The Most Holy Theotokos & Ever-Virgin MaryCOPYRIGHTED ART. Do not copy or deep-link to without prior permission from "Come and See" Icons, Books & Art.
Mother of God of Loving Kindness

Troparion
Since thou art a well-spring of tenderness, O Theotokos, make us worthy of compassion; Look upon a sinful people; Manifest thy power as ever, for hoping on thee we cry aloud unto thee: Hail! as once did Gabriel, chief Captain of the Bodiless Powers

Known in Greek as Eleousa and in Slavonic as Oumilenie, this icon is also called the Virgin of Tenderness or of Mercy. The relationship between Mother and Child is expressed with stunning force: taking refuge in her, He touches her chin with one hand and presses his cheek against hers. Her pensive, sorrowful eyes foresee his Passion and she embraces him with affectionate, maternal protection. The three golden stars which adorn her mantle, one above the forehead and one on each shoulder, signify her virginity before, during, and after giving birth. Orthodox Christians refer to Mary as "Theotokos", because it is not a readily translatable word which means "the container of God" or "she who bore God." This signifies that it was no mere man in her womb, but the uncontainable, eternal God: Jesus Christ.

This painting was done by John Carpenter of Radnor, Pennsylvania, for his grandmother, at Christmas, 1999. John was 7 years old at the time. Everyone who sees this icon is so moved by the beauty and especially by the Theotokos' eyes.

The note cards are 4-5/8" x 6-1/4" and come with corresponding envelopes. They are blank inside and have the text above on the back. Single cards, mix & match, are $1 each. $9 in packs of 10. This is also available as a laminated mounted print.

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