Saint Paul of Thebes, First Hermit

Saint Paul of Thebes is also called Saint Paul the First Hermit. He is known as the first Christian hermit. He lived in the deserts of Egypt a long time ago. He is honored for his life of prayer and simple living.

Saint Paul lived during a time when Christians were often treated badly. Many were arrested or killed. Paul chose to leave the busy world and live alone with God. He found peace in the desert.

Many people know Saint Anthony the Great. But Saint Paul lived as a hermit even before Anthony. Saint Anthony visited Paul when Paul was very old. Their meeting is an important story in Christian tradition.

Saint Paul’s story teaches us about trust in God and living simply. He gave up everything to follow God. His life shows that sometimes being alone with God is a gift.v

Paul was born in Egypt around the year 228. His parents were wealthy and raised him well. They taught him to love God and study the Scriptures. Paul grew up strong in faith and knowledge.

When Paul was about sixteen, he lost both of his parents. He was left alone with his inheritance. Around this time, Christians in Egypt were being hunted and killed. Paul feared that he would be forced to give up his faith.

To escape danger, Paul fled into the desert. At first, he thought it would be only for a little while. But he soon found a cave where he decided to stay and live. He trusted that God would take care of him there.

Paul’s early life was full of change and danger. But even as a young man, he chose God over comfort. He chose a life of prayer instead of fear.

Paul lived in a cave near a palm tree and a small spring of water. The palm tree gave him food and material for clothing. The spring gave him water to drink. He needed very little to survive.

He lived in the desert for nearly ninety years. He spent his days praying, praising God, and living quietly. He trusted God to give him what he needed each day.

According to tradition, a raven brought him half a loaf of bread every day. This simple miracle showed how God cared for him in his hidden life.

Paul’s life was not easy. The desert was hot during the day and cold at night. There were dangers all around. But Paul stayed faithful and joyful through it all. He was happy to live close to God.

When Paul was about one hundred and thirteen years old, Saint Anthony the Great came to visit him. Anthony had heard about Paul and wanted to meet him. Their meeting was joyful and full of respect.

Paul and Anthony talked for many hours. They shared their love for God and their experiences in the desert. They prayed together and encouraged each other.

According to the story, when Paul died, Anthony buried him. Two lions came and helped dig the grave. This story shows how even the animals honored the saint.

Paul’s meeting with Anthony is an important part of his story. It reminds us that even those who live alone for God still need friendship and love.

Paul died peacefully after his long life in the desert. Saint Anthony buried him with care and prayer. After his death, people began to honor his memory.

Stories of Paul’s holy life spread to many places. People were inspired by his faith and his simple living. Monks and hermits especially looked up to him.

A church was later built in his honor. Monks who wanted to live like Paul often visited this place. His story gave them courage to live quiet and prayerful lives.

Paul’s death was simple, but his memory stayed strong. He showed that a quiet life with God can touch many people even after death.

Saint Paul of Thebes was never formally canonized like later saints. In the early Church, saints were often honored by the local people and by tradition. His feast day is celebrated on January 15.

He is the patron saint of hermits and monks who live alone. He is also called upon by those who seek solitude and peace. Many religious communities honor him as a spiritual father.

Today, Paul’s life reminds us that we do not need many things to be happy. We need faith, prayer, and trust in God. His example is simple but strong.

Saint Paul of Thebes still speaks to a busy world today. He reminds us to slow down, be quiet, and listen for God.