A Rare Iconographic Plot of Modern Orthodox Iconography «Bear Each Other's Burdens» in the Context of the National Cultural «Carrying the Cross» Concept

Abstract

The article examines the novelty and tradition of the rare plot of modern Orthodox iconography «Bear each other's burdens» from the point of view of compliance with the national cultural «Carrying the cross» concept. The author believes that the theological significance of this plot is close to the stories «Carrying the cross to Calvary», «the Good shepherd», «the Parable of the merciful Samaritan». In the general Christian concept, the following axiological features are revealed: an ineradicable hope for the best, even in unbearable conditions and circumstances, long-suffering social injustice, and an understanding of the wretchedness of life as a good. These values have been formed in the sacred core of Russian culture for many centuries of Orthodoxy and are consistent with the commandments and moral norms common to all Christians. These same value traits are called by the thinkers of the XIX-XXI centuries as the main characteristics of the Russian national consciousness, which is essentially religious, since it is contradictory and consists of opposites.