Archangel Gabriel in Prayer

The Holy Archangel Gabriel is called the Leader of the Heavenly Hosts. The name Gabriel comes from the Hebrew meaning “Man of God” or “God is mighty”. Archangel Gabriel has been intimately involved in the history of humanity announcing the good news from God of the salvation of mankind and is celebrated by the Orthodox Church for his role as messenger on many occasions:  announcing the future incarnation of the Son of God to those of the Old Testament;  inspiring the Prophet Moses to write the first five books of the Old Testament; announcing the coming tribulations of the Chosen People to the Prophet Daniel; appearing to Saint Anna with the joyous news that she would give birth to the Virgin Mary; appearing to Zachariah to inform him that his wife Elizabeth would bear the Forerunner John the Baptist; announcing to the Virgin Mary the incarnation of the Son of God from her (the Annunciation), to the great rejoicing of all mankind; proclaiming the good news of the Resurrection to the Myrrh-Bearing Women outside the Empty Tomb of Christ.  Archangel Gabriel’s efforts on behalf of humanity are celebrated on March 26, the day immediately following the Feast of the Annunciation. In Orthodox iconography Gabriel is usually portrayed with wings and holding the characteristic staff of the messenger in his right hand, consistent with his role in human history. He is also often portrayed holding a mirror with an “X” (the first letter of Christ in Greek).  *** This icon is made of solid, natural Limewood that has been prepared by hand using traditional methods and organic materials. The background is comprised of 22 Karat gold leaves that were meticulously applied by hand, piece by piece.   All of our icons are reproduced according to museum print standards and are authentic replicas of Holy Icons from Mount Athos and elsewhere.  Learn more about how our Holy Icons are made here.