Icon of St. John Chrysostom - The Golden-Mouthed Early Church Father

The Life of St. John Chrysostom

John Chrysostom was one of the most notable Christian bishops and preachers from the 4th and 5th centuries. He was given the epithet "Chrysostom" which means "golden-mouthed" in Greek, referring to his renowned eloquence as a preacher.

Early Life and Education

John was born in Antioch around the year 349 AD to a high-ranking military family. As a youth, he was educated by one of the leading pagan rhetoricians of his time, Libanius. However, John soon converted to Christianity and was baptized in 370 AD. He lived as an ascetic for two years before becoming a deacon in 381 AD and a priest in 386 AD.

Archbishop and Preacher

John gained acclaim for his impactful sermons in Antioch, which led him to be appointed as Archbishop of Constantinople, the imperial capital, in 398 AD. As archbishop, he criticized corruption and extravagance, becoming extremely popular among common people but making powerful enemies.

He was most renowned for his eloquent sermons and extensive writings, communicating Orthodox theology in a highly articulate yet straightforward manner. Many of his sermons and writings focused on living a Christian life, the nature of the church, social justice, and he also wrote extensively on interpreting the Bible.

Exiles and Death

Due to his conflicts with influential political elites, John Chrysostom was exiled from Constantinople in 404 AD on disputed charges. He was exiled further to remote areas in the Caucasus region, where his health rapidly declined. He died during a forced march in exile in 407 AD, with his final words said to be "Glory be to God for all things!"

His relics were brought back to Constantinople 30 years later and interred in the Church of the Holy Apostles. He was subsequently declared a Doctor of the Church in the West in 1568 AD.

The Icon of St. John Chrysostom

As one of the most famous Doctors of the Eastern Orthodox Church, St. John Chrysostom is a very common subject depicted in Byzantine and Eastern Orthodox iconography spanning many centuries.

Common Visual Elements

Icons of St. John Chrysostom generally depict him as an elderly man with a long, grey pointed beard. He typically has a high, balding forehead and is shown wearing ecclesiastical vestments befitting a bishop or archbishop.

He may be shown holding or gesturing towards an open Bible or scroll representing his writings and interpretation of scripture. Other common attributes include a Gospel Book, quill and inkwell depicting his extensive authored works, a small church representing his role as Archbishop of Constantinople.

Style and Composition

As a famous saint, icons of St. John Chrysostom are most often created in the traditional Byzantine style before and after the Renaissance era. The design typically follows common iconographic standards - with a centralized saint against a gold background surrounded by border decoration.

The saint may be shown as a full-body figure or more commonly as a bust. If alongside other saints or religious figures, the size and position communicate spiritual importance - with John Chrysostom typically being a central or dominant character as a renowned Doctor of the Church.

Significance and Meaning

Icons of St. John Chrysostom highlight his historical eminence as an authoritative early Church teacher, profoundly articulate preacher, and influential theologian. His depicted visage communicates wisdom, intensity, and nobility - representing the esteem bestowed upon him as one of the greatest preachers in Church history.

His icons serve as an inspiration calling the faithful to bravely speak truth in the face of corruption and courageously preach the scriptures to guide others to righteous living - as he did against all odds during his turbulent life.

FAQs

Who was St. John Chrysostom?

St. John Chrysostom (c. 349 - 407 AD) was the Archbishop of Constantinople known for his exceptional preaching, which earned him the epithet "Chrysostom" meaning "golden-mouthed." He was declared a Doctor of the Church for his theological writings and teachings.

Why is St. John Chrysostom depicted in icons?

As an eminent Church Father and Doctor revered in Eastern Christianity, St. John Chrysostom is commonly depicted in Byzantine and Orthodox Christian iconography. His icons honor him as an important early saint and religious authority figure.

What attributes symbolize St. John Chrysostom in icons?

Common iconographic attributes of St. John Chrysostom include bishops' vestments, an open Bible or scroll, a Gospel Book, a quill and inkwell, and a small church. These represent his ecclesiastical leadership, scriptural writings, extensive authored works, and tenure as Archbishop of Constantinople.

What is the significance of his icons?

Icons of St. John Chrysostom highlight his legacy as one of the most impactful preachers and theologians in early Eastern Christianity. They inspire viewers to bravely preach truth and scriptural wisdom as he exemplified despite great personal risk.