Archangel Michael (Balkans) Icon - S116

• This historic icon of the Archangel Michael is depicted in vivid colors and stunning details. Following a traditional Balkan style, Holy Michael is depicted bearing a sword in his right hand and an orb in his left. The orb is marked with the Greek letter chi (X), the first letter in Christ’s name, symbolizing the authority delegated to Michael as chief of the bodiless powers of heaven. through a traditional Balkan manner. 

The Archangel Michael is the warrior of God, and in any given instance of heavenly warfare is likely present fighting for Him. In icons, Michael can always be identified by his soldier's attire, his armor, and the sword he wields. Also, Michael is frequently clothed in some shade of red. The color red can symbolize power, war, blood, and sacrifice: all appropriate to the angel who is engaged in warfare. His liturgical hymns refer to him as "the Commander of the bodiless hosts." He holds a flaming sword in one hand, a reference to the angel who guards the Garden of Eden in the book of Genesis, and an orb in his other hand, symbolizing his authority as the supreme Archangel.