The First Book of the Kings | first kings
Translation in British English 1:1 Now King David, advanced in years, found warmth eluding him, even swathed in garments. 1:2 Therefore, his attendants proposed, “Let a young maiden be sought for our lord the king; let her attend to the king, and lie in your embrace, that my lord the king may gain warmth.” […]
Theoctistus, Saint: The Ascetic Companion of the Great Euthymius
Saint Theoctistus (d. 451) was a great ascetic who withdrew from the world and took refuge six miles outside of Jerusalem at the Lavra Pharan monastery. There he enclosed himself in a cell and devoted himself to the strictest ascetic struggles. During this time, the eminent Euthymius also came to reside in a neighboring cell […]
Theodulf of Orléans:The Bishop Who Shaped an Empire’s Renaissance
In the late 8th century, as Charlemagne sought to revive learning and refine culture in his vast realm, one man emerged as a driving force behind this Carolingian Renaissance. Theodulf of Orléans (c. 750-821), bishop, poet, and advisor to the emperor, used his immense talents to shape religious thought, establish high artistic standards, and spread […]
Tertullian: Polemics and Piety Interwoven
Tertullian, a titan in early Christianity’s chronicles, lived circa 155 to 240 AD. His odyssey, from rhetorical eminence to ardent Christian apology, has enthralled academics and believers. A native of intellectual hub Carthage, Tertullian’s initial exposure to Roman culture and ideals profoundly molded his worldview. His acceptance of Christianity constituted a pivotal turn, ushering prolific […]
Theosis | Understanding Eastern Orthodox Christian Theology
Theosis, a foundational concept in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, represents a transformative process aimed at achieving unity or likeness with God. This divine principle, rooted deeply in the teachings of the Eastern Orthodox Church and Eastern Catholic Churches, underscores the ultimate purpose of human existence as envisioned in Christian theology. The process of theosis involves both […]
Troparion | Ecclesiastical Hymnology Evolution
First emerging between the 4th and 5th centuries, the Troparion became a cornerstone of Byzantine liturgical practice over the coming eras. Deriving its name from the Greek word “tropos” denoting “a way or manner,” these short ecclesiastical hymns of primarily triumphal character serve varied functions in Orthodox ritual. Though the earliest Troparia have been lost, […]
The Ladder of Divine Ascent: An Examination of Spiritual Journey
“The Ladder of Divine Ascent” by St. John Climacus, translated by Archimandrite Lazarus Moore, is a profound spiritual treatise that guides the reader on an ascetic journey towards divine enlightenment. St. John, an Abbot of Mount Sinai, originally composed this work for Abba John of Raithu, offering insights into the complexities of the human soul […]
Thessaloniki | Christian Heritage and Influence
Thessaloniki, a pivotal city in Christian history, boasts a rich tapestry of religious and cultural significance. Founded in 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedon, it was named after his wife Thessalonike, a half-sister of Alexander the Great. This etymology reflects the city’s ancient roots, intertwining with its Christian narrative. Thessaloniki’s Christian legacy began in […]
The secret of sanctity, according to St. Francis de Sales and Father Crasset, S. J
A Journey Through Spiritual Guidance and Historical Reflections “The secret of sanctity, according to St. Francis de Sales and Father Crasset” is an enlightening compendium that delves into the spiritual insights of two remarkable figures in Christian history. Compiled in 1893 and enriched by the contributions of Ella McMahon as translator, this book stands as […]
The Art of Dying Well: A Reverent Exploration of Death and Christian Life
Cardinal Bellarmine, Roberto Francesco Romolo, Saint (1542-1621); Translated by Dalton, John – A 19th Century Guide to Spiritual Preparedness for Death “The Art of Dying Well,” originally authored by Saint Cardinal Roberto Francesco Romolo Bellarmine and translated by John Dalton in 1847, stands as a seminal work in Christian literature, addressing the often-taboo subject of […]
The Imitation of Christ: A Timeless Spiritual Classic
In-Depth Review of William Benham’s 1886 Edition of Thomas à Kempis’s Devotional Masterpiece The Imitation of Christ, originally composed by Thomas à Kempis in the 15th century, is a seminal work in Christian devotional literature. The 1886 edition, published in London by J.C. Nimmo and carefully edited by William Benham, stands as a remarkable rendition […]
Thaddaeus, Saint Apostle
Saint Thaddaeus, one of the twelve apostles, holds a unique place in the tapestry of early Christian history. Despite the scarcity of detailed records about his life, including the specifics of his birth and death, Thaddaeus’ role as one of Jesus Christ’s chosen disciples underscores his integral contribution to the spread and establishment of Christian […]
Thomas, Saint Apostle | Intriguing Figure of Early Christianity
Thomas Apostle, also known as Didymus, remains an enigmatic yet pivotal figure in early Christian theology and history. His life, woven into the fabric of Christian narrative, spans the first century A.D., though precise dates of birth and death remain elusive. Thomas is best remembered for his skepticism upon hearing of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, a […]
Twelve Apostles | An Insight into Early Christian Figures
The Twelve Apostles, a group integral to the foundations of Christianity, comprised Peter, James, John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot. These individuals, chosen by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry, played pivotal roles in the spread of early Christian teachings. Their lives, extending from […]
Timothy, Saint | A Young Pastor Associate of Paul
Saint Timothy, a pivotal figure in early Christianity, is renowned as a young pastor and a close associate of Apostle Paul. His life, spanning from 17 AD to 97 AD, is marked by devout Christian service and a profound influence on early Christian communities. Timothy’s role, especially in the context of his collaborations with Paul, […]
Tertullus | Biblical Lawyer in Apostle Paul’s Trial
Tertullus, a significant figure in early Christian history, is best known as the lawyer who accused Apostle Paul during his trial before Felix, as described in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 24:1-9). While specific dates of his birth and death remain undocumented, his appearance in the New Testament situates him in the 1st century […]
Theodosius II, Saint Emperor
Saint Emperor Theodosius II, born on April 10, 401, and passing on July 28, 450, stands as a pivotal figure in the history of the Byzantine Empire. Renowned for his significant legal and educational reforms, Theodosius II’s reign marked a period of substantial development in the Byzantine legal system, as well as in the realm […]
Theodora, Empress | Byzantine Era’s Influential Ruler
Empress Theodora, born around 500 AD and passing away on June 28, 548 AD, remains a prominent figure in Byzantine history. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most powerful and influential empresses in the Byzantine Empire is a testament to her resilience, intelligence, and political acumen. Her life and reign alongside […]
Telmaharensis, Dionysius | Syrian Jacobite Church’s Theological Luminary
Dionysius Telmaharensis, a distinguished figure in the history of the Syrian Jacobite Church, is celebrated for his exceptional contributions to theology and liturgy. Born in the early 9th century and passing in 845 AD, Dionysius’ life and work left an indelible mark on the Christian ecclesiastical landscape. His erudition and spiritual depth have been pivotal […]
Trisagion | Its Origins and Purpose
The Trisagion Prayer has resounded through Christian worship for centuries. Its repeated refrain of “Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal” offers a glimpse into the very nature of the divine. This emotive hymn bridges earthly and heavenly realms, uniting voices in the praise of God’s eternal holiness. Tracing the Winding Path of the Trisagion through […]
Tryphon, Saint | A Faithful Journey of Piety and Miracles
Exploring the Life and Legacy of Saint Tryphon Saint Tryphon was born into a life of poverty in 3rd century Anatolia which marked the beginnings of his profound faith. Despite material hardships, he tended animals as a young boy while diligently studying scripture, prefiguring his future as a renowned Christian healer. His refusal of honors […]