The icon depicts two kinds of faith. The first, which is mere belief based on hearing, is a free acceptance of the dogmas concerning God and His creation. Whoever has this second kind of faith knows, in part, the transcendent realm of mysteries. The halo symbolizes this state of illumination and higher knowledge as well as holiness. Those at the first level of faith are shown without haloes, but express their trust and reverence for God by their gaze, their posture, and their gestures.
Meekness is the freedom from anger or inner agitation.
A person who has this virtue is not affected by praise or insult. In icons of the martyrs, or of St. George killing the dragon, there is no sign of anger or excitement. Their faces indicate calmness and serenity. Out of meekness grows prayer, which leads to converse and union with God. This virtue is characterized by awareness of one s shortcomings, and a longing to rise to the infinite perfection of God.