Saint Moses the Black, also known as Abba Moses the Strong or Saint Moses the Ethiopian, is a fourth-century desert father who transformed from outlaw to Orthodox monk and martyr. His story is preserved in the Lausiac History by Palladius, the historian Sozomen’s writings and the Sayings of the Desert Fathers. It remains a witness to repentance, humility and non-violence.
Early Life
Palladius in the Lausiac History records that Moses was a robber who became a monk. He was known for brutality, and led a gang of thieves along the Nile. We don’t have detail on his childhood or when he left Ethiopia for Egypt.
Sozomen’s Ecclesiastical History details the conversion of St. Moses the Black, where after fleeing authorities, he runs into the monks of Scetis. Moved by their holiness and love, he repents and receives baptism.
Ordination and Leadership
In time, Moses was ordained a priest. Despite his past, he became a respected and loved spiritual father to younger monks.
Martyrdom
In his final years, raiders descended on Scetis. Rather than resist, Moses counseled the monks: “Those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword.”
He chose to remain and was killed along with seven disciples.
Feast Day
The feast day of St. Moses the Strong is celebrated on August 28 in both the Coptic and Byzantine Orthodox calendars.
In the Coptic Synaxarium commemoration of St. Moses, he is honored as a model of repentance and endurance. Many Orthodox faithful pray to him as an intercessor, especially those battling addiction, anger, or violent impulses.
References
- Palladius, Lausiac History
- Sozomen, Ecclesiastical History
- Benedicta Ward, The Sayings of the Desert Fathers
