Icon of The "Sweet Kissing" Theotokos Glykophilousa - Detail 20th c. - 00VMT004

The Miraculous Journey of the Glykophilousa Icon

This Icon is a modern written icon of The Glykophilousa Icon, whose name translates to "Sweet-Kissing". The original holds a revered place among the miraculous icons saved during the turbulent iconoclastic period. Its journey began in the 9th century, belonging to Victoria, the devout wife of Senator Symeon. Despite her husband's iconoclastic views, Victoria passionately venerated icons, particularly that of the Most Holy Theotokos. When Symeon demanded she surrender her beloved icon for destruction, Victoria, in an act of faith, cast it into the sea. Miraculously, the icon floated upright on the waves and, after several years, arrived at the shores of Mount Athos, specifically near the Monastery of Philotheou. Its arrival was no accident; the Abbot and Fathers had been forewarned by a divine revelation from the Theotokos herself, leading to its joyful reception. The very spot where the icon touched the shore saw the miraculous emergence of a spring of holy water, a site commemorated annually with a procession and water blessing on Monday of Bright Week.

The Glykophilousa Icon is renowned for countless miracles, a testament to the intercessory power of the Theotokos. One notable instance occurred in 1713 when the Mother of God responded to the prayers of Ecclesiarch Ioannikios, who lamented the monastery's poverty. She assured him of her provision, and indeed, the monastery's material needs were met. Another compelling miracle unfolded in 1801 when a pilgrim attempted to steal precious offerings from the icon. After purloining the offerings, his escape by ship was thwarted as the vessel, despite excellent weather, remained eerily stationary in the sea. Discovered by monks dispatched from the monastery, the repentant thief confessed his sacrilege and was mercifully forgiven, demonstrating the icon's protective power and the monks' magnanimity.

The icon's miraculous influence extends to dispelling doubt and affirming faith. In 1830, a pilgrim from Adrianopolis, despite hearing tales of the Glykophilousa Icon's miracles, dismissed them as mere fables. The grieving monk who shared these stories tried in vain to convince him. However, later that same day, the skeptical pilgrim slipped from an upper balcony and instinctively cried out, "Most Holy Theotokos, help me!" The Mother of God heard his plea and miraculously intervened, allowing him to land completely unharmed. This dramatic event served as an undeniable testament to the icon's power and the Theotokos's immediate assistance.

The Glykophilousa Icon belongs to the Eleousa (Virgin of Tenderness) category of icons, characterized by the intimate depiction of the Mother and Child. The icon portrays the Theotokos inclining towards Christ, who lovingly embraces her. What distinguishes the Glykophilousa is the heightened sense of affection; she appears to embrace Him more tightly, and her expression conveys a profound tenderness.

This beloved icon is commemorated by the Church on March 27 and also on Bright Monday, signifying its enduring importance in Orthodox tradition. Its miraculous history, from its divine preservation during iconoclasm to its continuous manifestation of wonders, underscores the deep veneration for the Theotokos and her powerful intercession in the lives of the faithful.

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