On the seventh of August, the Orthodox calendar is devoted to the day of succession of righteous Anna. In the theological context, this term is interpreted not as an end, but as a transition into eternal existence, a meeting with the Creator.
The future mother of the Virgin Mary was born in the family of the Bethlehem cleric Matthan, who belonged to the descendants of Levi, and was the youngest of his daughters. Her chosen one was Joachim, whose roots went to the Galilean lands. For many decades, the union remained fruitless. In Jewish society of that era, the absence of heirs was regarded as a sign from above, indicating certain sins. Only after half a century of marriage, after incessant petitions, the heavenly messenger informed the couple about the imminent birth of a child who is destined to change the course of sacred history.
The baby was called Mary. When she was three years old, her parents kept their oath and handed her over to the Jerusalem Temple. This step went beyond the custom — young girls were not allowed into the sanctuary. However, the high priest, who met the child at the entrance, made an exception, seeing in it a special vessel of election. Later, the church began to celebrate this event with a separate celebration.
Anna completed the earthly journey before the archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary with the good news. By the time the Virgin was to leave the temple walls, her mother was no longer alive. The care of the girl was taken by Joseph, who combined the role of husband and guardian.
In the fine tradition dedicated to the conception of righteous Anna, the central place is given to the Virgin, soaring in the air. Its feet are fixed on a sphere girded with a serpent — the personification of the fallen world. On the sides of the composition are placed the figures of Joachim and Anna, frozen in prayer with glances addressed to her daughter.
Memorial Day
August 7— Assumption.
22 September
22 December— The conception of the Most Holy Mother of God
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