Hilarion the Great

Hilarion the Great (291–371) was a Christian saint, ascetic, and hermit who spent most of his life in the desert. He is revered in both the Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church.

Biography

Hilarion was born in 291 AD in the Palestinian village of Fawafa, near Gaza. He studied science in Alexandria, where he converted to Christianity. At the age of 15, having heard of St. Anthony the Great, he went to him and spent about two months with him, trying to imitate his teacher in everything. Returning to his homeland and learning of the death of his parents, he sold his property, distributed money to the poor, and began a hermit life 7 miles south of the city of Mayuma.

Hilarion strenuously struggled with impure thoughts that disturbed his mind and inflamed his flesh, but he defeated them through hard work, fasting, and diligent prayer. The sick came to him for healing, and Hilarion healed their diseases free of charge.

Life in the Desert

After spending some time in the desert, Hilarion moved to a location near Paphos, Cyprus, where he spent the remainder of his life. He is said to have lived a simple and modest life, devoting himself to prayer, fasting, and contemplation.

Legacy

Hilarion's life is described by Epiphany of Cyprus, who wrote about his struggles with impure thoughts and his eventual victory over them through his devotion to God. Hilarion's legacy as a Christian saint and hermit has endured for centuries, and he is still revered in both the Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church.

Feast Day

Hilarion's feast day is celebrated on October 21 in both the Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church.

References

* Epiphany of Cyprus (author unknown)
* Various other sources cited in individual language articles.