Mount Athos weathered lithography (icon) of Saint Maximus the Confessor in pine wood with carved decoration.

Saint Maximus was born in Constantinople in 580 AD. and came from a wealthy family. He received a great philosophical and theological education, as a result of which he was hired as chief secretary of the emperor Heraklius. However, he resigned from his high position and followed a lonely life. He was arrested by the order of the emperor Constantius II and exiled to Thrace because of his action against heretics.

During his exile, Maximus continued to fight heretics. His action disturbed the Palace and emperor ordered to cut his tongue and his right hand. He was exiled again to the Caucasus where he died in 662 AD. For his great work and his unwavering faith in Orthodoxy, the Church declared him a Saint. Part of his relics is located in the Monastery of Saint Paul on Mount Athos. His memory is commemorated by the Orthodox Christian Church on January 21 of each year.

Apolytikion of Saint Maximos the Confessor

Plagal of the Fourth Tone

You are a guide of Orthodoxy, a teacher of piety and modesty, a luminary of the world, the God inspired pride of monastics. O wise Maximos, you have enlightened everyone by your teachings. You are the harp of the Spirit. Intercede to Christ our God for the salvation of our souls.