About Saint Anthony the Great
Father of Christian Monasticism and Desert Ascetic
Saint Anthony the Great, also known as Anthony of Egypt or Anthony the Abbot, was born around 251 AD in Egypt and is considered the father of Christian monasticism. After inheriting his parents' wealth at age 18, he was moved by Christ's words to the rich young man: "Go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven." Anthony distributed his wealth to the poor and devoted himself to ascetic life. He spent twenty years in complete solitude in the Egyptian desert, where he faced numerous demonic temptations and spiritual battles, emerging victorious through prayer, fasting, and unwavering faith in God.
"A time is coming when men will go mad, and when they see someone who is not mad, they will attack him, saying, 'You are mad; you are not like us.'"
After his period of solitude, Saint Anthony emerged as a spiritual father to many disciples who sought his guidance. He established the first Christian monastery and became known for his wisdom, miracles, and profound spiritual insights. His life and teachings were recorded by Saint Athanasius the Great in "The Life of Saint Anthony," which became one of the most influential works in Christian literature. Anthony's example inspired countless men and women to embrace the monastic life, establishing the foundation for Christian monasticism that continues to this day.
Saint Anthony the Great died on January 17, 356 AD, at the age of 105. His feast day is celebrated on January 17th in the Orthodox Church. He is venerated as one of the greatest saints of the Orthodox Church and is considered the patron saint of monks, basket makers, brushmakers, gravediggers, and those suffering from skin diseases. His legacy continues to inspire Orthodox Christians worldwide, particularly those called to the monastic life, as he demonstrated that through prayer, asceticism, and unwavering faith, one can overcome all spiritual obstacles and draw closer to God.