Orthodox icon of the 14,000 Holy Martyrs of Bethlehem, the Innocents slain by Herod. A powerful Christian image of martyrdom, Nativity, and hope. | 23x30 cm (9\"x12\")

This Orthodox icon depicts the 14,000 Holy Martyrs of Bethlehem, also known as the Holy Innocents, who were slain by order of King Herod shortly after the Nativity of Christ. These children became the first martyrs for Christ, shedding their innocent blood not by conscious confession, but because of the birth of the Savior among them.

According to the Gospel of Matthew (2:16), when Herod realized that the Magi had not returned to reveal the location of the newborn King, he ordered the killing of all male children in Bethlehem and its surrounding villages who were two years old and under. This tragic event fulfilled the ancient prophecy of Jeremiah:
“A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping; Rachel weeping for her children.”

The Orthodox Church venerates these infants as true martyrs, teaching that martyrdom is defined not only by spoken faith, but by dying for Christ. The Holy Innocents were killed precisely because of Him, and thus entered directly into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Spiritual Meaning of the Icon

This icon is a powerful symbol of:

• The sanctity of human life from its very beginning

• The mystery of the Nativity, where joy and suffering are intertwined

• God’s Divine Providence, protecting the Holy Family while crowning the Innocents with martyrdom

• Comfort and hope for parents grieving the loss of children

• The Church’s unwavering witness to innocence, humility, and sacrifice

The Holy Innocents are especially prayed to for:

• Children’s protection and health

• Consolation for grieving parents

• Strength in times of injustice and suffering

This icon holds deep meaning during the Christmas season, reminding believers that Christ entered a fallen world and that His coming immediately confronted the powers of darkness.

Feast Day: December 28 (December 15, Old Style)

🖼 ProductFeatures

Each icon in our workshop is made to last a lifetimeand beyond. The image is printed with rich, fade-resistant pigment inks on apremium solid-core wood panel — then hand-finished with a natural beeswaxcoating that deepens the colors, protects the surface, and gives each piece thewarm, reverent quality of a traditionally crafted sacred object. A metalhanging hook is included on the back, so your icon is ready to display themoment it arrives.

• Craftedon a premium wood panel — 1.6 cm (0.6\") thick, sturdy yet print — rich, true-to-life colors that last for generations
• Naturalbeeswax finish — hand-applied for depth, protection, and a traditional feel
• Readyto hang — metal hook pre-attached on the reverse
• Hand-finished byOrthodox Christian artisans in Portugal

AVAILABLE SIZES — CHOOSE YOUR PERFECT FIT Small — 12 × 15 cm / 5\" × 6\" — ideal for a personal prayer corner, desk, or gift
Medium — 23 × 30 cm / 9\" × 12\" — the most popular choice for home display
Large — 30 × 39 cm / 12\" × 15\" — a statement piece for any wall or altar spaceTHE PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY SACRED OCCASIONAn Orthodox icon is not simply a decorative object — it is a blessing for the home and a window into the Kingdom of Heaven. This icon makes a deeply meaningful gift for: Baptisms and Chrismations
Name days and feast days
Weddings and anniversaries
Housewarmings and new home blessings
Christmas, Easter, and other major Orthodox feasts
Anyone in need of comfort, prayer, or heavenly intercessionWORLDWIDE DELIVERY FROM PORTUGALEvery order is carefully packed to protect the icon during transit and shipped worldwide with full tracking. We take great care with every package — your icon will arrive safely and ready to treasure.MADE WITH FAITH, CRAFTED WITH CAREOur icons are made in Portugal by Orthodox Christian artisans who approach each piece as an act of devotion as much as craft. From the selection of the wood panel to the final application of beeswax by hand, every step is carried out with the intention that this icon will become a lasting blessing — in your home, or in the home of someone you love.We are proud to bring the living tradition of Orthodox Christian iconography to homes around the world.💬 Have a question? Feel free to reach out!
🕊️ Visit our shop for more icons and devotional pieces.
Related Items:

Wooden Greek Christian Orthodox Icon of the Transfiguration of Christ - Handmade

$16.99

---

Large Byzantine Icon of Christ "Cutter of Sin" - Genuine Gold Leaf & Certificate

$140.00

---

Orthodox Icon of Saints Peter and Fevronia of Murom with a Dove 23x30 cm 9"x12"

$265.00

---

---