Holy Trinity: Unity in Diversity

This icon was taken from the famous "Trinity" of Andrej Rubljew, which is valued as one of the most famous icons. It shows the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) in persons, and at the same time in an abstract expression. All are same age - or said better: they are ageless - and looking very similar, and all have a rod in hand, which symbolises majesty. The difference is shown by gesture only. There is much symmetry in this icon. It is of the main form of a circle, and if you look closer you may discover more symmetrical forms. The icon is also full of symbolics, which may not be understood without explanation.

The background of this icon is the event in the Old Testament where God reveals Himself to Abraham in the three persons. (Gen 18,1-5) The left side shows the Father, who points to the Son. The Son in the middle looks in obedience to the Father and points to the communion cup. At the right side is the Holy Spirit, who points to the rectangular thing in the table, which symbolises the world. It describes the belief on Christ as the saviour of the world in obedience to the Father and in the love and wisdom of the Holy Spirit. But the general theme is just unity in diversity.

Who wants to read more on Andrej Rubljew, see: http://www.russianartgallery.org/oldicons/inside2.htm