body of A.ch.B. Honest relics on imp. By order, they were transferred to the temple for worship, and miraculous healings began throughout the city. According to one hypothesis, under Rome, the Byzantine. hagiographers could mean "New Rome" - K-pol.

Based on early Sir. and Greek The hagiography was created (probably c. X century) 2nd Sir. version, in which the mechanical combination of the Edessa legend with Sir. Byzantine translation. life led to a "double death" of the saint: first in Edessa, then in Rome, in explanation of which they pointed to a miracle with an empty grave (unknown in the K-Polish tradition). In the 1st Arab. (karshuni) version, an attempt was made to reconcile both traditions by removing or smoothing out noticeable contradictions, while the 2nd Arab. the edition goes back exclusively to the K-Polish version and completely ignores the original Edessa. In the tenth century Greek appeared. transcription of life in the collection of Simeon Metaphrastus. In addition, several are known. Greek versions, as well as a number of lat. editions of the life, in which, in addition to the names of A.ch.B. and his parents, the names of the bride of the saint (Adriatic), the archbishop (Pope Innocent I) and emperors (Arkady and Honorius) are named.

In the West, the veneration of A. h. B. is not attested in ancient hagiographic and liturgical monuments, but, undoubtedly, already existed by the 10th century. Its widespread use is associated with the arrival in Rome in 977 of Met. Sergius of Damascus. Having received from the Pope the church of St. Boniface on the Aventine Hill (where, according to one version of his life, A. Ch. B. got married on the eve of his flight from home), Met. Sergius founded a monastery there for the Greek. and lat. monks, since 987, mentioned in the sources under the name of Saints Boniface and A. Ch. B. (Nerini F. De templo et coenobio sanctorum Bonifacii et Alexii historica monumenta. R., 1752. P. 378, 381). In 1216, the acquisition of the relics of A. ch. Peter, where, according to one version of the life, the saint was buried.

In the Middle Ages In Rome, the pilgrims were shown the "chambers of Euthymian", as reported in the "Note on Rome" by an unknown participant in Rus. delegation at the Ferrara-Florence Cathedral (SKKDR. Issue 2. Part 2. P. 150) (the building has not been preserved). In Greek mon-re of Agia Lavra in Kalavryta (Peloponnese) the head of A. h. B. is kept, according to legend, donated to this monastery by imp. Manuel II Palaiologos in 1414; A.ch.B. was revered here as a protector from epidemics. In 1773, the Albanians plundered the monastery and sold St. head to Larissa, where after several. Igum found her for years. Lavra Anfim and returned to the monastery (ΘΗΕ. Τ. 2. Στλ. 132). In Rus', in the Novgorod Cathedral of St. Sophia, there was the hand of A. h. B., stolen from Rome by a Novgorod merchant, according to a legend of the 17th century. In the inventory of the St. Sophia Cathedral in 1749, there is a silver gilded reliquary with the relics of A. Ch. 2. S. 36-37). In present there are no relics of A. h. B. in St. Sophia Cathedral.

The study of the hagiographic tradition associated with A. h. B. began with the first scientific publication of lat. Lives of the Bollandists in ActaSS (Iul. T. 4. 1725. P. 238-270). Then it was noticed that in the lat. Arabic translation. version (Ibid. P. 262) there is no part with the return to Rome, and the saint is not named by name, but Mar Risha (Sir. - Mr. Prince). G. Massman and D.V. Dashkov proceeded from the fact that the legend about A.ch.B. is of Polish origin and its source is the canon of St. Joseph the Songwriter. The now recognized opinion about the primacy of the ancient Sir. versions of the life were first expressed in 1889 by G. Pari and A. Amio. As H. Drivers later showed, the image of the nameless "man of God" is highly characteristic of sir. understanding of holiness.

A special problem is the attitude of the Byzantines. legends about A. h. B. to the legend about St. John Kushnik (commemorated January 15). The main events of the legend about this saint who lived in the K-field in the 1st half. V c., coincide with the life of A. h. B. - escape on the wedding day, return and life in the home unrecognized. A number of scholars consider these saints to be one and the same person, but the life of A. Ch. B. does not coincide in everything with the history of St. John.

There are many translations of the life of A. h. B., ascending either to lat. versions (German, Old French, Provencal, Old Norse), or to Greek. in the edition of Metaphrast (ancient Georgian and ancient Armenian). From zap. The “songs” of A.ch.B., which probably appeared in the 11th century, are closely connected with the hagiographic tradition. in Normandy and passed from there to England and Germany (a poem by Conrad from Würzburg, etc.). In the West, A. h. B. was considered the heavenly patron of the Alexian (Cellite) brotherhood, which was engaged in the care of the poor and their burial (see also Lollards).

Ancient Glory. a lengthy version of the life (RNB. F. n. I. 46, XII century; BAN 34.3.27, middle of the XVII century), dating back to the Greek. editions, in which there are elements of both Byzantium and Lat. traditions (BHG, N 51), was translated to con. 11th century and soon became widespread in Rus'. 2nd Slav. edition (RSL. Trinity No. 9, XIV-XV centuries) was made using a more lengthy Greek. versions. A brief life of A. h. B. translated in the XII century. in Prologue Constantine of Mokisia, retransferred to the 1st floor. 14th century (apparently, by the Serbs on Athos) as part of the Stish Prologue. In the XVI century. ancient glory. lengthy life, corrected in Greek. texts (BHG, N 51 and 52), as well as a short life included under March 17 in the MCH. A new translation of the life from the Greek. language, made in 1659 by Arseny the Greek, published in Anfologion (1660) and Prologue (since 1660).

A. V. Muravyov, A. A. Turilov

hymnography

Accepted in present. time in the Orthodox The Church's adherence to A. ch. Canon A. h. B. (2nd tone), compiled by St. Joseph the Songwriter, has an acrostic: "I praise you, a man of God, blessed." In the Menaion, published by the Moscow Patriarchate in 1978-1989, the hymnography of A. ch. According to the manuscripts of Christ. East (Sinait. gr. 609. Fol. 66v - 68v, XI century; Sinait. gr. 611. Fol. 106-108v, XIV century) in the series "Analecta Hymnica Graeca" a canon (4th plagal, volume e. 8th, tone) of Herman, which is absent from the printed Menaion (Ταμεῖον. Ν 534. Σ. 177-178). Sophronius (Eustratiadis) there are separate editions of the A. ch. he also reports that in one of the manuscripts of the Kavsokalivitsky skete on Athos, a service was written out that is different from that placed in the Greek. printed Minae.

Source: BHO, N 36-44; BHG, N 51-56; BHL, No. 289-301; ActaSS. Jul. T. 4. Venetiis, 17482. P. 238-270; ZhSv. March. pp. 329-341; Massmann H. F. Sanct Alexius" Leben. Quedlinburg; Lpz., 1843; La vie de Saint Alexis: Poème du XIe siècle et renouvellements des XIIe, XIIIe et XIVe siècles / Éd. G. Paris. P., 1872, 1974r; Schipper J. Englische Alexiuslegenden des 14. und 15. Jh. Strassburg, 1877; Amiaud A. La légende syriaque de Saint Alexis, l "Homme de Dieu. P., 1889; Das Leben des hl. Alexios von Konrad von Würzburg / Hrsg. R. Henchynski. B., 1898; Esteves Pereyra F . M. Légende grecque de l "Homme de Dieu saint Alexis // AnBoll. 1900. T. 19. P. 241-253; R ö sler M. Die Fassungen der Alexius-Legende. W.; Lpz., 1905; Adrianov V. P Dunn J. Life of Saint Alexis // Revue Celtique 1920/1921 T. 38. P. 133-143; ὁσίου πατρὸς ἡμῶν ̓Αλεξίου. ̓Εν Κιάτῳ, 1933; Servaes F. W. , Bripius J. De laudibus sancti Alexii. Köln, 1966; Cerulli E. Les vies éthiopiennes de saint Alexis l "Homme de Dieu. Louvain, 1969. Vol. 1-2. (CSCO. T. 298-299; Aethiop. 59-60); Life and deeds of the man of God Alexy // Byzantine legends / Intro. st., trans., note. S. V. Polyakova. M., 1994 pp. 156-161; VMC. March, days 12-25. pp. 789-796.

Lit.: Bessonov P . Kaliki are transitional. M., 1861-1864; Dashkov D . Poems and legends about Alexei the man of God // Conversations in the OLRS. 1868. Issue. 2; Sergius (Spassky). Monthly. T. 1. S. 451; T. 2. S. 77; T. 3. S. 109-110, 511; Duchesne L. Notes sur la topographie de Rome au Moyen-âge // Mélanges d "archéologie et d" histoire d "École française de Rome. 1890. T. 10. P. 225-250; Plaine F. La vie syriaque de S. Alexis et l "authenticité substantielle de sa vie latine // Revue des questions hist. 1892. T. 51. P. 560-576; Kirsch J.-P. Alexis (1) // DHGE. T. 3. Col. 379-381; Petit L. Bibliographie des acolouthies grecques. Brux., 1926. P. 4-6; Gaiffier B. de. Intactam sponsam relinquens: A propos de la vie de St. Alexis // AnBoll. 1947. T. 65. P. 157-195; Muryanov M . F . Aleksey the man of God in the Slavic review of Byzantine culture // TODRL. 1968. T. 23. S. 109-126; Stebbins C. E. Les origines de la légende de Saint Alexis l "homme de Dieu // Revue belge de philologie et d" histoire. 1973. T. 51. P. 497 sv.; Gieysztor A . La légende de S. Alexis en Occident: Un idéal de pauvreté // Études sur l "histoire de la pauvreté / Sous la dir. de M. Mollat. P., 1974. T. 1. P. 125-139; Mohr W Alexius // TRE. Bd. 2. S. 264-266; , 1982. S. 187-217; Storey Ch. An Annotated Bibliography and Guide to Alexis Studies (La Vie de Saint Alexis). Genève, 1987; Paikova A. V. Legends and tales in the monuments of Syrian hagiography // PPS. 1990. Issue 30 (93); Bobrov A. G. Life of Alexei Bozhiy // SKKDR. Issue 1. P. 129-131; Ivanov S. A. Byzantine foolishness. M., 1994. P. 44-49; Esbroeck M. van . La Vie de St. Jean le Pauvre ou le Calybite en version géorgienne // OrChr. 1998. Vol. 82. P. 153-183; idem . Le monachisme syriaque // Le monachisme syriaque aux premières siècles de l "Église (2e - début 7e siècle). Liban, 1998, pp. 71-80; Benevich G. AND . The Life of St. Alexis, the Man of God (Overcoming Strangeness in the Context of Church Tradition) // Alien: Experiences of Overcoming. M., 1999. S. 95-159; Turilov A . A . The legend of the hand of Alexy, the man of God, in Novgorod // Relics in the art and culture of the Eastern Christian world. M., 2000. S. 171-179.

A. Yu. Nikiforova

Iconography

The earliest alleged image of A.ch.B. is preserved on one of the fragments of a fresco in the crypt of Rome. c. Saints Boniface and A. h. B. on the Aventine Hill (VIII century). Already in the ancient monuments, the similarity of the appearance of A. h. B. and St. John the Baptist: for example, in a miniature in London, the so-called. Feodorovskaya, Psalter, 1066 (Lond. Add. 19 352. Fol. 165r). Rus. icon-painting originals of the 16th-18th centuries. they also note this similarity, describing the saint as follows: “Aki the Forerunner, hands to heart, robe of green game” (Sophia original. RNB. Soph. No. 1523, 2nd quarter of the 17th century); “In the image, beard and hair, like John the Baptist, the robe is one green wild, beggarly rags, holds his hands to his heart; Inde writes: in his left hand is a scroll, and in it is written a sitz: “Behold, leave your father and mother, wife and family, and friends, villages and estates” (Filimonov, p. 295); “beard with tufts” (Stroganov original, last third of the 18th century). In "Herminia" by Dionysius Fournoagrafiot, early. XVIII century, it is also said that A.ch.B. is “similar to the Forerunner” (Ch. 3. § 13. No. 72).

In the Minology for February-March (State Historical Museum. Sin. gr. No. 183. Fol. 211r, 2nd quarter of the 11th century), performed in a K-field, probably for imp. Michael IV, the death of A. h. B. The saint's bedside depicts imp. Honorius, taking from the hands of A. Ch. B. a scroll with his biography, at the head - a priest who burns incense, and a saddened youth in the clothes of a courtier, at his feet - the grieving father of the saint. the depicted scene corresponds to the edition of the life included in the K-Polish Synaxarion. This is the only one in Byzantium. art is an example of a plot composition dedicated to A. h. B.

Last in handwritten Minologies there are individual images of the saint (for example, the Minology, created in Thessaloniki in 1327-1340 - Okhon. Bodleian. F.1. Fol. 32v; Greek-Georgian manuscript of the 15th century - RNB. O. I. 58. L .104). Similar images are found in the cycles of icon minologies (for example, the Facial Minology for the year on 6 icons, the Sinai hexaptych from the monastery of the Great Catherine on Sinai, late XI - early XII centuries), in monumental paintings of the XII-XV centuries. (for example, the church of St. John the Theologian in Gardenitsa in Laconia (Peloponnese), 1st half of the 12th century; the cathedral in Montreal (Italy), 1180-1190).

In temple paintings, the image of A. h. B. is usually presented in narthexes in a row of reverends, ascetics and ascetics, for example. in c. Ascension in Mileshevsky Mon-re (Serbia), 30s. XIII century, - half-length image in the 2nd tier to the south. wall, next to Ave. John Kushnik; in c. Virgin Mary of Studenica Monastery (Serbia), 1208-1209 (updated in 1568), - in growth in the lower zone of the murals of the narthex (Neman'ina priprata); in c. St. Petra near Berende (Bulgaria), XIV century. Often A. h. B. is depicted in the calendar cycles of murals, which are also located in the narthex, but are also found in the main volume of the temple, for example. c. Dormition of the Treskavats monastery (Macedonia), between 1334 and 1343; c. Simeon the God-bearer of the Zverin monastery in Novgorod, con. 60s - early. 70s 15th century

In Rus', one of the earliest images of A. ch. B. was in the painting of the conch of the altar of c. Savior on Nereditsa near Novgorod (1199), where A. h. B. and an unknown saint are represented in prayer on the sides of the Edessa Icon of the Mother of God “Incarnation”; in the frescoes of 1378 by Theophanes the Greek in the c. Savior on Ilyin A. h. B. is presented in growth in the room of the altar to the east. edge of the north-east. pillar; in c. Dormition on the Volotovo field, 80s XIV century, - in the deacon on the east. edge of the southeast. pylon. The saint was depicted in an ocher tunic to the knees, with arms bare to the elbows in front of his chest, or, as in c. Savior on Ilyin, with the right hand laid aside with the palm open upwards. In the air "The Savior on the Ubrus with the Coming Ones", 1389 (State Historical Museum), he is presented among the selected saints, under the deesis. The saint is depicted waist-deep with arms outstretched to the sides. The image of A. h. B. in the sowing. the walls are opened by a row of 25 reverends, depicted semi-figurely on the altar barrier (pre-altar wall) of the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin (painting 1482 or 1514-1515), over the entrance to the Peter and Paul chapel, the image of the Savior "Good Silence" with arms crossed on his chest, this gesture repeats in the figure A. h. B.; next to A. ch. B. are images of the Monks Parthenios of Lampsaki, John of the Ladder, John Kuschnik. In mural painting 1547–1551 Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Moscow Kremlin (which retained the program of the original painting of 1508) the growth image of A. h. B. on the north. edge of the southeast. the pillar is also included in a series of images of saints, located on the altar barrier, adjoining sections of the walls and altar pillars; nearby, to the north. vima wall, represented by St. Alexy, Mr. Moscow.

In Russian icon painting images of A. h. B. often had a patronal character: in the middle of the fold in 1491 with the image of the Yaroslavl Icon of the Mother of God (TG) from the c. prophet Elijah in Sandyry near Kolomna - half-figures A. h. B. and mts. Thekla below in round medallions; on the deesis icon of con. XV - beginning. 16th century (RM) from the Guslitsky Mon-rya to the city of Kurovskoye, Moscow Region. (originally was in the church of Metropolitan Alexy in the Moscow Chudov Mon-re) A. h. B. is depicted as the eponymous saint of St. Alexia; on the field of the Novgorod icon "Savior the Unsleeping Eye" 2nd floor. 16th century (TG) - among the chosen saints; on the Rostov-Suzdal icon "The Exaltation of the Cross, the Protection of the Virgin and Selected Saints", 1565, master D. I. Usov (TG). Especially often the image of A. h. B. is found on the icons of the middle - 2nd floor. XVII century, where the saint - the heavenly patron of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich - was depicted with St. Mary of Egypt (in honor of which the first wife of the tsar M. I. Miloslavskaya was named) or with mts. Natalia (heavenly patroness of N. K. Naryshkina - the 2nd wife of the sovereign): the icon "Reverend Alexy, the man of God, and Mary of Egypt", 1648, the work of Y. T. Rudakov (Yakov Kazanets) from the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin ( GMMK); "St. Mary of Egypt, St. Alexis, man of God, St. Alexy, Mr. Moscow, and vmch. Theodore Stratilat, the upcoming Trinity of the New Testament, 2nd half. 17th century (SPGIAHMZ); "First Ecumenical Council" 2nd half. 17th century (TG) from the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin (on the margins of A. h. B. and mts. Natalia). There are also single images of A. h. B. against the backdrop of a landscape, for example. on the icon ser. 17th century (SPGIAKHMZ) from the palace Alekseevskaya church. With. Vozdvizhensky - the monk is presented directly, with his hands folded on his chest; on the icon of the 2nd floor. 17th century (TG) - in prayer to the Savior against the background of Moscow, which is the image of the Third Rome. Icon middle - 2nd floor. 17th century (GMMK) from the tomb iconostasis of the Archangel Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin (probably was transferred after the death of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich from the Annunciation Cathedral): A.ch. Lord's; the hands of the saint are raised in a gesture of acceptance of grace (the fingers of the right are folded nominally). In the iconostasis of the Annunciation Cathedral (opposite the royal prayer place that used to stand at the southeast pillar) there is an icon with images of St. John the Baptist and St. Petra, ok. 1683 (GMMK), to the Crimea between 1745 and 1761 A was added. h. B. (patron of the father of the co-rulers John V and Peter I Alekseevich) and 3 plots below, including “The Repose of Alexy, the Man of God”.

In zap. art mainly depicted scenes from the life of A. ch. B .: for example, in the painting of the XI century. in the underground San Clemente in Rome; in miniature manuscripts of the 12th century. (e.g., Stuttgarter Passionale. Stuttg. hist. 2° 58. Fol. 12v, c. 1130), where maidservants are shown pouring dirty water on a saint sitting on a beggarly bed; The Pope worshiping A.ch.B., reclining on his deathbed. This tradition was continued in stained-glass windows and frescoes of the 14th-15th centuries, in engravings of the 16th-18th centuries.

Iconography: Erminia DF. S. 174; Filimonov G. D . Icon-painting original of the Novgorod edition according to the Sophia list of the end of the 16th century. M., 1873. S. 83; he is. Iconic original. S. 295; Trenev D . K ., Popov, N . D . Miniatures of Greek Menology No. 183 of the Moscow Synodal Library. M., 1911; Laty sev. Menol. Fasc. 1. 1911. P. 245-252; Demus O. The Mosaics of Norman Sicily. L., 1949. P. 118; Onasch K. Ikonen. B., 1961. S. 396. abb. 121; Antonova, Mneva. Catalog. T. 1. C. 238-239. Cat. No. 273. ill. 208.11; T. 2. C. 35-36. Cat. No. 380; C. 52. Cat. No. 399; P. 300. Cat. No. 770; Muryanov M . F . On the cultural relations between Rus' and the West in the XII century. // Ricerche slavist. , 1966. Vol. 14. P. 29-41; he is. Aleksey the man of God in the Slavic review of Byzantine culture // TODRL. 1968. T. 23. S. 109-126; Der Nersessian S. L "illustration des psautiers Grecs du Moyen Âge: Londres, Add. 19.352 (fol. 165r) // Biblioth. d. Cah. Arch. P., 1970. Vol. 5. Fasc. 2. fig. 265; Mneva H . E. Murals of the Annunciation Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin in 1508 // DRI. M., 1970. P. 195: pl. 5:23, 24; Krausen E. // LCI. Bd. 5. Sp. 90-91; Mujoviћ. Menologue P. 205, 277-279; Dyor Nersesyan S. Moscow Menology // Byzantium, Southern Slavs and Ancient Russia, Western Europe: Art and Culture: Collection of articles in honor of V. N. Lazarev, M., 1973, p. 105-106; Laurina V. K. Restoration work in the State Russian Museum // PKNO, 1976. M., 1977. S. 179-180, 182; τοῦ Θεολόγου Γαρδενίτσας // Λακονικαὶ Σπουδαί, 1977, Τ. 3. Σ. 64. Fig. 22; Spatharakis J. Corpus of dated illuminated greek manuscripts to the year 1453. Leiden, 1981. Vol. 1. N 237; Vol. 2. P. 60. 427-429; Tomekovi ć S . Les saints eremites et moines dans le décor du nartex de Mileševa // Milesheva and the history of the Russian people: Mezhunar. scientific stingy with a reason to gray hair and for centuries postojaњa. Juni, 1985. Beograd, 1987, pp. 51-65. Fig. 3, 22; Babiћ G ., Kopaћ V ., ћirkoviћ S . Student. Beograd, 1986. S. 158. Sl. 125; Malkin M . G . Two picturesque ensembles of Dionysius and his successors // DRI. M., 1989. S. 123-131; Kachalova I . I . Monumental painting // Kachalova I. Ya ., Mayasova H . A ., Shchennikova L . A . Annunciation Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin: To the 500th anniversary of the unique monument of Russian culture. M., 1990. S. 35-36; Shchennikova L . A . Easel painting // Ibid. S. 49; Markina N . D . A new work by Yakov Kazanets from the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin // GMMK: Materials and Research. M., 1991. Issue. 8. S. 48-60; Š evčenko N . P. The Walters" "Imperial Menologion"// J. of the Walters Art Gallery. Baltimore, 1993. Vol. 51. P. 43-64, ill; idem. Imperial Menologion: The Glory of Byzantium: Art and culture of the middle Byzantine era, A. D. 843-1261: Catalog / The Metropolitan Museum of Art. N. Y., 1997. N 56; Tolstaya T. V. Images of saints on the altar barriers of Russian churches of the 15th-16th centuries // Art of Ancient Russia: Problems of iconography. M ., 1994. P. 23-44; Aiuto R. D. Nuovi elementi per la datazione del Menologio Imperiale: i copisti degli esemplari miniati // Atti della Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei. Cl. di scienze morali, storiche e filologiche. Rendiconti. Ser. 9. R., 1997. Vol. 8. Fasc. 4. P. 715-747; Markelov Saints of Ancient Russia. T. 1. P. 540-541. No. 274. T. 2. P. 312- 313. Ill. 31; Pivovarova N. V. Frescoes of the Church of the Savior on Nereditsa in Novgorod: Iconographic program of painting: Candidate of Dissertation SPb., 1999. S. 14-15; in Novgorod (1199) // DRI: Russia and the countries of the Byzantine world, XII century [in print].

T.B. Thick

On a sunny day in the summer of 377, a man entered the Mesopotamian city of Edessa. He wandered the streets for a long time, talking to people until he finally found himself near the Church of the Most Holy Theotokos. Here, turning to the watchman, he asked:

"A great grief happened to my master, a Roman senator. I have been serving him for many years, and I cannot say a single bad word about him. He is kind and merciful, always helps those in need. And such a misfortune ... He and his wife had no children. Finally, the Lord heard their prayers - a son was born. How much they loved him, how they cared. And the boy always pleased his parents. He recently came of age. His father found him a beautiful bride of royal blood, they played a wedding. And on the night after the wedding feast, the young man disappeared.

He is young. Well dressed. It looks like he comes from a noble family. He comes from Rome. So you haven't seen anyone around here who matches my description? ".

"No. We have more and more simpler people here, and even the sick and the poor in general. Take a look for yourself. This one, for example. It recently joined us - look, there are only rags on it. They live on alms, and pray from morning to night!"

In this beggar, the servant could not recognize the same young man who, after the wedding, leaving, gave his young wife his golden ring and said: “Keep this, and may the Lord be between you and me, until he renews us with His grace.” Alexy, that was the name of the young man, from childhood he was brought up in love for God, and it was to Him that he decided to devote his whole life. He went to the city of Edessa, where the Image of Christ Not Made by Hands was kept - the imprint of the face left by Jesus Christ Himself on the canvas. There, in the vestibule of the temple, in fasting and prayer, the saint spent 17 years. When in a vision the Most Holy Theotokos pointed out to the church watchman Alexy as a man of God, the inhabitants of Edessa began to revere him. Embarrassed by the nationwide respect shown to him, Alexy secretly fled from Edessa and went to the homeland of the Apostle Paul, to the city of Tarsus. But the ship veered off course and landed near Rome. The saint saw God's providence in this and went to his father's house.

Years of wandering changed the appearance of Alexis beyond recognition and no one recognized him. For another 17 years the monk lived in a closet under the stairs of his native house. Often he had to endure humiliation and insults from the servants, but he accepted everything with humility. His food consisted of bread, water and constant prayer.

One Sunday after the Divine Liturgy, a miracle happened in the cathedral. All present heard a voice: "Seek the man of God to pray for Rome and all his people." He ordered to search for his voice in the senator's house. Many people, together with the emperor and the Pope, went there, but did not find Saint Alexis alive. In his hand, the monk held a scroll with a description of his entire life, which he compiled, knowing that the hour of death was approaching.

The life was read, and the father, mother and wife recognized Alexy. Many believers came to venerate the body of the saint, and many miracles and healings were performed.

In Rus', the story of Alexy, the man of God, has always been especially loved by the people. Remembering the history of the monk, Russian people try to welcome the poor and wanderers and ask them for prayer.

Those born from December 22 to January 22 will be protected by the icon of the Mother of God "Unexpected Joy", their guardian angels are St. Sylvester and St. Seraphim of Sarov.

Those born from January 21 to February 20 are guarded by Saints Athanasius and Cyril, and the icons of the Mother of God "Vladimir" and "Burning Bush" will protect them.

The icon of the Iberian Mother of God is the intercessor of those who were born from February 21 to March 20. Their guardian angels are Saint Alexy and Milenty of Antioch.

Those born from March 21 to April 20 must ask for protection from the icon of the Kazan Mother of God, and they are guarded by Saints Sophronius and Innocent of Irkutsk, as well as George the Confessor.

The icons "Guest of Sinners" and the Iberian Icon of the Mother of God will protect those born from April 21 to May 20. Saints Stepan and Tamara, the Apostle John the Theologian are their guardian angels.

If the birthday falls on the period from May 21 to June 21, you need to ask for help from the icons “Search for the Dead”, “Burning Bush” and “Vladimirskaya”. Guarded by Saints Alexei of Moscow and Constantine.

Icons "Joy of All Who Sorrow" and the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God-Intercessor of those born from June 22 to July 22. Saint Cyril is their guardian angel.

Saint Nicholas the Pleasant and Elijah the Prophet protect those born from July 23 to August 23, and the icon "Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos" protects them.

Asking for protection from the icon "Burning Bush" and "Passionate" should be those who were born from August 24 to September 23. Their guardian angels are Saints Alexandra, John and Paul.

At the icons of the Pochaev Mother of God. "Burning Bush", "Exaltation of the Cross of the Lord" should seek protection for those who were born from September 24 to October 23. St. Sergius of Radonezh will protect them.

St. Paul is the guardian angel of those born from October 24 to November 22. Icons of the Mother of God "" Quick to Hearing "and" Jerusalem "protect them.

Those born from November 23 to December 21 should ask for intercession from the icons of the Mother of God "Tikhvin" and "Sign". Saint Nicholas and Saint Barbara are their guardian angels.

In every house it is desirable to have the Iberian Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos (Goalkeeper), which protects the house from enemies and ill-wishers.

So who do you pray to first?

First of all, of course, we should pray before the image Savior Jesus Christ. And, of course, strenuously in all difficult cases it is necessary to pray to the Most Holy Theotokos, the Queen of Heaven - She, “The most honest Cherubim and the most glorious Seraphim without comparison”, stands above all the saints and for us the first Intercessor and Intercessor before Her Son and our Lord.

"Spas Almighty" often simply "Savior" or "Savior" is the central image in the iconography of Christ, representing Him as the Heavenly King. “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end,” says the Lord, “who is and was and is to come, the Almighty.” The Chief Physician of souls and bodies, who knows everything, and to whom our prayer appeal should be directed first of all. According to the rules, this icon is placed at the head of the iconostasis.

"Savior Not Made by Hands"

According to church tradition, the first icon was the image of the Savior - the Savior Not with Hands. This icon has an incredibly strong energy and an amazing story. It is customary to turn to the image of the Savior with prayers for guidance on the true path, for the salvation of the soul (if you repent of sins), deliverance from bad thoughts and miraculous healing. Remember to read the Lord's Prayer and repent before you ask for mercy for yourself and your loved ones.

The "not-made" image was not written by a human hand. They say that this happened during the earthly life of the Savior. The ruler of the city of Edessa, Prince Avgar, was seriously ill. Having heard about the countless healings that Jesus Christ performed, Abgar wanted to look at the Savior. He sent a painter to paint the face of Christ.

However, the artist could not fulfill the order. Such radiance emanated from the face of the Lord that the master's brush could not convey His Light. Then the Lord, having washed, wiped His immaculate face with a towel, and His Image miraculously appeared on it. Having received the Image, Avgar was healed of his illness.

There are images of the Savior in every church, but if you want to intensify your prayer to the Savior, you can go to the church that bears his name, or to the place where the icon became famous, or where a “sign” was given from above.

Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God

This is the main shrine of Moscow and the whole Russian land. They turn to her mercy. making especially important decisions related to social activities, before major fateful moments in life. This icon is often prayed for the salvation of Russia, they turn to it when the country is in trouble.

People have always treated the Vladimir icon with special reverence; many miracles and signs are associated with it. Before her, the anointing to the kingdom of sovereigns and emperors was performed. During the election of all-Russian metropolitans, and then patriarchs, lots were placed in a shroud in the kiot 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 ate with the Most Pure Mother and Righteous Joseph. In the middle of the XII century, the shrine came to Russia. When she was being taken to Suzdal, not far from Vladimir, the horses stopped and could not move. On this spot, the Assumption Cathedral was erected, where they installed a miraculous icon, which has since been called Vladimirskaya. With the transfer of the capital from Vladimir to Moscow, the icon also moved. In 1395, the Mother of God of Vladimir 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'.

Icon of the Mother of God "Jumping the Child"

One of the most beloved icons in the Russian people. This icon is responsible for the fullness of motherhood. Women who wish to have children pray before this icon. Also, a prayer before the “Jumping Baby” image will help in cases of a difficult pregnancy, or if a very small baby gets sick.

Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This icon is prayed for the insight of blind eyes, for deliverance from the invasion of foreigners, it is an intercessor in difficult times, they bless those who marry.

The mothers of soldiers serving in the hot spots of the country know the power of the patronage of this icon. It is customary to offer prayers to the Kazan Mother of God before military operations and campaigns. The great Russian commanders before the battles always prayed to the "Mother of Kazan" in order to win the battles with minimal losses. This icon-painting image of a woman was given to husbands, sons and loved ones in the hope that it would protect them from an enemy bullet, captivity, and death.

The miraculous appearance of this icon to the inhabitants of Kazan took place in 1579. The Mother of God appeared in a dream to a ten-year-old Matryona, ordered to announce to the Archbishop of Kazan and the city authorities what was buried in the ground. In the indicated place, they found an icon, which, apparently, was buried even before the capture of Kazan by Ivan the Terrible - it was hidden by Christians who lived in the Tatar capital.

The icon received the name of the Kazan Mother of God and was recognized as miraculous. Since 1903, she was considered missing until she was found in the Vatican. Negotiations are underway to return the shrine to Kazan.

Iberian Icon of the Mother of God

The Iberian Mother of God is addressed with prayers for prosperity, protection from diseases, enemies, slander and dark forces.

The Iberian Mother of God herself called herself the Great Defender for believers when she miraculously ended up in the Iberian Monastery on Athos (Greece). In the 9th century, the soldiers of Tsar Theophilus the Iconoclast were sent to destroy the holy icons. In one house, one of them struck the Mother of God with a spear on the cheek, and blood flowed from the wound. To save the image, the owners gave it to the sea, and the icon moved standing on the waves. Once the monks of the Iberian 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 found above the monastery gates. This happened 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 she herself would be the Guardian. The icon was left above the gates, which is why it is often called the "Goalkeeper".

Icon of the Mother of God "Seven Arrows"

In front of her, conspiracies from irreconcilable enemies are read. During the war, they read that the weapons of the enemies bypassed the defenders of the Fatherland and the relatives of the soldiers. At least seven candles are placed in front of the icon. This icon can show seven miracles, or help to know the future for seven years.

Icon of the Mother of God "Softener of Evil Hearts"

On the icon of the Mother of God “Softener of Evil Hearts”, the Mother of God is depicted alone, pierced by seven swords. The seven swords symbolize the fullness of sorrow and heart disease that was endured on Earth by the Blessed Virgin Mary. Before the icon, they pray for softening of the heart and the believers are relieved of their mental suffering, hostile relations are softened, giving way to a feeling of mercy.

Icon of the Mother of God "Tenderness"

When referring to the Mother of God "Tenderness", they pray for healing from ailments.

The icon was in the cell of St. Seraphim of Sarov. With oil from the lamp burning in front of the cell icon, the Monk Seraphim anointed the sick, and they received healing. In front of this icon, the monk went to the Lord. Another name for the icon is “Joy of all joys”. So St. Seraphim himself often called this icon.

Icon of the Mother of God "The Sign"

“The Sign” is one of the most revered icons in our people. Many signs of miraculous power are performed from this grace-filled shrine. The Merciful Lady shows through this shrine the signs of Her protection and intercession both in public disasters and in the lives of ordinary people. Christian mothers who come to the realization of their powerlessness to give happiness to their children, to protect them from always close and inevitable danger, turn their eyes to this image and find support and help.

Icon "Guide of sinners"

It is required for household prayers and conspiracies for those who have seriously sinned, who are in captivity (prisons and settlements), as well as for urgent remission of sins, for example, before going to a medical operation or a very dangerous business.

This icon is the last hope for the forgiveness of the Lord Jesus Christ, because His dearly beloved mother herself acts as a merciful intercessor for those who have sinned voluntarily or involuntarily. You can not buy this icon in the post.

Icon of the Mother of God "Inexhaustible Chalice"

This icon is prayed for the healing of those obsessed with the disease of the passion of drunkenness and gluttony.

The appearance of the holy image took place in 1878. A peasant in the Efremov district of the Tula province, a retired soldier, was obsessed with the passion of drunkenness. He drank everything he had and soon became a beggar. From exorbitant drunkenness, his legs were paralyzed, but he continued to drink. Once, in a dream, an elder appeared to him and ordered him to go to the city of Serpukhov to the monastery of the Lady Mother of God, where the icon of the Mother of God "The Inexhaustible Chalice" is located, and serve a prayer service before it.

Without money, not owning his legs, the peasant did not dare to set off. But the holy elder appeared to him a second, and then a third time, and sternly ordered him to fulfill the command. On all fours, a retired soldier went to the monastery. In one village he stopped to rest. To ease the pain, the old lady rubbed his legs and laid him on the stove. The next day he felt better. Leaning first on two, then on one stick, he reached Serpukhov.

Arriving at the monastery and telling about his dreams, the sufferer asked to serve a prayer service. But no one in the monastery knew the icon of the Mother of God with such a name. Then they thought: is this not the same icon that hangs in the aisle of the temple in the sacristy? On the reverse side of it, they really saw the inscription: "The Inexhaustible Chalice." In the face of the disciple of St. Alexis - the Monk Varlaam - the ailing peasant immediately recognized the old man who appeared to him in a dream. Their Serpukhov peasant returned home quite healthy.

The news of the miraculous glorification of the icon of the Mother of God quickly spread throughout Russia. Possessed by the passion of drunkenness, their relatives and friends hastened to offer prayers to the Mother of God for healing from the disease, and many came to thank the Lady for HER great mercy.

Icon of the Mother of God "Fadeless Color"

This icon is prayed for the preservation of a pure and righteous life. It also helps in choosing the right spouse. Pure fiery prayer to this icon helps in resolving difficult family problems. There are many healings of the sick.

Icon of the Mother of God "Three Hands"

Before this icon they pray in diseases of the hands (or hand injuries). When St. John of Damascus had his hand cut off due to slander against him, he tearfully prayed before the icon of the Mother of God, so that his hand, which wrote spiritual compositions for the glory of God, would grow. And the severed hand grew together during a short sleep. Then St. John, as a sign of gratitude to the Mother of God, hung a silver image of a hand on her icon, which is why the icon got its name. They also pray before this icon for peace of mind.

Mother of God Pochaevskaya

When referring to the Mother of God "Pochaevskaya", they pray for protection from internecine hostility, from enemy invasion, for healing from blindness, both bodily and spiritual, for release from captivity.

The Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God is one of the most revered relics. The miraculous icon was kept for 300 years in a monastery on Pochaev Hill. The celebration in honor of the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God on July 23 was established in memory of the deliverance of the Dormition Pochaev Lavra from the Turkish siege in 1675.

Icon of the Mother of God "Feodorovskaya"

Pray before this icon during difficult childbirth.

Mother of God Leushinskaya (I am with you and no one is with you)

The icon “I am with you and no one is with you” has existed for almost a century.

She came to uplift the spirit of the faithful. Literally, the name of the icon sounds like. “I am always with you and no one will offend you.” The very sound of the name of the miraculous image fills the heart with goodness and unshakable hope: God is with us, the mercy of the Mother of God always covers us. In the most seemingly hopeless situations of life, we are not left, even if there is apparently no one around. But the presence of this Divine help is in the heart of everyone.

The icon, in order to have the power to help people, was prayed for by mighty prayer books - the holy righteous John of Kronstadt and the Monk Seraphim of Vyritsky.

Our Lady of Ostrabram

The Icon of the Mother of God “Ostrabramskaya” is an ancient Orthodox shrine. She is one of the most beautiful images of the Mother of God. The time of the appearance of this icon is not known. They pray to her for the happiness of a married couple and protection from interference in the family by evil forces.

Mother of God of Jerusalem

The Jerusalem Icon of the Mother of God, according to legend, was painted by the holy Evangelist Luke in the 15th year after the Ascension of the Lord in Gethsemane. In 463 the image was transferred to Constantinople. By the intercession of the Jerusalem Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, the Byzantine troops repelled the attack of the Scythians. In 988, the icon was brought to Korsun and presented to St. Prince Vladimir Equal to the Apostles. When the Novgorodians accepted Christianity, St. Vladimir sent them this icon.

Before the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos of Jerusalem, they pray in sorrow, sorrow and despondency, for healing from blindness, eye diseases and paralysis, during a cholera epidemic, for deliverance from the loss of livestock, from a fire, during relaxation, and also during an attack by enemies.

Mother of God Merciful ("It is worthy to eat")

Before the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Merciful”, or “It is worthy to eat”, they pray for mental and bodily illnesses, at the end of any work, during epidemics, for happiness in marriage, in case of accidents

Icon of the Mother of God "Search for the Lost"

Before this icon, they pray for headaches and toothaches, fever, eye disease, for the admonition of those who have fallen away from the Orthodox faith, perishing children, for a grace-filled marriage and for addiction to drinking wine.

Mother of God "Assuage My Sorrows"

When referring to the icon of the Virgin "Assuage my sorrows", they pray for deliverance from various diseases, both bodily and mental. For the first time, the miraculous power of the icon appeared at the end of the 17th century in Moscow, in the church of St. Nicholas in Zamoskvorechye, when a noble lady was healed with the help of prayers addressed to the miraculous icon.

Icon of the Mother of God "Desperate One Hope"

Before this icon they pray and ask for prosperity and well-being. It also helps to escape from despair and find a way out of various everyday needs.

Protection of the Holy Mother of God

Before the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos of the Intercession, they pray for deliverance from troubles, for the protection of the country from enemies.

Icon of the Mother of God "Burning Bush"

This icon saves the houses of those who worship and pray to Her from fires.

Icon of the Mother of God "The Conqueror of Bread"

Before this icon they pray for deliverance from drought, loss of bread, hunger

Traditionally, they also ask for help from their guardian angel and his patron saint of heaven. According to church tradition, every person at Holy Baptism is given by the Lord an incorporeal guardian angel. At the same time, a holy heavenly patron also appears in a person, the one in whose honor the holy (given in Baptism) name is given, and, possibly, another, the connection with which can be given by the Lord through prayer. In Christianity, it is believed that our personal Guardian Angel is invisibly present next to us all our lives, prays to the Lord for us, and after our death will justify us before God.

Guardian angel

According to Orthodox and Catholic ideas, the guardian angel is invisibly with a person throughout his life, if a person retains love for God and fear of him. The task of the guardian angel is to contribute to the salvation of the ward. In particular, guardian angels spiritually instruct Christians in faith and piety, protect their souls and bodies, intercede for them during their earthly life, pray to God for them, do not leave them, finally, after death, and lead the souls of those who have ended earthly life into eternity. .

There are also separate the Saints. whom we pray on special occasions, each of them received a certain gift from the Lord for their earthly work, and now the Lord works any miracles through their prayer for us. The Savior honored them all in various needs to be intercessors for us before God. These saints either endured a similar need or illness themselves, or others received healing and help through them. Each of these saints, to whom they pray for a certain help, has something to do with this area.

From biographies saints we know that the reasons for a special prayer appeal to a saint are different: some of the saints personally asked the Lord for the gift of helping people in specific life circumstances. Another was a revelation sent by God (for example, in a dream), in which it was reported that they had been given a gift in deliverance from such and such a need, and after that the saints began to help everyone who came to them. Trust was formed in some saints on the basis of "human rumor" that created historical legends about them, and on the help coming from the saints.

There are also patron saints of a certain type of activity.. And now, when new professions appear more and more often, many of them do not have their own heavenly patron, sooner or later the question still arises of which saint to pray for success in newly emerging areas. How is the patron saint of new professions determined? Here it is appropriate to quote the words of the Deputy Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, Archpriest Father Vsevolod Chaplin:

“The patron of professions is chosen according to the deeds of the saint. This tradition has existed since ancient Christian times. The Church specifically blesses to consider one or another saint as a patron in business. Now it is usually announced by the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus'. Most recently, Alexy II blessed the miners, all workers in the mining industry to turn to the Holy Great Martyr Barbara. But there is no list or “schedule”, with what frequency and for what professions (narrow specializations or entire industries) to appoint a patron saint.

If a patron has not yet been determined for your profession, you yourself can read the lives of the saints and find the one whose deeds are related to your profession. For example, officially patron of the internet not announced, but as a result of discussions, Internet users themselves chose who John the Evangelist. Who - Chrysostom .

Even better if that saint is your local. For example, there was a great martyr in your land who healed people with herbs, and you are a doctor - and pray to him.

Holy Blessed Prince Alexander Nevsky

The holy noble prince Alexander Nevsky is the patron saint of warriors and the defender of all Rus'. In order for the service to be prosperous and successful, the icon of St. Alexander Nevsky can be placed in the office. For the same men who bear the name Alexander, it is better to keep the holy image at home, it will help them maintain good health and build a good career.

St. Ave. Alexy, man of God

Saint Alexy, the man of God, is the heavenly patron of men who bear the name Alexei, the icon helps them achieve well-being and prosperity in life. In addition, any person in need of mental and physical healing or experiencing material difficulties can turn to the image of a saint. In case of an infectious disease, eye diseases, mental disorders, alcoholism and drug addiction, they pray to St. Alexy, the man of God.

St. Anna the Prophetess

The Holy Prophetess Anna is the patroness of babies. If the child is sick, turn to her with a prayer. For those who are faced with the problem of infertility, the icon of the saint will also help. For a righteous life, the prophetess Anna was given to see the newborn Christ in the temple, so that later she could preach the Good News. Those who want to get rid of grief, who lack humility, who want to live righteously, but are subject to temptations, should turn to the saint for help. It will protect from troubles and diseases, help to live a long and blessed life.

Apostle Andrew the First-Called

The Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called is the patron saint of professions related to the sea. He is prayed for the protection of those who go to sea. The sailor's relatives can turn to the saint, so the icon is kept at home. A holy image is also needed on the ship, it will give the team confidence, unite all members of the team. Apostle Andrew the First-Called also patronizes translators and teachers of a foreign language. The parents of their daughters and the girls themselves ask the saint for a successful marriage.

Holy Martyrs Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia of Rome

“The Holy Martyrs Faith, Hope, Love and Their Mother Sophia of Rome” is a famous Russian icon, through which they turn to the saints with a request to create and preserve a family. She helps those who want to have children. Married women with children pray before the icon for the health of all family members, for the recovery of the child, for deliverance from women's diseases and diseases of the joints. The icon will help you survive a bereavement, by praying in front of it you will get rid of sorrow and sadness.

St. Blg. Prince Boris

Holy Right-Believing Prince Boris (in baptism Roman) is a saint who is prayed to in case of heart disease. He, as well as his brother, the holy noble prince Gleb, are treated for diseases of the musculoskeletal system. In a house where there is an icon of a saint, love and mutual understanding will reign. For those men for whom Saint Prince Boris is a patron, the icon will help to avoid illnesses, save them from enemies, and help them find a friendly family and reliable friends.

Holy Blessed Princes Passion-Bearers Boris and Gleb

The holy noble princes-passion-bearers Boris and Gleb - help believers get rid of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, contribute to the reconciliation of the warring, are the patrons of purity and chastity. When praying to the holy martyrs Boris and Gleb, they receive healing from seemingly incurable ailments. Through the icon, they turn with a prayer for the salvation of the soul of a loved one or friend, protection from evil spirits, for peace in the Russian land.

Holy Monk Martyr Vadim of Persia

Holy Monk Martyr Vadim of Persia - will protect from betrayal and deceit. Through prayer, the icon will help get rid of vices: pride, self-interest, lust. The saint is the heavenly protector of all men named Vadim. His patronage will help develop mental stamina, strengthen in faith. In any trouble, seek help from your intercessor.

Hieromartyr Valentine, Bishop of Interamna

Hieromartyr Valentine, Bishop of Interamna, patron saint of pharmacists. It helps to achieve success in the work of those who create or sell drugs. If a loved one is sick, pray for his health in front of the icon of St. Valentine. He helps those who believe sincerely, healing diseases from which people have been suffering for many years, including chronic diseases of the internal organs, paralysis. The icon of the saint will protect from an unfair trial.

The Holy Martyr Valentine of Caesarea is depicted on the icon with wheat ears, which is not only a symbol of believing Christians, but also a sign of any undertakings. Through prayer to the saint, you will receive a good reward for your work, your family will live in abundance. For those who are patronized by St. Valentine of Caesarea, the icon helps to live in piety, in peace and love, and protects from dangers.

Holy Martyr Valery of Sebaste

Saint Valery of Sebaste is one of the forty Martyrs of Sebaste, who are addressed with a prayer for the forgiveness of sins in repentance, for protection from enemies and troubles. The icon of the saint will save the house from floods and fires. If your legs hurt, ask for help from the martyr Valery of Sebaste. His image will help to find the lost thing. As a heavenly patron, a man named Valery the saint will help to resist temptations, relieve self-doubt.

Great Martyr Varvara patronizes the mining industry.

Saint Basil the Great

Saint Basil the Great is the Ecumenical saint and teacher, they pray to him at the entrance to a new house, asking for protection from evil people. If you open a new business, the saint will help in the work, and you will achieve your goal. Basil the Great is also known as the patron of monasticism and musicians. It has long been considered the patron of gardens and orchards, to whom they pray for the gift of a generous harvest.

Holy Martyr Vera of Rome

The Holy Martyr Vera of Rome - the heavenly patroness of women named Vera, will protect from troubles, dangers and misfortunes. For help, they turn to the holy protector with any emotional experiences, prayer will support you in any endeavors and help you fulfill your dream. With the icon of the Holy Roman Faith, you will build a wonderful career, create a family and prosperous living conditions for loved ones.

Holy Martyr Veronica

The Holy Martyr Veronica (Virineya) of Edessa is the heavenly intercessor, through prayer to which you will gain determination and courage in business. The icon will protect you from enemies, make your house a fortress into which no evil can penetrate. Keep the image in the eastern part of the room and turn to the saint with prayer every day, asking for support in everyday affairs and, especially, in trouble.

Holy Martyr Victor of Damascus

The Holy Martyr Victor of Damascus is a heavenly intercessor and patron, whom they pray for healing in case of hand diseases, various skin and eye diseases. The icon will help men named Victor in promotion, protect them from dangers and enemies. Through prayer to the saint, they gain health, find reliable friends and faithful companions in life.

Saint Vitalius of Alexandria

Saint Vitalius of Alexandria is a saint who saves sinners. They pray to him when they want to protect a loved one from vice. He will enlighten, save from sin and guide on the true path. Ask for help yourself, and also give the icon of the saint to someone you are worried about. The holy image of the patron is also needed for men, whose name is Vitaly. The icon will support them in everyday affairs, protect them from deceit, from slanderers and envious people.

Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir

The Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir is the Baptist of Rus', to whom they pray for the strengthening of faith, for deliverance from external enemies and internal strife, for peace and unanimity, for salvation from all evil, troubles and misfortunes. His icon will help those who ask for healing from fatal and eye diseases, deliverance from blindness. The Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Grand Duke Vladimir is considered the heavenly patron of the internal troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Holy Blessed Prince Vyacheslav of Czech

Holy noble Prince Vyacheslav (Vatslav) - warrior-martyr, grandson of the holy princess Ludmila. They pray to the Holy Blessed Vyacheslav of Czech for the protection of the state from external enemies, for the protection of soldiers who defend the Motherland, its borders, are on military exercises or in places of military conflicts. The holy noble Prince Vyacheslav is still dearly loved by the Czech people, revered as the patron of the Czech Republic.

George the Victorious

The Holy Great Martyr George the Victorious is revered as the patron of the Christ-loving army. In addition, the Holy Great Martyr George the Victorious is considered the patron saint of all those involved in farming. Of the lifetime miracles, the miracle of St. George about the serpent is especially famous, which became the main plot of the icons of the Holy Great Martyr George the Victorious on horseback, which symbolizes the victory over the devil - the “ancient serpent”.

He is also prayed for the return of lost children.

Holy Blessed Prince Daniel of Moscow

Holy Right-Believing Prince Daniil of Moscow is the son of Alexander Nevsky. They turn to the holy prince Daniel for help in God's blessing over the house, in housing problems, they pray for finding their home. Also, the holy noble Prince Daniel of Moscow is now the heavenly patron of the Engineer Troops of the Russian Army.

Dimitry Donskoy, Right-Believing Grand Duke of Moscow

The Grand Duke of Moscow Dimitry Donskoy was canonized as a saint on the basis of his great services to the Church, as well as on the basis of his personal pious life, which embodied the saving Christian idea of ​​sacrificing oneself for the good and saving others. They turn to the help of St. Demetrius of the Don to strengthen the country, to defend its integrity and unity, to repel all threats, to increase the faith and piety of the people, to strengthen families - to protect them from bodily extinction and spiritual death.

Holy Great Martyr Catherine of Alexandria

The Holy Great Martyr Catherine of Alexandria lived in the 3rd century. The daughter of noble parents, she was distinguished by her rare beauty, inquisitive mind, striving for the truth, she was unshakable in the faith of Christ. Saint Catherine is the heavenly patroness of teaching and knowledge. Both teachers and students can ask her for help. All who prayerfully turn to St. Catherine gain both intelligence and success in their studies.

Apostle John the Evangelist

Beloved disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ. Holy Evangelists John the Evangelist. Mark. Luka. Matthew pray for help in strengthening the family. The holy evangelists Luke and John help in editorial, journalistic and television work. Apostle John is also the patron of book publishing and the Internet in terms of opportunities for spreading Orthodox culture. Since the Apostle John was born in the family of a fisherman, he is also considered the patron saint of fishing. The Apostle John the Theologian, who takes care of the spread of Orthodox culture, heard the revelation about the fate of the world on Mount Patmos and wrote it down in the book “Revelation (Apocalypse) of the Holy Apostle John the Theologian”, is the patron book publishing and all those related to books.

Xenia of Petersburg

Ksenia of Petersburg began to work miracles and help people, especially women, during her lifetime. After her death, the chapel over her grave in St. Petersburg became a real place of pilgrimage. Through the prayer of Blessed Xenia, the afflicted were healed, peace was restored in families, and those in need were given good places. They pray to Blessed Xenia of Petersburg for marriage, for health, for love, for pregnancy, for children, in a variety of difficult everyday circumstances.

Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke

The Holy Apostle Luke is an apostle from the seventy, one of the four evangelists, an associate of the apostle Paul. The holy Apostle Luke studied the art of medicine and helped people even in his earthly life, especially with eye diseases. In Orthodoxy, he is considered the first icon painter and patron saint of doctors and painters, and doctors and farmers also receive special help from him. The holy evangelists Luke and John help in editorial, journalistic and television work. The holy evangelists John the Theologian, Mark, Luke, Matthew are prayed for help in strengthening the family.

Saint Luke of Crimea and Simferopol

Saint Luke of Crimea and Simferopol is the patron of all medical science and other natural disciplines associated with it, and above all of surgery. Prayer before the icon of St. Luke of Crimea and Simferopol will help the doctor before a complex operation, as well as the patient who is to undergo surgery. Also, a prayer addressed to the saint in front of his icon will protect the addressee from various events and phenomena common to human life.

Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Mary Magdalene

Saint, one of the myrrh-bearing women who followed Christ. She was the first to bring the Good News to the apostles about His Resurrection, thus becoming an apostle for the apostles, who left their Teacher in that mournful hour, and therefore was numbered among the Equal-to-the-Apostles. Prayer in front of her icon helps to receive forgiveness of the seven deadly sins, protection and deliverance from bad addictions, before her they ask for repentance when performing an abortion. Saint Mary Magdalene patronizes hairdressers and pharmacists.

St. Matrona of Moscow

Matronushka was born in the village of Sebino, Tula region. From birth, the girl was blind, but the Lord gave her spiritual sight. People from the surrounding villages and distant places went to the blind girl and, through her prayers, received healing from illnesses and consolation in sorrows. At the age of 17, Matronushka's legs failed and she no longer walked.

In 1925, Matronushka was transferred to Moscow, where she lived for about 30 years. Not having her own corner, she constantly moved from place to place, and experienced a lot of suffering. People were constantly coming to her, up to forty people a day. She raised many bedridden patients to their feet, healed mental ailments, helped with her prayers in difficult life situations - insoluble issues were resolved, incurable diseases receded.

Matushka Matronushka died on May 2, 1952, and was buried at the Danilovsky cemetery. Now there is a very beautiful chapel over her grave. Constantly in summer and winter people come to her and bring fresh flowers, talk about their problems and ask for help and intercession.

The relics of the Holy Matrona of Moscow are in the Intercession Convent.

They pray to her for the healing of bodily and spiritual illnesses, for help in family troubles, for helping children in choosing the right path in life, for getting rid of sinful addictions, for help in finding a job, in solving housing problems, in all everyday needs.

Suffering people come to bow to her at the Intercession Monastery and the Danilovskoye Cemetery. All who come to Mother with faith and love receive consolation.

A Archangel Michael

Archangel Michael, the commander of God's army, over time could not help but become the patron of the military, intelligence officers and bodyguards, and not only Christian ones. He is highly regarded by both Jews and Muslims. Archangel Michael, perhaps one of the most popular saints, is considered to be his patron by: greengrocers, artists, drivers, ambulance crews and water carriers, and later radiologists, as well as specialists in radiotherapy methods of treatment, began to consider him. Initially, the Archangel Michael is the Patron of construction.

Holy Martyr Hope

Hope is one of the theological virtues. It is the resting of the heart in God with the assurance that He continually cares for our salvation and grants us the promised blessedness. Hope expresses the idea of ​​surrendering oneself to God, the emotional experience of the state of being in the hands of God and conviction in the justice and mercy of God. The intercession of the martyrs was resorted to in case of special need and grief.

Holy Martyr Natalia

The Holy Martyr Natalia lived at the beginning of the 4th century in Nicomedia. Natalia was a secret Christian, and her young husband Adrian professed paganism. During the persecution of Christians, impressed by the marvelous patience of the Christian martyrs, Adrian came to believe in Christ. Having openly declared his new faith, he accepted the crown of martyrdom. During the torture, Natalia encouraged her husband's faith by telling him about the eternal life that awaited him. Through her spiritual suffering, Saint Natalia also deserved a martyr's crown and soon died at the grave of her husband. They pray to the holy martyrs for happiness in marriage, for patronage of the family hearth.

Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker

This is the most revered saint in the world. Nicholas the Wonderworker became famous as the protector of the unjustly offended and the patron of all who are on the way - fishermen, pilots, sailors, travelers. He also patronizes women, children, the poor, innocently convicted and animals. The Wonderworker is especially revered in the Russian North.

Those who are often on the road or have a profession related to transport, certainly need to have this image at home and visit the temples that bear his name.

Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Nina

Saint Equal-to-the-Apostles Nina - Enlightener of Georgia. As a young girl, Saint Nina, having listened to her mentor's stories about Iberia (Georgia), was inflamed with a desire to enlighten this country, and having been granted the vision of the Mother of God, she was even more strengthened in her decision to serve as an apostle. The sermon about Christ, the miracles performed by St. Nina, and her virtuous life created the impossible. Gradually, almost all of Iveria adopted Christianity. For her holy life and apostolic labors, the Georgian Orthodox Church named Saint Nina Equal-to-the-Apostles. Christians turn to her in prayers for intercession, strengthening of faith, for healing from many ailments and misfortunes. Saint Nina is the patroness of teachers.

Saint Panteleimon

The whole Christian world turns to the holy great martyr and healer with prayers for healing from illnesses. The great martyr lived in Asia Minor at the beginning of the 4th century. Having studied the art of medicine, Pantoleon (a worldly name) achieved such success that he attracted the attention of Emperor Maximian. who wished to make him the chief court physician. The Lord gave him the gift to heal ailments, and soon people abandoned the rest of the doctors and began to turn only to him. Envious people reported to the emperor that Pantoleon was confessing Christ, and the saint was betrayed to torment. When Maximian ordered to cut off the young man's head, the sword bent like grass, and everyone heard a voice from heaven, calling the martyr a new name - Panteleimon (in Greek - "all-merciful"). Then the saint himself ordered the soldiers to cut off his own head, and at the same time a new miracle took place: instead of blood, milk flowed out, and the olive tree, to which the holy martyr was tied, was filled with healing fruits.

The image of St. Panteleimon, as a rule, is present in the home iconostasis along with the images of the Trinity, the Savior and the Mother of God.

St. Paraskeva Friday

St. Paraskeva Friday is the patroness of trade and weaving, and, accordingly, patroness of needlework and needlewomen.

Rev. Seraphim of Sarov

The great Russian Saint Seraphim of Sarov for his ascetic deeds was rewarded by the Lord with the gift of clairvoyance and healing. Human hearts were open to him, as were the past and the future. The advice given by the reverend elder sometimes aroused bewilderment and seemed strange, but everyone who followed the instructions exactly could be convinced that this advice was the only true and saving one. Through the prayers of St. Seraphim of Sarov, numerous signs and healings are performed at his grave. In front of his icon, they turn to the saint for help in mental and physical healing, with diseases of the internal organs, with diseases of the legs, and they also pray in sorrow.

Saint Sergius of Radonezh

Saint Sergius of Radonezh, through prayer to him, will protect you from any life problems. The saint is asked to protect children from bad influences, from failures in their studies. Prayers before the icon of the saint, who himself was a model of humility, help in finding humility and taming pride - both one's own and someone else's - since pride is known as an evil from which many troubles arise in our lives and those around us.

In the end, I would like to say that it is important to remember that when we pray before an icon to a saint, we should direct our thoughts to the Lord, the Giver of all blessings, since prayer for us will be holy, and its fulfillment will follow from God.

We pray to the Savior, the Most Holy Theotokos and the saints in front of their icons in order to find peace in the soul, to feel protection and support. And we receive help in this or that need through our sincere prayer.

May the Savior, the Most Holy Theotokos and the saints hear your prayers and help you, and may your Guardian Angel and Heavenly Patron always be your faithful intercessors.