Sabas, Leader of Palestinian Monasticism

The impact of the life of Sabas and his exceptional system of monastic life has endured from the fifth century to the present. In this volume, Joseph Patrich examines the contributions Sabas and his followers made to Palestinian monasticism, from his role as founder and abbot to the theological struggles after his death. The monastery of Mar Saba, suspended on cliff tops in a breathtaking location, is a monument attesting Sabas’s lasting influence.

The research for the present volume began as an archaeological survey conducted by the author during 1981–82 in an area surrounding this monastery. The literary sources, mainly in Greek, are numerous, covering the entire period from the fourth to the seventh century. Patrich’s firsthand knowledge of the various sites where Sabas and his disciples were active afforded him an excellent understanding of the many details of monastic life mentioned in the sources. 

This volume examines the historical framework and background of Sabas’s life and his role as a founder of monasteries, an abbot and monastic legislator, and a religious and ecclesiastical leader. The epilogue contains a brief history of the theological struggles that continued after Sabas’s death, in which his followers played a decisive role.