01Apr2025
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Foundation:
The Monastery of Saint Theodosius was established in 465 AD by Saint Theodosius, one of the most renowned figures in monasticism in Palestine. The monastery is located in the village of Al-Ubaydiyya near Bethlehem and is home to the tomb of Saint Theodosius, who passed away at the age of 105.
About the Church and the Naming:
The monastery is named after Saint Theodosius, known as the (Head of the Monasteries,) with his name meaning “Gift of God.” It holds profound religious and historical significance, both for its role in spreading monastic life in Palestine and for housing the relics of many saints.
Saint Theodosius was born in Cappadocia (modern-day Türkiye) to devout parents and harbored a deep desire to visit the Holy Land. After meeting Saint Simon, he journeyed to Jerusalem and sought to embrace monastic life, ultimately becoming one of the founding fathers of monasticism in Palestine. Guided by divine providence, he connected with Saint Longinus, with whom he stayed near the Tower of David, learning obedience and asceticism. He later moved to the Monastery of Khathisma (Church of the Seat of Mary) along the road to Bethlehem before settling in a cave at the summit of a mountain, where he spent his final years in prayer and devotion. Over time, many monks joined him, and during the 5th to 7th centuries, the monastery grew to house as many as 700 monks, solidifying its status as a major center of monastic life in Palestine.
Saint Theodosius remained a symbol of spiritual purity and devotion until his death, and his legacy endures in the monastery that bears his name, a living testament to his sacred history and deep spiritual influence.
Historical Events:
The monastery has witnessed numerous historical events throughout the centuries. A church dedicated to the Mother of God was built between 529-543 by Patriarch Sophronius, but it was destroyed during the Persian invasions of the 7th century. During the Byzantine period, the site also served as a cemetery for monks and clergy, in addition to housing a theological school that produced many prominent church leaders. In the Crusades period, the monastery was rebuilt but once again fell into disrepair, eventually becoming a harbor for the Bedouins of the ” Ibn Obeid” tribe, which led to its local name, “The Monastery of Ibn Obeid.” In 1881, the church acquired the ruins, and in 1952, the current structure was inaugurated, transforming it into a prominent religious site that welcomes visitors from all over the world.
Architectural Design:
The monastery is renowned for its distinctive architectural design, resembling a towering fortress atop a hill, surrounded by protective walls that safeguard its religious and historical heritage. It contains four churches, along with a cave believed to have been a refuge for the Three Wise Men when they fled King Herod after visiting the infant Jesus in Bethlehem.
The monastery also houses the relics of Saint Theodosius, his mother, the mother of Saint Saba, and many other holy fathers. In the past, it also included workshops, stables, and agricultural lands, although these facilities were short-lived due to the various attacks it endured throughout history.
The monastery is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, offering a place for prayer and reflection on its rich historical and spiritual heritage.
The Orthodox Church celebrates the feast of Saint Theodosius on January 11th each year.
