I'm doing some research on the importance and the meaning of icons in the orthodox faith. I have found certain resources that explain the importance rather well, but i cannot find a single source that can tell me what these icons MEAN. i was hoping you may be able to answer my qwestions, firstly the specific thing that jesus and other relgious persons do with their hands in many of the pictures i have seen (touching the ring finger and in some cases the pinky aswell to the thumb). if you could explain it and the oragin of it i would greatly appricitate it. Also what looks like Halo's or Sun's behind their heads, im assuming it is showing that they are holy or divine but where it came from is still a mystery to me. there are other qwestion on specific text symbols but im not sure how to show you the ones im talking about so ill see how you respond to this post before i get into those. Please help me out because i can't seem to find any of this out anywhere else.
Questions on the meaning of specific Orthodox Icons
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Clydester2
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On this note, I have a question about the halo design around the head of Jesus. There are 3 pairs of lines coming outward from His head, and each has a letter in it. Why are 3 of those lines actually double lines? Why is it those 3 in particular that have the double lines? Any information would be appreciated.
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GOCPriestMark
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Fr. Andrew
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more precisely
The three sets with double lines signify the nine ranks of angels surrounding the Godhead at all times.