This icon is a fine example of the type usually positioned above the main doors leading into and out of the worship area of an Orthodox church. It was meant to be viewed while exiting. The angel is to remind the viewer that God is always watching you and His retribution is fierce for those who do not follow the commandments. Dressed as a soldier wielding a sword, he holds a scroll which begins, “O Great Merciful God, do not descend from heaven like fire and do not burn those who…” This icon would have been displayed opposite a companion icon depicting an angel of the Lord most likely recording the names of all the pious who regularly attend church services, upon a long unrolled scroll.
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