Abanoub
Abanoub was a 4th-century Christian saint and martyr from Egypt, known for his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ despite severe torture. He is chiefly remembered as "The Child Martyr" for his youthful martyrdom at the age of twelve.
- Feast Day
- July 31
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Egypt
Key Facts
- ›Abanoub was born in Nehisa, Egypt, to Christian parents.
- ›His name is related to the Egyptian god Anubis.
- ›He was martyred at the age of twelve after refusing to renounce Christianity.
- ›His feast day is celebrated on July 31 (Epip 24).
- ›His relics are preserved in churches in Sebennytos and Samanoud, Egypt.
- ›He is often referred to as "the Child Martyr".
Abanob, Abanoub Al-Nahisy, The Child Martyr
About Abanoub
Saint Abanoub, also known as Abanob or Abanoub Al-Nahisy, was a 4th-century Christian saint and martyr from Egypt. His name has connections to the ancient Egyptian deity Anubis. Abanoub's life story is primarily one of early Christian martyrdom, and he is often referred to as "The Child Martyr."
Life and Historical Context
Born in Nehisa, a town in the Nile Delta, Abanoub was raised by Christian parents who instilled in him a strong faith. He was orphaned at a young age. At the age of twelve, during a period of persecution under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, Abanoub entered a church and received the Holy Sacraments. Driven by a desire to confess his faith, he gave away his inherited wealth to the poor and set out for Samanoud.
Along his journey, Abanoub experienced a vision of the Archangel Michael, who foretold his suffering. In Samanoud, he boldly confessed his faith before the governor, Lucianus, and insulted the governor's idols, which incited his fury. Abanoub was severely whipped, but miraculously healed by the Archangel Michael. The following day, he was taken to Athribis, where he was tortured further, including being hung upside down. During this ordeal, his tormentors were struck blind and paralyzed, and Abanoub prayed for their healing, stating it would only occur in Athribis so that all would know Christ. He was eventually sent to Alexandria, where he endured further torture until he died, receiving the crown of martyrdom. His biography was written by St. Julius El-Akfahsi, who was present at his death and ensured his body was returned to his hometown of Nehisa.
Veneration
Following his martyrdom, Abanoub became a widely venerated saint. In 960 AD, his body was transferred to the St. Virgin Mary Church in Samanoud. Many churches have since been built in his honor, and numerous miracles are attributed to his relics. His feast day is celebrated on July 31 (Epip 24).
Key Facts
- Born: Nehisa, Nile Delta, Egypt
- Died: Alexandria, Egypt
- Age at death: 12 years old
- Feast Day: July 31 (Epip 24)
- Associated with: 4th century, Christian martyrdom, Egypt
- Title: The Child Martyr
- Relics: St. Virgin Mary and St. Abanoub Churches in Sebennytos, Egypt; also venerated in Samanoud, Egypt.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Abanoub?
Abanoub was a 4th-century Christian saint and martyr from Egypt. He is recognized for his early martyrdom at the age of twelve, having refused to abandon his Christian faith despite intense persecution and torture.
What is Saint Abanoub known for?
He is primarily known as "The Child Martyr" due to his young age when he was killed for his faith. His unwavering devotion and the miraculous events surrounding his suffering and death are central to his veneration.
When is Saint Abanoub's feast day?
Saint Abanoub's feast day is celebrated on July 31, which corresponds to the 24th day of the Coptic month Epip.
Where are Saint Abanoub's relics kept?
His relics are preserved in St. Virgin Mary and St. Abanoub Churches in Sebennytos, Egypt, and also in his church in the city of Samanoud, Egypt.
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