Icon
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Icon
The word "icon" comes from the Greek "eikon" which mean "image".
An icon is a holy image which is the distinctive art form of the Eastern Orthodox Church. The icon may be a painting of wood, on canvas, a mosaic or a fresco. The icon is not simply decorative, inspirational, or educational.
Many Orthodox churches have icons not only on the iconostasion but also on the walls, ceilings, and in arches. In the ceiling or dome is the icon of Christ the Almighty, the Pantocrator. The icon portrays the Triumphant Christ who reigns as Lord of heaven and earth.
The Iconoclastic Controversy was a dispute over the veneration of icons within Christianity.