M hi to you, dear visitors of the Orthodox website “Family and Faith”!

D This page is dedicated to reading the home magpie - the akathist before the icon of the Mother of God “Softening Evil Hearts.”

P Before this icon of the Most Holy Theotokos they pray for the reconciliation of the warring parties.

P The rules for reading the House Magpie are simple: the Akathist is read daily, for forty days, preferably without omissions; You can read the akathist at any time - morning, afternoon or evening; After reading the magpie, you can start it again until you receive what you asked for. And remember that we Christians must visit the temple of God every Sunday and regularly (at least once a month) proceed to Confession and Communion.

D and the Lord Jesus Christ will fulfill our petitions according to His great mercy and through the persistent intercession of His Most Pure Mother!

SUBMIT A NAME TO THE TEMPLE ON SOROKOST

D Dear brothers and sisters, to increase the fruits of prayer, you can send a note to the Temple on Sorokoust with your name (as well as the names of those for whom you pray). The priest, for forty days, will offer special prayers for you while removing a particle from the prosphora.

P The donation for one name is 300 rubles. (Only names of baptized people are allowed.)

To the chosen Virgin Mary, above all the daughters of the earth, the Mother of the Son of God, who gave Him the salvation of the world, we cry with tenderness: look at our many-sorrowful life, remember the sorrows and illnesses that you endured, like our earthly-born, and do with us according to Your mercy, let's call you T:

Ikos 1

The angel who announced the Nativity of the Savior of the world to the shepherd of Bethlehem, and with him many heavenly powers, praised God, singing: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” But you, Mother of God, who had no place to lay your head, no place in the monasteries, gave birth to Your Firstborn Son in a den and, having wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, laid Him in a manger; thereby recognizing the sorrow of Your heart, crying out to You:

Rejoice, having warmed Your beloved Son with Your breath;

Rejoice, you who wrapped the eternal Child in swaddling clothes.

Rejoice, Thou who nourished the Bearer of the universe with Thy milk;

Rejoice, you who turned the den into the sky.

Rejoice, thou who hast become the throne of a cherub;

Rejoice, thou who remained the Virgin at the Nativity and after the Nativity.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 2

Seeing the Eternal Child, the midwife lying in the manger, the shepherds of Bethlehem came and bowed to Him and spoke about the verb spoken to them by the Angel about the Childhood, and Mariam kept all these verbs in Her heart; and after seven days Jesus was circumcised according to the law of Israel, as a man of eight days; Glorifying Your humility and patience, O Mother of God, we sing to the eternal God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Having a mind established in God and observing the law of the Lord, on the fortieth day, when the days of purification were fulfilled, His parents ascended Jesus to Jerusalem to set Him before the Lord and give a sacrifice for Him according to what was spoken in the Law of the Lord; We cry out to You:

Rejoice, you who brought the Creator of the universe to the temple of Jerusalem to fulfill the law;

Rejoice, joyfully greeted there by Elder Simeon.

Rejoice, one pure and most blessed among women;

Rejoice, O Thy cross, adorned with sorrows, who bore it in humility.

Rejoice, you who disobeyed the will of God in no way;

Rejoice, you who showed the image of patience and humility.

Rejoice, vessel filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit;

Kontakion 3

You were strengthened by the power from above, Mother of God, when you heard the words of Elder Simeon, saying: “Behold, this One is destined for the fall and for the rising of many in Israel, and is a sign that can be contradicted, and a weapon will pierce your very soul, so that many hearts may be opened.” thoughts,” and pierce the heart of the Mother of God with great sorrow, and cry out to God in sorrow: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Having the desire to destroy the Child, the ambassador Herod killed all the children in Bethlehem and its borders from two years ago and below, according to the time of the hedgehog from the wise men and behold, according to the command of God given through an Angel in a dream to the elder Joseph, the whole holy family fled to Egypt and remained there seven years before the death of Herod. With the same emotion we cry out to Ti:

Rejoice, you who bore all the hardships of the journey;

Rejoice, for all the idols fell in the land of Egypt, unable to endure the strength of Your Son.

Rejoice, you who remained with the wicked pagans for seven years;

Rejoice, you who came to Nazareth with the Eternal Child-Youth and with Your Betrothed.

Rejoice, you who lived in poverty with Elder Joseph the treemaker;

Rejoice, you who spent all your time in labor.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 4

The storm of sorrow overcame the Most Pure Mother, but those returning from Jerusalem did not find the Child Jesus on the way. For this reason, she returned seeking Him, and after three days found Him in the church, sitting among the teachers and listening to them and asking them questions. And His Mother spoke to Him: “Child, what have you done to us? Behold Thy father and I painfully seek Thee?” And he said to him: “What is the source of Me, don’t you know that in those who are My Father’s essence is worthy of being Me”; and His Mother kept all these words in Her heart, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Having heard the Mother of God, as Jesus passed through all of Galilee, teaching in their congregations, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom and healing every ailment and every ulcer among the people, and the rumor went out throughout all Syria and brought to Him those who were sick with various illnesses and passions, possessed and demons, and paralyzed and healing them. But You, Mother of God, leading the prophecies, grieved in your heart, knowing that the hour would soon come when Your Son would sacrifice Himself for the sins of the world. We also please You, long-suffering Mother of God, crying out:

Rejoice, you who gave your Son to serve the Jewish people;

Rejoice, sorrowful at heart, but submissive to the will of God.

Rejoice, you who saved the world from the flood of sin;

Rejoice, you who have erased the head of the ancient serpent.

Rejoice, you who offered yourself a living sacrifice to God;

Rejoice, the Lord is with you, O Blessed One.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 5

Preaching the Kingdom of God on earth, Jesus denounced the pride of the Pharisees, who imagined themselves to be righteous. Tis, listening to His parables, understood what He was saying about them, and sought His yat, but was afraid of the people, because they had His prophet; Knowing all this, the Mother of God grieved for her beloved Son, fearing lest they kill Him, crying out in grief: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Having seen the resurrection of Lazarus from the Jews, he went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done, and Caiaphas, the bishop, spoke this year: “We have no choice but to let one man die for the people, and not the whole tongue perish,” from that day they conferred , let them kill Him; We cry out to You, Most Pure One:

Rejoice, you who gave birth to the Savior of the world;

Rejoice, our salvation is the main thing.

Rejoice, pre-chosen from birth as the Mother of our Savior;

Rejoice, Mother of God, doomed to suffering.

Rejoice, Blessed One, who has become the Queen of Heaven;

Rejoice, I will take you out to pray for us.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 6

First a preacher of the word of God, later a traitor - Judas Iscariot, one of the two ten apostles, went to the bishop to betray his Teacher; When they heard it, they were very happy and promised to give him pieces of silver; But you, Mother of God, grieving for your beloved Son, cried out to the mountain God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

The last supper was celebrated by the disciples of Christ, and at it the Teacher bore his mind, thus showing an image of humility, and saying to them: “Only from you will betray Me, the one who eats with Me.” We, with compassionate grief for the Mother of God, cry out to Her:

Rejoice, Mother of God, weary of heartache;

Rejoice, all who endured much sorrow in this vale.

Rejoice, you who found peace in prayer;

Rejoice, joy to all who mourn.

Rejoice, quenching our sorrows;

Rejoice, you who save us from the mire of sin.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 7

The Lord Jesus Christ, who wanted to show His love for the human race at the Last Supper, blessed and broke bread, gave His disciple and apostle the words: “Take, eat, this is My Body,” and having received the cup and given praise, He gave them, saying: “Drink of it, all of you, this is My Blood of the New Testament, which was shed for many for the remission of sins.” Giving thanks to the merciful God for His ineffable mercy towards us, we sing to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

The Lord showed a new sign of His mercy to His disciples, when He promised to send them the Comforter of the Spirit of Truth, Who comes from the Father and will testify about Him. To you, the Mother of God, twice sanctified by the Holy Spirit, we cry:

Rejoice, dwelling place of the Holy Spirit;

Rejoice, all-bright devil.

Rejoice, vast village of God the Word;

Rejoice, you who produced Divine beads.

Rejoice, through Thy Nativity, who opens the doors of heaven to us;

Rejoice, you who have shown us a sign of God’s mercy.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 8

It is strange and regrettable for us to hear that Judas Iscariot betrayed his Teacher and Lord with a kiss, and Spira and the captain and the servants of the Jews brought Jesus and bound Him, and led Him to the high priest Annas first, then to Caiaphas the bishop. The Mother of God, waiting for the mortal counsel of Her beloved Son, cried out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

All the Jews took Jesus from Caiaphas to the praetor to Pilate, saying that He was a villain. Pilate, having questioned Him, told them that not a single person found guilt in Him; we cry out to Ti:

Rejoice, heart tormented by grief, who had;

Rejoice, you who shed tears for your Son.

Rejoice, you who endured everything without complaining, as a servant of the Lord;

Rejoice, you who groan and weep.

Rejoice, Queen of heaven and earth, who accepts the prayers of Her servants;

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 9

All generations bless Thee, the most honorable cherub and the most glorious without comparison seraphim, the Lady and Mother of our Savior, who brought joy to the whole world with Her Nativity, who later had great sorrow, seeing His beloved Son mocked and beaten to the death of the betrayed, but we bring tender singing to Thee, Most Pure , singing to Almighty God: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The prophets of many things will not be able to express all the sufferings You have endured, O our Savior, when the warriors wove a crown of thorns on Your head and put on Your scarlet robe, saying: “Hail, King of the Jews” and beating You on the cheeks. We, Mother of God, recognizing Your suffering, cry out to You:

Rejoice, You nourished Him with Your milk, having seen Him tormented;

Rejoice, thou who hast ripened with crimson and a crown of thorns.

Rejoice, you who suffered through His suffering;

Rejoice, having seen Him abandoned by all His disciples.

Rejoice, you who were condemned by His unrighteous judges;

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 10

To save Jesus, Pilate spoke to the Jews: “It is a custom for us that I will release one to you, so do you want to release the King of the Jews to you?” They all cried out, saying: “Not Him, but Barrabas!” Singing the mercy of God, who gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross, that He might redeem us from eternal death, we cry to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Be a wall and fence for us, Lady, who are exhausted from sorrow and illness. You yourself suffered, hearing the Jews crying: “Crucify Him.” Now hear us crying to You:

Rejoice, Mother of Mercy; taking away every tear from the cruelty of those who suffer;

Rejoice, you who give us tears of tenderness.

Rejoice, you who save perishing sinners;

Rejoice, shameless intercession of Christians.

Rejoice, thou who deliverest us from passions;

Rejoice, you who give joy to the broken heart.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 11

We offer all-congratulatory singing to the Savior of the world, going to His free suffering and carrying His Cross to Calvary upon Him; standing at the Cross of Jesus His Mother, Mary of Cleophas and Mary Magdalene. Jesus, seeing the Mother and the disciple standing, loving him, said to His Mother: “Woman, behold Your son!” then the verb to the student: “Behold your Mother!” And from that hour the disciple went home. You, Mother of God, seeing your Son and Your Lord tormented on the Cross, cried out to the Highlander God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

My Light, Eternal God and Creator of all creatures, Lord, how did you endure the passions on the Cross? - The Pure Virgin said weeping about Your strange Christmas: “My son, I was exalted above all mothers, but, alas for Me, now seeing You crucified, my womb burns”; We shed tears, we cry out to You attentively:

Rejoice, deprived of joy and joy;

Rejoice, you who freely saw the suffering of Your Son on the Cross.

Rejoice, Thy beloved child who matured in the wounded;

Rejoice, O Lamb, see Thy Child as a Lamb led to the slaughter.

Rejoice, you who saw the Savior of mental and physical ulcers covered with ulcers;

Rejoice, Thou who hast ripened Thy Son risen from the dead.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 12

Grant us grace, O All-Merciful Savior, who gave up Your Spirit on the Cross and accepted the handwriting of our sins. “Behold, My good Light, My God was extinguished on the Cross,” the Virgin lamented. “Try, Joseph, to approach Pilate and ask that Thy Teacher be taken down from the tree. Having seen You wounded naked on the tree without glory, My Child, My soul was pierced by a weapon according to the prophecy of the righteous Simeon,” the providence of the Mother of God, crying: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing Thy mercy, O Lover of Mankind, we bow to the riches of Thy mercy, O Lord. “Though You saved Thy creation, Thou didst lift up death,” said the Most Pure One, but by Thy resurrection, O Savior, have mercy on us all, but we call upon Thy Most Pure Mother with tenderness:

Rejoice, dead, visibly lifeless, of the most blessed Lord;

Rejoice, O thou who kissed the body of Thy beloved Son.

Rejoice, Thou didst bear forth the naked and wounded dead of Thy Light;

Rejoice, Thou who betrayed Thy Light to the grave.

Rejoice, thou who hast wrapped the new shroud around His Body;

Rejoice, you who saw Him risen.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 13

O All-Singing Mother, exhausted from sorrow at the Cross of Your Son and God, listen to our sighs and tears and deliver from sorrow, illness and eternal death all who trust in Your ineffable mercy and cry out to God: Alleluia.

This kontakion reads three times, then the first ikos and the first kontakion.

Prayer

O long-suffering Mother of God, Higher than all the daughters of the earth, in Your purity and in the multitude of sufferings You have brought to the earth, accept our much-painful sighs and keep us under the shelter of Your mercy. Do You know of no other refuge and warm intercession, but, since You have the boldness to be born of You, help and save us with Your prayers, so that we may without stumbling reach the Kingdom of Heaven, where with all the saints we will sing praises in the Trinity to the one God, now and ever, and forever and ever. Amen.

Troparion, tone 5:

Soften our evil hearts, Mother of God, and extinguish the misfortunes of those who hate us, and resolve all the tightness of our souls: looking at Your holy image, we are touched by Your compassion and mercy for us and we kiss Your wounds, but we are horrified by our arrows that torment You. Do not let us, merciful Mother, perish in our hardness of heart and from the hardness of our neighbors, for You are truly the Softener of evil hearts.

Kontakion, voice 2:

By Thy grace, Lady, soften the hearts of evildoers, send down benefactors, keeping them from all evil, to those who fervently pray to Thy before Thy honest icons.

Greatness

We magnify You, Most Holy Virgin, God-chosen Youth, and honor Your holy image, through which you bring healing to all who come with faith.

Icon of the Mother of God “Seven Arrows”

Kontakion 1

And to the chosen Virgin Mary, above all the daughters of the earth, the Mother of the Son of God, to Her is given the salvation of the world, we cry with tenderness: look at our many-sorrowful life, remember the sorrows and illnesses that you have endured, like our earthly-born, and do with us according to Your mercy, let's call you T:

Ikos 1

And the angel proclaimed as the shepherd of Bethlehem about the Nativity of the Savior of the world, and with him many heavenly hosts praised God, singing: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” But You, Mother of God, who had no place to lay your head, no place in the monasteries, gave birth to Your Firstborn Son in a den, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger. Moreover, knowing the sorrow of Your heart, we cry out to You:

Rejoice, having warmed Your beloved Son with Your breath; Rejoice, you who wrapped the Eternal Child in swaddling clothes.

Rejoice, Thou who nourished the Bearer of the universe with Thy milk; Rejoice, you who turned the den into the sky.

Rejoice, thou who hast become the throne of the cherubim; Rejoice, thou who remained the Virgin at Christmas and after Christmas.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 2

While the Eternal Child was walking, the shepherds of Bethlehem came and bowed to Him, lying in a manger, and spoke to them about the Childhood. Mariam kept all these words in her heart. And after eight days Jesus was circumcised according to the law of Israel, as a man. Singing Thy humility and patience, O Theotokos, we sing to the Eternal God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Having a mind established in God and observing the Law of the Lord, on the fortieth day, when the days of purification were fulfilled, Jesus was taken up to Jerusalem by His parents, who set Him before the Lord and gave a sacrifice for Him according to what was spoken in the Law of the Lord; We cry out to the Mother of God:

Rejoice, you who brought the Creator of the universe to the Temple of Jerusalem in fulfillment of the Law; Rejoice, you were joyfully met there by Elder Simeon.

Rejoice, One Pure and Blessed One among women; Rejoice, Thy cross, adorned with sorrows, carried in humility.

Rejoice, you who never disobeyed the will of God; Rejoice, you who have shown us the image of patience and humility.

Rejoice, vessel filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit; Rejoice, you who gave birth to the Son of the Only Begotten Heavenly Father.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 3

With the silt from above, you were strengthened, Mother of God, when you heard the words of the righteous elder Simeon: “Behold, this One is destined for the fall and the rising of many in Israel and is a sign that can be contradicted, and a weapon will pierce your very soul, so that many hearts may be opened.” thoughts." Otherwise, great sorrow pierced the heart of the Mother of God, and this cry to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

And being determined to destroy the Child, Herod sent the ambassador to kill all the children who were in Bethlehem and its borders, from two years old and lower, according to the time they experienced it from the Magi. And behold, by the command of God, given through an angel in a dream to Elder Joseph, the entire Holy Family fled to Egypt and remained there for seven years until the death of Herod. Let us also sing with tenderness to You, Mother of God:

Rejoice, you who bore all the hardships of the journey; Rejoice, for all the idols fell in the land of Egypt, unable to endure the strength of Your Son.

Rejoice, you who abided with the wicked pagans; Rejoice, you who came from Egypt with the Firstborn Youth and Your betrothed to Nazareth.

Rejoice, you who lived in poverty with Elder Joseph the treemaker; Rejoice, you who spent all your time in your labors.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 4

Through the storm of sorrow she supported the Most Pure Mother, but when she returned from Jerusalem she did not find the Child Jesus on the way. For this reason, I returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. And it came to pass after three days that He was found in the church, sitting in the midst of the teachers, and listening to them, and questioning them. And His Mother spoke to Him: “Child, what have you done to us? Behold, Thy Father and I, painfully, seek Thee.” And Jesus said to him: “What do you seek Me? Don’t you know that in those who are My Father, I am worthy to be?” But You, Most Pure One, kept these words in Your heart, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

You heard, Mother of God, how Jesus passed through all of Galilee, teaching the crowds, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom and healing every disease and every disease among the people. And the rumor about Him went out throughout the whole country, and they brought to Him all those suffering from various ailments and passions, the demon-possessed and the weakened, and He healed them. But you, Mother of God, leading the prophecy, grieving at heart, knew that the hour would soon come when Your Son would offer Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. In the same way, we please You, the much-sorrowful Mother of God, crying out:

Rejoice, you who gave your Son to serve the Jewish people; Rejoice, sorrowful at heart, but submissive to the will of God.

Rejoice, you who saved the world from the flood of sin; Rejoice, you who have erased the head of the ancient serpent.

Rejoice, you who sacrificed yourself to God; Rejoice, the Lord is with you, blessed one.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 5

Preaching the Kingdom of God on earth, Jesus denounced the pride of the Pharisees, who imagined themselves to be righteous. Moreover, hearing His parables, they understood what He was saying about them, and sought to take Him, but were afraid of the people, because they had His prophet; This is the all-knowing, grieving Mother of God for Her beloved Son, the sufferer, so that they do not kill Him, but rather cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

In the event that the Jews raised Lazarus from the Jews, they went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done; and Caiaphas, the bishop of that year, spoke to them: “We have no choice but to let one man die for the people, and not the whole people perish.” And from this day on they conferred that they might kill Him. We cry out to You, Most Pure One:

Rejoice, you who gave birth to the Savior of the world; Rejoice, our salvation is paramount.

Rejoice, pre-chosen from birth into the Mother of our Savior; Rejoice, Mother of God, doomed to suffering.

Rejoice, Blessed One, become Queen of Heaven; Rejoice, I will take it out for you to pray for us.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 6

First a preacher of the word of God, then a traitor, Judas Iscariot, one of the ten apostles, went to the bishop, even though he betrayed his Teacher; When they heard it, they were delighted and promised to give him pieces of silver. But You, Mother of God, grieving for Your beloved Son, cried out to the mountain God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

The last supper of the disciples of Christ shone, and at it the Teacher touched their minds, showing them an image of humility, and saying to them: “Only the one who eats with Me will betray Me from you.” We, who grieve the Mother of God with compassion, sing to Her:

Rejoice, Mother of God, exhausted by heartache; Rejoice, all who endured much sorrow in this vale.

Rejoice, you who found peace in prayer; Rejoice, Joy to all who mourn.

Rejoice, quenching our sorrows; Rejoice, you who save us from the mire of sin.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 7

X refused to show His love for the human race, our Lord Jesus Christ at the Last Supper, having blessed and broken the bread, He gave His disciple and apostle the words: “Take, eat, this is My body,” and, having received the cup and given praise, He gave to them, saying: “This is My blood of the New Testament, which was shed for many for the remission of sins.” Giving thanks to the Merciful God for His ineffable mercy towards us, we sing to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

The Lord showed a new sign of His mercy to His disciples, promising to send them another Comforter - the Spirit of truth, Who proceeds from the Father and testifies of Him. To you, Mother of God, once again sanctified by the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, we cry out to you:

Rejoice, dwelling place of the Holy Spirit; Rejoice, all-holy devil.

Rejoice, vast village of God the Word; Rejoice, you who produced Divine Beads.

Rejoice, through Your Nativity you open the doors of heaven to us; Rejoice, you who have shown us a sign of God's mercy.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 8

It is strange and sad for us to hear that Judas Iscariot betrayed his Teacher and Lord with a kiss. Spira and the captain and the servants of the bishop took Jesus and bound Him, and led Him to the high priest Annas first, then to Caiaphas the bishop. The Mother of God, awaiting mortal counsel on Her beloved Son, cried out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

The Jews brought Jesus from Caiaphas to the praetor to Pilate, saying that He was a villain. Pilate questioned Him and told them that you had not found a single fault in Him. We, however, cry out to the Mother of God, who sees the reproach of Her Son, touchingly:

Rejoice, you who had a heart tormented by grief; Rejoice, you who shed tears for your Son.

Rejoice, Your beloved Child, ripened at the judgment seat; Rejoice, you who endured everything without complaining, as a servant of the Lord.

Rejoice, you who groan and weep; Rejoice, Queen of heaven and earth, who accepts the prayers of Her servants.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 9

In this birth they bless Thee, the most honorable Cherub and the most glorious without comparison Seraphim, the Lady and Mother of our Savior, who brought joy to the whole world with Her Nativity, but afterward had great sorrow, seeing His beloved Son mocked, beaten and betrayed to death. We offer tender singing to You, Most Pure One, crying out to Almighty God: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

In the process of multiplying, they will not be able to utter all the sufferings You have endured, our Savior, when the warriors wove a crown of thorns and placed it on Your head, and clothed You in a scarlet robe, saying: “Hail, King of the Jews,” and beating You on the cheek. We, Mother of God, knowing Your suffering, cry out to You:

Rejoice, Thou who hast ripened Thy Son; Rejoice, thou who hast ripened with crimson and a crown of thorns.

Rejoice, You who saw Him tormented You nourished Him with Your milk; Rejoice, you who suffered through His suffering.

Rejoice, you who saw His disciples abandoned by all; Rejoice, having been condemned by His unrighteous judges.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 10

From the mouth of Jesus, Pilate spoke to the Jews: “This is your custom, that I may let you have only one for Easter. Do you want, that I may release to you the King of the Jews?” But they all cried out, saying: “Not this one, but Barabbas.” Glorifying the mercy of the Heavenly Father, Who so loved the world, as He gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross, that He might redeem us from eternal death, we cry to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

With shadow and protection, be for us, Lady, who are exhausted from sorrow and illness. You yourself suffered, hearing the Jews crying: “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” Now hear us crying to You:

Rejoice, Mother of mercy, who takes away every tear from the fiercely suffering; Rejoice, you who give us tears of tenderness.

Rejoice, you who save perishing sinners; Rejoice, shameless intercession of Christians.

Rejoice, thou who deliverest us from passions; Rejoice, you who give joy to the brokenhearted.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 11

We offer all-contrite singing to the Savior of the world, who walked into free suffering and carried His cross. The warriors came to Golgotha ​​and drank Him. I stood at the cross of Jesus His Mother, and His Mother’s sister Mary of Cleopas, and Mary Magdalene. Jesus, seeing the Mother and the disciple standing, loved him, saying to His Mother: “Woman, behold Thy son”; then the verb to the student: “Behold your Mother.” And from that hour the disciple was drunk in his own home. But you, Mother of God, were dishonored seeing the Son and the Lord on the cross, you were tormented, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

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From now on, My and Eternal God, Creator of all creatures, Lord! How you endure passion on the cross, - Pure Virgin, weeping, verb. “For Your terrible Christmas, My Son, I would be exalted above all mothers, but alas for Me: now seeing You, my heart is on fire.” We, shedding tears and listening to You, cry out to You:

Rejoice, deprived of joy and joy; Rejoice, you who freely saw the suffering of Your Son on the cross.

Rejoice, Thy beloved child who matured in the wounded; Rejoice, Lamb, led to the slaughter, Mother.

Rejoice, you who saw the Savior of mental and physical ulcers covered with ulcers; Rejoice, Thou who hast ripened Thy Son risen from the dead.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 12

Grant us grace, O All-Merciful Savior, who gave up Your spirit on the Cross and tore apart the handwriting of our sins. “Behold, my sweet light, my good hope and belly, my good God, you were extinguished on the Cross,” the Virgin, lamenting, said. Trying, Joseph, to approach Pilate and ask him to take down his wounded Teacher from the tree: “Give me this strange one, who has nowhere to lay his head.” The Mother of God, having seen Her inglorious Son, naked on the tree, cried out: “Alas for Me, My Child, alas for Me, My light, the weapon passed through My soul according to the words of the righteous elder Simeon.” We, the Most Pure Virgin with compassion, cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Drinking Thy mercy, O Lover of mankind, we bow to the riches of Thy mercy, O Lord. “Even though you saved Thy creation, You lifted up death,” said the Most Pure One, “but by Your Resurrection, O Savior, have mercy on us all.” We cry out to the Mother of God, who prays for us:

Rejoice, you who see the dead, the lifeless of the Most Blessed Lord; Rejoice, thou who kissed the body of Thy beloved Son.

Rejoice, ripening of Your sweet naked and wounded Dead Light; Rejoice, Thou who betrayed Thy Son to the grave.

Rejoice, you who wrapped the new shroud around His body; Rejoice, you who saw His Resurrection.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 13

O All-Singing Mother, exhausted from sorrow at the cross of Your Son and God! Listen to our sighs and tears, soften the evil hearts that rise up against us, deliver from sorrow, illness and eternal death all those who trust in Your ineffable mercy and cry out to God: Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos “Raise the angel...” and the 1st kontakion “To the Chosen Virgin Mary...”.

First prayer

O much-sorrowful Mother of God, who surpassed all the daughters of the earth in Her purity and in the multitude of sufferings You brought to the earth! Accept our many painful sighs and keep us under the shelter of Your mercy. For you know no other refuge and warm intercession, but since we have boldness in the One who was born of You, help and save us with Your prayers, so that we may without stumbling reach the Kingdom of Heaven, where with all the saints we will sing praises to the One God in the Trinity, always , now, and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Second prayer

O who will not please Thee, O Blessed Virgin, who will not sing of Thy mercy to the human race. We pray to you, we ask you: do not leave us, who are perishing in evil, dissolve our hearts with love and send your arrow to our enemies, may our hearts be wounded by peace against those who persecute us. If the world hates us, You extend Your love to us; if the world persecutes us, You accept us. Give us the blessed power of patience - to endure trials without grumbling, which happens in this world. O Lady! Soften the hearts of evil people who rise up against us, so that their hearts do not perish in evil, but pray, O Blessed One, Thy Son and our God, that he may pacify their hearts with peace, and let the devil, the father of evil, be put to shame! We, chanting Your mercy towards us, the evil, the indecent, will sing to You, O Most Wonderful Lady of the Blessed Virgin: hear us at this hour, contrite hearts of those who have it, protect us with peace and love for each other and for our enemies, eradicate from us all malice and enmity, let us sing to You and to Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ: Alleluia! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Troparion, tone 8

Having comprehended the human soul and quenched the evil advice, crush, O Lady of God, and disperse the darkness of sins, and guide us on the path of humility, so that we too will walk in the light of deeds, and triumph in Your icons at the appearance, and trust in Your help, and touching call with a voice, Lady, from the depths: help, O One Blessed One.

Troparion, tone 5

Soften our evil hearts, Mother of God, and extinguish the misfortunes of those who hate us, and resolve all the tightness of our souls, for as we look at Your holy image, we are touched by Your suffering and mercy for us and we kiss Your wounds, but we are horrified by our arrows that torment You. Do not let us, O Compassionate Mother, perish in our hard-heartedness and from the hard-heartedness of our neighbors, for You are truly the softener of evil hearts.

Kontakion, tone 6

Oh, they confuse my heart, and evil advice ruins me, crush these, O Pure Virgin, and do not despise my sighing, and soften the adversaries against us, O Most Blessed Lady.

In Kontakion, voice 2

By Thy grace, O Lady, soften the hearts of evildoers, send down benefactors, keeping them from all evil, to those who earnestly pray to Thy before Thy honest icons.

Greatness

We glorify You, Most Holy Virgin, God-chosen Youth, and we honor Your holy image, through which you bring healing to all who come with faith.

Interpretation of the meaning of the Seven Arrows icon of the Mother of God

The “Seven Arrow” Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos is one of the most miraculous icons in Rus'. For many centuries, Christians appealed to the Queen of Heaven through this icon if wars or riots broke out in the country.

The “Seven Arrow” Icon of the Mother of God depicts the Gospel story of how the Virgin Mary and Joseph the Betrothed brought the Infant Christ to the Jerusalem Temple on the 40th day after His birth. The holy elder Simeon the God-Receiver, who was present in the temple, at the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, saw in the Infant God the Messiah, the Redeemer expected by all the Israeli people. Anticipating the sorrow that the Mother of God would have to endure during the crucifixion of Christ, righteous Simeon turned to Her with the words: “Behold, this One lies for the fall and rebellion of many in Israel and for the subject of controversy—and a weapon will pierce your very soul.”(Luke 2:34-35).

The icon depicts the Most Holy Theotokos without the Infant God with seven arrows or swords piercing Her heart. The number 7 in Holy Scripture generally means the “fullness” of something. In this case, seven arrows piercing the Body of the Most Pure One, about which Simeon the Receiver of God allegorically prophesied: "Weapons will pierce the soul", mean the fullness of that grief, “sadness and heart disease” that were suffered by the Blessed Virgin Mary in Her earthly life.

This image is sometimes supplemented by the image of the deceased Christ on the knees of the Mother of God.

There is another interpretation of the image: the seven arrows piercing the chest of the Most Holy Theotokos represent the seven main human sinful passions, which the Mother of God is easily able to read in every human heart. And the passions of fallen nature pierce her soul no less than the vision of a host of demons rejoicing around the desecrated Son, tormented on the Cross.

According to legend, the original miraculous image of the “Seven Arrow” Mother of God was painted in ancient times, more than 500 years ago.

The appearance of the icon is associated with healing help given to a peasant in the Vologda province who was ill for a long time in the Kadnikovsky district near Vologda (on the banks of the Toshni River). He suffered from weakness and lameness for many years and tried unsuccessfully in various ways to overcome his illness. One day, in a subtle dream, a Divine voice commanded him to find the image of the Most Holy Theotokos in the bell tower of the Church of the Holy Apostle John the Theologian, where the old icons were kept, and to pray with faith before it for the healing of his illness. Arriving at the temple, the peasant was not immediately able to fulfill what was indicated to him in the vision. Only after the peasant’s third request did the clergy, who did not believe his words, allow him to climb the bell tower. It turned out that for a long time this holy image was located at the turn of the stairs of the church bell tower. The icon turned face down was mistaken for an ordinary board, which served as a step in the staircase along which the bell ringers climbed. Horrified by this involuntary blasphemy, the clergy washed the image and served a prayer service in front of it, after which the peasant received complete healing.

Unfortunately, after the revolution the miraculous icon disappeared. But there remain numerous lists that are also miraculous.

There is also a very similar type of icon of the Mother of God, which is called Icon of the Mother of God “SOFTENING EVIL HEARTS”,or"Simeon's Prophecy". Its difference lies in the fact that the arrows piercing the heart of the Mother of God in this image are located three on the right and left, and one on the bottom, while the “Seven Arrows” icon has four arrows on one side and three on the other.

In modern iconography, these icons are considered to be varieties of the same iconographic type, and despite the differences, they are often combined and called the same - “Semistrelnaya” (“Softening Evil Hearts”). Moreover, in prayer practice these two images are also combined, because have the same meaning.

Finally, there is another image, similar in iconography to the “Seven Arrows” and “Softening Evil Hearts” - this icon is called, which was previously located in the village of Zhizdra, Kaluga region, "Passionate"or “And a weapon will pierce your very soul”. It was established that the celebration should take place on the same day as the “Seven Shot”. Unlike the widespread icons of the Mother of God “Passionate”, which belong to a completely different iconographic type - Hodegetria, the image from Zhizdra depicts the Mother of God in a prayer pose. With one hand she supports the Baby Jesus, and with the other she covers her own chest, at which 7 swords are aimed. It is customary to pray to the Mother of God and ask Her intercession before this icon in the same way as before the “Seven Arrows”.

Zhizdra Passion Icon of the Mother of God or “And a weapon will pierce your very soul”

The celebration in honor of the icon of the Mother of God “Seven Arrows” takes place once a year - August 26 (August 13, old style). This date coincides with the miraculous deliverance of Vologda from cholera in 1830 after the townspeople fervently prayed to the Mother of God in front of Her image of the “Seven Arrows” and made a religious procession around the city with the icon.

They pray in front of the “Seven Arrow” icon of the Most Holy Theotokos when any discord, quarrel, enmity or complex litigation occurs in a person’s life. This bright image of the Mother of God is also revered as the guardian of the hearth. They pray to the Most Pure Virgin in front of the “Seven Arrows” icon in order to maintain harmony in the house, reconcile with relatives, resolve a long-term conflict with loved ones, and improve relationships between spouses, as well as children and parents.

Celebration:

on All Saints Sunday

Troparion, tone 5

Soften our evil hearts, Mother of God, and extinguish the misfortunes of those who hate us, and resolve all the tightness of our souls, for as we look at Your holy image, we are touched by Your suffering and mercy for us and we kiss Your wounds, but we are horrified by our arrows that torment You. Do not let us, O Compassionate Mother, perish in our hard-heartedness and from the hard-heartedness of our neighbors, for You are truly the softener of evil hearts.

Kontakion, tone 2

By Thy grace, Lady, soften the hearts of evildoers, send down benefactors, keeping them from all evil, to those who fervently pray to Thy before Thy honest icons.

Kontakion 1

To the chosen Virgin Mary, above all the daughters of the earth, the Mother of the Son of God, Who gave salvation to the world, we cry with tenderness: look at our many-sorrowful life, remember the sorrows and illnesses that you endured, like our earthly-born, and do with us according to Your mercy, let us call Tee:

Ikos 1

The angel who announced the Nativity of the Savior of the world to the shepherd of Bethlehem, and with him many of the Heavenly Powers, praised God, singing: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” But you, Mother of God, who had no place to lay your head, no place in the monasteries, gave birth to Your Firstborn Son in a den and, having wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, laid Him in a manger; thereby recognizing the sorrow of Your heart, crying out to You:

Rejoice, having warmed Your beloved Son with Your breath.

Rejoice, thou who hast wrapped the Eternal Child in swaddling clothes.

Rejoice, Thou who nourished the Bearer of the universe with Thy milk.

Rejoice, you who turned the den into the sky.

Rejoice, thou who art become the throne of the Cherubim.

Rejoice, thou who remained the Virgin at the Nativity and after the Nativity.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 2

Seeing the Eternal Child, the midwife lying in the manger, the shepherds of Bethlehem came and bowed to Him and spoke about the verb spoken to them by the Angel about the Childhood; Mariam kept all these words in her heart. And after seven days Jesus was circumcised according to the law of Israel, as a man of eight days. Singing Thy humility and patience, O Theotokos, we sing to the eternal God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Having a mind established in God and observing the law of the Lord, on the fortieth day, when the days of purification were fulfilled, Jesus ascended to Jerusalem His parents, in order to set Him before the Lord and give a sacrifice for Him according to what was spoken in the Law of the Lord. We cry out to You:

Rejoice, you who brought the Creator of the universe to the temple of Jerusalem to fulfill the law.

Rejoice, you were joyfully welcomed there by Elder Simeon.

Rejoice, one pure and most blessed among women.

Rejoice, O Thy Cross, adorned with sorrows, and carried in humility.

Rejoice, you who have never listened to the will of God.

Rejoice, you who have shown the image of patience and humility.

Rejoice, vessel filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 3

By the power from above you were strengthened by the Mother of God, when you heard the words of Elder Simeon saying: “Behold, this One is destined for the fall and for the rising of many in Israel, and as a sign it is reproached, and a weapon will pierce your very soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” . And great sorrow pierced the heart of the Mother of God, and cried out to God in sorrow: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Having the desire to destroy the Child, the ambassador Herod killed all the children who were in Bethlehem and its borders, from two years old and below, according to the time they were tested by the Magi; and behold, according to the command of God, given through an Angel in a dream to Elder Joseph, the entire Holy Family fled to Egypt and remained there for seven years, until the death of Herod. Also with tenderness we cry out to Ti:

Rejoice, you who bore all the hardships of the journey.

Rejoice, for all the idols fell in the land of Egypt, unable to endure the strength of Your Son.

Rejoice, you who remained with the wicked pagans for seven years.

Rejoice, you who came to Nazareth with the Eternal Child-Youth and with Your Betrothed.

Rejoice, you who lived in poverty with Elder Joseph the treemaker.

Rejoice, you who spent all your time in labor.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 4

The storm of grief overcame the Most Pure Mother, and when she returned from Jerusalem she did not find the Child Jesus on the way; for this reason he returned seeking Him. And it came to pass after three days that she found Him in the church, sitting in the midst of the teachers, and listening to them, and asking them questions. And his Mother spoke to Him: “Child, what have you done to us? Behold, Thy Father and I painfully seek Thee.” And he said to him: “What is it that I am asking for? Isn’t it true that in those who are My Father, I am worthy of being?” And His Mother kept all these words in Her heart, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hearing the Mother of God, as Jesus passed through all of Galilee, teaching in their congregations, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom and healing every ailment and every ulcer among the people, and the rumor went out throughout all Syria, and brought to Him those suffering from various ailments and passions, possessed by demons, and weakened. , and healed them. But You, Mother of God, leading the prophecies, grieved in your heart, knowing that the hour would soon come when Your Son would sacrifice Himself for the sins of the world. We also please You, long-suffering Mother of God, crying out:

Rejoice, you who gave your Son to serve the Jewish people.

Rejoice, sorrowful at heart, but submissive to the will of God.

Rejoice, you who saved the world from the flood of sin.

Rejoice, you who have erased the head of the ancient serpent.

Rejoice, you who brought yourself as a living sacrifice to God.

Rejoice, the Lord is with you, O Blessed One.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 5

Preaching the Kingdom of God on earth, Jesus denounced the pride of the Pharisees, who imagined themselves to be righteous. And when they heard His parables, they understood what He was saying about them, and sought His burden, but they were afraid of the people, because they had not His prophet. Knowing all this, the Mother of God grieved for her beloved Son, fearing lest they kill Him, crying out in grief: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Having seen from the Jews the resurrection of Lazarus, he went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done; and the speech of Caiaphas, the bishop of that year: “We have no choice but to let one man die for the people, and not the whole language perish”; and from that day they conferred, that they might kill Him. We cry out to You, Most Pure One:

Rejoice, you who gave birth to the Savior of the world.

Rejoice, our salvation is the main thing.

Rejoice, pre-chosen Mother of our Savior from birth.

Rejoice, Mother of God, doomed to suffering.

Rejoice, Blessed One, who has become the Queen of Heaven.

Rejoice, I will take you out to pray for us.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 6

First a preacher of the word of God, later a traitor - Judas Iscariot, one of the two ten Apostles, went to the bishop to betray his Teacher; When they heard it, they were very happy and promised to give him pieces of silver. But You, Mother of God, grieving for Your beloved Son, cried out to the mountaineer: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

The last supper was celebrated by the disciples of Christ, and at it the Teacher bore his mind, thus showing an image of humility, and saying to them: “Only from you will betray Me, the one who eats with Me.” We, with compassionate grief for the Mother of God, cry out to Her:

Rejoice, Mother of God, exhausted by heartache.

Rejoice, all who endured much sorrow in this vale.

Rejoice, you who found peace in prayer.

Rejoice, Joy to all who mourn.

Rejoice, quenching our sorrows.

Rejoice, you who save us from the mire of sin.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 7

Wanting to show His love for the human race, the Lord Jesus Christ at the Last Supper, blessing and breaking bread, gave His disciple and Apostle the words: “Take, eat, this is My Body”; and having received the cup and given praise, he gave it to them, saying: “Drink of it, all of you, this is My Blood of the New Testament, which was shed for many for the remission of sins.” Giving thanks to the Merciful God for His ineffable mercy towards us, we sing to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

The Lord showed a new sign of His mercy to His disciples, when He promised to send them the Comforter of the Spirit of Truth, Who proceeds from the Father and will testify about Him. To you, Mother of God, twice sanctified by the Holy Spirit, we cry:

Rejoice, dwelling place of the Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, all-bright devil.

Rejoice, vast village of God the Word.

Rejoice, you who produced Divine beads.

Rejoice, through Your Christmas you open the doors of heaven to us.

Rejoice, you who have shown us a sign of God’s mercy.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 8

It is strange and sad for us to hear that Judas Iscariot betrayed his Teacher and Lord with a kiss; Spira, and the captain, and the servants of the Jews brought Jesus and bound Him, and led Him to the high priest Annas first, then to Caiaphas the bishop. The Mother of God, waiting for the mortal counsel of Her beloved Son, cried out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

All the Jews took Jesus from Caiaphas to the praetor to Pilate, saying that He was a villain. Pilate, having questioned Him, told them that not a single person found guilt in Him. We cry out to Ti:

Rejoice, heart tormented by grief, who had.

Rejoice, you who shed tears for your Son.

Rejoice, you who endured everything without complaining, as a servant of the Lord.

Rejoice, you who groan and weep.

Rejoice, Queen of heaven and earth, who accepts the prayers of Her servants.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 9

All generations bless Thee, the most honorable Cherub and the most glorious without comparison Seraphim, the Lady and Mother of our Savior, who brought joy to the whole world with Her Nativity, who later had great sorrow, seeing His beloved Son mocked, beaten, and betrayed to death; We offer tender singing to You, Most Pure One, singing to Almighty God: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The branches of multi-proclamation will not be able to utter all the suffering You endured, our Savior, when the warriors wove a crown of thorns on Your head and put on a scarlet robe, saying: “Hail, King of the Jews,” and hitting You on the cheeks. We, Mother of God, recognizing Your suffering, cry out to You:

Rejoice, You who saw Him tormented You nourished Him with Your milk.

Rejoice, thou who hast ripened with crimson and a crown of thorns.

Rejoice, you who suffered through His suffering.

Rejoice, having seen Him abandoned by all His disciples.

Rejoice, having been condemned by His unrighteous judges.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 10

To save Jesus, Pilate spoke to the Jews: “This is your custom, but I will release only one thing to you; Do you want, then, that I will release to you the King of the Jews?” They all cried out, saying: “Not Him, but Barabbas!” Singing the mercy of God, who gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross, that He might redeem us from eternal death, we cry to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Be a wall and a fence for us, Lady, who are exhausted from sorrow and illness: You yourself suffered, hearing the Jews crying: “Crucify Him!” Now hear us crying to You:

Rejoice, Mother of mercy, who takes away every tear from the cruelty of those who suffer.

Rejoice, you who give us tears of tenderness.

Rejoice, you who save perishing sinners.

Rejoice, shameless intercession of Christians.

Rejoice, you who deliver us from passions.

Rejoice, you who give joy to the broken heart.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 11

We offer all-contrite singing to the Savior of the world, who went to free suffering and carried His Cross to Golgotha, that He may be pierced. I stood at the Cross of Jesus His Mother, Mary of Cleopas and Mary Magdalene. Jesus, seeing the Mother and the disciple standing, loved him, and said to His Mother: “Woman, behold Thy son.” Then the verb to the student: “Behold your Mother.” And from that hour the disciple began to drink in his own way. But you, Mother of God, seeing your Son and Lord on the Cross, tormented, cried out to the mountaineer: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

“My Light, Eternal God and Creator of all creatures, Lord, how did you endure the passions on the Cross?” - The Pure Virgin weepingly said, “Over your strange Christmas, My Son, I was exalted above all mothers: but alas for Me. Now, seeing You crucified, I am incinerated within the womb.” We shed tears, listening to You, and cry:

Rejoice, deprived of joy and joy.

Rejoice, you who freely saw the suffering of Your Son on the Cross.

Rejoice, O Child of Your beloved, who matured with the wounded.

Rejoice, O Lamb, seeing Your Child as a Lamb being led to the slaughter.

Rejoice, you who saw the Savior of mental and physical ulcers covered with ulcers.

Rejoice, Thou who hast ripened Thy Son risen from the dead.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 12

Grant us grace, O All-Merciful Savior, who gave up Your spirit on the Cross and condemned the handwriting of our sins. “Behold, My good Light, My God is extinguished on the Cross,” the Virgin lamented, “Try, Joseph, to approach Pilate and ask him to take down your Teacher from the tree. They see You wounded, without glory, naked on the tree, My Child, a weapon has pierced My soul, according to the prophecy of the righteous Simeon,” the providence of the Mother of God, crying: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing Thy mercy, O Lover of Mankind, we bow to the riches of Thy mercy, O Lord. “Even though you have lifted up death to save your creation,” said the Most Pure One, by your resurrection, O Savior, have mercy on us all. We call upon Your Most Pure Mother with tenderness:

Rejoice, you who see the dead and lifeless Lord.

Rejoice, thou who kissed the body of Thy beloved Son.

Rejoice, for you have seen the naked and wounded dead of Your Light.

Rejoice, Thou who betrayed Thy Light to the grave.

Rejoice, you who wrapped the new shroud around His body.

Rejoice, you who saw Him risen.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy.

Kontakion 13

O All-Singing Mother, exhausted from sorrow at the Cross of Your Son and God, listen to our sighs and tears and deliver from sorrow, illness and eternal death all those who trust in Your ineffable mercy and cry out to God: Alleluia.

(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1).

Prayer

O Many-sorrowful Mother of God, who surpassed all the daughters of the earth in Her purity and in the multitude of sufferings You brought to the earth! Accept our much-painful sighing and keep us under the shelter of Your mercy, for refuge and warm intercession are not known to You, but as we have boldness towards Him Who was born of You, help and save us with Your prayers, so that we may unfalteringly reach the Kingdom of Heaven, where we with all the saints we will sing praises to the One God in the Trinity, always, now, and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Icon of the Mother of God “Softening Evil Hearts” (“Simeon’s Prophecy”)

The icon “Softening Evil Hearts” is also called “Simeon’s Prophecy.” As the holy evangelist Luke narrates, the righteous elder Simeon the God-Receiver was predicted by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until he saw the Messiah. And when the parents, on the fortieth day after the birth of the Baby, brought Him to the temple, Simeon also came there “by inspiration,” took the Baby in his arms (hence the nickname God-Receiver) and uttered the famous words with which since then every Vespers service has ended and are known as Prayer of Saint Simeon the God-Receiver: “Now dost thou dismiss Thy servant, O Master, according to Thy word, in peace...” Then he blessed St. Joseph and the Most Pure Mother of the Savior and turned to Mary with the same “Simeon’s prophecy”: “Behold, this one lies for the fall and rebellion of many in Israel and for the subject of controversy, - and a weapon will pierce your own soul, - so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed." Just as Christ will be pierced with nails and a spear, so the soul of the Most Pure Virgin will be struck by a certain “weapon” of sadness and heartache when She sees the suffering of the Son; Afterwards, the hitherto hidden thoughts (about the Messiah) of people who will have to make a choice will be revealed: they are with Christ or against Him. This interpretation of Simeon’s prophecy became the subject of several “symbolic” icons of the Virgin Mary. All those who come to them with prayer feel that when the heart is softened, mental and physical suffering is alleviated, and they realize: when they pray in front of these images for their enemies, then their hostile feelings soften, giving way to mercy, internecine warfare and enmity subside.

The image “Softening Evil Hearts” apparently comes from Southwestern Rus', but, unfortunately, there has never been any historical information about it; it is not even known where and when the icon appeared. The Mother of God in the icon “Softening Evil Hearts” is depicted with swords stuck into Her heart - three on the right and left, one on the bottom. The number “seven” in the Holy Scriptures usually means the completeness, redundancy of something, and in this case, the fullness and vastness of the grief, sadness and “heart disease” that the Mother of God experienced during Her earthly life. Sometimes the Eternal Child is also written on the lap of the Most Pure Virgin.

Another miraculous image is very close to “Softening Evil Hearts” - the “Seven Arrow” icon of the Mother of God. The only difference between them is that on the “Seven Shot” the swords are written differently - three on the right side of the Most Pure One and four on the left, and her celebration takes place on August 26 in the new style.

During World War II, in the south of the Voronezh region, in an area known as Belogorye (from the chalk cliffs on the right bank of the Don near the city of Pavlovsk), Italian mountain rifle units fought on the side of the Nazis. In the second half of December 1942, soldiers from the platoon of Lieutenant Giuseppe Perego found the icon “Softening Evil Hearts” in a house destroyed by bombing, which they gave to their military priest, chaplain Father Policarpo from Valdagna. According to local residents, this icon came from the cave Resurrection Belogorsk Monastery near Pavlovsk. The Italians called her “Madonna del Don” (“Madonna of the Don”; this image should not be confused with the “Our Lady of the Don”). After the Ostrogozh-Rossoshansky offensive of Soviet troops in January 1943, the remnants of the defeated Italian corps left the borders of our country. Chaplain Policarpo took the “Madonna of the Don” with him to Italy, where in the city of Mestre (mainland Venice) a chapel was built especially for her, which still remains a place of mass pilgrimage for relatives and friends of Italian soldiers who died on Russian lands.

By blessing

Metropolitan John of Kherson and Tauride

Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her icon “Softening Evil Hearts”

Akathist. The history of the emergence and veneration of the icon of the Mother of God. Ancient and miraculous icons and modern images...

Commemoration of the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Softening Evil Hearts”: February 3/16 and All Saints Sunday

Icon of the Mother of God "Softening Evil Hearts". Historical reference

The Icon of the Mother of God “Softening Evil Hearts” is also called “Simeon’s Prophecy.” As the holy evangelist Luke narrates, the righteous elder Simeon the God-Receiver “... was predicted by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death until he saw Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:26). And when the parents, on the fortieth day after the birth of the Baby, brought Him to the temple, Simeon also came there “by inspiration,” took the Baby in his arms (hence the name “Receiver of God”) and uttered the famous words with which every Vespers service has ended since then. and known as the Prayer of St. Simeon the God-Receiver: “Now Thou releasest Thy servant, O Master, according to Thy word, in peace...” (Luke 2:29) Then he blessed St. Joseph and the Most Pure Mother of the Savior and turned to Mary with the same Simeon prophecy: “Behold, this One is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel and for the subject of controversy, and a weapon will pierce Your own soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:34-35). Just as Christ is pierced with nails and a spear, so the soul of the Most Pure Virgin will be struck by a certain “weapon” of sadness and heartache when She sees the suffering of Her Son; after that, the hidden thoughts of people who will have to make a choice will be revealed: they are with Christ or against Him. This interpretation of Simeon’s prophecy became the subject of several “symbolic” icons of the Mother of God.

Usually the icon depicts the Mother of God, whose heart is pierced by seven swords - three on the right and left and one on the bottom. The number “seven” in the Holy Scripture means the “fullness” of something, in this case – the fullness of all the grief, “sadness and heart disease” that the Blessed Virgin suffered in Her earthly life.

The “Seven Arrow” icon of the Mother of God also has a similar image. The only difference is that the swords that pierced the heart of the Mother of God are located on her slightly differently - three on one side and four on the other side. The celebration of this icon takes place on August 13th, while the celebration of the “Softening Evil Hearts” icon occurs on All Saints Sunday.

All believers who resort to miraculous icons with faith and prayer feel that when the heart is softened, mental and physical suffering is alleviated; they realize that when they pray in front of these images for their enemies, then their hostile feelings disappear, giving way to kindness and mercy.

Orthodox church calendar

Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her icon “Softening Evil Hearts”

Icon of the Mother of God "Softening Evil Hearts", 1848

Kontakion 1

To the chosen Virgin Mary, above all the daughters of the earth, the Mother of the Son of God, to Her is given the salvation of the world, we cry with tenderness: look at our many-sorrowful life, remember the sorrows and illnesses that you have endured, like our earthly-born, and do with us according to Your mercy, yes call T:

Ikos 1

The angel proclaimed as the shepherd of Bethlehem the Nativity of the Savior of the world, and with him many heavenly hosts praised God, singing: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” But You, Mother of God, who had no place to lay your head, no place in the monasteries, gave birth to Your Firstborn Son in a den, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger. Moreover, knowing the sorrow of Your heart, we cry out to You:

Rejoice, having warmed Your beloved Son with Your breath.

Rejoice, thou who hast wrapped the Eternal Child in swaddling clothes.

Rejoice, Thou who nourished the Bearer of the universe with Thy milk.

Rejoice, you who turned the den into the sky.

Rejoice, thou who hast become the throne of the cherubim.

Rejoice, in the Nativity and after the Nativity, the Virgin remained.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 2

Seeing the Eternal Child, the midwife lying in the manger, the shepherds of Bethlehem came and bowed to Him and spoke to them about the Childhood. Mariam kept all these words in her heart. And after eight days Jesus was circumcised according to the law of Israel, as a man. Singing Thy humility and patience, O Theotokos, we sing to the Eternal God: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Having a mind established in God and observing the Law of the Lord, on the fortieth day, when the days of purification were fulfilled, Jesus was taken up to Jerusalem by His parents, who set Him before the Lord and gave a sacrifice for Him according to what was spoken in the Law of the Lord; We cry out to the Mother of God:

Rejoice, you who brought the Creator of the universe to the Temple of Jerusalem in fulfillment of the Law.

Rejoice, you were joyfully welcomed there by Elder Simeon.

Rejoice, One Pure and Blessed One among women.

Rejoice, Thy cross, adorned with sorrows, carried in humility.

Rejoice, you who never disobeyed the will of God.

Rejoice, you who have shown us the image of patience and humility.

Rejoice, vessel filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, you who gave birth to the Son of the Only Begotten Heavenly Father.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 3

You were strengthened by the power from above, Mother of God, when you heard the words of the righteous elder Simeon: “Behold, this One is destined for the fall and the rising of many in Israel and is a sign to be contradicted, and a weapon will pierce your very soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” ". Otherwise, great sorrow pierced the heart of the Mother of God, and this cry to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Having the desire to destroy the Child, the ambassador Herod killed all the children who were in Bethlehem and its borders, from two years old and lower, according to the time they were tested by the Magi. And behold, by the command of God, given through an angel in a dream to Elder Joseph, the entire Holy Family fled to Egypt and remained there for seven years until the death of Herod. Let us also sing with tenderness to You, Mother of God:

Rejoice, you who bore all the hardships of the journey.

Rejoice, for all the idols fell in the land of Egypt, unable to endure the strength of Your Son.

Rejoice, you who dwelled with the wicked pagans.

Rejoice, you who came from Egypt with the Firstborn Youth and Your betrothed to Nazareth.

Rejoice, you who lived in poverty with Elder Joseph the treemaker.

Rejoice, you who accompanied Your work all the time.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 4

The storm of grief overcame the Most Pure Mother, and when she returned from Jerusalem she did not find the Child Jesus on the way. For this reason, I returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. And it came to pass after three days that He was found in the church, sitting in the midst of the teachers, and listening to them, and questioning them. And His Mother spoke to Him: “Child, what have you done to us? Behold, Your Father and I, painfully, seek You.” And Jesus said to him: “Why do you seek Me? Do you not know that in those who are My Father, I am worthy to be?” But You, Most Pure One, kept these words in Your heart, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

You, Mother of God, heard how Jesus walked through all of Galilee, teaching the crowds, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom and healing every disease and every disease among the people. And the rumor about Him went out throughout the whole country, and they brought to Him all those suffering from various ailments and passions, the demon-possessed and the weakened, and He healed them. But you, Mother of God, leading the prophecy, grieving at heart, knew that the hour would soon come when Your Son would offer Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. In the same way, we please You, the much-sorrowful Mother of God, crying out:

Rejoice, you who gave your Son to serve the Jewish people.

Rejoice, sorrowful at heart, but submissive to the will of God.

Rejoice, you who saved the world from the flood of sin.

Rejoice, you who have erased the head of the ancient serpent.

Rejoice, you who sacrificed yourself to God.

Rejoice, the Lord is with you, blessed one.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 5

Preaching the Kingdom of God on earth, Jesus denounced the pride of the Pharisees, who thought themselves to be righteous. Moreover, hearing His parables, they understood what He was saying about them, and sought to take Him, but were afraid of the people, because they had His prophet; This is the all-knowing, grieving Mother of God for Her beloved Son, the sufferer, so that they do not kill Him, but rather cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Having seen from the Jews the resurrection of Lazarus, Netius went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done; and Caiaphas, the bishop of that year, spoke to them: “We have no choice but to let one man die for the people, and not the whole people perish.” And from this day on they conferred that they might kill Him. We cry out to You, Most Pure One:

Rejoice, you who gave birth to the Savior of the world.

Rejoice, our salvation is paramount.

Rejoice, pre-chosen from birth into the Mother of our Savior.

Rejoice, Mother of God, doomed to suffering.

Rejoice, Blessed One, become Queen of Heaven.

Rejoice, I will pray for you for us.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 6

First a preacher of the word of God, but later a traitor, Judas Iscariot, one of the ten apostles, went to the bishop, even though he betrayed his Teacher; When they heard it, they were delighted and promised to give him pieces of silver. But You, Mother of God, grieving for Your beloved Son, cried out to the mountain God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

The last supper dawned on the disciples of Christ, and at it the Teacher struck their minds, showing them an image of humility, and saying to them: “Only the one who eats with Me will betray Me from you.” We, who grieve the Mother of God with compassion, sing to Her:

Rejoice, Mother of God, exhausted by heartache.

Rejoice, all who endured much sorrow in this vale.

Rejoice, you who found peace in prayer.

Rejoice, Joy to all who mourn.

Rejoice, quenching our sorrows.

Rejoice, you who save us from the mire of sin.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 7

Our Lord Jesus Christ, who wanted to show His love for the human race at the Last Supper, blessed and broke the bread, gave His disciple and apostle the words: “Take, eat, this is My body,” and, receiving the cup and giving praise, gave to them, saying : “This is My blood of the New Testament, which was shed for many for the remission of sins.” Giving thanks to the Merciful God for His ineffable mercy towards us, we sing to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

The Lord showed a new sign of His mercy to His disciples, promising to send them another Comforter - the Spirit of truth, Who proceeds from the Father and testifies of Him. To you, Mother of God, once again sanctified by the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, we cry out to you:

Rejoice, dwelling place of the Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, all-holy devil.

Rejoice, vast village of God the Word.

Rejoice, you who produced Divine Beads.

Rejoice, through Your Nativity you open the doors of heaven to us.

Rejoice, you who have shown us a sign of God’s mercy.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 8

It is strange and sad for us to hear that Judas Iscariot betrayed his Teacher and Lord with a kiss. Spira and the captain and the servants of the bishop took Jesus and bound Him, and led Him to the high priest Annas first, then to Caiaphas the bishop. The Mother of God, awaiting mortal counsel on Her beloved Son, cried out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

All the Jews took Jesus from Caiaphas to the praetor to Pilate, saying that He was a villain. Pilate questioned Him and told them that you had not found a single fault in Him. We, however, cry out to the Mother of God, who sees the reproach of Her Son, touchingly:

Rejoice, you who had a heart tormented by grief.

Rejoice, you who shed tears for your Son.

Rejoice, Child of Your beloved who has matured at the judgment seat.

Rejoice, you who endured everything without complaining, as a servant of the Lord.

Rejoice, you who groan and weep.

Rejoice, Queen of heaven and earth, who accepts the prayers of Her servants.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 9

All generations bless Thee, the most honorable Cherub and the most glorious without comparison Seraphim, the Lady and Mother of our Savior, who brought joy to the whole world with Her Nativity, but then had great sorrow, seeing His beloved Son mocked, beaten and betrayed to death. We offer tender singing to You, Most Pure One, crying out to Almighty God: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The oracles of multi-proclamation will not be able to utter all the suffering You have endured, our Savior, who was always a warrior, weaving a crown of thorns and placing it on Your head, and clothed You in a scarlet robe, saying: “Hail, King of the Jews,” and beating You on the cheek. We, Mother of God, knowing Your suffering, cry out to You:

Rejoice, Thou who hast ripened Thy Son.

Rejoice, thou who hast ripened with crimson and a crown of thorns.

Rejoice, You who saw Him tormented You nourished Him with Your milk.

Rejoice, you who suffered through His suffering.

Rejoice, thou who hast seen Him abandoned by all His disciples.

Rejoice, having been condemned by His unrighteous judges.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 10

To save Jesus, Pilate spoke to the Jews: “Now this is a custom for you, that I may release one thing to you at Passover. Do you want, then, that I may release to you the King of the Jews?” But they all cried out, saying: “Not this one, but Barabbas.” Glorifying the mercy of the Heavenly Father, Who so loved the world, as He gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross, that He might redeem us from eternal death, we cry to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

Be a wall and fence for us, Lady, who are exhausted from sorrow and illness. You yourself suffered, hearing the Jews crying: “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” Now hear us crying to You:

Rejoice, Mother of mercy, who takes away every tear from the fiercely suffering.

Rejoice, you who give us tears of tenderness.

Rejoice, you who save perishing sinners.

Rejoice, shameless intercession of Christians.

Rejoice, you who deliver us from passions.

Rejoice, you who give joy to the broken heart.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 11

We offer all-contrite singing to the Savior of the world, who walked into free suffering and carried His cross. The warriors came to Golgotha ​​and drank Him. I stood at the cross of Jesus His Mother, and His Mother’s sister Mary of Cleopas, and Mary Magdalene. Jesus, seeing the Mother and the disciple standing, loved him, saying to His Mother: “Woman, behold Thy son”; then the verb to the student: “Behold your Mother.” And from that hour the disciple was drunk in his own home. But you, Mother of God, were dishonored seeing the Son and the Lord on the cross, you were tormented, crying out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

“My Son and Eternal God, Creator of all creatures, Lord! How you endured passion on the cross,” the Pure Virgin, crying, said. “Of Your terrible Nativity, My Son, I was exalted above all mothers, but alas for Me: now they see You, I'm burning inside." We, shedding tears and listening to You, cry out to You:

Rejoice, deprived of joy and joy.

Rejoice, you who freely saw the suffering of Your Son on the cross.

Rejoice, O Child of Your beloved, who matured with the wounded.

Rejoice, Lamb, led to the slaughter, Mother.

Rejoice, you who saw the Savior of mental and physical ulcers covered with ulcers.

Rejoice, Thou who hast ripened Thy Son risen from the dead.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 12

Grant us grace, O All-Merciful Savior, who gave up Your spirit on the Cross and tore apart the handwriting of our sins. “Behold, my sweet light, my good hope and belly, my good God, you were extinguished on the Cross,” the Virgin, lamenting, said. Trying, Joseph, to approach Pilate and ask him to take down his wounded Teacher from the tree: “Give me this strange one, who has nowhere to lay his head.” The Mother of God, having seen Her inglorious Son, naked on the tree, cried out: “Alas for Me, My Child, alas for Me, My light, the weapon passed through My soul according to the words of the righteous elder Simeon.” We, the Most Pure Virgin with compassion, cry out to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing Thy mercy, O Lover of Mankind, we bow to the riches of Thy mercy, O Lord. “Though you saved Thy creation, You lifted up death,” said the Most Pure One, “but by Your Resurrection, O Savior, have mercy on us all.” We cry out to the Mother of God, who prays for us:

Rejoice, you who see the dead, lifeless Lord.

Rejoice, thou who kissed the body of Thy beloved Son.

Rejoice, ripening of Your sweet naked and wounded Dead Light.

Rejoice, Thou who betrayed Thy Son to the grave.

Rejoice, you who wrapped the new shroud around His body.

Rejoice, you who saw His Resurrection.

Rejoice, much-sorrowful Mother of God, transforming our sorrow into joy and softening the hearts of evil people.

Kontakion 13

O All-Singing Mother, exhausted from sorrow at the cross of Your Son and God! Listen to our sighs and tears, soften the evil hearts that rise up against us, deliver from sorrow, illness and eternal death all those who trust in Your ineffable mercy and cry out to God: Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos “Raise the angel...” and the 1st kontakion “To the Chosen Virgin Mary...”.

First prayer to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her icon “Softening Evil Hearts”

O much-sorrowful Mother of God, who surpassed all the daughters of the earth in Her purity and in the multitude of sufferings You brought to the earth! Accept our many painful sighs and keep us under the shelter of Your mercy. For you know no other refuge and warm intercession, but since we have boldness in the One who was born of You, help and save us with Your prayers, so that we may without stumbling reach the Kingdom of Heaven, where with all the saints we will sing praises to the One God in the Trinity, always , now, and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Second prayer to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her icon “Softening Evil Hearts”

O who will not please Thee, O Blessed Virgin, who will not sing of Thy mercy to the human race. We pray to you, we ask you: do not leave us, who are perishing in evil, dissolve our hearts with love and send your arrow to our enemies, so that our hearts may wound our hearts with peace towards those who persecute us. If the world hates us, You extend Your love to us; if the world persecutes us, You accept us. Give us the blessed power of patience - to endure trials without grumbling, which exists in this world. O Lady! Soften the hearts of evil people who rise up against us, so that their hearts do not perish in evil, but pray, O Blessed One, Thy Son and our God, that He may pacify their hearts with peace, and let the devil, the father of evil, be put to shame! We, chanting Your mercy towards us, the evil, the indecent, will sing to You, O Most Wonderful Lady of the Blessed Virgin: hear us at this hour, contrite hearts of those who have them, protect us with peace and love for each other and for our enemies, eradicate from us all malice and enmity, let us sing to You and to Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ: Alleluia! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Troparion to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her Icon “Softening Evil Hearts”, tone 8

Having received the souls of men and quenched the evil advice, crush, O Lady of God, and disperse the darkness of sins, and guide us on the path of humility, so that we too may walk in the light of our deeds, and triumph at the appearance of Your icons, and trust in Your help, and with a touching voice call, Lady, from the depths: help, O One Blessed One.

Troparion to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her Icon “Softening Evil Hearts”, tone 5

Soften our evil hearts, Mother of God, and extinguish the misfortunes of those who hate us, and resolve all the tightness of our souls, for as we look at Your holy image, we are touched by Your suffering and mercy for us and we kiss Your wounds, but we are horrified by our arrows that torment You. Do not let us, O Compassionate Mother, perish in our hard-heartedness and from the hard-heartedness of our neighbors, for You are truly the softener of evil hearts.

Kontakion to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her Icon “Softening Evil Hearts”, tone 6

The eyes of my heart confuse, and evil advice ruins me, crush these, O Pure Virgin, and do not despise my sighing, and soften the adversaries against us, O Most Blessed Lady.

Kontakion to the Most Holy Theotokos before Her icon “Softening Evil Hearts”, tone 2

By Thy grace, O Lady, soften the hearts of evildoers, send down benefactors, keeping them from all evil, to those who earnestly pray to Thy before Thy honest icons.

Glorification of the Most Holy Theotokos before Her Icon "Softening Evil Hearts"

We magnify You, Most Holy Virgin, God-chosen Youth, and honor Your holy image, through which you bring healing to all who come with faith.

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