There are several things to remember when hanging orthodox icons. You must pay attention to their placement, Orientation, and figures depicted. To ensure the safety of your icon, place it in a corner or on a wall facing east. If you are unsure about placement, you can consult a professional to help you with this project.
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Orientation
The iconography of Orthodox churches uses the mandorla symbol, which expresses the invisible essence of God. This is also known as the Imago Dei. In Christian theology, the Imago Dei is linked to the idea of a theocentric cosmos. Similarly, the mandorla symbol also expresses the Imago Mundi, or symbolic world.
Orthodox icons are important in Orthodox spiritual life and in the secular world. It is possible to visit Orthodox countries, such as Greece, where you can see the ancient architecture. You may even find remote Orthodox villages that haven’t changed much since Byzantine times. The atmosphere of such isolated villages is often free of Western materialism and affluence.
Iconography has long been based on the representation of the cosmos. As such, Orthodox icons are an ecclesiastical representation of the cosmos and the whole of existence. They are a visual representation of the archetypal world in its integrity. In this respect, they are ontologically indistinguishable from the archetypal world.
Figures depicted
There are a number of different ways to hang Orthodox icons. Most of these icons depict a holy figure – usually the Virgin Mary or Christ. These images often portray Christ as the Pantocrator, one of many names for God in Judaism that translates to “All-powerful.” The most common way to hang these icons is by placing them on the wall half-way up the wall. The Christ-like figure is typically shown as facing towards the viewer, with his right hand raised in a blessing. In addition, Christ often has a melancholy expression.
Typically, Orthodox icons are large and heavy. For this reason, it’s important to know how to hang these pieces properly. The first step is to understand what an icon is. Icons are a religious representation of the Bible or the Holy Trinity. The Orthodox Church defines an icon as “a religious image”.
Oil lamp
The oil lamp is one of the most important religious artifacts for Orthodox Christians, and it is used to illuminate icons and worship spaces in Orthodox churches. If you’re putting up icons in a home or church, you can purchase an oil lamp from Istok Church Supplies. This lamp is made by following centuries-old traditions and will illuminate your icon beautifully.
Oil lamps create a feeble light that emphasizes the faces of saints and holy images. In fact, their weakness is their strength. Unlike candles, oil lamps light the icon without flooding the surrounding area. This way, even clergy facing the west will not be blinded by the glare.
Blessing
When you hang orthodox icons for blessing, it is important to make sure you have the proper preparations. You should start by asking a priest to bless the icons. He will say special prayers over them and pour holy water over them. If possible, you can also ask the priest to place the icons on the altar during the Divine Liturgy. This will allow them to take part in the liturgy with the faithful and receive the Body and Blood of Christ. It is recommended that the icons face inward during the blessing service so that they are not facing away from the congregation.
Secondly, you should sanctify the icon with the most holy spirit. This is done by sprinkleing Holy Water on the icon, as this will give it the grace of the Most Holy Spirit. You should also sanctify the icon by the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.