Saint Rafka Icon
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From Martine Icons Atelier… to You
From Martine Icons Atelier… to You
0 $
The Maronite icon of Sainte Rafka (Rebecca) Boutrosyeh Choboq Ar-Rayès holds profound spiritual and cultural significance, visually encapsulating her extraordinary life of faith and endurance in suffering. These sacred images serve as a tangible connection to this beloved Lebanese saint, inviting prayer and contemplation on her example of humility and sacrifice. Canonized by Pope John Paul II on June 10, 2001, at Saint Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Saint Rafka’s universal importance within the Catholic Church is immense, making her icons powerful instruments for veneration and spiritual reflection.
Saint Rafka (1832-1914) was a Lebanese Maronite nun who dedicated her life to God, enduring immense physical suffering including blindness and paralysis, all borne with serene acceptance and joy. Her life exemplifies a deep spiritual union with Christ’s Passion, transforming her pains into a powerful prayer for the Church.
This specific icon, an oil painting on canvas attributed to the artist Pierre Chedid, brings a unique artistic dimension to her veneration. Chedid, from Chamat village in Jbeil, is known for blending abstract and classical elements in his work. His artistic approach allows for a nuanced portrayal of Saint Rafka, moving beyond mere representation to evoke the profound spiritual reality of her existence. One can envision his use of color and form to capture her tranquil spirit amidst trials, highlighting both her earthly struggles and her heavenly sanctity.
In the background layer, one can discern the Monastery of Saint Joseph Jrabta, where Saint Rafka lived, and where her tomb is located. To the left side of the icon, the majestic Cedrus Libani is depicted, a powerful symbol of Lebanon. In the top corner sides, the holy icon of Our Lady of Ilige, a significant Maronite holy icon, is present on the right, while on the left, the distinctive Maronite Oriental Cross is featured.
I have carefully cropped the face and shoulders of Saint Rafka from the original icon to highlight her serene expression and the details of her monastic habit, bringing her holy presence into closer focus.
The Holy Icon of Saint Rafka
In this Holy Icon, we see more than just a depiction of Saint Rafka; we glimpse a profound spiritual truth. She didn’t simply close her eyes to this world—she opened them to something far greater. Though she could no longer see with earthly vision, her gaze reached beyond the ground, beyond the limits of this life, fixed upward—toward heaven.
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root –
yufyu