Saint Sabas, born in Cappadocia (now part of modern-day Turkey) 439AD, stands as a towering figure in the history of Eastern monasticism and is deeply revered among the monks of Palestine. His journey to sainthood was marked by trials and profound spiritual growth.

His early years were marred by abuse and turmoil, leading him to flee to a monastery for refuge. Despite familial efforts to draw him back, Sabas found his calling in monastic life, quickly distinguishing himself by his exemplary virtues, even as the youngest monk.

At 18, Sabas’ spiritual quest took him to Jerusalem, driven by a desire to deepen his understanding of solitary life. His youth initially made him an unlikely candidate for the life of a hermit, but he didn’t waver. He began his journey living in a monastery, balancing his days with labor and his nights with prayer. When he turned 30, Sabas embarked on a more solitary path, spending days in a remote cave near Jerusalem, dedicating his time to prayer and weaving baskets.

Following the death of his mentor, St. Euthymius, Sabas retreated further into the desert near Jericho. His new home was a cave, accessible only by rope, where he subsisted on wild herbs and occasional food from visitors. His lifestyle attracted many followers, and though initially reluctant, Sabas eventually established a monastic community, known as a laura, comprising over 150 monks living in separate huts.

In his 50s, Sabas was persuaded to become a priest to better lead his growing community. Despite his responsibilities as an abbot, he continually felt drawn to the solitary life, often leaving his monks for extended periods, especially during Lent.

Sabas’ influence extended beyond his monastic community. He traveled across Palestine, preaching and bringing many back to the Church. At 91, he undertook a significant journey to Constantinople to address the Samaritan revolt. He fell ill upon his return and passed away at the Mar Saba monastery in 532 AD.

Today, the Mar Saba monastery remains a testament to his legacy, still active with Eastern Orthodox monks. Saint Sabas’ life and works have left an indelible mark on early monasticism, making him one of its most celebrated figures.

Photo credit: Mihai Andrei via Wikimedia Commons
Love uCATHOLIC?
Get our inspiring content delivered to your inbox every morning - FREE!

12 COMMENTS

    • Online Dollars 2000$ USA In One Day The location has opened up a world of benefits for those who ought to work within the country. bk With so various choices to choose from, it can be troublesome to know where to start. This article will grant you many suggestions on how to find the proper online housework job.
      Begin here……..… https://OnlineWorldDollars1.blogspot.com

  1. O wondrous and laudable Saint of God, venerable Father Sabbas!
    Today [in thy holy church] , devoutly standing before thy holy icon and joyously celebrating thy bright memory, we praise thee, as one who cometh to our aid.
    And, honoring thy great boldness before God, we humbly beseech thee, most blessed one, mercifully to receive this our hymn of praise, brought to thee in love and sincerity.
    And as one having great boldness before the Lord, hasten thou in thine intercession so acceptable to God, and ask from the King of kings and Lord of lords, that He continue His great and rich mercies to us sinners; that He bestow the spirit of right faith upon us, the spirit of knowledge and love, the spirit of peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, that He deliver us from troubles and temptations, sending down upon us all those things that are useful unto the salvation of our souls.
    May He grant unto His people blessed and peaceful times; may He send down His grace upon Orthodox bishops, that they may rightly divide the word of His truth: unto those in civil authority and to judges may He send wisdom, and freedom from hypocrisy.

    And unto all Orthodox Christians may He grant peace, tranquillity, freedom from strife, devotion in the fulfillment of His commandments, abundance of the fruits of the earth; may He deliver [the suffering lands of Russia and Serbia,] this and every Christian land from famine, earthquake, flood, fire, the axe, the onslaught of foreign enemies and civil war, deadly contagion and from every ill.
    Yea, O Saint of God, despise not our petitions, but hear us who entreat thee, and keep us under thy protection and defense, [along with this monastery,] undisturbed by enemies visible and invisible, that we may be vouchsafed to complete our life in repentance, and obtain the eternal good things in the Kingdom of Christ
    our God, so as there to praise, together with thee and all the Saints, the rightfully worshipped name of the Most Holy Trinity: the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, unto ages of ages.
    Amen

  2. SAINT. SABAS,,,,,,DEEP. IN. YOUR. HEART. OF. HEARTS,,,,,,,❤️,,,,,,
    PEOPLE,,,SEE,,,YOUR,,,,,,,,,VISION!!!!!
    FOR. LIFE. FOR. LOVE. AND. FOR. COMPLETE,,,,,,,,,,FAITH !!!

    • Online Dollars 2000$ USA In One Day The location has opened up a world of benefits for those who ought to work within the country. bl With so various choices to choose from, it can be troublesome to know where to start. This article will grant you many suggestions on how to find the proper online housework job.
      Begin here……..… https://OnlineWorldDollars1.blogspot.com

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here