The icon of the Mother of God under the name "Seven-shot" was painted more than five hundred years ago by a North Russian artist. It is considered miraculous, since many people received their healing before it. Few people know the true meaning of this icon and, in particular, the seven swords depicted on it
Swords and Mother of God
Traditionally, the Mother of God on all icons is depicted with the little Jesus Christ or other saints. On the Seven-shooter icon, where she is pierced by seven swords, she is completely alone. The swords piercing the Mother of God from both sides and in the middle mean the pain and sadness that the Blessed Virgin Mary experienced on earth. It is believed that this icon is capable of creating seven miracles - however, only to those people who possess knowledge of the keys of Solomon. Those who know the royal Solomon’s key can recognize the future for seven years ahead by the Seven-shooter icon.
Before the icon with the Mother of God pierced by seven swords, it is customary to light at least seven candles.
The seven-shooter icon softens the hearts - therefore, before it they pray for peace during the war, for the appeasement of irreconcilable enemies, the sending of patience, as well as healing from cholera and lameness. The number "seven" was not chosen for her by chance - Saint Simeon the God-Receiver prophesied about the test of weapons, through which the soul of the Mother of God should pass. The seven swords are the unbearable spiritual grief that Mary experienced during the crucifixion, torment, and death of her divine son.
