Final Answer:
An icon is a representation of a sacred Christian personage, often Christ, a saint, or an angel, typically painted on a wood surface and venerated as sacred, particularly in the Eastern Church tradition. Thus the correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
Icons hold significant spiritual and religious importance in the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. These sacred images, usually painted on wood, depict Christ, saints, angels, or religious events. Icons are venerated, not merely as artistic pieces but as windows to the divine, believed to facilitate communication between the earthly and heavenly realms.
The term "icon" originates from the Greek word "eikon," meaning image. These representations are not seen as idols but as conduits for prayer and contemplation, often considered a means of connecting with the spiritual essence of the depicted figure.
The process of creating icons follows strict guidelines, incorporating symbolic elements, colors, and specific artistic styles that convey theological significance and teachings within the Christian faith.
The veneration of icons plays a crucial role in Orthodox Christian worship. Believers often use icons during prayer, considering them as aids to focus their devotions and deepen their spiritual connection with the divine. The respect for icons involves rituals such as kissing, lighting candles, or offering incense as acts of reverence towards the sacred figures they represent.
Therefore, the correct option is 1.