Description

St. John the Baptist (c. 6 BC–AD 32), also know as the Forerunner (Πρόδρομος), was the son of the priest Zacharias and the righteous Elizabeth. Consecrated to God from before his birth, he lived ascetically in the wilderness before appearing beside the Jordan to preach repentance. John prepared Israel for the coming Messiah, baptised the Lord Jesus Christ and witnessed the revelation of the Holy Trinity (Theophany).

John fearlessly rebuked both ordinary people and rulers, including Herod Antipas for his unlawful union with Herodias. He was imprisoned and eventually beheaded, sealing his prophetic ministry through martyrdom. The icon shows him clothed in rough garments, with an austere appearance shaped by his desert life.

Icon Source & Historical Details

Location: Dionysiou Monastery, Mount Athos

Iconographer: -

Date: 16th century

Tradition: Cretan

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