Born in Mesopotamia, in the city of Nisibis, Saint Ephrem was born to Christian parents during the reign of Constantine the Great and lived until the reign of Theodosius the Great. In his youth, he renounced the world and went into the desert, becoming a monk. Receiving the gift of wisdom from God, he became known for his teachings that inspired many. His life was foretold from childhood when his parents saw a dream of a vine, symbolizing his future spiritual fruitfulness.
In 363, when Nisibis was captured by the Persians, he went to Edessa, where, praying, he asked God to send him a man who could speak with him about the Holy Scriptures. Meeting a woman, he was surprised by her wisdom and understood that the Lord had heard his prayer.
Saint Ephrem displayed kindness and humility, even when harlots tried to tempt him. He always responded to them with love and wisdom, guiding them towards repentance. His kindness was evident when he did not get angry at a disciple who accidentally broke a vessel of food, but instead calmed him.
He also had a vision of Saint Basil the Great, after which he went to Caesarea, where he praised Basil for his teachings. Saint Basil, seeing his humility and virtue, ordained him as a deacon.
Ephrem worked hard for the salvation of souls, teaching and guiding people. He left behind many writings in which he condemned heresies and preached repentance. Saint Ephrem peacefully departed in Edessa in 373, leaving a legacy of spiritual teaching and prayer.
