Is it possible to give icons as a gift: signs, opinion of the church. Gifts for great church holidays. Which icons to choose as a gift?

24.09.2019

Reviews of the book The True, Mad, Guilty Moriarty l The True, Mad, Guilty

Life at Full Power - Jim Lauer, Tony Schwartz

Famous pirates of the Caribbean, next to whom the movie Jack Sparrow is just a boy

From our article you will find out whether it is possible to give icons for the holidays, and also get acquainted with the opinion of the church on this matter.

Orthodox icon - this is not just an image of a face, but a shrine that helps human soul cope with all life's temptations and troubles. That is why a consecrated Orthodox icon is an ideal gift for loved ones. With its help you will get closer loved one to God and give him the opportunity to communicate with him as often as possible.

But still, before presenting such a gift, first ask the hero of the occasion how he feels about this kind of gifts. After all, if a person for some reason is far from Christian faith, then your surprise will not bring him much benefit.

Is it possible to give icons as a gift: signs

Signs about Orthodox shrines

Probably, each of us has heard that a donated Orthodox shrine can bring disaster to the person who accepted it as a gift. Our grandmothers took this sign quite seriously, so most often they acquired images for themselves in church. Now let's figure out what their fear was based on.

Previously it was believed that it was through the icon envious people caused damage to a person. And since it was most often hung in the most visible place, the damage acted faster and people began to quarrel and get sick for no reason. But in fact, this sign has no basis in reality. After all, if a brother, sister or mother gives you such a surprise, they are unlikely to try to harm your family with their gift.

Moreover, such a gift is presented only to the sanctified, which means that it can protect you from the most evil intentions. There is also an opinion that you cannot give hand-embroidered or painted icons. It is believed that due to the fact that they were made not by clergy, but ordinary people, you cannot turn to God through them. Some believers generally consider this a very great sin.

But in fact, even an embroidered icon can become a real Orthodox shrine. Simply, before giving a gift to a person, it will need to be brought into the temple and consecrated. After the priest performs the necessary ritual on it, it will be no different from the icons that are sold in the church.

Is it possible to give an icon for a birthday?

Birthday icons

Birthday- this is a special event in the life of every person, that’s why you want to receive the most sincere gifts on this holiday. And what could be more soulful than an Orthodox icon? Such a gift will show the hero of the occasion how warmly and well you treat him. And most importantly, it will remind him of your friendship all his life.

And you shouldn’t listen to people who say that you can’t give icons as gifts. Believe me, if you do this with the most sincere feelings, then your gift will bring exclusively positive emotions to the birthday boy. But if you have already decided to give an icon for your birthday, then take its choice very seriously.

Since there are shrines that can be given exclusively to men or exclusively to women, it would be better if, before you finally decide on your choice, you try to study this issue more deeply.

Iveron icon Mother of God

Shrines that can be given to women:

Kazan Icon of the Mother of God(capable of healing diseases and giving family well-being)
Vladimir icon(relieves heart disease and conveys mothers’ prayers for children)
Icon of the Mother of God of Three Hands(will help get rid of sad thoughts and protect the house and its household from everything bad)
Iveron icon(you need to pray to this image for forgiveness of your sins)
Bethlehem icon(given to those women who dream of children and family well-being)

Shrines that can be given to men:

Savior Not Made by Hands(should be given to those representatives of the stronger sex who do not have the opportunity to attend church often)
Face of Saint Nicholas(a great gift for those men who travel a lot or simply have work that involves traveling)
Guardian Angel Icon(will help protect your loved one from temptations and troubles)
The image of the Patron Saint in business(will help you choose the right direction in life, and can also help you sort out family matters)

Is it possible to accept an icon as a gift?

Orthodox shrine best received as a gift

As mentioned above, you should not believe in signs that a donated icon can cause harm to a person or his environment. If you know the giver of this gift very closely and are absolutely sure that he has exceptionally warm feelings for you, then you can safely accept his surprise. If you have any doubts, then just take the gift and go to church, tell the priest about everything that worries you, and ask to bless the gift.

Yes, and do not forget that such a surprise cannot be accepted as an ordinary gift. The usual words of gratitude in such cases are not spoken for the icon. If you want her to really bring only positive emotions to your home, then thank not only the donor, but also God for this gift, and be sure to venerate the face of the Saint with your head. But whether to take an icon as a gift from strangers or unfamiliar people is up to you to decide.

If you feel that they are giving it to you with the purest intentions, then you can accept the gift. If you have even the slightest doubt, then try to tactfully refuse the gift. After all, if you take it and then realize that it was given as a gift malicious intent, it will be quite difficult to get rid of it. You cannot simply throw an icon into the street or burn it. Such actions are considered a very strong sin. To get rid of such a gift you will have to go to church and ask the clergy to take it from you.

Why and for what purpose do they give an icon?

Icons are given to show respect and favor

In the old days, icons were given exclusively for weddings, christenings and housewarmings, and this was done mainly by parents, godparents or simply the closest relatives. It was believed that in this way it was possible to protect the house and its household from damage and the evil eye. Nowadays, few people pay attention to signs and most often give icons solely because such a gift is considered very fashionable.

But any clergyman will tell you that you need to give such a gift wisely. If you just want to give a gift to your closest person, then give him an intercessor icon. This image is selected by date of birth or by the name of the Guardian Angel. If you know that a person needs to heal mental wounds or get rid of some physical illness, give him Mother of God of Pochaev. She will be able to restore health to a person and restore his faith.

Also, with the help of an icon, you can try to bring a relative who is very far from God to faith. But keep in mind that such a gift should be presented only if you are absolutely sure that it will not bring discord to your friendship. In general, an Orthodox icon presented for a birthday, wedding or christening is a guarantee that the heroes of the occasion will have a long and happy life

What icon do parents give newlyweds for their wedding?

Icons for newlyweds from parents

Nowadays, not a single wedding is complete without a wedding ceremony, so the parents of the newlyweds are obliged to ensure that the newly formed family has its own personal wedding couple. If they wish, parents can give their children the icons with which they themselves were married, but it will still be better if they buy the icons in the church and consecrate them Saint and Our Lady.

It is believed that these two shrines are able to protect a young family from discord and give them family well-being. You can also choose icons as a wedding couple Peter and Fevronya. It is these saints ancient Rus' were considered patrons of married couples. In addition, a good gift from parents can be Fedorovskaya Icon of the Mother of God.

She is considered the best assistant to expectant mothers, and also helps to conceive and bear a baby without any problems. In addition, parents can give it as a wedding present. image of the Holy Forefathers. Such a symbolic gift may be a wish that the newly formed family in the future become the founder of a strong and united clan.

In principle, there are no special rules that would say that only the above-mentioned icons can be given for a wedding celebration. If you walked into a church and liked e.g. image of Ksenia of Petersburg, then feel free to buy it too. The main thing is that your gift is given with the purest thoughts and good wishes and, of course, it must have been consecrated even before the wedding.

What icons are given to a boy and a girl for christening?

Shrine for a child's baptism

For the baptism of a child, as for any important event in life, one must prepare very seriously. Moreover, both parents and godparents should do this. Of course, the most the best gift For little man there will be an Orthodox icon. Such a gift in the future will protect the baby from everything evil and bad, and will also help his fragile soul move in the right direction.

Godparents should definitely give the baby Measuring icon. It is generally accepted that it must be made to order so that its dimensions strictly correspond to the height of a small person. But if for some reason you do not have the opportunity to make such an image, then calmly buy a ready-made one from the church, consecrate it and give it to your child for christening. It might be a good option Nominal icon . It should depict the face of the Saint, who is the patron saint of the baby.

Such an image is also necessarily consecrated in the temple before the christening and is presented to the child after the ritual itself. Usually such a gift is placed near the baby’s crib so that he can look at it freely. It is believed that in this way the child, albeit still unconsciously, will communicate with his Guardian Angel.

In addition, the following shrines can be given at christenings:

Panteleimon the Healer
Matrona of Moscow
Our Lady
Nicholas the Wonderworker

What kind of icon do you give as a housewarming gift?

Tolga prayer icon

The best housewarming gift is Icon of the Mother of God "Protection". It is believed that with her holy cover she can protect the house from fire, and from water, and from an evil gaze. It is best to give such a gift without witnesses and preferably before guests begin to gather in the house. Ideally, of course, with this image the family should enter new house and only after that begin to settle in it.

Therefore, if you have the opportunity to give a gift before the housewarming, then be sure to do it. If you know that the owners already have such an image, then you can purchase a so-called folding for them. This shrine consists of three connected icons, which depict Christ, Mother of God and Nicholas the Wonderworker. Such a gift can replace an iconostasis, which is simply a must-have in every believing family.

Shrines that can be given as housewarming gifts:

Image with a cross(will protect the house from envy and filth)
Icon "Unbreakable Wall"(will protect your home from thieves and natural disasters)
Image " Burning bush» (this gift can protect the house from fire and thunderstorms)
Icon “Impenetrable Door”(can take people with bad thoughts away from you)
Image of the “Bread Spreader”(will help you find strength to overcome spiritual and material difficulties)

What icons are given for a wedding?

Wedding icon

As mentioned a little above, the best wedding gift can be icons of the Saint and the Mother of God or image of Peter and Fevronya. But such a gift can only be given to newlyweds by parents or godparents. The rest of the guests can present the spouses with icons that will protect their young family.

For example, you can give your spouses image " Unexpected joy» . Before him, the bride and groom will be able to ask God for a peaceful marriage for themselves and happy life for their future children. Such a gift should be placed in the marital bedroom and every morning or evening you should thank the Saint for the day lived in peace and harmony.

But perhaps the strongest intercessor married couples counts icon of the Blessed Matrona of Moscow. This saint can help in solving almost all family problems. People turn to her if they cannot conceive a child, beg her for health for a loved one and always ask her to protect the family from anger and envy. Therefore, if you want the newlyweds to live happily ever after, then give them exactly this image.

Is it possible to give icons: the opinion of the church

The Church allows you to give icons to your family and close friends

People began giving icons as gifts in ancient times. At that time, shrines were very expensive as most were decorated with gold or silver. Therefore, such a gift was a fairly good investment. Most often, the image was placed in the “red corner”, and this was done so that visiting guests could see it.

And although modern shrines can be made of wood and paper, in their beauty and spiritual content they are in no way inferior to ancient images. Therefore, in our time, people do not stop giving them to each other, and they do it with great joy. Moreover, absolutely all priests recommend the icon as a spiritual gift that can cleanse a person’s soul from bitterness and anger.

In view of this, if you decide to give an Orthodox icon to a loved one, then feel free to buy it and do not pay attention to any bad omens. The main thing is to give your gift with pure thoughts and best wishes.

When we are going to congratulate our family and friends on their birthday, we often get lost and don’t know what gift to choose for this occasion. In Rus', there has long been a tradition of giving holy images. Now, with the revival of spirituality, many customs that existed earlier have begun to return, pre-revolutionary Russia. Therefore, believers often wonder whether it is possible to give icons for a birthday?

Most of us choose gifts for our loved ones with love, wanting to express our best sincere feelings. If the future birthday boy is a pious person, a believer, he will be pleased to accept the icon as a gift. The main thing is to choose correctly what will please and inspire him most. The variety of church faces is so great that you can easily get confused. Let's try to figure out what is best to choose in each specific case.

Through the iconographic faces there is a reunion with the Lord, the Mother of God, and the saints. You can pray without them. You can pray anywhere, at any time, in any environment. But when a consecrated image is before the eyes, a person concentrates more, gathers himself, and mentally ascends to the Prototype that is depicted on it.

Iconographic faces occupy an important place in the life of every Orthodox person. Whether a person is born or dies, starts a business or sets out on a journey, holy images always and everywhere accompany him. The faces were always protected and passed on from generation to generation. When escorting a warrior to war, they blessed him with a shrine. And he knew that he was not going to war alone, but with God, because services were held in churches, mothers and wives prayed. That's why Russian army became invincible.

Do they give icons?

It is customary for Orthodox believers to give images of saints on special occasions. important events happening in life:

christening;
wedding;
Day Angel;
on major Orthodox holidays;
to temples and monasteries as a donation;
in many other cases.

Is it possible to give icons as a gift if you need to congratulate a loved one on their birthday?

Priests, hierarchs and church historians all unanimously argue that it is possible and even necessary to do this.

This is an ancient pious custom inherent in the Russian person, who, in the breadth of his soul, wants to give his neighbor the best that he has.

Informative! Why and what should be in every home?

How holy images were valued in Rus' is evidenced by the fact that when drawing up a will, an inventory of property, they were always written down in first place as the most valuable thing on this list. The surviving wills of the great princes, for example, Dmitry Donskoy, his father Ivan Ioannovich, dated 14–15 centuries, and other documents of later times testify to this. Iconographic faces also occupied a significant place in the bride’s dowry.

Attention! If you want to give an icon-painted face as a gift for your birthday, first consult with a priest and find out the church’s opinion on this matter. They give only a consecrated image purchased in the temple.

To whom and what icon is it better to give?

It must be remembered that the image of saints is not an interior item, but serves completely different purposes - spiritual. Is it possible to give an icon as a gift? The main purpose of an iconographic image is to revive the faith and prayer of an Orthodox person.

By giving faces to our loved ones, we bring the spiritual spirit closer to them. angelic world so that at any moment when they are visited by difficulties or illnesses, they can turn to their heavenly patrons. So, let's try to figure out whether it is possible to give icons as a gift, and which holy images are best to prefer:

In every Orthodox home, as a rule, there is a triptych: the Savior, the Mother of God and St. Nicholas the Pleasant. Saint Nicholas is revered in Rus' like no other. Almost every family has experience of his spiritual help. Therefore, if the birthday person has not yet managed to establish a prayer corner in his home, you can give him these images.
So that there is prosperity in the house and poverty and problems go away, you can give a list from the miraculous image “The Spreader of Loaves”. As a rule, this face is hung in the dining room or kitchen, for prayer, according to the apostles, must be done in every place. With its help, poverty is overcome, prosperity appears in the house, and troubles go away.
If there are children in the house, it is good to give the iconographic image “Introduction into the Temple” Holy Mother of God" It depicts pious parents who lead their child to God from a very young age. Looking at the holy faces, you begin to think about raising your own children and about your parental responsibilities that God has entrusted to us.
It is a great consolation for every person to look at the iconographic image dedicated to the Feast of the Intercession of the Mother of God. Any despairing soul will find peace and tranquility by looking at the holy face. He will drive away the darkness of hopelessness, dispel gloomy thoughts, because the Diligent Intercessor herself has spread her cover over us.
A young woman, girl, or little girl will love the face of the Mother of God “Tenderness” of the Seraphim-Diveyevo Monastery. It personifies the purity and chastity of youth, femininity, which are so characteristic of an early age. Looking at the bright face of the Mother of God and praying before it, the child will strive for the same sinlessness that is characteristic of the Virgin Mary.
Any pious person will want to have at home an iconographic image of his Heavenly patron, the saint in whose honor he was named at baptism. If the birthday person does not yet have such a face, then you should give it to him. Prayer before him is the most confidential.
You can give images of all those saints who patronize family members, or order the painting of a family icon. As a rule, the Savior and the Mother of God are located in the center, and next to them (to the right and left) are selected saints, patrons of family members. Prayer in front of such an iconographic image has the character of conciliarity, since petitions are offered not only for oneself, but also for relatives and friends. If a replenishment occurs, a new heavenly patron is added.
You should quietly find out which saint is closest to the future birthday boy. If a person is sick with something, as a rule, he prefers to turn to the Orthodox saint-doctors Panteleimon, Luke Voina-Yasenetsky, Agapit of Pechersk and others. Many Russian people have a special love for Father Seraphim, since for them he is the personification of all of Russia. With a warm prayer in front of the image of the saint, you can express your love for the fatherland, for everything Russian and Orthodox.
If an iconographic image is presented to a colleague or boss at work, you can choose the saints who patronize the profession to which these people dedicated themselves. For example, if this is trade, you can pray to Saints John of Sochavsky, Joseph of Volotsky, Spyridon of Trimifuntsky and others. The patroness of the missile forces is the Great Martyr Barbara, and the patroness of the airborne troops is the prophet Elijah.
If the holy image is given to a child, and it is placed in the children's room, you can choose the image of the Savior, Guardian Angel, Sergius of Radonezh as the patron of students, a personal saint and others.
Family people, especially women, should be given iconographic images of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as the patroness of the family. People turn to Her for the gift of peace and love in the family, and offer petitions for the children. Saints Xenia of Petersburg, Matrona of Moscow, Peter and Fevronia, and others are also considered patrons of the family hearth.

Instead of expensive and useless trinkets Isn't it better to give icons as a gift? Even the simple presence of a holy image in the house makes you, willy-nilly, think about your actions and inner content. When you see a righteous man before your eyes, you involuntarily want to pull yourself up.

Attention! If you want to make a meaningful and useful gift, you must first take an interest in the life circumstances of the person to whom you are going to present it.

Gift for a man

Wanting to give a gracious gift to their beloved husbands and sons, many women ask for advice on what icon to give to a man. This will depend primarily on the name, type of activity and hobbies of the recipient. Work and professional activity occupies a particularly important place in a man’s life. Therefore, the choice of an iconographic image can be associated with this area of the life of a loved one. Usually they give:

For the military - Saints George the Victorious, Alexander Nevsky, Archangel Michael.
To teachers - St. Sergius of Radonezh, martyr. Tatiana.
To sailors, travelers - St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.
For financiers - St. Matthew.
To diplomats - Archangel Gabriel.
Civil servants - St. Yaroslav the Wise.

If a representative of the stronger sex is an avid fisherman, the question of which icon to give to a man is easily resolved: the iconographic faces of the holy apostles Peter and Andrew will suit him, and St. mchn. Tryphon.

Gift for a woman

Women are the guardians of family well-being and are involved in raising children. Therefore, the holy face must be chosen in accordance with the spiritual aspirations of the recipient. It is better for a woman to give an icon for her name day, one that depicts the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary:

Everlasting Color– helps preserve beauty and youth.
Sweet kissing protects children from various diseases and dangers.
Motherhood - will prepare for the birth of children, help during childbirth, and assist in their upbringing.
Tenderness helps to maintain purity and get married successfully.
Ostrobramskaya - protects the family from the interference of strangers, keeps peace and love in it.
Iverskaya - guardian hearth and home.
Gerontissa is a caretaker of the elderly, heals from various diseases.
The Kazan icon is the most revered icon in Rus' and preserves family well-being.
Vladimirskaya - heals, patronizes motherhood.
Three-handed - heals, protects from melancholy, protects home and family.
Feodorovskaya - helps during childbirth.

You can also give other iconographic faces as a souvenir, for example, the Matrona of Moscow. This saint helps everyone who comes to her with a variety of everyday needs.

Important! Many people ask, is it possible to accept an iconographic image that was given as a gift for some occasion? If he is consecrated in the Orthodox canonical church - yes, without doubting and without taking into account any signs.

Useful video

Let's sum it up

Family and friends are the most precious thing we have. When peace and love reign in a family, everyone is happy. Peace and joy reign in our souls. Sometimes trials come into our lives, and we often don’t know how to help our loved ones. We are trying to do this with some kind of money. real deeds, but we often forget that there is a prayer that can move mountains if you say it with faith and trust in the mercy of God. Therefore, giving an icon for a name day is the best care for loved ones and dear people.

A gift is a responsible decision for a guest. Everyone wants to give something special. At the same time, the guest’s desire is to give a part of his soul, give warmth and evoke a feeling of joy and smile. could be a wonderful gift. But the question arises: is it possible to give an icon?

Is it possible to give icons: the opinion of the church and what image to give for a birthday?

Icon is divine image, or rather, an image of the face of several or one of the saints. It represents a part of our soul, our religion. The image must be present in every home and must be consecrated in the temple. The image of the saints will always help family members, provide the necessary support and provide spiritual support. They are addressed in the form of prayer, souls and eyes. They thank the saints and ask for help through icons.

Is it possible to give images as a gift?

To date, opinions are divided. Some believe that the icon is a symbol of blessing and respect. Others are distrustful and fearful. The Church refutes any opinions regarding the holy images, their allowed to give. But let’s try to figure out how to give it and to whom you can give such a gift.

Is it possible to give an icon as a gift and to whom?

As a gift, it can evoke conflicting feelings. Some consider it a connection with the spiritual world, while others, on the contrary, associate a lot of superstitions and beliefs with it. The Church, on the contrary, considers the image of the saints and God a wonderful gift for any occasion. In addition, having the Saints at home, you can even find your self. It is generally accepted that this is a wonderful and bright gift.

People, unfortunately, rarely give icons to each other. A special date may be chosen for this. But often people bring images from memorable places. The icon can be presented at the christening of children. But it is also suitable as a birthday gift.

The image of the Saint is ideal as a gift. It can be given as a gift so that a person can overcome difficulties in life and become a patron. The priests note that it is recommended to give an icon only from pure heart . Only in this case can it bring happiness and become a talisman in the house. Time can add value and significance to it, and so over time you can pass it on to your children or grandchildren.

Under no circumstances should it be given as a gift.

You don't know anything about the person. He may feel good about the gift, but have a different faith.
Give it only as a gift when there is nothing else to give.
Under no circumstances should it be given as a home decoration. It is intended exclusively for prayer.
It should be given only if it is lit in the church. All other images are not allowed to be donated.

Signs about icons

Some signs indicate which ones are worth giving and which ones are not. Let's look at what signs exist in Christianity.

On birthdays, only personalized ones are given - for men and women.
It is recommended to give them to a sick person only for healing.
Men and women colleagues need those who help in business.
Only those who bless the family hearth should give it to the family.
You can give a young woman the image of a holy saint, and for a young man a holy saint.
At weddings, it is customary for images to be presented by relatives of the newlyweds. They buy the Virgin Mary for the bride, and Jesus Christ for the groom.
Images can be given at any time, but the most important are those dedicated to an important event.

In addition, it is worth knowing where is the icon located in the house?. Previously, it was placed in the most visible place in the house. You can only give consecrated icons, so if you want to make an icon, an embroidered or woven image for someone as a gift, you need to consecrate it in the church. Several centuries ago, they said that it was not worth giving icons. After a person has accepted the icon and placed it in his home, it brings trouble, and family members begin to suffer from serious illnesses.

Nowadays, it is necessary to give an icon, since loved ones wish only good things and do it from the bottom of their hearts. The Church insists that it must be sanctified. Only in this case can she bring joy and grace to the house. In addition, it must clear away negativity and bless everyone who lives in the house.

When can you give them as a gift?

There are many holidays for which you can give an image. It could even be any holiday date. But it’s best when a person gives icons for the sacraments, for example, baptism, wedding or birth of a person.

. Previously, for the baptism of a child, it was customary to give a “measured” icon, which symbolized the growth of the baby. Now this tradition has remained and many people order this particular image. On the edge of the icon you can depict the Holy Guardian Angel or the patron saint of children - St. Stillian. At the same time, you can give any icon, regardless of the gender of the child. The main thing is to present the gift with a pure heart and with all your soul, only then the icon will benefit the baby.
Birthday. In order to give an icon on a birthday, you need to have heartfelt feelings for the person. Such gifts should not be given as souvenirs. It is worth noting that it should only be given to a believer. Only in this case will peace come into the house and a person’s life will improve. To give it as a gift, it is important to choose the right image. Each of them has its own image. For example, for a schoolchild you can give an image of St. Sergius of Radonezh. For future military personnel, the image of St. George the Victorious is best suited. Another image can be given to a businessman - this is Saint Joseph of Volotsk. For drivers or those who drive vehicle Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker is ideal. For women, it is recommended to give the Blessed Virgin Mary. For those who need success in business, it is best to give the Guardian Holy. Ideal for family happiness. And many others may also become a great gift for believers. You can consult in more detail with the rector of the temple or in the church shop. Everyone can find perfect image. The main thing is that the person who receives the icon as a gift should experience sincere joy. Don't be afraid existing signs These are just myths that have no confirmation. The image of the Saints is always good and good.
Wedding or wedding. Several centuries ago, the sacrament of marriage arose in Christianity. Today, many couples are ready to tie the knot for life. And three centuries ago, only rich people could afford such a sacrament. The sacrament of a wedding is held in a church, so the presence of images is one of the stages towards achieving the goal. The main thing at the ceremony are the images of the Holy Mother of God and the Lord God, who are called the wedding couple. Thus, the images are witnesses to the couple's marriage. In the case of a wedding sacrament, images need to be selected in advance and carefully thought through. After all, they are the ones who will accompany the couple throughout their lives. As a rule, icons are ordered exclusively for wooden base. This is necessary in order to be able to restore them. According to customs, these icons will subsequently be passed down from generation to generation. These images are the connection between lovers. They are the ones who will remind the couple that they made a vow before God to love each other.

When the question arises, “What to give a woman?”, it is appropriate to remember that the most valuable spiritual gift for a woman dear to you - mother, grandmother, wife, friend, daughter - will be an icon. The Orthodox icon serves as a link between a believer and the Heavenly Power in the image of the Patron Saint. It is important for a woman to choose a female icon that will not only delight with its beauty, but also warm the heart and soul at the most different periods life. They enjoy special love and reverence among women miraculous icons Holy Mother of God.

Icon of the Mother of God- the greatest shrine, revered since ancient times in Christendom, since Her wondrous image, even during the earthly life of the Intercessor, inspired the evangelist and icon painter Apostle Luke to embody Her face in the icon of the Mother of God, and it was preserved in Eternity for those who resort to Her help and come to worship the image of the Mother of All. These initial images have sunk into time, but all subsequent lists have not disappeared for the future and to this day inspire icon painters, generation after generation, to recreate Her wonderful, bright, mournful, forgiving and loving face.…

The Mother of God is called by many names - Mother Intercessor, Queen of Heaven, Mother of God, Mother of God - all of Her names are reflected in prayer appeals to Her that have developed over the centuries in Orthodoxy. Icons of the Mother of God are the subject of the greatest veneration. The Intercessor herself is often the only and final authority where we can turn with our sorrows and problems that cannot be resolved by earthly means. We ask Her, the main Intercessor for us before God, for help and forgiveness, for our prayer strength is small, and She, the Mother of God, always hears a truly ardent, tearful prayer for ourselves and our loved ones, for someone’s life dear to us.

How many times did common prayer to Her, the strength of faith in God and in the intercession of the Queen of Heaven before the Son save Russia in troubled and difficult hours for our Fatherland! The prayer offered up in front of the icons of the Mother of God, and Her answer, inaudible to the ear, but felt by the heart, gave the Russian people courage, where there was almost no strength left for them, and the enemy, who seemed close to victory, took flight! And then it turned out: the truth is behind us, behind Russia, Russia, for on our side was the Mother of God and Her fervent prayer to the Lord for Her lot on earth!

We don’t have a single temple of God - not a single truly Orthodox house where the bright face of the Mother of God does not shine from the icon - Kazan, Vladimir, Iverskaya, and often more than one, since there are revered lists of icons of the Mother of God, before which they pray in the most different life situations, in Orthodoxy there are several hundred. Each has its own story, accompanied by phenomena of miracles and miraculous acquisition. From these events and phenomena we see that the Mother of God never leaves the human race, taken by Her for adoption, and through Her icons - icons of the Mother of God, She again and again shows the world Her maternal attention and favor.

Therefore, if you want to give someone from your family and friends, perhaps yourself, a truly incomparable, not even a gift - a gift, give an icon of the Virgin Mary. Choose it with your heartfelt instinct from the great abundance of lists that are known - and give it as a gift. Believe me, this is a gift that will be appreciated with the greatest gratitude and will never be forgotten, just like the one who presented this holy miracle...

Women of the older generation - grandmother, elderly mother, - you can give an icon of the Mother of God of Grontissa. The icon of the Mother of God Gerontissa, which means “Elder Woman” or “Abbess,” repeatedly showed her special care for the elderly: she cured them of various diseases, including cancer. Also, the consecrated icon of Gerontissa heals from infertility, helps during childbirth, and provides obvious assistance in work and study.

Kazan Icon of the Mother of God - the most revered icon of the Virgin Mary, - heals blindness, gives family well-being, protects children.

Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God helps heal heart, eye and mental illnesses, helps mothers and children.

Healing consecrated icon of the Mother of God of Three Hands helps cure diseases of the hands, feet, eyes. The Three-Handed Icon relieves melancholy and sad thoughts, protects the house and all family members.

A middle-aged woman should be presented with the Iveron Icon of the Mother of God. The Iveron icon is the guardian of the hearth. The Iveron Icon of the Mother of God helps in healing from diseases of the soul and body, in protecting the home from natural Disasters and attacks from enemies. Repentant sinners come to her asking for forgiveness of their sins, and relatives pray for the unrepentant.

The Ostrobramskaya Icon of the Mother of God helps to find and maintain the happiness of a married couple, protects the family from the interference of strangers. The Ostrobramskaya icon of the Mother of God calms and pacifies the atmosphere in the family. Before her they also pray for the mentally ill unbalanced people prone to aggression, depression and despondency. It is good to give this icon to godchildren so that peace and joy reign in their souls. Ostrobramskaya icon of the Mother of God helps to get pregnant. Expectant mothers turn to this same icon so that they do not have a miscarriage and, in general, the pregnancy goes well. Those pregnant women who must be kept in the hospital especially resort to this prayer.

The Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “It is Worthy to Eat” was originally known under the name “Merciful”. In front of the image of the Merciful Icon of the Mother of God “It is Worthy to Eat” you can pray for everything that worries the soul - healing of ailments, finding happiness and success in business. In front of the image “It is worthy to eat,” you can pray for the remission of sins, including those that relate to mortals. Also near the icon “It is worthy to eat” they pray for the acquisition of mental and physical health, for salvation from epidemics, for family happiness and successful resolution of any undertaking.

The Feodorovskaya (Fyodorovskaya) icon of the Mother of God is the patroness of women - brides, expectant mothers. Prayer in front of the Feodorovskaya icon helps with difficult childbirth. They pray to her for maintaining peace and prosperity in the family, and also if the family is in long time childless.

A woman of any age will be glad if she is given the Bethlehem Icon of the Mother of God. The Bethlehem icon is the only icon in which the Mother of God smiles. The icon of the Mother of God of Bethlehem helps those praying for family well-being, for the appearance of desired children, their health and the health of their parents.

You can give a woman the icon of the Mother of God “Unfading Color.” The Icon of the Mother of God “Unfading Color” helps to preserve beauty and youth, but at the same time it is also beneficial in healing diseases. Prayer in front of such an icon helps people with family troubles, feelings of loneliness or loss of loved ones, and helps to preserve righteousness. If you pray fervently, the Mother of God will help you overcome all adversity and give you strength and courage.

For women who have children or dream of having them soon, it is good to give the “Sweet Kiss” icon of the Mother of God. The icon of the Mother of God "Sweet Kiss" will be a beautiful spiritual gift for mothers and their children. People turn to this icon in search of help for children, protecting them from dangers, illnesses and life’s adversities, with prayers for guiding children on the true path, respect for parents and strengthening the spirit in unfavorable life circumstances.

Icon "Motherhood" - a four-part icon of the Mother of God with the Crucifixion of Christ will be a wonderful spiritual gift for any mother or woman preparing to become a mother. The four-part icon depicts four images of the Mother of God: “Helper in childbirth” - helps to bear and give birth safely healthy child; "Mammal" - helps with difficult childbirth, gives health to babies, adds breast milk nursing mothers (with a lack of milk); “Baby Leap” - protects mothers and babies; “Education” - helps in raising and raising children, protects them from troubles and dangers, and guides them on the right path. The four images of the Mother of God, united by the Crucifixion of Christ, symbolize the Mother, who foresaw and experienced the death of her son, and as the Queen and Lady of Heaven, who beheld his Resurrection. Prayers addressed to the icon will help in the safe birth of children, will protect them in infancy, childhood and adolescence, and guide them on the true path.

A young girl, as well as a woman who has learned that she will soon become a mother, should be given the “Tenderness” icon.. The Icon of the Mother of God "Tenderness" helps to get married successfully, gives women's health, desired pregnancy, successful birth, healthy children.

You can also give girls an icon of St. Blessed Xenia of St. Petersburg. In front of the icon of Xenia of St. Petersburg they pray for the granting of happiness and love in marriage, for healing from serious illnesses, for humility and strengthening of faith, in need and poverty, in the absence of housing and work. Icon Xenia of St. Petersburg is approached with requests for the birth of healthy children, for help in their upbringing and education. Blessed Xenia of Petersburg is especially patron unmarried girls and women, through prayers helping them in arranging their personal lives and in childbearing. Also, the icon of St. Xenia of St. Petersburg protects against slander, gossip and bad thoughts.

The icon of Paraskeva Friday will help a girl who dreams of getting married. The Holy Martyr Paraskeva, named Pyatnitsa, protects family well-being and happiness, is considered a helper in motherhood and women's health. Saint pray for a gift good husband and in marital infertility. The holy martyr is a healer of people from the most severe mental and physical illnesses.

You can give a girl or woman an icon of the Holy Guardian Angel. A Guardian Angel is given to every person at his Baptism. The Guardian Angel protects a person throughout his entire earthly life. Often, in an invisible way, he tells a person what good deeds he can do.

You can also give a woman an icon of the Holy Matrona of Moscow. The icon of the Matrona of Moscow will protect a woman from all unwanted events in life. She will protect from illness, from the effects of the elements, from the machinations of ill-wishers, whom the saint, as often happened during her lifetime, will lead to clean water, - from everything. She will help in requests for the conception of a long-awaited child, his successful birth and guidance on the true path. There is nothing that prayer in front of the icon of Matronushka would not protect at your righteous and fervent request. You just need to sincerely pray and listen to the advice offered by your heart. This advice, with a request and fervent prayer in front of her image, will protect and help always and in everything.

If a woman does not have her personal icon, then you can give her an icon of her patron saint. The personalized icon will help her and protect you throughout your life.

Give the Bread Icon of the Mother of God to the woman who is the keeper of the hearth. The bread icon of the Mother of God helps in finding daily bread, in getting rid of material problems, in finding and maintaining a job, in calming down and gaining faith in the future.

To a woman who dreams of finding own home, apartments, give an icon of St. Hypatius of Gangra. The icon of the Holy Martyr Hypatius of Gangra helps to find a long-awaited home and solve material and everyday matters. Also, women who want to become pregnant and give birth to healthy children turn to the icon of Hypatius of Gangra with prayer. Singer Stas Mikhailov believes that it was the icon of St. Hypatius of Gangra that helped him build his house. “With the advent of this icon, everything began to come together brick by brick,” said Stas Mikhailov.

When choosing which icon to give to a woman, listen to your heart and choose an icon you like: in silver, on a board or on canvas, in a frame or in an icon case, large or small.

The icon is a person’s guide to the world of God, and promotes spiritual connection with saints during prayer.

All believers usually have images of saints at home; they pray to them, ask for blessings and protection from adversity. The icon can be a good gift, which will not only connect a person with God, but will also serve as a reminder of family and a loved one. Daughter icon It may well be a gift that will protect her from troubles and give moments of peace during prayer. It is important for parents to know which image to choose and in what circumstances they can give icons to children.

Icon of the Mother of God “Unfading Color”

First, you need to decide on the reason for which the icon will be given. You can give images of saints to a child for baptism or name day - then you should choose icons with a certain image of saints, or parents find themselves in a situation where they need icon for blessing daughter– and then very specific images are chosen. First of all, let's talk about icons that you can simply give to your daughter. It could be:

Personalized icon - it depicts the image of the saint in whose honor the girl was baptized. Such an icon will be a guide to the world of God for a daughter and will protect her.
The Icon of the Guardian Angel also helps to protect a person and guides him on the true path
"Cover. Theotokos" - this icon can be given as a housewarming gift so that the house will always be cozy and warm.
"House Builder" It will also help with housekeeping and contribute to the speedy acquisition of an honest income.
The icon of the Holy Matrona of Moscow will help overcome all adversity and hear any prayers of the believer.
You can give a young girl the “Tenderness” icon, which will help her meet her love and bear a child.

If you choose a wedding gift, then parents should not have any questions. These will always be wedding icons Christ and the Virgin Mary. Moreover, the icon of Christ is given as a gift to the groom, and the icon of the Mother of God is given to the bride. These images will promote family comfort and protect the created couple from life’s adversities.

What icon should I give to my mother from my daughter?

The choice of icon for older women is always associated with images of the Mother of God, of which there are more than 700 types. You can give your mother the following images:

Kazan Icon of the Mother of God
Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God
Iveron Icon of the Virgin Mary
Icon of the Mother of God “It is Worthy to Eat”
Icon of the Mother of God "Unfading Color".

Icon of Our Lady of Vladimir

All these icons are considered miraculous, and therefore they can be given to mothers, grandmothers or other female relatives. In these images, believers find peace and connection with the Almighty.

Which icons to choose for a gift?

It is important that the gift is durable and constantly reminds the person of you. When choosing an icon, you need to pay attention to quality Special attention, and then the icon will be able to serve for decades. It is best to order images from workshops, where you can choose the style of painting and the materials from which the icon will be made. Such images will not require special care, but you should still follow some rules for storing icons. For example, the image should not be in the sun, otherwise the paint will quickly fade. It is better for the icon to hang away from heating devices, and the humidity in the room was not higher than 55%. It is recommended to hang icons on the eastern side of the house, but if this is not possible, then any free corner will do. The main thing is that you can approach the icon at any time and pray. If you follow all these rules, the image will be saved for long years, and will serve as a bridge between the believer and God.