October 24 is the day of the Icon of the Mother of God "Vododatelnitsa": what is the famous image?

On October 24, the Orthodox Church celebrates a holiday in honor of the icon of the Mother of God "Vododatelnitsa", one of the images that is often found in large icons of the Mother of God. In 2025, this day falls on a Friday. Izvestia tells about the history of the icon and what needs believers pray in front of it.

The history of the holiday and the origin of the image

The icon of the Most Holy Theotokos "Vododatelnitsa" was first mentioned in Russian church historical sources no later than the 17th century. And although not much is known about the origin of the icon, it has taken its place among other famous images of the Mother of God. Every year, the celebration in honor of the holy image is celebrated on October 24, which corresponds to October 11 in the old style.

The name of the icon has a direct reference to the evangelical event — the conversation of Jesus Christ with a Samaritan woman at Jacob's well. In this dialogue, the Savior speaks of "living water," which quenches not physical, but spiritual thirst and leads to eternal life. The image of the "Water Giver" embodies the very life-giving moisture that can saturate the soul.

This theological interpretation emphasizes the role of the Mother of God as an intermediary through whom believers gain access to Divine grace. The symbolism of the holiday found a deep response in the hearts of Orthodox Christians, which contributed to the widespread veneration of the image.

Iconography of the Icon of the Mother of God "Vododatelnitsa"

"Vododatelnitsa" refers to the widespread iconographic type "Odigitria", which means "Guide book" in Greek. This type is characterized by a certain composition, where the Virgin Mary points with one hand to the Infant Christ as the way to salvation. The classic scheme has received its own unique, recognizable features in this product.

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The Mother of God is depicted bending her face towards the head of the Divine Infant, who sits on her right arm. With his left hand, Jesus embraces the Mother of God by the neck, demonstrating closeness and filial love, and with his right hand he blesses those who stand in front of the icon. This gesture highlights his role as a Savior.

Iconographically, this image is in many ways similar to the Herman (Herman) icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary. First of all, the position of the Infant of God, sitting on the right hand of the Mother of God, as well as the manner in which she holds him. Both images are symbols of the mercy and intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos before the Lord.

What do they pray for before the holy image?

Believers turn to the icon of the Mother of God "Vododatelnitsa" with a variety of requests. It is believed that prayer in front of this image helps to find peace of mind, strengthen faith and direct life along the path of salvation. The central theme of "living water" makes it especially close to those who seek spiritual renewal and purification.

One of the key requests that come to the image is healing from ailments, both physical and mental. Believers pray for the gift of strength to fight the disease and for the relief of suffering. The symbolism of water, which brings purification and life, acquires a special, specific sound here, giving hope for recovery.

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It is also traditional to ask for protection from any troubles and dangers before the icon. In the folk tradition, there is an idea that the "Water Dispenser" has a special power against witchcraft and any negative effects. In addition, this image is considered the patron saint of the underprivileged, widows, orphans and all those who find themselves in a difficult life situation.

Where can I find the icon of the "Water Giver"

Unlike other revered icons, the "Water Giver" does not have a single, widely known location. This is due to the peculiarity of its distribution — being often reproduced in the form of a brand, it is present in many churches as part of larger icons of the Mother of God. This makes the image accessible for veneration in different parts of the country.

The most famous and accessible place for worship is the Church of the Forty Martyrs near the Novospassky Monastery in Moscow. There is an icon of the Mother of God "Unexpected Joy", in which believers can find a "Water Dispenser". She is one of the 120 images on the margins of the miraculous icon.

Earlier, Izvestia told about the history of the Trubchev Icon of the Mother of God and what this image is known for.

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