Orthodox Iconostasis -- Candles and Icons Church Interior HD Wallpaper

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The iconostasis -- the great icon screen that separates the nave from the sanctuary in Orthodox Christian churches -- is one of the most visually overwhelming and theologically dense objects in all of religious architecture. This stunning HD wallpaper captures an Orthodox iconostasis in full golden splendor: multiple registers (rows) of icons in ornate gilded frames rise toward the ceiling, candles burn before them, and the entire structure glows with the warm, dancing light that has accompanied Orthodox worship for fifteen centuries. The iconostasis has a precise theological architecture. The bottom tier (the Deesis tier) centers on Christ Pantocrator flanked by the Theotokos and John the Baptist, with archangels and apostles extending to the sides. Above this, the Feast tier depicts the twelve great festivals of the Orthodox liturgical year. Higher still, the Prophets tier shows the Old Testament prophets who foresaw the coming of Christ. At the very top, the Patriarchs tier depicts the ancestors of Christ from Abraham to Joseph. Three doors pierce the iconostasis: the central Royal Doors (opened only at sacred moments in the liturgy), and the north and south deacon's doors. When the Royal Doors open and light streams from the sanctuary beyond, the congregation catches a glimpse of the hidden holy -- heaven appearing within the earthly church. The candles in this image are not merely atmospheric -- each one is a prayer made visible, left by a worshipper who lit it in intercession or thanksgiving. This Orthodox Church HD wallpaper is ideal for devotional display. Free download.

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