The classic Hodegitria, Mary, who shows us the Way, is also referred to as Sophia, meaning wisdom. Her serene gaze appears to pull us into the solitude from where wisdom is born. The Christ Child sits on His mother’s left arm, holding a scroll, while blessing with his right hand. He is upright, straight and full of majestic detachment. She sits as if enthroned and presents to us the Christ as a young man: king, teacher, guide, master, healer, priest, rabbi, friend, guru, etc.
Christ floats in her arms, with only a tender light embrace. She has no expression of intimacy with the Christ child but rather gazes out in the direction of the viewer. They do not seem to be in relationship, they are separate and active in what each of them understands and contemplates.
Saint Mary’s face reflects courage, sorrow and understanding, gazing at the viewer, silently waiting. Hodegitria Icons speak volumes without words – telling us about her constant devotion to us, the challenges of mothering and asking us to seek and know who her son is. Hodegitria icons are examples of Mary, the one who shows us the Way.
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Mary Jane Miller’s Book, The Mary Collection is Available through Amazon and Lulu.com. Hodegitria, “Mary, who shows us the Way is a familiar classic to be explored. The infinite range of imagination and potential found in Classic iconography. The Hodegitria Icons have influenced this comprehensive collection of 18 images of the Mother of Jesus. I have merged my fascination between tradition and interpretations for contemporary spirituality. ORDER INFO:
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