Back to Timeline
c. 251 – 700 AD
Ephrem the Syrian

Ephrem the Syrian

306 – 373 AD
Nisibis / Edessa, Turkey

Overview

"Harp of the Spirit." A deacon who wrote theology in complex, symbolic poetry rather than prose.

Did You Know?

The most significant author in the Syriac (Aramaic) language.

Major Writings

Hymns on Faith

Theology in poetic form.

Read Online

Hymns on Paradise

Mystical poetry on the Fall and Redemption.

Read Online

Commentary on the Diatessaron

Commentary on the harmonized Gospels.

Read Online

Hymns on the Nativity

The most famous Christmas hymns of the ancient world. Deeply theological poetry about the paradox of the 'Infinite God becoming a tiny Babe.'

Read Online

Historical Context

The Syriac & Desert Fathers

The ascetics and poets of the desert.

4 Church Fathers in this era

View All Fathers

Part of The Syriac & Desert Fathers