The Icon of the Virgin Mary Esphagmeni (The Stabbed) from Vatopedi Monastery
Located in the narthex of the Chapel of St. Demetrios, to the north of Vatopedi Monastery's main church, stands the miraculous Icon of the Virgin Mary Esphagmeni.
Historical Account
Story tells of a dedicated deacon responsible for the church's order. His duties often made him late for the monastic meal. One day, having been denied his meal by the refectory keeper who mocked him for his supposed gluttony, the deacon, overtaken by frustration, turned to the Virgin Mary's image. Enraged, he stabbed the icon with a knife, from which blood miraculously flowed. Stricken blind and mad, the deacon spent three years in penitence before the icon, begging for mercy. The Virgin eventually forgave him, restoring his sanity and sight, but as a lasting reminder of his impulsive act, his offending hand remained blackened. According to Mount Athos customs, upon his death, his remains were exhumed, and this blackened, undecayed hand was found. It remains preserved in Vatopedi Monastery to this day.
Iconographic Features
Stylistic attributes of the Esphagmeni icon suggest it was crafted during the first quarter of the 14th century.