The Second Coming and the Last Judgment. (XVIc) Icon copy | Lithography mounted on wood | Size 8" x 5 1/2"

This instructional icon depicts the Second Coming and the Last Judgment.

At the top Christ is seen coming in glory, flanked by the armies of the heavenly host, his Mother,  the Prophet John, and the Twelve Apostles sitting as judges. Below this row is the Holy Cross and the Book of Life. In the center row of the icon are the people of the world, looking on with awe. Adam and Eve kneel in prayer, begging mercy for their children. The Prophet David shows demonstrates that his words have come true.

The bottom section of the icon shows a variety of scenes. The angels blow their trumpets, signaling the Lord's arrival. The graves are opened and the people come forth to face their Judge. A river of fire extends down from the Lord's throne, and Hell devours those who opposed Christ.

The icon is a sobering reminder of the reality that we will face one day. For this reason, icons of the Last Judgment are traditionally displayed near the exit doors of a church narthex: a reminder before we return to the world of the standards to which we are held as Christians. The icon is also displayed on the Sunday of the Last Judgment during the Triodion period.

Because of the demonic content and sobering subject matter, icons of the Last Judgment are not typically used for veneration, but rather for instruction.