The Theotokos - Softener of Human Hearts

The Theotokos - the “Softener of Evil Hearts,” originated in Catholic iconography as the “Seven Sorrows of Mary” or “Our Lady of Sorrows.” The icon shows the Theotokos's heart being pierced by seven arrow-like swords that symbolically emphasize Her sorrows. People believe that the icon resolves personal conflicts and opposition, feelings of enmity, anger, and hatred. The prayer that accompanies this icon asks the Theotokos to “soften our evil hearts, and quench the attacks of those who hate us.” The prayer acts as a confession of our sinfulness and a prayer for help to our Mother of Compassion, to whose heart we cause the wounds by the swords of cruelty. She is our intercessor before God.