MARTYRS OF NAJRAN
Unwavering Faith in Christ
Saint Arethas is widely revered as the leader of the Martyrs of Najran, a group of over four thousand Christians who were tragically martyred in the early sixth century, under the orders of the Himyarite king, Dhu Nuwas. This massacre remains a solemn event commemorated in various Christian traditions, highlighting Saint Arethas' pivotal role and enduring martyrdom.
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Drawing from various hagiographic literature, we bring to life the remarkable stories of Saint Arethas and his Companions, celebrating their legacy and the enduring impact of their martyrdom. Through their lives, we find inspiration — inspiration to persevere in faith, to stand firm in the face of adversity, and to uphold values of compassion and courage. May their stories continue to inspire and guide us in our own journey of faith.
St. Arethas
Great Martyr
St. Arethas and his Companions were Arab Christians from Najran, an ancient city in southern Arabia (modern-day Saudi Arabia), martyred in 523 AD for their steadfast faith in Christ. St. Arethas, born Al-Harith bin Ka’b in 427 AD, served as the governor of Najran until his martyrdom at the age of ninety-five. His Hellenized (Greek) name, Arethas, meaning “tiller of the soil,” symbolizes his deep-rooted faith, which endured through intense persecution.
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The persecution began when the Himyarite king Dhu Nuwas, who had converted to Judaism, sought to eradicate Christianity from his kingdom.
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Ruhm, the Noblewoman
Like a pure and spotless offering
Ruhm bint Azma, also known as Ruma, was a prominent and highly respected woman of wealth and social standing in Najran, and a relative of Saint Arethas. Her courageous story unfolds vividly amidst the persecution of Christians by King Dhu Nuwas.
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During this tumultuous period, Ruhm demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of severe adversity and torture alongside her fellow believers. Her unwavering faith and steadfast commitment to Christ exemplified the depth of her spiritual conviction.
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Elizabeth the Deaconess
Woman Leadership
Elizabeth the Deaconess, renowned for her unwavering faith and leadership, played a crucial role in the early Christian community of Najran. As a deaconess, she was deeply involved in the spiritual and social life of her community, providing guidance, support, and care to its members.
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Elizabeth was born into a devout Christian family in Najran, where her brother Paul served as the Bishop. From an early age, she was known for her piety, compassion, and steadfast dedication to her faith. Her profound sense of duty and commitment to God led her to embrace the responsibilities of a deaconess, a position of significant influence within the church.
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Qarazat, the Five-Year Old Boy
Poignant Symbol of Courage
Qarazat’s story stands as a profound testament to courage and unwavering faith amidst persecution in Najran during the early sixth century. Born into a devout Christian family, Qarazat (also spelled Karazan, Karazat or Karazhat in various sources) was immersed in a community where faith was not just a belief but a way of life.
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When King Dhu Nuwas launched a brutal campaign against Christians in Najran, Qarazat’s family and fellow believers faced grave threats. They were presented with a stark ultimatum: abandon Christianity or face severe consequences, including torture and death.
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“I am persuaded that, as a vine pruned at the correct time gives a good yield of fruit, God will multiply the Christian population in this city ...”
St. Arethas
Habsa and Her Two Friends
Triumph of the Cross
Habsa, the daughter of Hayyan, emerges from history as a symbol of courage and steadfast faith amidst persecution during the rule of King Dhu Nuwas in Najran. While details of her early life remain scarce, her profound bravery and unyielding devotion to Christ resonate profoundly.
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Upon learning of the persecution of fellow Christians, Habsa was deeply moved to tears and fervent prayer. She implored Jesus Christ to deem her worthy of martyrdom, aligning herself with those who had given their lives for their faith.
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Tahna and Her Family
Enduring Strength of Faith
Tahna was a mother of two daughters who lived in Najran with her maidservant, Hudayya. During the Himyarite siege of the city, Tahna learned that the church was ablaze with fellow Christians trapped inside. Without hesitation, she firmly grasped her daughter Ummah’s hand and made her way towards the flames, resolved to stand with her brothers and sisters in Christ, echoing the Scripture:
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“Even if you suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled.” — 1 Peter 3:14
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Mahya and the Handmaids
Faith and Courage under Duress
Mahya's story is one of courage and unwavering faith amidst persecution in Najran. She served as a maidservant in the household of Arethas.
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When Mahya and other female servants were summoned by Dhu Nuwas and ordered to renounce their faith, they steadfastly refused:
"We shall die with [our masters and relatives] for the sake of Christ."
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Abraham, Son of the Covenant
Christian Solidarity
The story of Malik, son of Mu'awiya, who took the baptismal name "Abraham," is a poignant example of the courage and faith exhibited by the martyrs of Najran. This narrative highlights the profound commitment and bravery of the young martyrs like Abraham during the persecution led by King Dhu Nuwas.
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Abraham, from the family of Yaqbul, was a youth who witnessed the tragic events unfolding during the persecution of Christians in Najran. When he saw the church engulfed in flames with priests and his teachers inside, he hurried to the church courtyard. With great fervor, he made a public declaration of faith:
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St. Caleb of Axum
The Hermit King
Saint Caleb of Axum, also known as Saint Caleb of Ethiopia or Saint Elesbaan, played a pivotal role in the history of Christianity in Najran and Ethiopia during the 6th century. While he himself was not a martyr of Najran, he is credited with liberating the Christian community in Najran from persecution. His efforts are seen as instrumental in restoring and safeguarding Christianity in south Arabia.
Saint Caleb ruled the Kingdom of Axum in Ethiopia during the 6th century. He is celebrated for his profound conversion to Christianity and his unwavering dedication to defending and promoting the Christian faith. One of his most significant achievements was leading a military campaign to reconquer Najran, a prominent Christian center that had fallen under Jewish control led by Dhu Nuwas. This campaign was not only a military conquest but also a restoration of Christian governance and protection for the Christian community in Najran.
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