Particular attention of believers today is attracted by unusual varieties of church art. Quite rare and unique in composition is the “All-Seeing Eye” icon, which can be purchased both from collectors and in online stores. What is the meaning of this image, what can you pray for in front of it?
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The meaning and meaning of the All-Seeing Eye icon
Looking at this image for the first time, you may not even understand that it is an icon. “The all-seeing eye of God” is the image of the Lord, as the name implies. To understand it, you must have at least an approximate idea of the creation of the universe according to the idea of creationism. This is written about in the book of Genesis; in short, Christians are of the opinion that everything in the world, including the Universe, is the result of God’s personal creation.
The pictorial language in this case is deeply symbolic. The idea itself is taken from the Psalm of David (32, verse 18). It is believed that here we are talking about a specific person of the Holy Trinity - Jesus Christ. The first images of this type date back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
- I would like to correct the mistaken opinion - this is not a Masonic symbol. The eye in the triangle has much more ancient origins. Indeed, many occult and other groups use Christian symbols. Therefore, you need to be more careful in matters of faith and firmly adhere to Orthodox traditions.
- Under no circumstances should you fall for the tricks of “magicians” who lure gullible people with the help of church paraphernalia. They use candles, images, symbolism and even prayers. But turning to occult movements and sorcerers is a very big sin. The consequences of it can be much more serious than the problem that a person is trying to solve.
On the All-Seeing Eye icon, each symbol has a deep theological meaning. The eye symbolizes one of the qualities of God - omniscience. One should not think that the Lord “watches” a person day and night. He simply knows, knows everything that happens at every moment of time in every point of the Universe. Also, you should not perceive this composition as part of the “portrait” of God and think that He has two pairs of eyes. Most images are just symbols. No mortal is given the opportunity to see God.
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The basis of the image is a circle - it is repeated several times. The circle is a symbol of infinity, perfection, and self-sufficiency of God. Christ Emmanuel is depicted in the center. Rays diverge from the central circle, according to the number of evangelists. At their ends there are also circles containing various symbols.
Between the second and first circles are two pairs of eyes, a nose and lips. Between the outer circles are cherubs. The circles themselves have different inscriptions. Saints may be depicted on the side.
- The Lord of hosts is the Creator of the universe. Depicted as an Elder. It is probably this part of the composition that confuses some of the clergy, since depicting the first Person of the Trinity is prohibited in Orthodoxy.
- Emmanuel - Christ as a teenager. Has a mature facial expression to emphasize Jesus' original divine origins. Right hand in a blessing gesture. There is a cross-shaped halo above the head.
- The Mother of God is a woman who became the link between the divine and human nature of Christ. Some people mistake the All-Seeing Eye for an icon of the Virgin Mary.
- Jesus Christ is the Savior of people and the King of the world, the Judge - he is entrusted with deciding people's destinies.
- The eyes are a symbol of the All-Seeing Eye, a reminder that God sees everything and creates judgment Himself.
History of the image
This painting, a striking example of the possible popularization of folk art in religion, has been actively and furiously discussed at all kinds of theological meetings and sessions throughout its existence. Despite the ambiguity of the icon, it has become extremely popular among the Orthodox people.
It first appeared in the Vladimir land, where it was created by the hands of local craftsmen in the style and traditions of Vladimir icon painting, at least the initial samples.
It is executed in ocher tones, which is typical for that area. The main distinguishing feature is its simplicity and at the same time beauty of the composition. But the whole complexity is in the multitude of symbols contained in it. After all, it not only differs in its concept from the usual canonical iconography, but also in the way it presents all the keys that reveal the meaning.
Read about other icons of the Lord:
- "Savior not made by hands"
- Icon of the Holy Trinity
- Icon of Jesus Christ Pantocrator
In addition, this is a fairly young image, whose age barely reaches 300 years, i.e. is a remake. Its creation occurred at the decline of traditional Russian icon painting, which may be why “The All-Seeing Eye” contains an ambiguous, at first glance, conceptual author’s meaning.
Interesting! A significant part of the clergy is usually skeptical about the icon, but its mysticism has not prevented its popularity from growing among believers.
Icon “The All-Seeing Eye of God”
Features of the holy image
An important role in the icon is occupied by the image of the Book - the Holy Scriptures, as a conductor of the will of God in the human world. Also painted are the figures of the four authors of the Gospel, which proclaims the Good News to the world. Through him, the mystery of the Holy Trinity is revealed more fully.
- Evangelist Matthew - in the form of a kneeling angel.
- Evangelist Mark - in the form of a creature with four wings.
- Evangelist John is a lion with wings holding a Book.
- Evangelist Luke - in the form of a winged calf, also with the Book.
There are also other symbols that may not appear in some image options. The image may seem mysterious, but to a persistent researcher it will gradually reveal the Truths hidden in it. The observer's attention is initially drawn to the image of the eyes. The entire composition is unlikely to immediately fit into the head of an unprepared viewer; it should be thought about.
Each circle has its own color. This gives the entire icon perspective, as if the observer is looking at the vault of a tall building, or perhaps through a window through which Heaven can be seen. The image is intended to calm the person praying, who understands that God is constantly with him, and loneliness is a myth. In any need, a person can trust God, shift his worries to Him, the only thing that prevents this is the closedness of the soul and mind.
Freemasonry and Orthodoxy
One cannot equate the Masonic “Great Architect of the Universe” with God in the Orthodox understanding. Freemasons have their own religious paradigm. The “Great Architect” in it is the faceless Absolute, devoid of a dogmatic definition. In Orthodoxy, God is, although incomprehensible, a concrete Person, the source of truth and love. God is the Creator of the world, Provider and Savior. Orthodox dogma is based on numerous dogmas: the Holy Trinity, the Incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Redemption of mankind from sin, and so on.
The Russian Orthodox Church does not express an official opinion regarding Freemasonry. However, wary views of such organizations prevail in the church environment. The symbolism and philosophy in Freemasonry often intersect with Christianity. But some movements of Freemasons have a pronounced occult and godless orientation. There is also a view of Freemasonry as an anti-state movement.
Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus', while still Metropolitan of Smolensk, said that Orthodox Christians are not forbidden to join various public organizations. However, they should not be secret, authoritarian and alienating a person from the Church and its canonical system. The Greek Orthodox Church has officially stated its attitude towards Freemasonry:
How does the icon of the All-Seeing Eye of God help?
What can an icon that depicts the All-Seeing Eye of the Lord protect from? There are no special recommendations - a person cannot limit the Creator Himself. He is omnipotent - he is able to save a person from any failures, give health, vigor and spiritual joy. The biblical king David was a simple shepherd until the Lord raised him above everyone. There is no need to be afraid; you can pray about any problem in front of this image.
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There is an opinion that the image patronizes servants of the law. But the Lord gives His protection to everyone, regardless of place of work, age, gender or nationality. He also sees not only the external side of life, actions and deeds, but knows everything that is going on in a person’s heart; even a thought cannot be hidden, according to the holy fathers. By reminding of this, the icon is able to keep a person from sin. We must even monitor our thoughts, because any sin first begins as a thought that the demon throws up.
The All-Seeing Eye icon helps sinners to establish themselves in faith, and helps parents in raising their children. Before any responsible decision or the start of an important undertaking, you should pray and spend time in reflection. You shouldn’t talk too much during prayer, it is advisable to get to the very essence - what kind of events does a person see as desirable and why? Do you want to remake your loved ones or the world around you “to suit you”?
The Lord is not a magic wand, and there is no need to treat icons as an instrument with the help of which wishes come true. First of all, the Lord desires a person’s repentance and waits for changes in the heart. Only then does a person find God when he begins to seek Him. The Creator does not force anyone to do the right thing, because such freedom costs nothing. If there is no repentance, you need to ask for it, read the Gospel, try to understand what you need to do to become better.
If prayers are full of reproaches and demands, they will remain unanswered. Not because the Lord “does not want” to answer, but because He cannot go against the laws of the universe that He Himself created. The commandments are not some kind of restrictors of freedom, but warning signs on the path to the abyss. Just as the laws of physics rule in the visible world, so they do in the spiritual.
Eye of Horus in modern meaning
Nowadays, the symbol of the all-seeing eye in a triangle is used as an amulet that protects the wearer from all evil.
It is especially popular among those who work with magic for protection when communicating with otherworldly forces.
As an amulet, the all-seeing eye is worn as a pendant under clothing, since it is desirable that this object not be seen by others.
Features of using the amulet
Usually, as a protective amulet, the all-seeing eye is worn on a cord like a pendant.
But variations are also possible in the form of clothing decoration, as well as tattoos. In this case, the amulet acts strictly individually (it protects only its wearer).
There are also amulets in the form of interior items: paintings or figurines.
When used this way, the amulet extends its power to the entire room.
This is how the all-seeing eye is used to protect a home. It is believed, however, that when used personally, the amulet works much more effectively.
What the Eye of Horus talisman can do
The Eye of Horus has the following abilities:
- protects from evil thoughts of surrounding people;
- prevents envy and negative thoughts of ill-wishers;
- helps maintain health or recover from existing diseases;
- attracts prosperity and well-being;
- develops extrasensory perception abilities in the wearer.
It is believed that the amulet of the eyes of Horus is especially relevant for leaders, as it helps in negotiations and finding effective solutions.
The amulet can also help those who have not decided on their life purpose.
Placing a talisman as an element of the interior will protect the home from ill-wishers and thieves.
How to activate the all-seeing eye amulet
It is believed that in order for the amulet to effectively perform its functions, it must be activated. This is done as follows:
- a certain atmosphere is created (candles are used instead of electric lighting, interference by unauthorized persons is excluded);
- the person performing the activation must remove all extraneous thoughts from his head and concentrate on the amulet;
- you need to imagine the area in which the amulet’s help is needed;
- with these thoughts you need to consider the talisman for some time, as if charging it with your mental energy.
After this, you need to wear it away from prying eyes (for example, under clothes).
The effect of the amulet is also enhanced by adding moonstone, chalcedony or lapis lazuli.
The talisman of the eyes of Horus has not lost its relevance since ancient times to this day.
In addition to protection and assistance in revealing the truth and gaining wisdom, it symbolizes the wearer’s desire for knowledge, and also shows his significant strength, both physical and spiritual.
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Location of icons
Initially, the composition “The All-Seeing Eye” was not an icon, but was located on the walls, domes of churches, as a painting. Only over time they began to depict it on boards and place it in houses. In churches built in the 18-19 centuries. Such paintings have survived to this day; many are surprised by their unusual appearance, since you cannot find them in modern churches.
Today, ancient rare icons can be purchased from private individuals, but modern icon painters also use this plot. Some priests consider it non-canonical, so the icon of the “All-Seeing Eye” can rarely be seen in churches. But it is not forbidden to purchase it in a store.
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There is some debate about the canonicity of the image; a deliberate decision must be made here. Will the image affect your spiritual state, will it create doubt? If the answer is yes, you should abstain. But if the purchase is made, where to hang the “All-Seeing Eye” icon? The same recommendations apply to it as to other images.
Previously, each house initially had a special “red corner”. It was on the eastern side; windows were cut on both sides so that the holy place was well lit. Today this rule is impossible for most people, but this does not mean that we must abandon shrines. If possible, place them along the eastern wall. If not, it's not critical.
You need to hang the image away from the TV and bookshelves. Although you can use a bookshelf instead of a special shelf, you cannot put anything there except icons. There should be no bright distracting objects or paintings nearby, much less inciting any passions. There are also certain requirements for decorations - these can only be fresh flowers or willow branches. If the housewife does needlework, she can embroider a special towel.
You can place a lamp on an open shelf and light it during prayer, on Sundays. The central place in the iconostasis should be occupied by the images of the Savior (Christ Pantocrator) and the Mother of God (optional). They should also be the largest in size. On the sides you can already place the remaining icons that the owners choose. These are images of saints, church holidays, Angels. The iconostasis should be located in such a way that nothing distracts from prayer.
Due to the ambiguous attitude towards the image, a special prayer to the “All-Seeing Eye” icon was not written. However, if there is a desire to turn to the Creator, you can read one of the prayers to the Lord - “Our Father”, a penitential canon, an akathist to the Sweetest Jesus. Psalms of praise and repentance are suitable. In deep prayer, you can ask the Lord to open your spiritual eyes and help you assimilate Scripture and comprehend its meaning.
It is unacceptable to use any icons in magical rituals! The spiritual world is complex and even dangerous for those who enter it unprepared. Many “ascetics” regretted their rash steps. It is better to adhere to traditional prayers, visit church, go to confession - then no spiritual enemy will be scary. God bless you!
- Icon “It is Worthy to Eat”
- Icon of the Three Joys - here
- Icon of the Lord Almighty -
Where can you find the image of the sign?
This symbol is located:
- In churches built before the 19th century.
- In the Vladimir-Suzdal Museum.
- On the pedestal of the Alexander Column in St. Petersburg, on a commemorative medal. These works of art are dedicated to the victory of the Russian military over Napoleon.
- At the Imperial Academy of Arts.
- In the Kazan Cathedral in St. Petersburg.
Many believers perceive the All-Seeing Eye sign as the protection of God. Icons on which it appears can be purchased in monasteries and specialized stores.
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Prayers in front of the All-Seeing Eye icon
Our Father who art in heaven! Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Prayer to Jesus Christ
“My many-merciful and all-merciful God, Lord Jesus Christ, for the sake of love you came down and became incarnate for many reasons, so that you would save everyone. And again, Savior, save me by grace, I pray to You; Even if you save me from works, there is no grace and no gift, but more than debt. Hey, abundant in generosity and ineffable in mercy! Believe in Me, you say, O my Christ, you will live and will not see death forever. Even if faith in You saves the desperate, behold, I believe, save me, for You are my God and Creator. Let faith instead of works be imputed to me, O my God, for you will not find works to justify me. But may my faith prevail instead of all, may it answer, may it justify me, may it show me to be a partaker of Your eternal glory. Let Satan not kidnap me, and boast to the Word that he has torn me from Your hand and fence; But either I want, save me, or I don’t want, Christ my Savior, I will soon foresee, I will soon perish: For you are my God from my mother’s womb. Grant me, O Lord, now to love Thee, as sometimes I have loved that same sin; and again work for You without laziness, just as you worked before the flattering Satan. Above all, I will serve You, my Lord and God Jesus Christ, all the days of my life, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen".
