In this lecture His Holiness Pope Shenouda addresses the life of Saint Jacob of Serugh and his place in the Syriac and Orthodox Church heritage. He clarifies that Saint Jacob lived after the great ecumenical councils yet is nevertheless one of the Church’s saints and teachers.

The Saint’s Life and Consecration

Saint Jacob was born in 451 AD and was consecrated bishop in 519 AD at the age of sixty-eight; he served a short episcopate and reposed in 521 AD at about seventy years old. Before becoming bishop he lived as a monk, then a priest, and supervised monasteries.

His Literary and Linguistic Contribution

Jacob was a poet and eloquent writer in Syriac; he authored about 760 long poems and wrote hundreds and thousands of verses and other works: some 45 letters, two liturgical books, communion hymns, a baptismal rite, and festival sermons. His homilies and discourses are read in certain monasteries, especially during Holy Week.

Defense of the Faith and Council Participation

He took part in councils of the Syriac Church and defended the true faith; he anathematized Nestorius and his followers, and was at times exiled because of his commitment to orthodoxy, yet he remained a steadfast defender of doctrine.

Miracles, Prophecies and Ecclesial Acts

Some of his poems contained prophecies and warnings about calamities that later occurred; he also assisted in ordaining other fathers and stood for the Church during times of persecution or weakness.

Spiritual and Ecclesial Impact

His literary and theological heritage is highly valued among the Syrians; his relics were transferred to Diyarbakir where a church was built in his name and in honor of the Virgin. He was not a miracle-worker or a martyr, but a confessor who labored for the faith, and the Church continues to benefit from his prayers and blessing.

Conclusion

In summary, Saint Jacob of Serugh is an example of a defender of doctrine and a spiritual literary creator in the Syriac language, leaving a legacy that benefits liturgy and spiritual instruction.

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