The name of the Vatopedi icon was obtained from the fact that the young prince Arkady fell into the sea from the ship near the Vatopedi monastery in 395, and the miraculous intercession of the Mother of God was transferred to the shore unharmed. Here they found him standing under a bush, not far from the monastery. From this event, the name Vatoped (the young man's bush) took place. St. Theodosius the Great in gratitude for the wonderful deliverance of his son decorated and generously endowed the Vatopedi monastery.
The history of this image is connected with the events that took place on January 21, 807. A gang of robbers who decided to rob Vatopedi monastery, landed in the dark on the shore, hid in the vicinity of the monastery, intending to wait for the opening of the gates of the monastery. At a time when the robbers were waiting for the opening of the gate, matins ended and the brethren began to disperse to the cells. In the church there was one abbot of the monastery. Suddenly, from the icon of the Mother of God, he felt, saying:
Do not open today the gates of the monastery, but go up to the walls of the monastery and disperse the robbers
The abbot looked at the icon and saw Jesus raise his hand, blocking the mouth of the Mother of God, with the words: "No, Mother, do not tell them this: let them punish their sins." But the Virgin, evading His hand, twice said the same words.
The abominable hegumen immediately assembled the brethren. Everyone was surprised at the change in the outline of the icon of the Mother of God. After the prayer of thanks in the holy image, the inspired monks ascended to the monastery walls and successfully repulsed the attack of the robbers.
Size: 30x37.5 centimeters
Material: natural wood linden, oak buds, wrought-iron hook.
IMPORTANT! A high-quality image requires delicate care (gently wipe with a dry / damp cloth without the use of cleaning agents).
