About the Icon of Christ

Behind the head of Christ is a nimbus or halo bearing within it a Cross, which is inscribed with the Greek words "I AM."  This brings to mind the name of God revealed in Exodus 3:14, "I AM WHO I AM."  Jesus Himself made many "I AM" statements, such as "I am the Light of the world," and "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life."  These words thus show the divinity of Christ.

Christ's right hand is raised in blessing.  We see the first two fingers joined and raised together, recalling the two natures of Christ, divine and human.  The other two fingers joined to the thumb form three fingers symbolizing the Holy Trinity.  In His left hand He holds the Holy Scriptures.

The Greek letters over Christ's shoulders are from His names "Jesus" and "Christ."

Icons on this site are courtesy of:
St. Isaac of Syria Skete