Severus of Antioch

Severus of Antioch, also known as Severus of Gaza and revered as the Crown of Syrians, served as the Patriarch of Antioch and led the Syriac Orthodox Church from five hundred twelve until his passing in five hundred thirty-eight. His legacy is honored as a saint within the Oriental Orthodox Church, with his feast day celebrated on the twenty-ninth of September by the Syriac Orthodox Church and on the eighth of February by the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Born in Sozopolis, Severus pursued his education in grammar, rhetoric, and philosophy in Alexandria, Egypt. His academic journey led him to Phoenicia, where he studied law and immersed himself in the writings of the Church Fathers. Following his baptism at the Church of Saint Leontius, he embraced monastic life at the monastery of Peter the Iberian near Maiuma, a significant center for non-Chalcedonianism.

In five hundred twelve, Severus was elected as the Patriarch of Antioch after the deposition of Patriarch Flavian II by Emperor Anastasius. During his consecration, he affirmed the Councils of Nicaea, Constantinople, and Ephesus while denouncing the Council of Chalcedon and the Tome of Leo. His refusal to accept the Chalcedonian decree led to an order from Justin I for his arrest and punishment. However, Severus managed to escape to Alexandria, aided by Theodora, the wife of Justinian, and remained recognized as the legitimate Patriarch by non-Chalcedonians.

Severus spent his final years in the city of Sakha, where he continued to uphold his theological beliefs until his death on the fifth of February, five hundred thirty-eight. After his passing, his body was transferred to the Zogag monastery, further solidifying his enduring influence within the church.