Russian Icons of Christ and Their Meaning

Russian icons represent a prominent layer of world art and iconography, impressing people with the exquisite artistry and beautiful stillness of depicted images that allow us to feel sacred. The icon of Jesus Christ is one of the most valuable and venerated among Christian shrines in Russia and worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at these holy icons!

The image of Jesus Christ

In religious art, Jesus Christ appears in a variety of images and forms. For instance, in early Christian times, He was shown as a lamb, a pelican, a fish, and a dove. These were all the allegorical depictions generally symbolizing the mercy and divinity of the Savior.

Today, iconographers divide all Christ images into several major types:

· The icon of Christ the Almighty and the Heavenly Judge

· The image of the Lord as a preacher among the worldly people

· The image of Christ, where He is depicted as a baby

The traditional image of Jesus Christ shows a man with brown hair, deep blue eyes, and great thoughtful stature expressing holiness and wisdom. There are Russian icons portraying Christ in power as Christ Pantocrator or in suffering as in the Crown of Thrones icon that symbolizes the sins of people, which Jesus took upon Himself.

The meaning of Christ icons

All of the holy images of Christ are mainly characterized by the harmony and blessing of the Lord. The icon of Jesus gives believers compassion in their sorrows, peace, strength to endure all the impediments, and patience. Ascending prayers in front of this icon, people express their gratitude for help and assistance and also pray for a message of guidance in achieving the goal.

Christians pray in front of the icons of Christ with love and tenderness. It is the sincere prayer that helps them be connected to God so that He quenches all their sorrows.