Christ Pantocrator is one of the main icons in Christianity, and can often be seen in the central dome of churches. The icon of Christ Pantocrator is present in every temple; it reminds people that the Savior came to earth to take away all the sins of mankind and make the soul immortal. The word “Pantocrator” in the name of the icon is taken from the Old Testament. It means the power of God, His power over all people. God the Father was called the Pantocrator, and later the term passed on to his son, Jesus.
The icon of Pantocrator features Jesus Christ as King and Judge. The word “Pantocrator” is of Greek origin. It translates as the one who can perform a miracle, of which only God is capable. The icon of Pantocrator reminds people of the heavenly judgment that awaits everyone. God is merciful and kind, He helps believers to overcome all difficulties and challenges to achieve a better life. Savior’s gesture known as the right hand of blessing has been preserved in the tradition to this day. The hand is folded so that the Greek letters are formed: IC XC — the first and last letters of the name Jesus Christ in Russian. The index finger is I, the middle one is C, the big one is crossed with the ring finger to make X, and the little finger is C. In the left hand Christ has a scroll or gospel, which may be closed or open. If it is open, two letters can be seen: alpha and omega. This marks the beginning and the end.
This divine image is a reminder of the unity of the human and spiritual. Christ can be depicted on a throne, full-length or waist-length. The icon implies a call to be more tolerant and merciful to one another. Before the icon believers say a special prayer, asking the Lord to help overcome difficulties, to achieve success, to find peace, to overcome grief. An important part of the prayer is to thank the Lord for his support and help.
The icon was presented to the Museum of the History of World Cultures and Religions by Tatiana Nikitichna Tereshchenko, a resident of Makhachkala. The icon was her family heirloom, and as a Christian, she wanted to provide a safe place to store it. Tatyana Nikitichna died shortly after donating the icon, which now occupies its place in the exhibition.
The icon of Pantocrator features Jesus Christ as King and Judge. The word “Pantocrator” is of Greek origin. It translates as the one who can perform a miracle, of which only God is capable. The icon of Pantocrator reminds people of the heavenly judgment that awaits everyone. God is merciful and kind, He helps believers to overcome all difficulties and challenges to achieve a better life. Savior’s gesture known as the right hand of blessing has been preserved in the tradition to this day. The hand is folded so that the Greek letters are formed: IC XC — the first and last letters of the name Jesus Christ in Russian. The index finger is I, the middle one is C, the big one is crossed with the ring finger to make X, and the little finger is C. In the left hand Christ has a scroll or gospel, which may be closed or open. If it is open, two letters can be seen: alpha and omega. This marks the beginning and the end.
This divine image is a reminder of the unity of the human and spiritual. Christ can be depicted on a throne, full-length or waist-length. The icon implies a call to be more tolerant and merciful to one another. Before the icon believers say a special prayer, asking the Lord to help overcome difficulties, to achieve success, to find peace, to overcome grief. An important part of the prayer is to thank the Lord for his support and help.
The icon was presented to the Museum of the History of World Cultures and Religions by Tatiana Nikitichna Tereshchenko, a resident of Makhachkala. The icon was her family heirloom, and as a Christian, she wanted to provide a safe place to store it. Tatyana Nikitichna died shortly after donating the icon, which now occupies its place in the exhibition.
