Hermias
Hermias of Comana was a 2nd-century soldier in the Roman army who became an early Christian martyr. After confessing his faith, he endured severe torture and miraculous survivals before being beheaded. He is remembered for his unwavering faith in Christ despite immense suffering.
- Feast Day
- May 31
- Century
- 2nd century
- Country Or Region
- Turkey
Key Facts
- ›Hermias was a soldier in the Roman army in Comana, Pontus.
- ›He lived in the 2nd century and completed his service during the reign of Antoninus Pius.
- ›After confessing his faith in Christ, he was arrested and tortured.
- ›His tortures included broken jaws, torn facial skin, and being thrown into a burning furnace unscathed.
- ›He survived drinking poison administered by a sorcerer named Marus.
- ›He was ultimately beheaded by the Proconsul Sebastian.
About Hermias
Hermias of Comana
Hermias of Comana was an early Christian martyr venerated in both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. He lived in the 2nd century and served as a soldier in the Roman army in Pontus.
Life and Martyrdom
After completing his service under the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius (138–161), Hermias refused any pay and openly confessed his faith in Christ. This confession led to his arrest and appearance before Sebastian, the Proconsul of Comana. Sebastian demanded that Hermias renounce Christ to demonstrate loyalty to the Roman emperor, but Hermias vigorously refused.
As a result, Hermias was subjected to brutal torture. His tormentors broke his jaws and tore off the skin of his face. In a miraculous turn, he was then thrown into a burning furnace but emerged unscathed after three days. The Proconsul then enlisted the help of a sorcerer named Marus, who concocted a strong poison. Hermias blessed the poison with the sign of the cross and drank it without harm.
When Marus prepared an even stronger poison, which Hermias also survived, the sorcerer himself confessed the divine power of Christ and was immediately beheaded, becoming a martyr in his own right. Hermias continued to endure further torments, including being plunged into boiling oil and having his eyes gouged out. He was suspended upside down for three days, yet he maintained his thanks to Christ. Finally, the enraged Sebastian beheaded him with his own sword.
Legacy
Following his death, Christians secretly buried the body of the martyr Hermias. Tradition holds that his relics bestowed numerous healings. His feast day is observed on May 31st.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Hermias of Comana?
Hermias of Comana was a 2nd-century soldier in the Roman army who became an early Christian martyr. He is commemorated in the Orthodox and Catholic Churches.
What happened to Hermias?
After confessing his faith in Christ, Hermias was arrested and subjected to severe torture, including having his jaws broken and face skinned. He miraculously survived a burning furnace and poison, but was ultimately beheaded.
When is Hermias's feast day?
The feast day of Saint Hermias is celebrated on May 31st.
What is Hermias remembered for?
Hermias is remembered for his unwavering faith and courage in the face of brutal persecution and torture, ultimately dying for his Christian beliefs.
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