Abamun of Tarnut
Abamun of Tarnut was a fourth-century martyr of the Coptic Church, known from later hagiographical accounts. He is remembered for his martyrdom and for inspiring others to accept faith under persecution, notably a young woman named Theophila.
- Feast Day
- August 3
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Egypt
Key Facts
- ›Abamun of Tarnut was a saint and martyr of the fourth-century Coptic Church.
- ›His existence is known primarily from a mention in the Synaxarion of Mikhail of Atrib (C.1240).
- ›His feast day is celebrated on August 3rd (27 Epip).
- ›His name is believed to be related to the ancient Egyptian god Amun.
- ›He presented himself as a Christian to Arianus, the governor of Ansena, and was subsequently tortured.
- ›Abamun was later sent to Alexandria, where his example inspired other Christians towards martyrdom.
About Abamun of Tarnut
Abamun of Tarnut is recognized as a saint and a martyr of the fourth-century Coptic Church. His existence and story are known primarily through his inclusion in the Synaxarion of Mikhail of Atrib, compiled around 1240 CE. His feast day is observed on August 3rd (27 Epip).
Life and Martyrdom
Originally from the city of Tarnut (Coptic: Therenuti), Abamun journeyed to Upper Egypt. There, he witnessed the persecution of Christians. Demonstrating his faith, he presented himself to Arianus, the governor of Ansena, and declared himself a Christian. The governor subjected Abamun to brutal torture, employing methods such as blows, nails inserted into his body, iron combs, and being strung up. Following this, Arianus sent Abamun to Alexandria.
In Alexandria, Abamun's unwavering faith and suffering served as an inspiration to other Christians, leading them to embrace martyrdom themselves. Among those inspired was a young woman named Theophila, who openly criticized the governor and his allies, particularly their idolatry. She was subsequently cast into a fire, which did not harm her, and then beheaded.
Abamun himself met his end through having his limbs severed and then being beheaded.
Historical Context and Veneration
Abamun's story places him within the context of early Christian persecution. His name is etymologically linked to the ancient Egyptian god Amun. While the Church of Saint Abamun bears his name, it is not definitively known if it is dedicated to him, as there were other martyrs with similar names. Another individual named Abamun, who was also martyred in Alexandria, is mentioned in Hippolyte Delehaye's "Les Martyrs d'Égypte," suggesting a possible connection.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Abamun of Tarnut?
Abamun of Tarnut was a saint and martyr of the fourth-century Coptic Church. He is known from his name appearing in the Synaxarion of Mikhail of Atrib.
When is the feast day of Abamun of Tarnut?
His feast day is celebrated on August 3rd, which corresponds to the 27th of Epip in the Coptic calendar.
What is the origin of Abamun's name?
The name Abamun is thought to be related to the ancient Egyptian god Amun, reflecting the historical and cultural context of his veneration.
What happened to Abamun of Tarnut?
According to legend, Abamun presented himself to the governor Arianus as a Christian and was subjected to severe torture, including having his limbs cut off and being beheaded.
Did Abamun of Tarnut inspire others?
Yes, after being sent to Alexandria, Abamun's example of faith and martyrdom inspired other Christians, including a young woman named Theophila, to accept their own martyrdom.
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