Why and how the Kazan Icon became one of the most revered in the Russian Orthodox Church

In Russia, the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God occupies a special place among miraculous images, symbolizing heavenly protection and maternal care. She has performed miracles more than once, helping in battles, healing the sick and strengthening faith. For more information about the icon, see the Izvestia article.

Finding an icon: the beginning of the path to universal veneration

The Kazan icon appeared in an era when Orthodoxy was only strengthening on the Volga after the capture of Kazan by Ivan the Terrible in 1552. In 1579, a fire destroyed part of the city, and nine-year-old Matrona saw the Virgin Mary three times in a dream, ordering her to find her image. The girl dug up an icon on the site of a burnt—out house - the face was intact, as if it had just been painted.

Miracles began to happen immediately: during the first procession, two blind men, Joseph and Nikita, regained their sight. Tsar Ivan IV ordered the construction of the Kazan Virgin Monastery on the site of the acquisition, where Matrona became the first nun. The list of the icon was sent to Moscow, and since then the image has become known throughout Russia.

Miracles and their role in the history of Russia

The veneration of the Kazan Icon has increased due to her participation in key events. In the Time of Troubles of 1612, the Second militia of Minin and Pozharsky headed the list of the image: three days of fasting in front of the icon, and on November 4, Moscow was freed from the Poles. As a sign of gratitude, the Kazan Cathedral was erected on Red Square, where the image was placed.

Further, the icon accompanied the Russian army: Peter the Great prayed before it before the Battle of Poltava in 1709, Kutuzov — before the war of 1812. In those moments, she was seen as a "Sovereign shield" giving victory. Tsars from Alexei Mikhailovich to Nicholas II kept lists in their chambers, and in 1649 they established an all—Russian celebration on November 4.

Miracles continued: in the 19th century, the icon cured the blind and mentally ill, and in the 20th century it helped during the revolutionary troubles. Even in space, since 2011, the list on the ISS has symbolized a spiritual connection. These events, recorded in the chronicles, strengthened faith in her intercession, making the image accessible to everyone — from peasants to emperors.

Why the image remains relevant today

The Kazan icon is revered for its versatility: people turn to it for healing (especially the eyes), family peace, protection in adversity, and spiritual insight. Her lists — in hundreds of churches — carry the warmth of maternal care, helping in everyday needs.

In the modern world, it reminds of unity: processions in Kazan gather thousands, and the holidays of July 21 (the acquisition) and November 4 (the liberation of Moscow) are associated with National Unity Day. The image inspires prayer for peace and tolerance, especially in multinational Russia.

In 1904, the original was lost. But in 2023, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia announced the discovery of the miraculous Kazan Icon of the Mother of God.

The Kazan icon is a bridge between the past and the present, where the Mother of God appears as a defender of the people. Her veneration teaches faith and unity, remaining a living legacy of the Russian Orthodox Church.

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