Biography

Ephraim was born in or about the year 306 in what is today Turkey. St. Ephraim of Syria wrote over 400 hymns. Many of his hymns were written as teaching tools, especially to teach congregants the truth of scripture so they could guard against false teachings. Other songs were written as a commentary on particular passages. As part of his body of works, Ephraim wrote several homilies and prayers. Having been a rebellious youth, Ephraim had a passion for repentance. He took every opportunity to call those he came in contact with to experience true repentance. Ephraim had a desire to live alone, but God provided opportunities to teach, preach, and serve others as a monk. His humility kept him from accepting the priesthood, but he did serve as a deacon. Eventually, Ephraim would live out his final days in a cave. Ephraim died in 373 (some sources say 379).

Wailand Groenendyk
CCEL Staff Writer