Description

St. Paul (c. AD 5–64/68) was born Saul in Tarsus and educated in Jerusalem as a Pharisee under Gamaliel. Initially a zealous persecutor of Christians, he encountered the risen Christ while travelling to Damascus (Acts 9). After being baptised by Ananias, he became one of the Church’s greatest missionaries, proclaiming Christ throughout Asia Minor, Greece and eventually Rome.

Holy Tradition holds that Saint Paul was beheaded in Rome during Nero’s persecution, receiving the crown of martyrdom alongside the apostolic witness of St. Peter. In iconography he is recognised by his high forehead and pointed dark beard, normally holding a book or scroll representing his inspired teaching. He is honoured, alongside St. Peter, as a Pillar of the Church.

Icon Source & Historical Details

Location: Dionysiou Monastery, Mount Athos

Iconographer:

Date: 16th century

Tradition: Cretan

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