Definition:
An “icon” is a symbol, image, or representation that holds significant meaning, often serving as an object of reverence, inspiration, or cultural importance.
Etymology:
The word “icon” originates from the Greek “eikōn” (εἰκών), which means “image” or “likeness.” It entered Latin as “icon,” maintaining its meaning, and then made its way into Middle English in the late 16th century, where it initially referred to religious images or statues. Over time, its usage expanded beyond the religious context to include representations in broader cultural, digital, and symbolic domains.
Description:
An icon can be a religious image or figure, especially in Christianity, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox Church, where icons are venerated.
In Christian tradition, especially in the Eastern Orthodox Church, icons are sacred representations of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, and angels. These religious icons are not merely artistic depictions; they serve as windows to the divine, believed to mediate spiritual presence and grace.
In the Eastern Orthodox tradition, icons are typically flat, two-dimensional images painted on wood, often following strict guidelines of religious iconography. These images are not only artistic but also liturgical, playing an integral role in worship. Icons are venerated, kissed, or prayed before, acting as intermediaries between the believer and the divine.
An icon can be a person or thing that is highly regarded or representative of a particular field, culture, or idea (e.g., a pop culture icon).
An icon can symbolize greatness, achievement, or influence in various areas such as music, film, politics, or sports. For example, people like Martin Luther King Jr. or Michael Jackson are often described as icons because they represent important ideals or achievements within their respective fields. A cultural or social icon represents more than just a person or object; it encapsulates an era, a movement, or a widely held ideal. For instance, Marilyn Monroe is an icon of beauty and fame, while the Statue of Liberty is an icon of freedom and democracy.
An icon can be a graphical symbol or small image commonly used in digital interfaces to represent files, functions, or applications. These icons, such as a trash can for file deletion or a folder for storage, simplify user interaction by replacing text with visual cues. In the realm of technology, icons serve as intuitive symbols, making it easier for users to navigate and interact with digital systems.
Symbolism:
It’s worth noting that the pronunciation of the word “icon” consists of the words “eye” and “con,” as an eye symbolizes a con.
“Icon Productions” is a film production company founded in August 1989 by actor and director Mel Gibson and Australian producer Bruce Davey. The company is best known for producing a range of successful films, many of which star or are directed by Gibson himself. The name “Icon” refers to a religious symbol, reflecting Gibson’s interest in faith-based and historical themes.
The Icon Productions logo features a cropped portion of the “Virgin of Vladimir” (also known as “Vladimir Mother of God”), where only the left eye, left eyebrow, and part of the nose of the Virgin Mary are visible. The Virgin Mary is often represented by the left eye, which is commonly associated with lying, known as the “Eye of Deception.” The eye (star), together with the arc-shaped eyebrow (crescent moon), forms the symbol of Islam. The nose, like the eye, symbolizes a lie.
This image is taken from a famous 12th-century Byzantine icon, which is one of the most culturally significant and celebrated pieces of art in Russian history, especially in Russian Orthodox tradition.
The model Agyness Deyn was featured on the cover of i-D magazine, winking, with the word “ICON” prominently displayed across the bottom, emphasizing the idea that an eye symbolizes a con.
Religion:
The Second Commandment in the Bible warns against the creation of graven images or idols for worship (Exodus 20:4-5). This has been interpreted differently in Christian traditions. The Eastern Orthodox Church distinguishes between veneration (respect for an icon as a representation) and idolatry (worship of the object itself).
Similar to the Bible, the Book of Mormon condemns idol worship. It emphasizes the worship of God alone and warns against placing faith in physical images or symbols.
The Quran also forbids idolatry (referred to as “shirk,” the act of associating partners with Allah) and discourages the making of images or icons that could lead to idol worship. This is particularly emphasized in Islamic tradition, where the creation of human or divine figures is generally avoided in religious art.
In early Buddhist texts, such as Vinaya Pitaka and Sutta Pitaka, the representation of the Buddha was initially avoided. Symbols like the Bodhi tree or a footprint represented the Buddha. Later, statues and icons of the Buddha became common, though they are seen as representations of enlightenment rather than objects of worship.