Icon of Virgin Mary Engyetria (The Guarantor) or Asketria (The Anchoress) from Great Lavra Monastery
Origin and Significance
The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary resides in the cave of Saint Athanasius in Vigla, near the Romanian skete of John the Baptist (Prodromou). It is believed that this icon, originally from the Church of Resurrection in Jerusalem, was the medium through which the Virgin Mary guaranteed the salvation and penance of St. Mary of Egypt.
The Journey of the Icon
During the Iconoclast era, the icon was miraculously transported from Jerusalem or, as per another story, from Constantinople to Mount Athos. In 963, post the completion of the Great Lavra Monastery's construction, Saint Athanasius the Athonite had a dream where the Virgin Mary guided him to Vigla to retrieve her icon...
The Virgin's Promise
Ever since, the Virgin Mary has been safeguarding the inhabitants of Mount Athos, fulfilling her promise to the first known settler, Saint Peter of Athos. Saint Gregory Palamas recorded this pledge, portraying the Virgin Mary's commitment to those who choose to battle against the common enemy of mankind on this mountain...
The Ascetic Virgin
This icon is also referred to as "Asketria" or "The Anchoress" because, as per Saint Gregory Palamas, the Virgin Mary was a true ascetic. From a young age, she detached from her parents, seeking solace in the temple to praise the Lord. Her undivided attention and continuous divine prayers set her above all, paving a unique path to heaven...