Apostle James, message, prayer, akathist

"Save me, God!".
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Modern interpreters and church historians can hardly follow the entire life path of the Apostle James Alfeev. The whole problem is confusion. After all, among the twelve first followers of the Lord were:

James - Apostle of the 70 disciples who became the first bishop of Jerusalem. He is also often called James the Younger;
Jacob Zebedee is the brother of John the Theologian.

In the past, many authors have confused certain circumstances in the lives of the saints. This has led to inconsistencies in historical information. Therefore, let's talk about the classic version of Alfeev's story.

Life of the Apostle James

Apostle Alpheus came from the distant Galilean city of Capernaum. Before meeting Christ, he was a tax collector. In those days, this was a pretty good position, since tax collectors were engaged in collecting taxes for Rome. The position was very rewarding, but many people hated tax collectors, especially the Israelites. All because they considered these people to be robbers and traitors who were simply robbing their people.

Unfortunately, we do not know how Alfeev first met Jesus Christ. But there are suggestions that they were introduced by brother Apostle Matthew. The Gospels indicate that the Holy Apostle James was the ninth of the twelve Apostles. After Jesus' ascension, he received the gift of the Holy Spirit and began to preach. First he walked around Judea, and then went to Edessa.

Icon of Jacob

The miraculous image, painted in honor of the holy Apostle James, a follower of Jesus Christ, has indestructible power. There is not a single similar shrine in the world that can enlighten and guide a person on the true path the way the icon of Jacob does.

Jacob is often called the Brother of the Lord, and this is no coincidence. The Apostle lived a bright and righteous life, which is an example for all believers. He was able to let Christ into his heart and help Him save sinners at the cost of his own life. The icon of James is the famous face of the holy apostle, also known as Alpheus. Christians sacredly revere the image of the great martyr, offering to him their prayers of gratitude and requests for a happy life in faith and righteousness.

The history of the famous icon

The Holy Scripture says that the Apostle James was the ninth of the twelve disciples of Christ. Nowhere is it said exactly how the saint met Jesus, but it is known that before their meeting the martyr worked as a tax collector from the inhabitants of the Galilean city of Capernaum. The work was profitable, but the common people hated the collectors, believing that they were robbing their people by taking away the last thing. When Jacob met the Savior on his life's path, he comprehended the truth and refused work unworthy of a righteous person, and let the Lord into his heart. After his ascension into the Kingdom of the Lord, Jesus gave Jacob the power of the Holy Spirit so that he would continue to perform miraculous acts, helping people.

From that time on, the follower of Christ preached his sermon throughout Jerusalem, and then went to wander throughout the world. The Apostle enlightened the inhabitants of the cities, introducing them to the true faith, helping to open their hearts to the Lord. Jacob's earthly life ended in Egypt, where the saint arrived to introduce the local residents to the true faith, preaching the word of God. The pagans refused to accept the teachings of the holy Apostle. Angry, they sentenced Jacob to death and nailed him to the cross. The follower of Jesus did not deny Him in moments of torment. He accepted death with dignity for his faith. Christians sincerely honor the prophet, indulging in prayers in front of His miraculous image, asking for support and help in difficult moments of life.

Where are the relics and image of the Apostle James

In our country, the image of the holy martyr James is kept in the Moscow Church of the Deposition of the Robe on Donskoy. The icon also contains a particle of the relics of the Apostle Alpheus, namely His frontal bone. Most of the martyr's relics are located in the Roman Church of the Twelve Apostles. Also, part of the incorruptible remains of Jacob is kept in Italy, in the Temple of St. Nicholas, and His head is in Venice, in the Cathedral of San Marco.

Description of the icon of Jacob

The face of the holy Apostle James Alpheus is written on the shrine. The martyr is depicted from the waist up, in the robe of a priest, his shoulders covered with a modest omophorion. In his right hand, the follower of Christ holds the Bible. The other hand gestures to the Holy Scriptures, calling Christians to see the only Scripture where the Word of God is set forth.

How does a miraculous image help?

To guide people who have lost the path to righteousness on the true path is the first thing that Orthodox people pray for in front of the icon of the Apostle Alpheus. Jacob also protects Christians from the evil deeds of atheists, heals those suffering from serious illnesses and helps drive out demons from human souls. The Brother of the Lord is famous for his many miraculous deeds and is able to help in any difficulties if the prayer to Him is sincere.

Days of celebration

Every year on October 9, the Orthodox Church pays tribute to the great martyr James. A service is held in churches in memory of the Apostle. On this day He was crucified on the cross and went to the Kingdom of the Lord.

Prayer to the Apostle in front of his icon

“O most venerable Apostle James. We offer our prayers to you. You are a devoted servant of God, who has walked your earthly path in fidelity to Christ. We ask You, great righteous one. Guide people on the righteous path who have strayed from the path leading to Jesus. Help fill our hearts with love for the Lord, support us and do not leave us in difficult moments! Stay close and don’t let the demon get into our souls! Heal from diseases of soul and body. Only You are able to help us, O most holy martyr. Do not leave us, for we will glorify Your name. Let us praise You, Apostle James. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Forever and ever. Amen".

Pray with all your heart, trusting in the holy powers. The path of a righteous person is difficult, but it is the only and true path. Having let God into your heart, do not renounce him, be faithful to your faith to the end. All difficulties were sent down to us from above for our sins, but they can be overcome by answering for your actions and purifying your soul before the Almighty. We wish you peace in your soul, take care of yourself

Epistle of the Apostle James

The saint always zealously guided lost people to the true path. He said that there is only one way to salvation. Also he:

Prayed for the healing of seriously ill people;
Converted the unfaithful to Christ;
He denounced godlessness;
He cast out demons and freed the possessed;
Crushed pagan idols;
Worked many miracles.

He visited many countries and always carried the word of God. Ambassador Alfeev preached most of all in Palestine and Egypt, in the following cities: Eleutheropolis, Gaza, Judea, Edessa. In the latter country his martyrdom occurred. On October 9, the Orthodox Church celebrates the honor of the Apostle James. On this day the pagans nailed him to the cross.

Shortly before his death, the Holy Preacher wrote a Council Epistle, which was addressed to a wide range of Christians. The main idea of this message was the idea that faith without work will die. With the help of this message, the Saint tried to console the Jews who had turned to faith. He wanted to warn them that with the help of faith alone, humanity can be saved. He said that true faith must be accompanied by good works. Otherwise it will not lead to salvation.

Prayer of the Apostle James Alfeev

The Orthodox Church remembers one of the very first commandments of St. Alpheus: “Pray for one another. Prayer will heal you. The intense prayer of a righteous Christian believer can do a lot.” Therefore, feel free to turn to righteous saints for prayer support using prayer or an akathist. Everyone will receive according to their faith!

The best article for you, go to: St. Nektarios of Aegina the Wonderworker: prayer, icon, relics, akathist

Words of prayer

Oh, great servant of God, God-chosen and God-glorified Apostle James, brother of the Lord! You are the great bishop of the Holy City, our warm intercessor and intercessor, standing before the Throne of the Most Holy Trinity.
Do not reject us from your intercession, but raise us up, cast down by many sins.
As a holy martyr, having the power to decide and bind, resolve our evils and the love of God, make us partakers of the Kingdom of Heaven, make us blessed through your prayers.
Pray to Christ the Savior, that we may be worthy to complete our earthly journey without stumbling, so that we may be worthy of eternal and blissful life in heaven, and there, together with you, we will begin to praise the Indivisible Trinity, to glorify the One Divinity of the Father, and the Son, and the All-Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.

Pray from a pure heart; a sincerely read prayer to the Apostle James Alpheus will help you find peace and true faith, because the path of a righteous person is difficult and filled with life’s trials.

Prayer to the icon of the Apostle James

The prayer words are:

Oh, great servant of God, God-chosen and God-glorified Apostle James, brother of the Lord! You are the great bishop of the Holy City, our warm intercessor and intercessor, standing before the Throne of the Most Holy Trinity.
Do not reject us from your intercession, but raise us up, cast down by many sins.
As a holy martyr, having the power to decide and bind, resolve our evils and the love of God, make us partakers of the Kingdom of Heaven, make us blessed through your prayers.
Pray to Christ the Savior, that we may be worthy to complete our earthly journey without stumbling, so that we may be worthy of eternal and blissful life in heaven, and there, together with you, we will begin to praise the Indivisible Trinity, to glorify the One Divinity of the Father, and the Son, and the All-Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.

Text of the akathist to the Apostle James Alpheus, one of the twelve Ambassadors and followers of the Lord:

Kontakion 1

To the Apostle of Christ, the glorious hierarch, the invincible pillar of the Church of Christ and the martyr, James the Wise, the blessed brother of God, let us sing praises, as our intercessor and quick helper. You, standing before the throne of the Most Holy Trinity, do not cease to pray for us and with your prayers preserve us from all troubles and evils, who celebrate your memory with faith and call:
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Ikos 1

Creator of angels and Creator of all creation, appear to Jacob like a multi-bright star, shining in the firmament of the Church, driving away the darkness of false faith, enlightening the world with the feat of light. We, resorting to your intercession, joyfully bring you:
Rejoice, for you have been chosen by God to announce the mysteries of salvation;
Rejoice, for thou art a brother according to the flesh of the Lord, a disciple and witness of His ineffable mysteries;
Rejoice, glory to the Ecumenical Church;
Rejoice, for you who without fear and loudly brought the words of God among the ardent Jews to people;
Rejoice, true ruler of the church;
Rejoice, God-wise teacher of the incomprehensible mysteries of God;
Rejoice, hierarch of Jerusalem below, who now dwells in Jerusalem above;
Rejoice, for you made a pure sacrifice to the King and Creator, whom you confessed before your tormentors, holy martyr;
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 2

From afar, having seen your residence, Father Jacob, Christ the Lover of Mankind received your brother, as you were the eldest son in the family of the righteous Joseph the Betrothed. From an early age, as a Nazirite, he was dedicated to God, having a life of abstinence. Through your goodness and purity of mind, you have shown yourself to be a sincere disciple of Christ, and have been vouchsafed at the throne of the Lord to sing eternally: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

When King Herod sought the Child Jesus to destroy Him, behold, the Angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying: “Arise, take the Child and His Mother and flee to Egypt.” But you, Jacob, as you were a relative in the flesh of Jesus, stayed with Joseph and His Mother, running with them to Egypt. As Christ’s closest friend from infancy, accept from us, Jacob, zealous praise:
Rejoice, for you were the son of those who walked the path of the Lord;
Rejoice, for you have seen God face to face through Christ;
Rejoice, for you have received much grace from Christ;
Rejoice, for you are illuminated by the light of Christ;
Rejoice, for you were the beginning of the shepherd of Christ, brother and successor among the apostles;
Rejoice, for you have been honored with great honor from Christ;
Rejoice, for through Christ you have found the Heavenly Father;
Rejoice, for even now you see Christ in indescribable light;
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 3

After the Ascension of the Savior, the apostolic face, without competing for glory, chose thee, the Righteous James, to serve as a priest to Christ in holy Zion. The Lord especially appeared to you after consecrating you to the throne of the Church of Jerusalem, thereby showing His favor towards you. We, marveling at such God’s favor for you, sing to the Almighty: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

The apostolic service is difficult, you accepted it in the midst of the most insidious and ardent enemies of the Christian faith. For thirty years you tirelessly preached and affirmed the saving faith in the Holy City and the land of Palestine. Moreover, thanking our Creator and Savior, we praise you, the great chosen one of God:
Rejoice, for Jerusalem was shown to you by the Providence of the Lord for preaching the Word of God;
Rejoice, for you have received great power from God;
Rejoice, evangelist of the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world;
Rejoice, baptizing the Jewish people in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit;
Rejoice, good shepherd and bright teacher, for with you God has adorned his church;
Rejoice, let us drink from the well of living water;
Rejoice, for having accepted the apostolic cross, you tirelessly followed the Savior’s footsteps;
Rejoice, for with the illumination of the Divine Spirit you destroyed the darkness of false faith and enlightened the hearts of the faithful;
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 4

You turned many Jewish people to the Church of Christ, righteous father, out of great trust in your word. By your righteous life, you gained love and respect from the unconverted Jews. For this reason, praising your tireless labors, we earnestly call to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Despite the hatred of the Sanhedrin and the Jewish high priests for Christians, who slander Christians as enemies of the law of Moses, you, Father James, wisely testified: he who turns to the faith of Christ does not fall away from the true faith of his fathers. We, seeing your great virtue, tireless shepherd of the Church of Christ, gratefully call to you:
Rejoice, for through your righteous life you have subdued and brought to shame your evil enemies;
Rejoice, for you hinder the paths of all the enemy with the breadth of the Divine mind;
Rejoice, for through the grace pouring out from your lips, you taught the sheep of words to believe in the Trinity of One Essence;
Rejoice, unshakable pillar of piety and invincible wall of the Church;
Rejoice, for you have shone forth to those who exist in the darkness of foolishness, calling everyone to the heights of piety;
Rejoice, for having gathered your flock by preaching your lofty life, you have delivered this from fierce wolves;
Rejoice, for as the Brother of God, the Son of the Most High God valiantly confessed on earth;
Rejoice, for you are endowed with wisdom, illuminated by grace, adorned with peaceful beauty, holy apostle.
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 5

You served the hierarch in the Church of Jerusalem with great prudence, paying tribute to the true faith of the fathers. The zealots of the Old Testament law saw in you, Father Jacob, as the image of the high priest of Israel. We, who gave you great wisdom, silently sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Carrying out his earthly path holy from his mother’s womb, he was honored to enter the Holy Temple of Jerusalem. You prayed earnestly for the remission of the sins of the people. Your knees have become hard, Father James, from incessant bowing in prayer. For this reason, we praise you according to your heritage, as our prayer book before God:
Rejoice, for through your virtuous life you have enlightened your people, like the radiant sun;
Rejoice, for you taught the dey to despise the flesh and to adhere to the immortal soul;
Rejoice, diligent worker of Christ’s garden;
Rejoice, for you have received the grace of the Divine Spirit and burned away the darkness of false faith;
Rejoice, for you have completely enslaved the flesh to the spirit;
Rejoice, tireless prayer book to God;
Rejoice, for you have yoked your flock with a covenant of love;
Rejoice, for you are filled with grace, you were the light of the world and the salt of the universe;
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 6

You were enlightened by the Holy Spirit, Father James, when you wisely arranged the rite of the Divine Liturgy. He became like a sower of good seed, bearing a hundredfold fruit. And now from heaven you mercifully look down on us and give grace to us all abundantly from the generous Christ God, and the angels in heaven eat to him: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

You were taught the service of the Divine Liturgy by Christ himself. You laid down the law of the life of the Church of Christ, Father James, with your life-giving spirit, laying down the law and telling the ineffable mysteries of God. Sanctifying your flock with the sacraments of the church and teaching the mysteries of the faith. We sing to you, the faithful servant of the Holy Trinity:
Rejoice, decorator of the church rite;
Rejoice, for the world has been enlightened, O blessed one, by your teachings.
Rejoice, for through you the light of the knowledge of God has been poured out into the world by the Holy Spirit;
Rejoice, for through you the secrets of heaven and earth were inscribed;
Rejoice, for you have ascended in spirit into the mysteries of God;
Rejoice, for with the Divine dawns of your preaching, a gracious light has arisen for those who sit in the darkness of delusion;
Rejoice, for with a pure mind and holy God-inspired lips you offered salvation to all the faithful;
Rejoice, for God the Word has richly enlightened you with the radiance of Divine grace;
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 7

In the midst of those preaching the word of Christ to the pagan people, there was strife and controversy about the law of Moses. For this purpose, the Apostolic Council was quickly assembled in the city of Jerusalem, under your intercession, Father James. Your weighty word about the salvation of the soul in the Christian Church, without preserving the entire rite of the Law of Moses, was unanimously accepted by the council and through the apostles you proclaimed it to the churches. We please you by teaching you the right to understand the teachings of Christ and to sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

Wisely, Father Jacob, taught at the council about the end of the time of the Old Testament and again about the Providence of God for the conversion and salvation of pagan peoples. By the intercession of this apostolic council, the hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem - the Mother of Churches, the heresy of the Latin popes about the Divine establishment of the primacy of the throne of Rome is overthrown. We, as great in all the hierarchs of Christ, cry to you:
Rejoice, interpreter of the will of God, the entire church of Jewish Christians submitted to him without a murmur;
Rejoice, for you teach about salvation by the grace of Christ not only to the Jews, but also to the pagans;
Rejoice, for you testify to the agreement of the word of Christ with the teaching of the prophets and the traditions of the fathers;
Rejoice, for you offered saving laws to those sitting in darkness and led them to the light of good faith;
Rejoice, dawn of intelligent light, church luminary, saintly beauty;
Rejoice, deep well of true knowledge of God;
Rejoice, for rivers flow from your God-speaking womb;
Rejoice, for you have appeared as a cup of wisdom, filled with virtue;
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 8

You appeared, Father James, as a wise Christian, a peacemaker and interpreter of the Law and Truth in a word - a message “to the twelve tribes in dispersion,” who were in considerable ferment and bewilderment about the teachings of Christ. You enlightened and admonished that the will of God is the will of the God of Israel, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In the same way, teach us to sing from the bottom of our hearts to the Creator and Creator: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

The apostolic sermon reached the tribes of Israel far from the Holy City. The righteous Jews were confused: the appearance of Christ was the hope of the people of God or the overthrow of the law of Moses. Truly, Father James, you wisely cared for the Church of Jerusalem, without abandoning the rite of Moses - you strengthened those converted in the grace of Christ. You advertised to Paul the Apostle: “How many thousands of Jews have believed, and all are zealots of the Law.” We praise you, the one who has acquired the mountain wisdom:
Rejoice, for through the word of God's understanding you delivered people from ignorance and brought them to Christ;
Rejoice, for you have acquired the Divine mind;
Rejoice, for through your labors you brought the sheep of words to the water of salvation;
Rejoice, for righteously the lot of pastoral care for souls was given to you;
Rejoice. as if you attracted the hearts of your flock and were filled with love for you;
Rejoice, as the dawn of the sun hast thou shone upon the world with thy teachings, O God-voice;
Rejoice, skillful catcher of human souls;
Rejoice, shining light of Divine grace;
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 9

The prophets of many things do not dare to talk about your wisdom, Father James. When the Jewish converts began to grumble about the teachings of Christ, having heard that a person is saved only by faith, falsely believing that to please those converted by the “tongue,” the works of the Law of Moses were abolished. Then you, Father James, in your message teach us that saving faith is not in a single book teaching and external confession, but in faith promoted by love and deeds in the name of Christ. To Him, the merciful Lover of Mankind, we continually cry: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

You knew, Father James, how the sacrificial faith of Abraham was perverted into the hypocritical and dead faith of the Jewish leaders. You faithfully rebuke the “teachers of wisdom” and instruct the people in the Christian faith - patient in trials, trusting in God, bearing burdens in humility. We, as a God-wise mentor, sing with gratitude:
Rejoice, for you proclaim: the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead;
Rejoice, for you teach: have joy when you fall into various temptations;
Rejoice, for you have enlightened: blessed is the man who endures temptations and first receives the crown of life;
Rejoice, as you said: patience overcomes the temptations of your faith;
Rejoice, for you are wise: to the one who knows, to do good, and to the one who does not, there is sin;
Rejoice, for you teach: the loves of this world are enmity to God;
Rejoice, for you call: pray for one another, for much can the prayer of the righteous be hastened;
Rejoice, for you cry: he who converts a sinner from the error of his path saves the soul from death.
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 10

You, Father James, strengthened those converted in the faith and prepared them for the suffering that lay ahead. He called for true unity with the prophets, patience and prayerful trust in God, Who contains everyone and everything in His right hand. And grant us, the unworthy, through your prayers, to sing intelligently to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

This is what you, your people, taught about the saving faith of Christ: “For faith is pure and undefiled before God, to visit the orphans and widows in their sorrows and to keep oneself undefiled from the world,” and also, “Mercy is the life of the soul.” We, Father James, tirelessly cry to you, who prays for the renewal of our petrified and withered hearts:
Rejoice, for you said: judgment is without mercy for him who has not shown mercy.
Rejoice, for you admonish: the anger of a man does not bring about the righteousness of God.
Rejoice, for you enlighten: the fruit of righteousness in the world is sown by those who create peace.
Rejoice, for you say: The Lord resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
Rejoice, for you cry: humble yourself before the Lord and exalt you.
Rejoice, our guide in heaven.
Rejoice, the words of God are not false to the interpreter.
Rejoice, you who move us to the feat of active love.
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 11

The Jewish leaders who had fallen from grace, seeing how many husbands and wives were being added to the Church of Christ, trusted for the sake of the all-glorious Apostle. They were malicious, false teachers, put an end to this. For the Sanhedrin was intolerable to the true righteous man who served the Lord blamelessly. But, Father James, bless us, strengthen us and teach us to grow in the saving faith, singing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

On the days of the celebration of Passover, all the tribes of Judah and many pagans gathered into the city of Jerusalem. But you, Father James, tirelessly preached the words of eternal life. Knowing about the departure in these days of the prosecutor Festus, the rulers of the Jewish council decided to kill you, the shepherd of the Holy City. We earnestly cry out to you, as a courageous warrior of Christ:
Rejoice, for you fearlessly preached the truth of Christ before the leaders.
Rejoice, Orthodoxy shone.
Rejoice, impartial guardian of the church rules.
Rejoice, for through you the Church of Christ admirably adorns itself.
Rejoice, for you raise the minds of the faithful to heaven with God-wise teachings.
Rejoice, for through the strength of preaching you destroyed the winter of delusion.
Rejoice, all-wise and dexterous, holy hierarch and preacher.
Rejoice, for Christ sent forth a ray of the Sun of Truth, enlightening the whole earth.
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 12

The high priest, the Jewish Sadducee Anan, commanded that a great assembly of the people be called before the temple of Jerusalem. But you were seduced by flattery, Father James, on the hill of the Holy Temple, where the wicked asked before the council of men: “Speak to us about the Crucified One.” But you, with the strength given to you by God, have been clothed with it, ready to endure all kinds of torment for Christ’s sake. We, to God, in your martyrdom, with a voice that strengthened you, command us to sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Having been filled with the Holy Spirit, you, God-Bearing Father, spoke before the people: “He sits in heaven, at the right hand of the Power of the Most High, and is coming on the clouds of heaven.” Hearing this wickedness, they gnashed their teeth and rushed forward with one accord. He was cast down to the holy apostle, from the corner of the Holy Temple. Kneeling down, he prayed to the Creator for mercy on those who were killing you. We stoned him to death at the wall of the Saint's temple. There he was quickly buried by your flock. We, you who appear before the throne of the Holy Trinity, joyfully call:
Rejoice, for you were overthrown from the Jews, and you were honored with the heavenly palaces.
Rejoice, for the imitator of the passion of the Lord was killed.
Rejoice, apostolic foundation of the mountain of Jerusalem.
Rejoice, for you made a pure sacrifice to the King and Creator.
Rejoice, for you have sacredly entered into the Heavenly Church, we pour blood, blessed one.
Rejoice, for we have you as a strong intercessor before God.
Rejoice, for you stand before the throne of the Holy Trinity as a righteous crowned one, enjoying incorruptible honors.
Rejoice, invincible holy martyr, most praiseworthy hierarch and universal luminary.
Rejoice, Jacob, first hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem and glorious martyr!

Kontakion 13

Oh, glorious Apostle James, brother of the Lord, many-bright lamp of the Church of Christ. Accept from reverent hearts with love the praise offered to you. Ask us from Christ God for confirmation in faith, forgiveness of sins and deliverance from eternal condemnation, and may we be worthy in the Kingdom of Heaven, together with you, to sing to God forever: Alleluia.

This Kontakion is read three times. Then the 1st Ikos “Creator of Angels...” and the 1st Kontakion “To the Apostle of Christ...”.

The Lord is always with you!

The best article for you, go to: St. Athanasius the Great

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IAKOV ALFEEV

In Greek Erminius Dionysius Furnoagrafiot (1st half of the 18th century) described the appearance of I. A. (“young, with a pointed beard”) given in the number of apostles from 70 with the explanation: “He is one of the twelve apostles.” In Russian The iconographic originals (18th century) compiled by I.A. indicate that on June 30 in the Cathedral the 12 apostles are depicted opposite the apostle. Andrei: “...Rus, the brada of Kozmin (St. Cosmas the Unmercenary - Ed.), a robe with a hook with white, azure underneath” (quoted from: Bolshakov. Original icon painting. P. 111) and on the day of memory of the saint on October 9. , and the likenesses of the saint’s appearance vary: “... the robes of the menshi of Basil of Caesarea, a robe with white lining, with azure undersides” (Ibid. P. 37), “... in the likeness of a Russian, a simple cord, the share of Matthew the Evangelist, an apostolic robe with white lining, undersides azure” (quoted from: Filimonov. Iconographic original. P. 168).

I. from early Christ. time is depicted in the circle of the 12 apostles. His vestments consist of a tunic and a himation. The age characteristics of I.A. could change. This could be a medieval man with a short dark beard (in the mosaic medallion on the vault of the Oratory of the Archbishop's Chapel in Ravenna, between 494 and 519) or a beardless youth (in the mosaics of the destroyed churches of Sant'Agata in Suburra in Rome, 2nd half of the 5th century ., and San Prisco in Capua, V-VI centuries). In different periods, the attributes of the saint also varied: with the crown of a martyr in his hands, I. A. is represented in the row of the apostles in the mosaic of the dome in the church. San Giovanni in Fonte in Ravenna (mid-5th century). The image of I. A. is part of the apostolic rank decorating the altar barrier (templon) on a marble panel originating from Thessalonica (2nd half of the 10th century, Byzantine Museum, Athens), the apostle is presented in full size (with the caption: “ΙΑΚΩΒΟΣ ΤΟΥ ΑΛΘΑΙΟΥ") next to the apostles Philip and Luke. The figures were made using the technique of in-depth (or flat) relief; they were once filled with glass paste, apparently blue or light blue (fragmentarily preserved on the clothes of Apostle Luke). Dr. An example of an image of I.A. among the 12 apostles is the icon “The Council of the Holy Apostles” of the 1st quarter. XIV century (Pushkin Museum), where I. A. is presented among the young apostles in the 2nd row on the right, in a blue chiton and dark himation, with short dark hair and a beard, slightly bowing his head and directing his gaze to the worshiper.

Examples of a single image of I.A. in full height are found in the menaine cycles under Oct. 9, for example. on the miniatures of the manuscript of the Service Gospel (Vat. gr. 1156. Fol. 257v. K-pol, 3rd quarter of the 11th century), the Synaxarion of Zechariah of Valashkert (Kekel. A648, 1st quarter of the 11th century, without pagination) .

The scene of I.A.’s torment is in the Minology of the Imp. Basil II, where he is depicted being stoned (Vat. gr. 1613. P. 102. K-pol, 976-1025). Probably, the compositions known from the menain cycles in medieval paintings go back to this scheme. temples of the Balkans. In the frescoes c. Vmch. George in Staro Nagorichino, Macedonia (1317-1318), to the west. northern slope of the arch walls under 9 Oct. there is a scene where the defeated I.A. is beaten by 2 people. In c. Dormition of the Virgin Mary of the Gracanica monastery, Kosovo and Metohija (c. 1320), in the lower tier to the north. southeast side pillar of another scene: lying half-naked I. is beaten by 2 men standing at the edges of the bed (inscription: “sti apsl jakov alfeev with hairy veins bien biv”). In the painting of the Catholicon of the Athonite monastery of Dionysiatus (1547), in the scene of torment I. A. is pierced with arrows. In the paintings c. St. Apostles in Pec (1561) in the central grass there is a crucifixion of I.A. on the cross: an apostle with a bandage on his loins, the executioner hammers a nail into his feet.

In the monuments of fine art, scenes of I.A.’s death have been preserved, which differ from the Byzantine ones. minologies and, possibly, related to the influence of the history of the ap. James, brother of the Lord. According to this version, I.A. was thrown from the roof of the temple. Such an image was preserved in the miniatures of the Stuttgart Passionale (Stuttg. Cod. bibl. 56-58, ca. 1130, see: Boeckler A. Das Stuttgarter Passionale. Augsburg, 1923. Add. 30). In the mosaics of San Marco in Venice (beginning of the 13th century), among the cycles of apostolic torment, it is shown how a certain Jew pushes I. A. from the roof of a building that has the shape of an octagon with a dome on columns, the 2nd time I. A. is represented lying at the foot.

Images of I.A. in Western monuments. art even within the Byzantine era. influences bring him closer to the ap. James, the brother of the Lord: for example, in the mosaics of the Palatine Chapel in Palermo (1132-1140) I. A. is represented standing in the vestments of a bishop (in polystaurium, with an omophorion and with a book). In the same way, as a bishop with an omophorion and with the Gospel, next to Peter and Paul, I. A. is represented on frescoes in the crypt of San Lorenzo in Fasano (XI-XII centuries). In zap. iconographyI. is always depicted as an apostle in an ancient tunic and himation with the Gospel, later with the attributes of martyrdom.

In Dr. In Rus', the center of special veneration for I.A. was Vel. Novgorod. On Novgorod icons there are his images related to the patronal theme, such as, for example, on the icon “Nativity of the Mother of God” as a half-length image in a medallion on the field with a signature (late 14th - early 15th centuries, Tretyakov Gallery). The image of I. A. is present in the Novgorod manuscripts of the Chronicle of Cosmas of Indikoplov as part of a composition with saints in medallions on the sides of the Cross of the Lord (several copies are known, created in the 1st half of the 16th century: a manuscript of 1539 from the collection of Prince Obolensky, included in the August volume of the Great Menaions according to the Sophia list (RGADA. F. MID. No. 159. L. 6); from the book of St. Sylvester, confessor of Tsar Ivan the Terrible, enclosed in 1552 in the Solovetsky Monastery (RNB OR . F.IV.683. Sheet 1 volume), and from the library of the St. Sophia Cathedral in Vel. Novgorod (RNB. Soph. 1197. Sheet 5)). I. A. is depicted in a waist-length medallion (with the caption: “Oagios Jacob Alpheus”) in the lower tier and is paired with St. Sylvester, Pope of Rome. I.A., a mature man, in an antique tunic and himation, with short hair and a beard, an omophorion on his shoulders, a book on his covered left hand. In this version, there is obvious confusion with the iconography of St. Jacob, the brother of the Lord, also revered in Vel. Novgorod. In the church in honor of the Icon of the Mother of God “The Sign” on Ilyin Street. in 1615, according to the painting of Novgorod monasteries and churches, there was a chapel in the name of St. Jacob Alfeev, where, undoubtedly, there was his temple icon (Inventory of Novgorod 1617 / Ed.: V.L. Yanin. M., 1984. Part 2. P. 329).

In Russian in the art of the late Middle Ages, the image of I. A. is found on icons from the Deesis rank (beginning of the 17th century, National Museum, Stockholm); as the heavenly patron of the customer is represented on the icon “Our Lady of Pechersk, with St. Euphemia, Jacob Alfeev, St. Martin and John the Warrior" (XVII century, private collection).

Lit.: Erminia DF. P. 156; Garrucci R. Storia della arte cristiana nei primi otto secoli della chiesa. Prato, 1877. T. 4. Tav. 240.2, 255; Medea A. Gli affreschi nelle cripte eremitiche pugliesi. R., 1939. T. 2. Fig. 31; Antonova, Mneva. Catalog. 1963. T. 1. No. 41. P. 104; Mijoviě. Menologist. pp. 193, 194, 234, 263, 347, 363, 378; Lazarev V.N. History of the Byzantines. painting. M., 1986. Ill. 512, 513. P. 165; The Glory of Byzantium: Art and Culture of the Middle Byzantine Era, AD 843-1261: [Cat.] / Ed.: H. Evans, W.D. Wixom. NY, 1997. Cat. 9. P. 43; LCI. Bd. 7. Sp. 47-51; Gordienko E. A. Novgorod in the 16th century. and his spiritual life. St. Petersburg, 2001. P. 171, 208. Fig. 80. Table XIX, XXIII; Benchev I. Icons of patron saints. M., 2007. P. 259.

M.A.M.

Apostle Jacob Alfeev

Days of remembrance: June 30 (12 ap.), October 9

Apostle Jacob Alfeev

Fresco of the 12th century. Vladimir

Saint James Alpheus, Apostle of the 12

Brother of the Apostle and Evangelist Matthew (+ 60; November 16/29), who was formerly a tax collector. He was called by the Lord Himself to be one of the 12 apostles and, along with the others, was sent to preach.

After the descent of the Holy Spirit, he preached first in Judea, then accompanied St. to the Apostle Andrew the First-Called (+ 62; commemorated November 30/December 13) to Edessa. He spread the gospel gospel in Gaza, Eleutheropolis and neighboring places, and from there he went to Egypt. Here, in the city of Ostratsina (a seaside town on the border with Palestine), he was crucified on the cross.

Pravoslavie.ru

Life of the Holy Apostle James Alfeev

The Holy Apostle James was the son of Alpheus and the brother of the Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, who was formerly a tax collector. When our Lord Jesus Christ, being on earth in the flesh, chose simple and pious people for apostolic dignity in order to send them to preach the Gospel into the world, then He chose this James and, as worthy, made him an apostle (Matthew 10). :3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15). And Jacob became one of the twelve apostles, a witness and servant of Christ, a preacher of His mysteries and His follower. Having received the Holy Spirit with the other apostles, who descended on them in tongues of fire,2 he went to the pagans to preach Christ and instruct the lost on the path of salvation. Kindled by the fire of Divine jealousy, he burned the thorns of atheism, crushed idols, destroyed their temples, healed various ailments, drove away evil spirits from people and brought many people to Christ, through which he acquired a new name for himself: the Divine seed. For he sowed the word of God in the hearts of men, planted faith and increased piety: for this reason he was called the Divine seed.

Traveling around many countries, he sowed the heavenly seed, reaped the harvest of human salvation and ended his earthly course at the feet of Christ: being an imitator of Christ’s suffering, he betrayed his spirit to God nailed on the cross3.

And this Divine seed, Saint James, with its fruits borne a hundredfold, was gathered into the heavenly granary; there, satiating himself with the vision of the face of God, he also intercedes for us with his prayers for the same saturation.

Kontakion, voice 2:

Having firmly implanted the wisdom of dogmas in the souls of the pious, let us please with praises, like Jacob, the prophet of God: for the glory of the Lady stands before the throne, and the angels rejoice with everyone, praying unceasingly for all of us.

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1 Together with the other apostles, James Alpheus was sent by the Lord to preach. Matthew 10:3.

2 After the Ascension of the Lord, Jacob Alpheus stayed with the other apostles in Jerusalem in the Upper Room of Zion (Acts 1:13), as well as for some time after the descent of the Holy Spirit (6:2).

3 Ap. Jacob Alfeev performed apostolic service first in Judea, then accompanied the apostle. Andrew the First-Called to Edessa (Edessa - present-day Orpah - the ancient famous city of Mesopotamia on the Euphrates River), preached the teachings of Christ in Gaza (one of the most ancient cities of the Philistines on the border with the kingdom of Judah, which belonged to Syria in apostolic times) and Eleutheropolis (a city in Southern Palestine on the road between Jerusalem and Gaza) and neighboring places, from where he went to Egypt and here in the city of Ostratsina (a seaside town on the border with Palestine) sealed his apostolic labors with martyrdom on the cross.

Orthodox names