Saint Ephraim of Syria Greek Orthodox Icon
Important Timing Note: These are handcrafted icons from Greece. Average turnaround time is 4 weeks. Please allow 2-6 weeks for delivery. If you are in a rush for the icon, please do not order this handmade item.
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The icon reproductions are created by iconographer monks of various Greek Orthodox monasteries in Greece and all images are approved replications by the Greek Orthodox Church. As icons are considered to be the Gospel in image, these images are accurate and true Orthodox renderings, not second-hand interpretations.
These icon reproductions are prepared in the traditional Orthodox style: a fine detailed image is mounted on solid wood. The mounted image is covered with shellac to provide the luster of a traditional byzantine icon. The icon is then covered with multiple layers of varnish to coat the image with a protective layer that shields the colors from fading and protects from humidity. This Icon also has a hook on the back enabling it to be hung on walls.
These icons are a true Orthodox image approved by the Eastern Orthodox Archdiocese.
Iconographer: Mar. Ginala
Commemorates on: January 28
Saint Ephraim was born in Nisibis of Mesopotamia some time about the year 306, and in his youth was the disciple of Saint James, Bishop of Nisibis, one of the 318 Fathers at the First Ecumenical Council. Ephraim lived in Nisibis, practicing a severe ascetical life and increasing in holiness, until 363, the year in which Julian the Apostate was slain in his war against the Persians, and his successor Jovian surrendered Nisibis to them. Ephraim then made his dwelling in Edessa, where he found many heresies to do battle with. He waged an especial war against Bardaisan; this gnostic had written many hymns propagating his errors, which by their sweet melodies became popular and enticed souls away from the truth. Saint Ephraim, having received from God a singular gift of eloquence, turned Bardaisans own weapon against him, and wrote a multitude of hymns to be chanted by chain of women, which set forth the true doctrines, refuted heretical error, and praised the contests of the Martyrs. Shortly before the end of his life, a famine broke out in Edessa, and Saint Ephraim left his cell to rebuke the rich for not sharing their goods with the poor. The rich answered that they knew no one to whom they could entrust their goods. Ephraim asked them, "What do you think of me?" When they confessed their reverence for him, he offered to distribute their alms, to which they agreed. He himself cared with his own hands for many of the sick from the famine, and so crowned his life with mercy and love for neighbor. Saint Ephraim reposed in Peace, according to some in the year 373, according to others, 379.