Three-Handed Theotokos Icon

This is a silkscreen reproduction with gold leaf and hand-painted details, crafted according to tradition. It depicts the Theotokos Tricheirousa (Three-Handed), one of the most revered icons of the Mother of God. The Theotokos is shown holding the Christ Child, while below appears a third hand of silver, recalling the miracle connected with St John of Damascus.

According to tradition, St John of Damascus had his hand cut off after being falsely accused of treason. Praying before an icon of the Theotokos, he was miraculously healed. In thanksgiving, he attached a silver hand to the icon, giving rise to the name Three-Handed Theotokos. Since then, this image has been venerated as a sign of healing and the Virgin’s powerful intercession.

Above the Virgin appear the Greek letters MP ΘΥ (Meter Theou), meaning “Mother of God.” Next to Christ are the letters IC XC, an abbreviation of “Jesus Christ.” Within His halo is the cross inscribed with Ω Ο Ν (Omega, Omicron, Nu), meaning “He Who Is,” affirming His divinity.

In the Orthodox calendar, the feast of the Three-Handed Theotokos is celebrated on July 12, and the icon is especially honored at Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos, where the wonderworking original is kept.

The Three-Handed Theotokos icon (Tricheirousa, Tricherousa) is a cherished gift for those seeking healing, protection, and consolation in illness or hardship. It is also suitable for baptisms, name days, new homes, and families, offering the intercession of the Mother of God.