The Fiery Ascent of the Holy Prophet Elijah

This icon depicts the ascension of the Prophet Elijah. At the top, Elijah is shown in a fiery chariot drawn by fiery horses—a traditional biblical motif. An angel or disciple raises his hands in wonder.

In the lower left, Elijah sits as a wise, elderly figure in a cave. To the lower right stand two saints or disciples, one of whom holds the prophetic mantle that Elijah left behind during his ascent. The gold backgrounds and halos identify the holy figures in the typical Orthodox style.