Icon of the Theotokos Esphagmeni
Located in the narthex of the Chapel of St. Demetrios, to the north of Vatopedi Monastery's main church, stands the miraculous icon of the Theotokos Esphagmeni. Story tells of a dedicated deacon responsible for the church's order. His duties often made him late for the monastic meal. One day, having been denied his meal by the refectory keeper who mocked him for his supposed gluttony, the deacon, overtaken by frustration, turned to the Theotokos' image. Enraged, he stabbed the icon with a knife, from which blood miraculously flowed. Stricken blind and mad, the deacon spent three years in penitence before the icon, begging for mercy. The Theotokos eventually forgave him, restoring his sanity and sight, but as a lasting reminder of his impulsive act, his offending hand remained blackened. According to Mount Athos customs, upon his death, while the rest of his body decomposed, his right hand remained unaffected, its darkened hue bearing witness to his impulsive act. This hand is preserved to this day near the icon, marking the spot where the repentant deacon once sought forgiveness. This tale serves as a powerful reminder of both the consequences of one's actions and the profound depths of divine forgiveness.
