The Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic, Greek Orthodox Church in Greenville, South Carolina

The iconographic depiction of this feast day show three movements. First is the appearance of the Archangel Gabriel and his greeting. The holy virgin drops her spinning of the true purple yarn for the veil of the temple. Second it depicts the perplexity of the Virgin. Not only does she consider her vow to virginity but also the law of nature. third is her concern, the slightly bowed head, the raising of her hand in acceptance or obedience.

Mary (right) is seen sitting on elevated seat indicating her place of honor. Her posture and slightly bowed head indicate her humility and obedience. The three stars on her outer garment indicate that she is virgin before, during and after birth of Christ. Her red slippers are a sign of Byzantine royalty.

She holds the yarn she was using to make the temple veil like she is dropping it in deference to the sudden arrival of Gabriel.

Raising her right hand she
signifies her acceptance.
In doing so she is answering
the sender not the messenger.