The Three Saintly Youth Icon

A hymn dedicated on their behalf, says: "A hand-wrought image, you did not worship, O thrice-blessed ones; but assured by the undepictable essence, ye were glorified in your ordeal by fire. Standing in the midst of the irresistible flame, you called upon God: 'Speed Thou, O Compassionate One, and hasten since Thou art merciful, to come unto our aid; for Thou art able, if it be Thy will.' "

The holy children prefigured the Virgin's incorrupt birthgiving, in that they came forth from the fiery furnace as from a cool mist; likewise, the fire of the Godhead consumed not the Virgin's womb.

According to St. Cyril of Alexandria, Daniel and the three children lived to great old age in Babylon and were beheaded with the sword.