This Page Last Updated October 24th, 2008 (new style reckoning)
Iconography
Even before 1666 good Russians saw the need to make firm the
teachings about iconography. Western attitudes had begun creeping into the
Russian way of life. It was at the council of 1551 where particular rules were
reinforced so that order would be maintained and keep confusion away. Here are
some of the concepts which turn aside from the right teaching.
·
The
Descent into Hades – Or what I have heard called the First Resurrection
that we have been forewarned of. Such a representation, where Christ was
separated from His body, is something that brings more than a small amount of
doubt. Proof has been shown that this icon is from the fallen Western mindset.
·
The
Nativity of Our Lord – Such an icon that shows midwifes and their
accoutrements are completely out of place, for the Lord was miraculously born
and Mother Mary inviolate even in giving birth. Canon 79 of the Sixth
Ecumenical Council also forbids the idea of making bread in the respect of this
being a painful birth giving.
·
The
Ancient of Days – Many think that the symbolism allows for depiction of
God the Father but truthfully we are to understand the symbol as the Son of God
as we would confirm is the proper conclusion of Church references. We cannot
create our own theory as often is done in conceptualizing God the Father in any
way.
·
Paper
Icons – This brings icons that are not made according to the correct
rules of the Faith, as on a gessoed board with naturally occurring paints by
faithful people. Some good people even say that no recent icon is acceptable
for worship.
Erroneous
iconographic images, if brought into worship, create an estranged faith,
presenting beliefs that cause confusion and which simply are not allowed to be.
It is better to have no icons than risk worshipping with a wrong icon. May we all keep vigil so that we are not
caught is such unrest. These concerns are not minute or inconsequential and I
for one do speak up with stern words.