The Georgian Orthodox Church has demanded the removal of an icon depicting Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin from a cathedral in the capital city of Tbilisi. The icon shows scenes from the life of St Matrona of Moscow, but it includes an image of Stalin receiving a blessing from the Russian Orthodox saint. The Patriarchate of Georgia argues that there is insufficient evidence that the two ever met and therefore, changes must be made to the image. The church urged the donors of the icon to alter it themselves or offered to do it on their behalf.
This demand comes after opposition politician Giorgi Kandelaki drew attention to the icon, claiming that it was an attempt to glorify one of the biggest mass murderers in history. The controversy surrounding the icon further escalated when an activist named Nata Peradze spray-painted it in protest, arguing that Stalin’s actions had caused immense suffering to her family.
In response to the criticism, the Patriarchate of Georgia clarified that icons can depict various figures, including rulers and ordinary people, and that this does not imply glorification or attribution of dignity to these individuals. However, it acknowledged the need for accuracy and authenticity in the portrayal of such individuals.
Joseph Stalin continues to have a complex legacy in Georgia. Born in Gori in 1878, he played a significant role in the Russian revolution and subsequently ruled the Soviet Union until his death. During his tenure, millions of people died as a result of his brutal tactics and efforts to establish a communist state. While many Georgians reject the Soviet Union’s legacy, there are still individuals who take pride in Stalin’s rise from humble beginnings to leading a superpower and defeating Nazi Germany.
The call for the removal of the Stalin icon reflects the ongoing debate over how to remember and address the history of individuals with deeply controversial pasts. The Georgian Orthodox Church’s statement indicates the importance of accurately representing historical figures in religious art, avoiding the glorification of individuals responsible for immense suffering and acknowledging the complexity of their legacies. By taking a stance on this issue, the church not only demonstrates its commitment to upholding its principles but also contributes to broader discussions within society about the ethical portrayal of historical figures.
