Icon, St John the Beloved, Corpus Christi Parish, Gowrie Canberra |
Australia. It is egg tempera with gold leaf.
Icons are the written Word. The following is the meaning of some of the symbolism of this icon:
The hand of John is in an attitude of receiving from Christ, but also of supporting Christ in his journey to the Cross and Resurrection.
You will notice the folds on Christ's blue robe are symbolic of branches, echoing his words - I am the vine, you are the branches.
The water jug and towel are symbols of forgiveness and healing, and of servanthood.
John’s eyes are fixed on Christ. Christ looks to you, and invites you to come also to his table to eat and drink.
The gold sash on Christ's shoulder is the 'cloth of gold' the symbol of authority - Matthew 28:18 "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me".
Wishing you many blessings as you contemplate the icon and discover what else is written in it.