5 Myths about Icons and Icon Painting

Over centuries, icon painting has not lost its edges and successfully continues to exist in the form of contemporary iconography. Today, more and more people take an interest in religious art, which means that, though slow and steady, it starts to reinvigorate itself.

Due to the growing popularity, many want to know more about sacred art and, as a result, come across lots of false information about icons. To slightly help the situation, we have collected the five most popular myths about icons and icon painting, which you need to know if you want to become closer to the truth.

1. Icon painters keep fast when painting an icon

Well, like any other painting, it might take months or more to complete a single icon, to say nothing of the fact that icon painters sometimes work more than on one image simultaneously. Keeping fast for so long does not even seem probable. However, icon painters do fast before starting their work.

2. Miracle-working icon or not?

There is no clear distinction between a miracle-working icon and not a miracle-working icon. Icon’s “miracleness” depends on the faith of a worshiper.

3. An icon is a cure-all

For many, it would sound along the line of religious fanaticism. In reality, icons are not lottery tickets. If you do not move a finger to change the situation, even the most fervent prayer won’t help you.

4. Printed icons are not blessed

Printed icons have the same validity as painted icons. If you are buying icons for your home rather than an icon collection, the only things that matter are the image depicted in the icon and your belief.

5. You need to know what icon to venerate

No, you don’t. The same as with printed icons, you do not venerate or worship an icon. You venerate the saint or worship God depicted in it.

Our sincere hope is that this information will help you avoid incomplete information and myths about icons and icon painting in the future!