Theodore of Ajareli
9th century
A Georgian priest who misled invaders to save his land and was martyred for it.
The Holy Hieromartyr Theodore of Ajara
Life
Theodore of Ajareli was a Georgian priest venerated as a hieromartyr, commemorated on January 26. He is remembered for an act of self-sacrifice in the defense of his homeland during a time of invasion.
By the tradition received in the Georgian Church, when his land was threatened by invaders he deliberately misled them, leading them astray to save his people, and for this he was put to death. Little more is preserved of his life in the available accounts.
Kontakion & Troparion2 hymnsReadHide
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”) Having divinely armed yourself with the purity of your soul,
and firmly grasping unceasing prayer as a spear, you pierced the armies of demons.
O our Father Theodore, pray unceasingly for us all.
Text used with permission of the Orthodox Church in America (oca.org).
In you the image was preserved with exactness, O Father,
for taking up your cross, you followed after Christ.
By so doing, you taught us to disregard the flesh, for it passes away,
but to care instead for the soul, since it is immortal.
Therefore, most venerable Father Theodore your spirit rejoices with the Angels.
Text used with permission of the Orthodox Church in America (oca.org).
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