Icon of the Virgin Mary Paramythia (The Consolation) from Vatopedi Monastery

Icon's Origin and History

The revered icon known as Paramythia originates from a fresco in the external narthex of Vatopedi Monastery's main church. Tradition states that, after evening services, the abbot handed over the monastery keys to the gatekeeper as the monastery's gates remained closed at night.

On the night of January 21, 1320, the abbot, right before entrusting the keys, heard a divine voice from the icon, cautioning him not to open the gates but to ascend the walls to fend off approaching pirates. This warning was issued twice.

The Miraculous Intervention

Upon turning to the icon, the abbot witnessed the Christ Child reaching out to silence the Virgin Mary, possibly to prevent the monks from hearing the warning and facing their deserving fate. However, the Virgin Mary took Christ's hand, moving it away, and reiterated the warning. Heeding her advice, the abbot alerted the brethren. Together, they saw pirates surrounding the monastery, waiting for an opening. Thanks to the Virgin's intervention, the monastery was spared.

Icon's Appearance and Artistry

The icon portrays the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child on her left, her gaze turning rightward, away from His face, with her right hand holding His wrist. Christ is depicted with a sealed scroll in His left hand, His body and face turned towards His mother. An inscription on the silver overlay, crafted in Moldova in 1859, can be found at the bottom. Scholars have debated the icon's age, with the 14th century being the most accepted.