Synaxaria: Historical Collections of Saintly Lives and Church Calendars
In the tradition of early Christianity, the synaxarion serves as a vital record of the saints and feasts of the church. These collections, which date back as far as the tenth century, provide a structured way for the faithful to commemorate the lives of holy figures through short biographical lessons. Beyond their spiritual utility, these texts are indispensable resources for studying Byzantine heortology—the study of religious festivals—and general church history.
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The Evolution of the Byzantine Synaxarion
The development of the synaxarion involved various writers who composed or collected the short lives of saints. Among these contributors, Symeon Metaphrastes stands as the most significant figure. While the historical accuracy of these accounts varies, they provide a window into the values and narratives of the medieval church.
A pivotal moment in the standardization of these texts occurred during the reign of Emperor Basil II (976-1025), who ordered a formal revision of the synaxarion. This revision remains a core component of the current official edition.
Integration into the Menaia
In modern practice, the synaxarion is no longer utilized as a standalone volume. Instead, it has been incorporated into the Menaia, a series of liturgical books organized by month. During the service of Orthros (matins), the specific account of a saint or feast is read following the sixth ode of the Canon. Consequently, in contemporary usage, the term "synaxarion" often refers to the individual lesson read during the service rather than the entire collection.
Regional Variations and Global Examples
While the Byzantine tradition is prominent, various regional synaxaria have survived, reflecting the linguistic and cultural diversity of the early church.
- Coptic Synaxarium: Also known as the Synaxarium Alexandrinum, this text is used by the Coptic Orthodox Church. Originally written in the Coptic language before Arabic became Egypt's official language, it was later published by J. Forget.
- Ethiopian Synaxarium: Belonging to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, this collection was published by I. Guidi in the Patrologia orientalis and by E.A. Wallis Budge.
- Armenian Synaxarium of Ter Israel: Used by the Armenian Apostolic Church, this work was published in Constantinople in 1834 and subsequently in the Patrologia Orientalis.
- Georgian Synaxaria: Various Georgian versions exist, surviving in different states of completeness.
- Roman Martyrology: The equivalent utilized by the Roman Catholic Church to maintain its official calendar of saints.
- Arab-Jacobite Synaxarium: Composed in Arabic and used by the Syriac Orthodox Church.
Key Facts
- Origin: The oldest historical synaxaria date back to the 10th century.
- Key Figure: Symeon Metaphrastes is the most important writer of the short lives within these collections.
- Imperial Influence: Emperor Basil II (976-1025) commissioned a revision that informs the modern official edition.
- Liturgical Use: The synaxarion is now integrated into the Menaia and read during Orthros.
- Global Reach: Distinct versions exist across Coptic, Ethiopian, Armenian, Georgian, Roman, and Syriac traditions.
| Tradition/Church | Name of Synaxarion | Language/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Byzantine/Orthodox | Synaxarion of Constantinople | Integrated into the Menaia |
| Coptic Orthodox | Synaxarium Alexandrinum | Originally Coptic; later Arabic |
| Ethiopian Orthodox | Ethiopian Synaxarium | Published by Guidi and Budge |
| Armenian Apostolic | Synaxarium of Ter Israel | Published in Constantinople (1834) |
| Roman Catholic | Roman Martyrology | Used for the calendar of saints |
| Syriac Orthodox | Arab-Jacobite Synaxarium | Composed in Arabic |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a synaxarion?
A synaxarion is a collection of short biographical accounts of saints and descriptions of church feasts, used primarily for liturgical readings and historical record.
Who was Symeon Metaphrastes?
Symeon Metaphrastes was the most influential writer and compiler of the short lives of saints that form the basis of many synaxaria.
How is the synaxarion used in modern church services?
It is no longer a separate book but is part of the Menaia. The relevant account is read during the Orthros service after the sixth ode of the Canon.
Which emperor influenced the official edition of the synaxarion?
Emperor Basil II, who reigned from 976 to 1025, ordered a revision that remains an important element of the current official edition.
Are there non-Greek versions of the synaxarion?
Yes, there are several regional versions, including those used by the Coptic, Ethiopian, Armenian, Georgian, and Syriac Orthodox churches, as well as the Roman Martyrology of the Catholic Church.