One of the seven archangels (Tobit 12:15) who understood the meaning of the vision of prophet Daniel (Daniel 8:16) and revealed to Zechariah the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:11-20), to Virgin Mary – the birth of Jesus Christ the Saviour (Luke 1:26-38). In divine service he is characterized as “pre-existent wisdom enlightening the whole universe”. Feast: 26 March (8 April). He is represented with a scroll writing down names and good deeds of people who enter the cathedral. He is also painted in the Deesis composition above the western portal, in the drum, in the altar, in the akathist compositions, in the Last Judgement scene and above the south door.
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