Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Symbolic Representations
The early Christians did not use icons, as they feared confusing Christianity with idolatry. However, this fear gradually subsided. As a result, they began to speak to the souls of the faithful through various symbolic representations, revealing the deeper meaning of Christianity. Some of the most characteristic symbolic representations are:
Icons
After the persecutions and the triumph of Christianity, Christian painting and art began to develop more broadly. In Byzantium, religious art aimed at expressing faith and doctrine. Its purpose was to teach and speak to the soul of the believer, and this was achieved in a miraculous way. Byzantine icons are not merely religious art but a spiritual experience, through which the faithful are transported to another world, where they communicate with God and the Saints. The themes are drawn from the Old and New Testaments, sensitively depicted by pious painters. In the sacred decoration of the church, the icons of the Savior Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other saints dominate. Below the dome, Christ the Pantocrator is depicted, holding the Holy Gospel and blessing the faithful. Around the dome, Angels, Prophets, and Evangelists are depicted. In the apse of the Holy Altar, the Theotokos is depicted holding the Divine Infant as the "Platytera ton Ouranon" (She Who is Greater than the Heavens). In the icons, a bright circle is depicted around their heads, symbolizing the crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4) bestowed by God upon the holy figures depicted. In venerating holy icons, we honor the persons they represent, as taught by the 7th Ecumenical Council.
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Community of Hamilton
22 Head Street, Hamilton ON L8R 1P9
Copyright © 2024 St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Community of Hamilton and District - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.