Rabbula
Syriac·Male·5th century·Syria
Rabbula was a significant bishop of Edessa from 411/2 to 435/6 AD, known for his strong opposition to the theological views of Nestorius and Theodore of Mopsuestia. Despite his successor reversing the stance of the bishopric, Rabbula is venerated as a saint by the Oriental Orthodox Church.
Key Facts
- ›Bishop of Edessa from 411/2 to August 435/6 AD.
- ›Notable for opposing Nestorianism and the views of Theodore of Mopsuestia.
- ›Born into an aristocratic family in Qenneshrin to a pagan father and Christian mother.
- ›Converted to Christianity later in life, influenced by a miraculous healing and bishops Eusebius and Acacius.
- ›Venerated as a saint by the Oriental Orthodox Church.
- ›Promoted a revised translation of the New Testament and composed hymns.
- Sermon Denouncing Nestorian Doctrine
- Correspondence With Cyril of Alexandria
- Translation of Cyril's Treatise De Recta Fide Into Syriac
- Collections of Rules Governing Church Order
- Hymns
- Opposition To Nestorianism
- Advocacy For Cyril of Alexandria In Christological Debates
- Promotion of A Revised Translation of the New Testament
Bishop of Edessa, Saint
5th Century
Edessa, Qenneshrin, Constantinople
Oriental Orthodox
Nestorianism
About Rabbula
Rabbula of Edessa
Rabbula was a prominent bishop of Edessa, serving in that role from 411/2 AD until his death in August 435 or 436 AD. He is particularly noteworthy for his staunch opposition to the theological views of Nestorius and Theodore of Mopsuestia, which placed him at the center of significant Christological debates of his time. Despite his theological positions, his successor, Ibas, who managed the school of Edessa, later reversed the official stance of the bishopric, indicating theological shifts within the see.
Life and Ministry
Rabbula was born into an aristocratic family in Qenneshrin. His father was a pagan priest, and his mother was a devout Christian. Rabbula remained pagan until after his marriage, with his conversion to Christianity occurring later in life. This transformation was influenced by witnessing a miraculous healing and the teachings of local bishops. After his conversion, he embraced a fervent Christian life, dedicating himself to asceticism, separating from his family, and eventually becoming a solitary hermit before his election as bishop.
As bishop, Rabbula demonstrated extraordinary energy and a deep commitment to asceticism. He was known for his charitable provisions for the poor and his diligence in maintaining discipline among the clergy and monks. He fiercely opposed heresies, notably Nestorianism, and even preached a sermon against it before Emperor Theodosius II in Constantinople. Rabbula also fostered a friendship with Cyril of Alexandria, with whom he corresponded and whose theological works he translated into Syriac.
His episcopate was marked by significant activity, including advocacy for Cyril of Alexandria, campaigning against pagans, "heretics," and Jews, and claims of destroying pagan temples and a synagogue. He was also renowned for his extensive charitable work, establishing hospitals, regulating clergy and monastics, and enacting legislation for members of the Covenant (Bnay Qyāmā). Additionally, he promoted a revised translation of the New Testament and composed numerous hymns.
Writings and Legacy
Rabbula's literary output is not extensive. His primary contribution to Syriac literature may be his zealous effort to replace Tatian's Diatessaron with the four canonical Gospels, mandating that a copy of the Gospels be placed in every church. He is also associated with the Peshitta, a Syriac translation of the Bible, though scholars debate the extent of his direct involvement in its revision. His extant writings include collections of church order rules, a sermon, letters, and hymns.
Veneration
Rabbula is venerated as a saint by the Oriental Orthodox Church, with his feast day observed on August 7/8 according to the Syriac Orthodox calendar. While not found in the current liturgical calendars of the Catholic or Eastern Orthodox churches, historical Eastern Orthodox veneration on December 20 is noted, with a "feast of Saint Rabbula of Edessa (†436)" appearing in Greek liturgical texts from the 9th-12th centuries.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Rabbula?
Rabbula was a notable bishop of Edessa who served from 411/2 to 435/6 AD. He is primarily remembered for his strong opposition to the theological views of Nestorius and Theodore of Mopsuestia.
What is Rabbula known for theologically?
Rabbula was a fierce opponent of Nestorianism and actively campaigned against what he considered heresies. He was also a strong advocate for Cyril of Alexandria in Christological debates.
Is Rabbula considered a saint?
Yes, Rabbula is venerated as a saint by the Oriental Orthodox Church. His feast day is observed on August 7/8 according to the Syriac Orthodox calendar.
What was Rabbula's role in the school of Edessa?
Rabbula was the bishop of Edessa, and his successor, Ibas, was in charge of the school of Edessa. Ibas subsequently reversed the official stance of the bishopric, suggesting a shift in theological direction after Rabbula's death.
What are some of Rabbula's notable writings?
Rabbula's extant writings are limited but include collections of rules for church order, a sermon delivered in Constantinople (in Syriac translation), letters, and hymns. He also promoted a revised translation of the New Testament.
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