One of the first places on the list of the most revered images in Russia is the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God. Its significance for the country is enormous. At one time, prayer to her more than once saved Russia from crushing raids by invaders. Only thanks to the intercession of the Mother of God this was avoided.

The history and significance of the Vladimir Icon is majestic, first of all for the Russian people, because it is truly their protector.

The origin and journey of the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God

An ancient legend tells about the origin of the icon. He wrote it when the Mother of God was still alive. An image was created on a board from the table where the entire Holy Family had a meal.

Until 450, the icon was in Jerusalem; in the same year it was sent to Constantinople. There it was kept somewhere until approximately 1131.

In the 12th century, the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God was donated to Kievan Rus by Luke Chrysoverg (Patriarch of Constantinople). She was sent to the Mother of God Monastery in Vyshgorod.

When she had been there for some time, the icon was taken away from there by Andrei Bogolyubsky (son of Yuri Dolgorukov). On his journey, he stops in the city of Vladimir, where he received the sign of the Mother of God. On the site of this miracle, a temple was erected, in which the icon remained. Now it began to be called Vladimirskaya.

Today, there is a list there that was written by Andrei Rublev. The original icon was transferred in 1480 to the Assumption Cathedral, which is located in Moscow. Then the image was transferred two more times: in 1918 - to the Tretyakov Gallery, and in 1999 - to the Church of St. Nicholas. It is still stored in the latter.

The great shrine is the Vladimir Icon Mother of God. Many stories have been recorded about the history and significance of the icon for the Russian people, which happened in ancient times and in modern times.

Miracles associated with this icon

There are really a great many of them. And they are connected not only with the original icon, but also with lists, of which a large number were created.

In addition to the threefold and recorded salvation of the Russian land from the invasion of foreign yoke, the Mother of God more than once manifested her will through it. For example, where the icon should have remained (in Vladimir), there was a sign for Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky during prayer.

In addition, even in the church in Vyshgorod, cases of moving the icon were recorded. She seemed to find no place for herself. She was found three times in different parts temple, in the end, after prayer, Andrei Bogolyubsky took her with him to the Rostov land.

Then there were numerous cases of healing common people. For example, water washing an icon could cure a disease. This is how healing of the eyes and heart took place.

This is how the Vladimir Mother of God became. Its significance both for the common people and for the greats of this world was undeniable. She witnessed many important actions in Russia. This includes the appointment of patriarchs and military campaigns. They also swore allegiance to their homeland before her and carried out the coronation of several monarchs.

Prayer before the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God

Prayer to the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God is truly salvation for a state in which there has been turmoil or schism. It will allow passions to subside, anger and enmity to moderate. In addition, when heretical sentiments arise, one should also offer prayer to this image.

Many believers turn to the icon during illness, and also when necessary to make any important decision.

The prayer begins with a respectful address: “O All-Merciful Lady Theotokos.” Next, he asks to protect people and the Russian land from various shocks, to protect the entire spiritual rank. Prayer to the Mother of God strengthens faith and gives strength to overcome adversity and troubles.

The meaning of the icon for Russia

The Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God is the most beloved icon in Rus'. And in fact, she protected her from everything so much; numerous signs and healings were revealed.

Perhaps an interesting sign was that the Mother of God herself chose the place for her icon, which later became known as the Vladimir icon. This was her already mentioned appearance to Andrei Bogolyubsky.

Then there were some more signs of her intercession for the Russian land. For example, in 1395, a great invasion of the conqueror Tamerlane was expected, who had already conquered many lands and was approaching the Russian border. It seemed that the battle could not be avoided, but the universal prayer to the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God did not allow this to happen.

According to one version, Tamerlane saw the Majestic Mother of God in a dream, who ordered him to leave this land.

And this happened more than once. People's faith increased after each successive salvation. became truly miraculous and most revered. A large number of lists were written from it, which are also worshiped by believers. The meaning of icons has always been important. The Vladimir Mother of God was especially revered in Rus'.

Days of celebration

Since the icon is considered a deliverer from external attacks on Russian soil, as well as its protector, celebrations in its honor take place three times a year. Each of these dates was chosen for a reason.

• On August 26, the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God is venerated for liberation from Tamerlane in 1395.
• On June 23, a celebration takes place in honor of the victory over the Tatar yoke, which happened in 1480.
• May 21 is a celebration in honor of the victory over Khan Mahmet-Girey, which occurred in 1521.

The prayer to the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God has saved Russia more than once.

Lists of the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God

There are numerous copies that were written from this icon. The most famous are:

• Orange icon. It was written in 1634.
• Rostov icon. This image dates back to the 12th century.
• Krasnogorsk icon. Its writing dates back to 1603.
• Chuguev icon. Exact date creation is unknown.

These are not all available lists of icons. The first of them were written when the image had just appeared on Russian soil. Later they also created lists from it; now there are only two of the oldest.

Obviously, such diversity indicates that the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God, whose significance for believers is great, is highly revered.

Iconography of the image

If we talk about writing this image, then its style is classified as “caressing”. It is characterized by the fact that icons of this type speak of the communion of the Mother of God and her Son, i.e. this is the deeply human side of the Holy Family.

It is believed that this style of painting icons did not exist in early Christian art; it appeared much later.

This style of writing contains two central figures. This is the Mother of God and the baby Jesus Christ. Their faces are closely touching, the Son puts his hand around the Mother’s neck. This image is very touching.

The peculiarity that the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God has, its meaning is the appearance of the baby’s heel, which is not found on others similar to this type.

This icon is double sided. The reverse depicts the throne and the symbols of the Passion. This suggests that the icon itself carries a special idea. This is the future sacrifice of Jesus and the mourning of his Mother.

There is also an opinion that this icon is a copy of Our Lady of Caress from the Blachernae Basilica. In any case, the Vladimir image has long become an independent miraculous face.

Other revered icons of the Mother of God

Besides Vladimir Mother of God, there are many more miraculous images that people turn to. So, in front of which icon of the Mother of God do they usually pray for what?

• For example, prayer in front of the Iveron icon helps to increase the fertility of the earth, and it is also a comforter in various troubles.
• Prayer before the Bogolyubskaya icon is a help during epidemics (cholera, plague).
• In case of cancer, prayers are offered to the image of the Mother of God, the All-Tsarina.
• The Kazan icon is a blessing for marriage, as well as a protector from various invasions and in difficult times.
• The image of the Mother of God “Mammal” is very revered by nursing mothers, and prayers are also offered to him during childbirth.

As you can see, there are a lot of images that help believers with their miracles. You should always pay attention to the meaning of icons. The Vladimir Mother of God is no exception. It’s just that each of the images takes upon itself intercession in different situations. The Mother of God seems to embrace all the sorrows and sorrows of her subjects, helping them in difficulties.

There are many different images of the Virgin Mary in the world that appeared in the most different time. All of them are revered by Christians and considered miraculous. But the most revered is the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, which has quite interesting story origin, numerous miraculous deeds are attributed to her. It differs from all the others not only in the manner of writing, but also in its meaning for Christians.

If you believe history, then the first image of the Mother of God was a portrait painted by Saint Luke on a board from the table at which little Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Joseph were eating. When the Mother of God saw this work, she blessed it and promised that from now on all her images would bring only heavenly grace into the world.

The Vladimir icon was in Jerusalem for a long time. But during the reign of Theodosius the Younger it was moved to the capital of the Byzantine state - Constantinople. A century later, the icon was donated to Yuri Dolgoruky. On the territory of Rus' it long time was stored in Vyshgorsky convent. It was from there that rumors of her miraculous power spread throughout the world.

The icon remained in the monastery until 1155, when Andrei Bogolyubsky ordered its transfer to the city of Vladimir. The world famous Assumption Cathedral was erected here for the image. And the icon itself has since received the name of the Vladimir Mother of God. It was at this time that a precious frame of gold and silver was made for the image, decorated big amount precious stones and pearls.

Since ancient times, the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God guarded the troops of Rus' during the raids of invaders. The main examples of her miraculous intercession include the victory of Andrei Bogolyubsky over the Bulgars and the defeat of Tamerlane’s army. During the latter's invasion, the image was brought to one of the churches in Moscow and an akathist was read before it by all the monks and ministers. Khan Tamerlane was afraid of the power of the Vladimir Mother of God and retreated before her power. Historians say that in a dream the khan dreamed of a detachment in shining armor descending from a mountain, above which there was a hovering Our Lady of Vladimir and blessed the troops with her blessing.

The day when the icon was brought to the Moscow temple has since been celebrated as the Feast of the Presentation. This day usually falls on September 8 or August 26 according to the old style. And in memory of the miracle performed by the Mother of God, the Sretensky Cathedral and monastery were erected.

The most possible things can happen in the life of every person. different situations that require an immediate solution. If ordinary and familiar methods do not give the desired results, then people turn to the Mother of God, who hears, sees, and always comes to the aid of those praying.

The Vladimir Mother of God performed many miracles. But the most famous and difficult to interpret are the following:

Miracles were performed not only by the icon itself, but also by numerous copies of it, which are distributed throughout the world. There are legends about these miracles that confirm the power of the Vladimir Mother of God.

This shrine has witnessed many events in Russia. She was able to go through all the military campaigns with the troops, and was at the coronation of the emperors. The naming of many patriarchs took place before her. Prayers are read to her at the moment when it is necessary to calm the anger of enemies, remove their anger and eliminate the fear of those who go on a military campaign.

Many parishioners turned to the Mother of God with prayers for making a fateful decision or for her to grant strength in getting what they wanted. It is she who helps to get rid of many diseases and heal even the most seriously ill people. The icon of the Vladimir Mother of God helps:

• strengthen faith and gain strength to cope with any adversity;
• to be healed of blindness and heart disease;
• get rid of sinful thoughts and bad intentions;
• make an important and fateful decision when a person cannot understand what to do in a given situation.

The significance of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God has always been great for all Russian people. It helps in the most difficult times, when there is nowhere else to wait for protection and help. But we can say that such an icon is not the only one. And here will be the mistake - this image is very different from others with a similar context.

Based on the type of writing, it belongs to the “Caressing” variety. This image is one of the most lyrical of all possible depictions of the face of the Virgin Mary. With one hand, the Mother of God holds the baby, hugging him to herself and protecting him from the whole world. Their faces are pressed against each other, which reveals a completely different side of the communication between mother and son. In this icon they appear not as the Mother of God and the Child of God, but as simple mother and son who endlessly love each other.

Only the mother and baby are depicted on the canvas. There are no angels, no archangels, no one else on the canvas. The head of the Mother of God is tilted towards the baby, and he hugs her neck with his hand. Distinctive feature The icon is that the baby's leg is curved and his foot is visible.

The main prayer to the face of the Vladimir Mother of God is the following:

Today, the original image is located in Tolmachi in the museum at the Church of St. Nicholas. But even knowing where the original icon is located, you should not rush to go to pay homage to it. You can pray to any of the lists that are located in many churches in Russia.

For every Russian person, the Vladimir Icon is of great importance. She helps in the most unexpected and difficult situations. Therefore, in many homes there is an image of the Mother of God, in front of which candles are placed and prayers are offered for the bestowing of health to loved ones.

In Orthodoxy, the Mother of God is revered on a par with Christ himself, and there are quite a few images of her. One of the most popular and interesting is the Vladimir image, the significance of which for Russia is great.

It is believed that the first icon was painted by the Evangelist Luke, and in the 5th century it moved from Jerusalem to Constantinople to Emperor Theodosius. The icon came to Rus' from Byzantium in the 12th century, around 1131 - it was a gift from the Patriarch of Constantinople, Luke Chrysoverg, to Prince Mstislav. The image was delivered by the Greek Metropolitan Michael, who arrived the day before, in 1130.

Story

Initially, the Mother of God was kept in the Mother of God convent in the city of Vyshgorod near Kyiv - hence its Ukrainian name, Vyshgorod Mother of God. In 1155, the icon was taken by Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky and transported to Vladimir - from here it follows Russian name. The prince decorated the image with an expensive frame, but after his death, by order of Prince Yaropolk, the jewelry was removed and the icon was given to Prince Gleb of Ryazan. Only after the victory of Prince Michael the Mother of God and the precious dress was returned back to the Assumption Cathedral.

In 1237, after the destruction of the city of Vladimir by the Mongol-Tatars, the Assumption Cathedral was also plundered, and the image again lost its decoration. The cathedral and the icon were restored under Prince Yaroslavl. After this, at the end of the 14th century, Prince Vasily I, during the invasion of Tamerlane’s army, ordered the icon to be transported to Moscow to protect the capital. She was placed in the Assumption Cathedral of the Kremlin on the right side of the royal gates. At the place where the image met with the Muscovites (“Sretenie”), the Sretensky Cathedral was founded, and later a street of the same name lay.

At the same time, Tamerlane’s army suddenly, without any reason, turned back, reaching only the city of Yelets. It was decided that the Mother of God interceded for Moscow, revealing a miracle. But the miracles did not end there: similar sudden retreats occurred in 1451 during the invasion of the Nogai prince Mazovsha and in 1480 while standing on the Ugra River.

Experts believe that between Tamerlane’s retreat and standing on the Ugra, the icon was transported several times to Vladimir and back, since 1480 was especially marked by the return of the Vladimir icon to Moscow.

Later, the icon was taken from the capital in 1812 to Vladimir and Murom; after the victory, it was returned to the Assumption Cathedral and was not touched until 1918. That year the cathedral was closed by the Soviet authorities, and the image was sent for restoration. After 8 years she was transported to Historical Museum, and after another 4 years - to the Tretyakov Gallery.

Since 1999, the icon has been in the Church-Museum of St. Nicholas in Tolmachi. This is a house church at the Tretyakov Museum, in which services are held for believers, and the rest of the time the church is open as a museum hall.

In 1989, part of the icon (the eye and nose of the Mother of God) was used in the logo of Mel Gibson's Icon Productions film company. This company produced the film "The Passion of the Christ."

Miracles

In addition to the incredible salvation of Moscow from its enemies, other miracles performed by the Mother of God have been preserved in history:

Unfortunately, finding out which icon is involved in miracles(the original from Constantinople or a copy of it) is impossible, but many have noted that almost all images work miracles.

Description

The Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God is of the type (“Eleusa”), which is easy to identify. Unlike the Kazan image, where the Baby is first of all the Son of the Lord and blesses people, and the Mother of God sees his fate in advance, Vladimirskaya is more “humane”, the mother and child, her love for him are clearly visible in her. Widespread image received in the 11th century, although it was known in early Christian times. A description of the image and its meaning is given below:

The first icon to come to Russia dates back to the 12th century, researchers believe that it was drawn in Constantinople, that is, it was originally a copy of the original by the Evangelist Luke. However, it is a monument to Byzantine painting of 1057-1185 (Comnenian Renaissance), which was preserved.

The dimensions of the icon are 78*55 cm. Over all the centuries of its existence, it was rewritten (redrawn in the same place) at least 4 times:

1. In the first half of the 13th century;
2. At the beginning of the 15th century;
3. In 1514, during renovations in the Kremlin Assumption Cathedral;
4. In 1895-1896 before the coronation of Nicholas II.

The icon was also partially updated in:

1. 1567 by Metropolitan Athanasius in the Chudov Monastery;
2. In the 18th century;
3. In the 19th century.

In fact, today only a few fragments remain of the original icon:

1. Faces of the Mother of God and Child;
2. The entire left hand and part of the right hand of the Infant;
3. Part of a blue cap and border with gold;
4. Part of the Child's golden-ocher chiton and the visible transparent edge of his shirt;
5. Part of the general background.

The precious setting also suffered: the first setting ordered by Andrei Bogolyubsky (about 5 kg of gold alone, not counting silver and precious stones) was not preserved at all. The second was ordered by Metropolitan Photius at the beginning of the 15th century and was also lost. The third was created in the middle of the 17th century by order of Patriarch Nikon from gold and is now kept in the Armory.

Copies

Today the Vladimir Icon is a very common image and is found in a large number of churches around the world. Of course, consider every Vladimir icon a creation Luke is not allowed: the very designation “Vladimir” means a certain pose of the Mother of God and the Child, the expression of their faces. In fact, today all icons of this type are copies (copies) of the original, which has not reached us.

The most significant lists are:

All the above icons Although they are lists, they are revered as miraculous. Also, the Vladimir Mother of God became the basis for the creation of other images: “The Tale of the Vladimir Icon”, “The Presentation of the Vladimir Icon”, “The Vladimir Icon with Akathist”, Igorevskaya Vladimir Icon (a shortened version of the original), “Praise of the Vladimir Icon” (“Tree of the Russian Sovereigns” , author Simon Ushakov).

Days of Honor

The icon has only 3 dates:

1. June 3: gratitude for the victory in 1521 over Khan Mahmet-Girey;
2. July 6: gratitude for the victory in 1480 over the Mongol-Tatars;
3. September 8: gratitude for the victory in 1395 over Khan Tamerlane. This also includes the meeting (meeting) of the icon in Moscow.

On these days, ceremonial services are usually held, especially in churches with miraculous lists.

What does it help with?

“What does the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God help with?” - people who came to the temple ask. Most often they prayed to her to protect Russia from enemies, but this is not the entire list of her “opportunities.” The icon is also addressed in “smaller” situations:

It is not necessary to come to the miraculous list to pray, although if there is an opportunity, it is worth taking advantage of. You can pray to the Mother of God at home by saying a ready-made prayer (easy to find on the Internet) or expressing a wish in your own words. No special rituals are required, and there is also no need to come to the temple. The only condition is that thoughts must be pure. You can’t wish someone harm or say a prayer while thinking about someone else..

Conclusion

The miraculous Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God with the Child is not only one of the most popular images in Orthodoxy, but is also considered extremely emotional. It does not depict the Son of God, but a mother protecting her child, whose fate was foretold to her in advance.

Icon of the Vladimir Mother of God helps

What does the Icon of the Vladimir Mother of God help with: how to pray correctly Vladimir Icon, Meaning Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God and how it helps

What does the Icon of the Vladimir Mother of God help with: how to pray to the Vladimir Icon correctly

The Lord’s favor and disposition towards our sinful, suffering world is great, and it is hard not to notice this. You need to take a closer look, and you can see it in the ordinary confession of every Christian, in the humble shine of immaculate faces, in the course of our history and the fate of leaders. And also the goodwill and favor of God are presented to us in the form of sacred icons, of which ours is so rich Orthodox church. As before, so today it has a special significance and respect among people who believe in God has a face.

The icon of the Vladimir Mother of God is the patroness Russian people and herself Russian Federation. According to legend, this appearance was described by the Evangelist Luke during the period of Her earthly existence. And seeing her own image, the Virgin Mary said:

From now on, everyone will please me. The grace of the one born from me, and mine will arrive with this face.

Throughout the entire history of the appearance of the Most Holy One, a lot of amazing deeds and amazing incidents have been recorded that affected not only the Russian Federation, but also thousands of people who believe in the Lord the Creator. The significance, how the Vladimir image of the Immaculate can help, how to offer prayer and beg for her support - our publication will tell you about absolutely everything.

The meaning of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God and how it helps

Prayer before any of the revered images of the Most Holy Guardian and Patroness of the human race before our Creator is of great importance. After all, it can protect each of us and our souls from misfortune. The population of the earth was presented with many of its miraculous icons, and the stories of their acquisition testify to the fact that in various everyday moments we can rush to its diverse forms.

The Most Pure Mother of God of Vladimir can help any person who believes in God and turns to her with a sincere prayer. She is a patron and protector, protects the home and can help in resolving a large number of everyday matters. Any pious Christian is simply obliged to have this miraculous face in his own home.

And about the history and significance of the icon for the Russian people, many cases have been recorded that happened in ancient times and are happening right up to the present day.

In addition to the fact that the icon saved the Russian lands from enemy invasions three times, the Most Pure Virgin expressed her will through her own appearance. So, for example, Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky, at the moment of prayer, received information about where the image was supposed to be located on the territory of Vladimir.

Also on the territory of Vyshgorod, in the cathedral, the icon independently moved from one place to another. As a result, Prince Andrei, at the end of the prayer, took the icon with him to the Rostov lands.

Subsequently, a fairly large number of miraculous cures of Christians were witnessed. Eye and heart ailments were especially susceptible to frequent healing.

A clergyman named Mikula had a pregnant wife. She miraculously managed to escape from a horse that went berserk after offering prayers.

Parishioner Mary was able to be healed from an eye ailment after she prayerfully drank water from her immaculate appearance.

Once upon a time, in a city called Vladimir, a misfortune happened. The golden gate of the passage tower fell and killed twelve people. The ruler of the city continuously offered prayers before the face of the Mother of God, and all the people not only remained alive, but also got out without a single scratch.

The newborn was saved from the evil eye after he was washed with holy water.

Christian Efimiya was diagnosed with a heart disease. As soon as she was told about the miraculous cures from the face of the Most Pure One, she, together with the clergyman Lazarus, sent a large number of gold items to the cathedral to the image. And later he brought her holy water. She offered a prayer, drank it and recovered.

There are many similar stories. They relate both to the original appearance of the Most Holy Patroness, and to a large number her lists and prayers directed towards her.

How does the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God help?

The icon bears witness to the most important incidents in the history of the Russian Federation. Namely: military campaigns, appointments of patriarchs, before the face Holy Mother of God the coronation of the monarch and the oath of allegiance to the fatherland were carried out. Prayer directed towards the shrine is salvation in troubled times and a split in the state. It helps eliminate hostility, anger, and calm passions.

Numerous people who believe in God flock to the Immaculate One for support in making important decisions, in the presence of illnesses, in order to strengthen the spirit. If you are wondering what help can be provided Orthodox Christian icon the answer will be as follows:

Helps in finding the true path and making the right decision.

Gives strength in the most difficult moments of existence, helps strengthen faith.

Heals from physical illness. In particular, prayers are often offered to her to cure heart and eye ailments.

Protects against attacks from enemies, sinful thoughts and despondency.

The patroness helps the marriage remain happy, as well as maintain the strength of family ties, eliminating quarrels and discord. After all, this is precisely the key to a strong state.

Prayer before the Vladimir icon

**“O Mother of God, Heavenly Queen, All-Powerful Patroness, our shameless Hope! Thanking you for all your great blessings, throughout the generations of generations the Russian people who were from you, before your immaculate appearance, we send up a prayer: protect this city and your servants and all the Russian lands from floods, fires, destruction, earthquakes, internecine wars, alien invasions. Protect and help, Most Holy One, our Almighty (name of rivers), His Holiness Patriarch Moscow and the entire Russian land, and our Lord (name of rivers), Most Holy Bishop (title), and all the Most Reverend metropolitans, archbishops and Orthodox bishops. Give them the Russian Church as a good steward, the faithful sheep of Christ bend down to keep. Remember, Lady, all the priestly and monastic rank and preserving them, warm their hearts with zeal for God and strengthen each one to walk worthy of his calling. Save, O Lady, and have mercy on all your servants and grant us the path of the earthly field to pass without blemish. Confirm us in the faith of Christ and in zeal for the Orthodox Church, put into our hearts the spirit of the fear of God, the spirit of piety, the spirit of humility, endow us with patience in adversity, in prosperity - abstinence, understanding towards our neighbors, forgiveness towards the enemy, in good deeds prosperity. Deliver us from every sinful act and from petrified insensibility, on the terrible day of Judgment grant us, through Your intercession, to stand at the right hand of Your Son, Christ our God, to Him belongs all glory, respect and worship with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and ever. forever and ever. Let it be so".**

The original of the Most Pure Image is located on the territory of the city of Tolmach in Tretyakov Gallery Cathedral - Museum of St. Nicholas. You are allowed to travel to the miraculous list that is located in the cathedrals, named in honor of the Most Holy Mother of God:

In the village of Novovasilyevka, Berdyansk district,

The village of Bykovo, which is located in the Ramensky district,

You can also see lists in the village of Vilna in the Moscow region,

South Butovo has lists of icons,

City of Vinogradovo,
and of course in the capital.

On the territory of Ukraine, you can pray in the temple named in honor of Our Lady of Vladimir in the capital.

May our almighty creator and patron be with you!

The Vladimirovskaya Icon of the Mother of God is the main Orthodox Russian shrine, the most revered Christian image of the Mother of God. This is the earliest of all known miraculous faces that has survived from the time of Ancient Rus'. Great Orthodox shrine It has big story veneration. It has come to us thanks to detailed records made by chroniclers and monks in their works. Veneration of the Vladimir Icon Holy Mother of God demonstrates the inextricable spiritual connection between the history of the country, life Russian state and church events.

The bright face of the Mother of Jesus Christ many times became an invisible shield for people and their country from enemies, misfortunes, and troubles. It is not surprising that it is in honor of this holy image that the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates greatest number holidays:

• Remembering the salvation of the main Russian capital in 1521 from the invasion of the army of the Crimean Khan Muhammad-Girey - May 21 (June 3, old style).
• About the miraculous deliverance of Russian lands from the attack of Akhmat in 1480 - June 23 (July 6, old style).
• On the deliverance from Tamerlane's troops (1395) - August 26 (September 8, old style.

Iconography of the image of the Virgin Mary

The image of the Vladimir Mother of God is classified as the “Tenderness” type of icon painting. In Greek it sounds like "Eleousa" (ελεουσα), which means "Merciful". The icon has the most lyrical composition of all the iconographies of the Most Pure Virgin. The image reveals the close spiritual and physical communication of the Mother of God with her Infant Son. The images of the Virgin and Child, who tenderly pressed their cheeks to each other, seem deeply human and intimate.

Two figures appear before us - Mother Mary and the Infant Christ, who closely cling to their faces. The Virgin's head is tilted towards Jesus. He gently hugs Mother’s neck with his hand. Distinctive feature The Vladimir icon differs from other images belonging to the “Tenderness” type, is the position of the left leg of the Child Jesus. It is so bent that the sole of the child's foot is completely visible.

This image of the Mother of God with her Son, in addition to the direct meaning of love and tenderness in a relationship, contains a deep theological idea. Firstly, Mary symbolizes the Christian soul of man, which communicates closely with the Lord. Secondly, the tender touches and gaze of the Blessed Virgin Mother remind us of the future sacrifice of Jesus on the cross in the name of every person. The Mother humbly accepts her destiny, mourning and rejoicing at the fate of the Son of God.

The Vladimir icon is double-sided. On back side On the board you can see the image of the Throne and the instrument of Christ's Passion.

Origin of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God

Tradition of the 15th century dates the creation of this icon of the Mother of God to the time of the appearance of the first lifetime images of the Mother of Christ, written in the 1st century by the evangelist and apostle Luke. The drawing was made on a special material - a board from a table at which the Most Pure Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ could probably have sat.

Some researchers believe that the image shows the features of Byzantine art. And the icon that has survived to this day is an early copy of Luke’s creation, the authorship of which belongs to a master painter of Polish origin who lived approximately in the 11th century. Other scientists argue that the analysis of artistic and stylistic features, as well as some historical facts indicate that the Vladimir Icon dates back to the first half of the 12th century (approximately 1130). This does not detract from the significance and value of the holy face, which for centuries has helped people, answered their requests and prayers, and protected the Orthodox people from evil spirits.

Finding of the Icon of the Vladimir Mother of God by the Russian people

The image created by the Evangelist Luke remained in Jerusalem almost until the middle of the 5th century. Later, during the reign of Theodosius the Younger, the icon was transported to Constantinople. In 1131, Patriarch of Constantinople Luka Chrysoverg sent an image of the Mother of God to Yuri Dolgoruky as a gift. The precious gift was placed in the convent of the city of Vyshgorod, near Kiev. The icon received the name “Vladimir” after it was placed (1155) by Andrei Bogolyubsky in the new Assumption Cathedral in the city of Vladimir (the center of the Vladimir-Suzdal land).

From the first days, the icon showed numerous miracles to parishioners and pilgrims, and became famous as an intercessor and helper. According to the legends left behind, the Vladimir holy image of the Mother of God, showing its strength, left its place in the altar and hovered in the air, supported by an invisible force. The most important thing that an ancient icon helps Christians with is to save people, a temple, a city from troubles, encroachments, destruction by enemies or fire.

So, in 1164, Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky went on a campaign against the Volga Bulgarians, taking with him the holy Vladimir image of the Ever-Virgin. Prayers and veneration of the shrine helped Russian soldiers win a military victory. In April 1185, a terrible fire engulfed Vladimir Church. All the property of the temple burned down. And only the sacred Vladimir image of the Mother of God did not dare to be touched by fire. The parishioners revered the icon as their powerful amulet. While she was in Vladimir, the city grew, became stronger and prospered.

On February 17, 1185, the icon, together with the townspeople, survived the devastation of Batu Khan. But this did not break the people of Vladimir, because the Defender remained next to them. The image of the Mother of God became the divine inspiration for the victory (1380) of the Russian army led by Dmitry Donskoy.

Moscow history of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God

By the will of the Lord, since 1395 the fate of the Vladimir Icon of the Most Pure One has been connected with Moscow. The holy image was installed in the temple dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. After the destruction of Ryazan, Tamerlane decided to march on Moscow, causing destruction along the way. It was decided to strengthen the Divine protection of the capital by bringing the miraculous Vladimir Icon to it. A solemn procession with Metropolitan Cyprian of Moscow along with the clergy, members of the princely family, ordinary people and the people came out to meet the icon outside the city boundaries. They accepted the shrine and placed it with honor in the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin.

Protector from enemies

The defense of the Mother of God turned out to be so strong that Tamerlane first stopped his army and remained in one place for two weeks. And then he quickly turned south and left Moscow. Hearing about what had happened, people said that the enemy fled, driven by the power of the Most Holy Protectress. To celebrate this significant event of the miraculous deliverance of the Russian land from Tamerlane’s army, a church celebration was established on September 8 (August 26, old style). This is the day of the solemn arrival in Moscow and the meeting of the Vladimir image of the Blessed Virgin Mary - the feast of the Presentation. Soon, at the site of the transfer of the bright face, the domes of the new temple, the new home of the icon, shone. Over time, the Sretenskaya monastic monastery was formed around the church.

Thus, the miraculous icon of the Mother of God was not returned to Vladimir, leaving Moscow forever. Since that time, Mother of God of Vladimir has not left the capital of Russia, protecting it from troubles, deprivations, and attacks from enemies. The second remarkable incident occurred in 1480, when the image of the Virgin Mary saved the country and its heart from the countless horde of Khan Akhmat. A meeting between Russian defenders and Tatars took place near the banks of the Ugra River. The opponents stood on both sides of the river, waiting for a sign to begin the battle. The Vladimir icon was with those who were going to be the first to rush into battle with the enemy. A miracle happened - the army of the Golden Horde fled.

The church celebration on July 6 (June 23, old style) perpetuated the glorious memory of the great intercession of the Ever-Virgin. On this day every year (before the events of 1917) a solemn ceremony was held procession priests and parishioners with icons, banners, but the central place, of course, belonged to the saint ancient image Russian Defender. The procession took place festively with a large crowd of people from the Assumption Church to the Sretensky Monastery.

In 1521, the united army of the Kazan Khanate and Mehmet Giray approached the city walls of the capital. Huge fires were already burning around the city, threatening to destroy everything in their path. The townspeople were preparing for the siege, turning their gaze and words of prayer to the merciful Vladimir Intercessor. And again the Mother of God did not turn away from her children. The enemy army left Moscow without harming it. Thus, the third great holiday was established in honor of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God. It is still celebrated on June 3 (according to the old style on May 21). Orthodox Christians commemorate the miraculous deliverance of the country's main city from enemy desecration.

Before the holy face of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, Russian tsars and princes prayed before setting out on a campaign. They asked for God's will to be fulfilled, for blessings before the election of Moscow metropolitans, and then patriarchs. The Merciful Mother of God, who more than once became a shield and support, was entrusted with the solution of the most important issues of spiritual and social life- the lot of each candidate was placed in front of the icon. It was to her that the most noble and respected Muscovites swore an oath to be faithful to the sovereign and the faith.

Fire in Moscow 1547

The devastating fire of 1547 became a real tragedy for Moscow. The merciless fire destroyed a third of all buildings in the city. As Karamzin wrote, wooden buildings simply disappeared, and stone buildings crumbled, iron melted, copper flowed. Moscow lost 1,700 of its residents in the fire.

Raging flames engulfed many buildings of the Moscow Kremlin. Saving what was most precious, people wanted to bring out the miraculous image. Strong, brave men were sent to remove the icon and hide it safely from fire outside the Kremlin. But the shrine resisted, not moving an inch. Eyewitnesses testified that a vision of a radiant woman appeared in the skies above the temple, the light from her falling on the domes of the Assumption Cathedral. When the fire died down, everyone saw amazing picture. Among the smoky, terrible ashes stood the Assumption Cathedral, preserved from the elements. Since that time, the Miraculous Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God has remained in the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin.

The Defender left Moscow for a short time in the rebellious year of 1812. She was temporarily moved to Vladimir, then to Murom. And soon the shrine returned again to the altar of the Kremlin Assumption Cathedral. They carried out Vladimirskaya only on holidays: religious processions and the coronation of the Russian emperor. At this time, the empty space of the church iconostasis was occupied by an exact icon. And today it is precisely this that can be seen when visiting the Assumption Cathedral.

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In difficult times for Orthodox Church During the atheistic times, the Russian shrine (since 1928) ended up in the Tretyakov Gallery. To the great joy of Christians, the icon was not destroyed or lost, like many other Orthodox shrines.

In 1999, the Vladimir face of the Blessed Virgin Mary was transferred to the State Tretyakov Gallery for careful preservation in the Church of St. Nicholas (in Tolmachi). The Russian relic is kept in special conditions. The special icon case in which the image is located is covered with bulletproof glass. The devices installed in the room control and maintain ideal parameters of humidity and air temperature. Such serious measures are designed to protect the shrine from aggressive external conditions.

What to ask from the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God

The Vladimir image of the Most Pure Mother of God is revered by Christians all over the world as miraculous. Since the time the icon was painted, people have bowed before the Virgin Mary and the Son of the Lord, praying for help in business, direction on the right path, healing from illnesses, and protection from enemies. The notes left behind suggest what the holy face helps with most. People testify that the Mother of God helps in the treatment of diseases of cardio-vascular system. They offer petitions before the icon to protect themselves from various tragedies, problems and enemies.

Since ancient times, the icon of the Queen of Heaven has protected Kievan Rus, and later Russia from enemy attacks. She strengthened the military spirit, instilled courage and bravery into the hearts of the defenders of the homeland. And today the shrine protects from quarrels, discord within the family, in relationships between people, from international conflicts, enemy threats, and unrest within the country. The Mother of God protects from disagreements and quarrels, helps people with different views to reconcile with each other, to find common ground.

Orthodox Christians rush to the shrine to pray before the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God, to tell her about their troubles, problems, to ask for the right advice and help. Often, in order to make a difficult decision and start a new business, you need to strengthen your spirit; the Mother of God will give you strength and help you separate the important from the unimportant. Shrine:

• Able to advise Right way, to save a person from uncertainty and doubt, to give peace and tranquility instead of confusion and tossing.
• It will strengthen the spirit, faith, and give strength to survive difficult times.
• Improves health. He will heal all who sincerely believe from illnesses. People with heart disease and eye problems get better especially often.
• Gives physical health and spiritual insight.
• Protects from all enemies - political opponents, militant invaders, ill-wishers, envious people. It pacifies those who sow discord and confusion.
• He will definitely tell you what to do if you have problems with your work.

The Vladimir Icon of the Most Pure One is a strong talisman hearth, prosperous family, a union of two people sealed by God. Don't know how to improve personal relationships? Be sure to pray Vladimir image, keep such an icon in your home. The Mother of God will support mutual respect, love, unity of souls, and will help to better understand each other. And it will help single people choose the right match.