Apollinaris of Hierapolis
Male·2nd century·Phrygia·Christianity
Apollinaris of Hierapolis was a Christian leader and writer of the 2nd century, known for his polemical writings against heretics and an "Apologia" for Christians addressed to Emperor Marcus Aurelius. He is commemorated on January 8th.
Key Facts
- ›Bishop of Hierapolis in Phrygia.
- ›Authored polemical treatises against heretics, demonstrating their errors were borrowed from pagans.
- ›Published an "Apologia" for Christians in 177 AD, addressed to Marcus Aurelius.
- ›Appealed to Marcus Aurelius's experience with the "Thundering Legion" in his Apologia.
- ›His feast day is commemorated on January 8th.
- ›Only fragments of his writings survive, including a section on the date of Passover.
Apologia
Saint, Apologist
2nd Century
Phrygia
About Apollinaris of Hierapolis
Apollinaris Claudius, commonly known as Apollinaris of Hierapolis or Apollinaris the Apologist, was a prominent Christian leader and writer of the 2nd century. He held the position of Bishop of Hierapolis in Phrygia.
Life and Historical Context
Apollinaris became renowned for his vigorous polemical treatises, in which he argued that the errors of the heretics of his time were entirely derived from pagan philosophies. A significant work from his life was his "Apologia" for the Christians, published in 177 AD and addressed to Emperor Marcus Aurelius. In this defense, Apollinaris invoked the Emperor's personal experience with the "Thundering Legion," whose prayers were credited with a victory over the Quadi, suggesting a divine favor for the Christian faith.
The exact date of Apollinaris's death is not precisely known, but it is generally believed to have occurred while Marcus Aurelius was still emperor.
Writings and Legacy
Unfortunately, very little of Apollinaris's extensive writings has survived to the present day. Only a few fragments are extant, with the longest notable extract pertaining to the dating of Passover. The historian Eusebius makes mention of his work, indicating its importance in early Christian literature. Apollinaris of Hierapolis is commemorated liturgically on January 8th.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Apollinaris of Hierapolis?
Apollinaris of Hierapolis was a Christian leader and writer active in the 2nd century. He served as the Bishop of Hierapolis in Phrygia and is known for his defense of Christianity and his opposition to heretical teachings.
What is Apollinaris of Hierapolis most famous for?
He is most famous for his polemical treatises against heretics, arguing that their errors were borrowed from paganism. He also published an "Apologia" for Christians in 177 AD, addressed to Emperor Marcus Aurelius.
What did Apollinaris of Hierapolis write about in his "Apologia"?
In his "Apologia" to Marcus Aurelius, Apollinaris defended Christians and appealed to the Emperor's own experience with the "Thundering Legion," whose prayers he believed secured a victory over the Quadi.
What remains of Apollinaris of Hierapolis's writings?
Very little of Apollinaris of Hierapolis's writings survives today. Only a few extracts are known, with the most substantial one concerning the date of Passover. Eusebius made mention of his work.
When is the feast day of Apollinaris of Hierapolis?
The feast day of Apollinaris of Hierapolis is commemorated on January 8th.
Related Church Fathers
Melito of Sardis
Melito of Sardis was a prominent 2nd-century Christian bishop in Roman Asia, known for his influence and literary works, many of which are lost. He is particularly recognized for developing one of the earliest Old Testament canons and for his "Apology for Christianity" addressed to Emperor Marcus Aurelius during a period of Christian persecution.
Quadratus of Athens
Quadratus of Athens was an early Christian apologist and bishop of Athens in the 2nd century CE. He is primarily known for presenting a defense of Christianity, known as an apology, to Emperor Hadrian around 124–125 CE, which highlighted the enduring impact of Jesus' miracles. Traditionally regarded as a disciple of the Apostles, he is recognized for his intellectual defense of the faith and his role in revitalizing the Athenian Christian community.
Agrippa Castor
Agrippa Castor was an Ancient Greek writer active around AD 135, recognized as an early opponent of heresy. He is primarily known for composing a book dedicated solely to refuting the teachings of Basilides, a Gnostic teacher. His work provides valuable, though limited, insights into early Christian debates on heresy and apologetics.