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Saint Apostle Simon the Zealot is the patron saint of treasure hunters.

Treasure hunting, which is a favorite hobby for many of us, has been known since ancient times, when there were no metal detectors yet. A huge number of signs, beliefs and legends are associated with treasures and treasure hunting.

Despite the fact that in our time it has acquired new shades, there are things that have come to us from time immemorial and remain unshakable and traditional. Let's fast forward to the 1st century AD, to one of the most remarkable periods of world history associated with the earthly life of Jesus Christ. Christ spent the days of his adolescence and youth in Galilee, in the small town of Nazareth. But now the time has come for His ministry to the human race, and Christ goes to Judea, where he receives baptism from John, performs a forty-day fast and calls the first disciples. After this, the Lord returned to Galilee again. On the third day, the “Marriage in Canna of Galilee” took place - a wedding in a small town near Nazareth. By relationship or acquaintance, the Mother of God was present at the wedding, and Jesus and his disciples were invited.

The newlyweds were probably not rich, and a shortage of wine soon became apparent. Jesus asked the servants to fill six stone vessels standing nearby with water. “Now take some,” said the Lord, “and bring it to the master of the feast.” The steward tasted the water, which had already become wine, and was surprised why such a wonderful wine had been preserved for so long, which he did not hesitate to tell the groom about. Here it was revealed to everyone what a miracle Christ performed—the Lord’s first miracle. The disciples saw the divine power of their Teacher and believed in Him as the messenger of God. The groom named Simon also believed in Christ. He left his bride, his home and all the vanities of this world and followed Christ. As one of the most zealous disciples of Christ, Simon was elected one of the twelve apostles.

Simon had two nicknames - Canaanite and Zealot. He received the first by his origin from the Galilean city of Cana. The nickname Zealot means “zealot” - Simon was inflamed with such zealous love for Christ that he left everything for Him and followed the Lord. After the ascension of Christ, the Apostle Simon traveled through Mauritania and Africa preaching the Word of God. Then he visited Britain, Egypt and Persia. Everywhere he preached the holy Gospel with the same fiery zeal with which he left worldly vanity. Simon ended his life with suffering in the name of Christ. At the insistence of the pagan priests in Persia, the holy Apostle Simon was sawn in half. Another legend says that Simon the Zealot was crucified in Abkhazia. This happened on May 23 (May 10, old style), and on this day the Church celebrates in honor of the Apostle Simon. But what does this have to do with patronage for treasure hunters? - you ask. Go ahead!

Before the adoption of Christianity, the Eastern Slavs were pagans; they did not have one God. But not a single event of Slavic life took place without the participation of a deity or the great elements revered by the people of that time. The day of Simon the Zealot coincided with one of the very ancient pagan holidays, when the pagan deities Belee and Makosh - earthly intercessors - are especially revered, and the Magi go out into the field, lie down on the grass and listen to the Earth. On this day, she aroused special worship as Mother Raw Earth, who was considered the birthday girl on this day. Hence the second name of this holiday - Birthday Earth. On this day, the people performed “Zealot’s round dances”, and also performed consecration ceremonies, told fortunes and glorified the Earth. The consecrated handful of Earth was collected in bags and kept as amulets. The holiday ended with a feast and games.

According to ancient belief, on the Earth’s name day it was forbidden to plow or harrow it. In Tambov they reasoned: “Today is the day of Simon-Gulimon, the lazy saint.” Where they didn’t know this, they said: “Sow wheat on Simon the Zealot and it will be born like gold.” Another belief associated with this holiday says that in the spring all treasures “dry out”, will-o’-the-wisps appear and burn above them. The main custom of Simon Zealot's day has always been the search for treasures, unfortunately, at that time there were no metal detectors. People believed that there was some connection between the words Zealot and gold. Therefore, Simon the Zealot was considered by the people to be the patron saint of treasure hunters and people turned to him in prayer, asking for help in finding treasures.

Another custom is that on this day they walked through forests and meadows, collecting various herbs and roots, which were attributed with special healing powers. And the nickname Zealot supposedly comes from the word “potion”. It can be assumed that these two customs are associated with folk etymology: the incomprehensible name Zealot could well be associated in the popular imagination with the words “gold” and, as already mentioned, “potion.” I have long wanted to find a shrine for myself related to my treasure hunting hobby. And such a case actually presented itself to me! In February of this year, while in the Holy Land, I bought a small icon of the Apostle Simon the Zealot and now I hope that the saint will definitely act as a patron in finding my most cherished treasure. Of course, I bought a metal detector much earlier. Well, May 23 (May 10, Old Art.), the day of remembrance of the Apostle Simon the Zealot, I think, can rightfully be recognized as treasure hunter’s day.

to the ApostleSimonZealot especially prayabout happiness in marriage andpatronage of the family hearth.

Troparion, tone 3

Apostle Saint Simon, pray to the Merciful God that He may grant remission of sins to our souls.

Kontakion, tone 2

It is known by the wisdom of the teaching in the souls of the pious that we will please all Simon in praise, like the God-speaking One: For now he stands before the Throne of Glory and rejoices with the Bodiless, praying unceasingly for all of us.

Kontakion 1

Chosen Apostle of Christ and evangelist, through the midst of your preaching, who caught the salvation of many human souls and brought darkened people to Christ through idolatry, Blessed Simon, in songs we praise you with love and pray to you diligently: for you have boldness in the Lord, praying to Him for our sinners and with your prayers free us from all troubles, so we call to you:

Ikos 1

The Creator and Lord of angels, Christ God, saved even fallen humanity, having clothed ourselves with our flesh and lived with men, but came to Cana of Galilee for marriage in your house, Simon the Most Praiseworthy, together with His Most Pure Matter, the Virgin Theotokos, Who through the supplication of mothers the firstfruits of miracles Show Yours in your house, miraculously transforming water into wine on your brother and thereby showing the power of Your Divinity. The same to you, blessed with the visit and favor of the God-man, as the Seer of God and His chosen disciple, we cry out to the Lord with tenderness:

Rejoice, beautiful bridegroom, miraculously called from earthly marriage to the marriage of the Lamb.

Rejoice, glorified in heaven and on earth.

Rejoice, thou who faithfully served the incarnate Word of God.

Rejoice, in preaching the Gospel of truth, great zeal was revealed.

Rejoice, thou who loved the Most Sweet Lord Jesus with all thy heart.

Rejoice, thou who left the earthly betrothed and followed Him.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 2

Having seen the miracles of Christ, the most glorious Simone, you faithfully followed God who appeared in the flesh, you were loved from the Unworthy and you were numbered among the chosen twelve Apostles, like a zealot of His glory, you received a new name Zealot, who is a zealot. Ask for this zeal for the glory of God for us, disciples of the Saviors, so that together with you we may be worthy to sing to Christ: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

The heavenly mind was given to you from above, Simon the God-Wise, also listening to the Divine word of Christ God, I formed it in your heart, and, like the good earth, you brought Him a hundredfold fruit of the teachings of the Gospel grace, with it you illuminated the ends of the world for the salvation, and, like a preacher of God soul-saving one, hear songs like these from us:

Rejoice, O yoke of Christ, good and easy, upon your frame.

Rejoice, by the example of your saints attract all of us to follow Christ.

Rejoice, you who are the same-named zealot for the glory of God.

Rejoice, dearest lover of the Lord Jesus.

Rejoice, wondrous teacher to Him of those who seek salvation.

Rejoice, silent evangelist of the Gospel's soul-saving teaching.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 3

The power of God's autumn upon you, Apostle of Christ Simon, when you walked in the footsteps of Christ the Lord, walking with Him through Judea and Galilee, listening to His Divine teaching and contemplating the greatness of His miracles. Likewise, Christ, as His faithful follower and disciple, granted you the power and strength to heal ailments, heal illnesses and drive away unclean spirits, so that everyone glorify His power, revealed in you, and sing a song of praise to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

You had only one concern, O all-blessed Simone, to faithfully serve and please Christ God, appearing in the flesh for human salvation, His companion and self-seeing witness, you were honored to be and from His Divine lips you drew grace from the great teachings of heaven, about which, marveling, we say to you:

Rejoice, all-joyful preacher of the Gospel of truth to us.

Rejoice, Lucifer, who announced to us the non-evening Sun.

Rejoice, self-seeing and servant of God incarnate.

Rejoice, O Lord, you are a partaker of His journeys and His immortal meals.

Rejoice, chosen and faithful disciple of Christ.

Rejoice, His friend, who has preserved your friendship towards Him to the end.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 4

The storm of Jewish rage nailed Christ God to the Cross, who willed to suffer for all people, but did not shake your faith and hope, Blessed Simon, for He is the Savior of the world, prophesied of old by the prophets for the redemption of fallen humanity. Moreover, as the Master and God, you faithfully sang a song of praise to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Hearing the Divine voice of Christ the Giver of Life, who rose from the dead for three days, and who entered to His disciples through the closed door, and “Peace be with you!” You rejoiced greatly, O God-bearing Simone, and you reverently worshiped Him as God, and then you silently proclaimed to everyone the immutable truth of His resurrection. For this reason we call upon you in praise:

Rejoice, the world of Christ has been worthily received into the immaculate vessel of your soul.

Rejoice, you who have pacified the ends of the world with grace.

Rejoice, ancient enmity idolatrous consumer.

Rejoice, the truth of the resurrection of Christ is obvious and loud to the witness.

Rejoice, the door closed to the contemplator of the wondrous passing of Christ.

Rejoice, hearer of His most divine and joyful voice.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 5

Having seen the divine ascension of Christ into heaven and the Holy Spirit, sent down from Him in fiery tongues, you became a partaker of Simon the Most Praiseworthy, a divine spirit-bearer and, endued with power from above, you flowed to preach the Gospel in Judea, Syria, Egypt, Mauritania, Spain, Britain , Persia, Iberia and Armenia, proclaiming to people in the darkness of unbelief the saving light of Christ God and the right faith in Him, and bringing everyone to call Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Having seen you, Apostle of Christ, Most Pure Mother of God, from distant countries on a cloud, having arrived at Her most honorable dormition, she rejoiced with holy joy and vouchsafed you with His conversation and blessing before death; You were filled with so much joy, contemplating Her Son and God, who came to Her with the holy Angels and received Her holy soul in His hands. We too, reverently remembering this, and out of zealous love, proclaim these all-joyful verbs:

Rejoice, heavenly disciple of the Savior, miraculously brought to the burial of the Mother of the Lord on a cloud.

Rejoice, O Christ, who received and contemplated the soul of His Mother in His hands.

Rejoice, having served worthily at the burial of the Most Pure Mother of God.

Rejoice, you who understood the Mother of God who was lifted up with the body of the Mount.

Rejoice, you who saw Her burial shrouds and empty tomb in Gethsemane.

Rejoice, in a luminous vision with the saints the Angels were honored to see the coming Lady of the world.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 6

The God-speaking preacher appeared, Apostle of Christ Simon, in wild countries, and you proclaimed the Gospel of Christ to beastly people, by your meekness and gentleness overcoming those cruelties and transforming them from divi wolves into lambs of Christ, likewise, and having learned from you to sing to the Triune God the angelic song: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

You, disciple of the Savior, have shone like a radiant lamp in infidel countries and, like a godly light, you have flowed around the east and west, proclaiming to people the saving faith in Christ Jesus, who inspires us to praise you, the divine preacher, with these praises:

Rejoice, you who enlighten the east and the west with the light of Christ.

Rejoice, having proclaimed the teachings of the Gospel across Africa and Spain.

Rejoice, thou who has tamed the severity of the British with the meekness of Jesus.

Rejoice, having led Armenia and Iberia to the knowledge of the Son of God.

Rejoice, you who convinced the Persians and Foreigners to believe in Christ God.

Rejoice, you who worked tirelessly in the gospel of Christ.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 7

You had a zealous desire, O Apostle of Christ, to suffer as a martyr for the name of Christ and with your blood to seal the divine truth of your preaching of the Gospel, which the Lord arranged to bring you in Iberia from unfaithful traps to be crucified on the cross and die a martyr. We remember your suffering and Christ-like death, we honor your illnesses and labors and sing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

New Noah, the head of the ark of the soul-saving faith of Christ in Iberia, we know you to be, Simone of God, and as the founder and cornerstone of the Church of Iberia we honor you, and the place of your burial with love we honor, as sanctified by your blood and the repose of your relics, from him the healing gifts you exude to the faithful and attract you to call:

Rejoice, everlasting guardian of Iberia.

Rejoice, God-given patron of Pitsunda.

Rejoice, your temple in the desert was miraculously preserved from final destruction.

Rejoice, your honorable coffin given to us as a consolation.

Rejoice, having renovated the place of your exploits and sufferings with a monastic monastery in your name.

Rejoice, ascetics of fasting and prayer from Saint Athos, who marvelously moved in the nude.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 8

Having completed your earthly journey, Apostle of the Savior, you moved from earth to the heavenly abode, but on the earth you shine with rays of miracles and enlighten the souls of the faithful, who through God come to you in prayer and honor your holy memory, and we, too, reverently, sing a song to God who glorified you : Alleluia.

Ikos 8

The entire Iveron Church reveres you, Apostle Simone, as its founder and patron, who edified you on the unshakable foundation of the faith of Christ and watered you for spiritual fruitfulness with your honest blood, from the wonder that the host of saints who are now triumphant together with you in heaven vegetated in it. Likewise, we, on earth, bless your deeds and call to you:

Rejoice, good and merciful consoler of the sorrowing.

Rejoice, quickly presenting helper to those in need.

Rejoice, you who have acquired great boldness towards Christ God, as His sincere friend.

Rejoice, you who have received from Him power over unclean spirits.

Rejoice, glory and praise to your holy monastery.

Rejoice, for those who labor in her as intercessors for eternal salvation.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 9

Judge the whole world imashi, Apostle of the Savior, seated on the high and exalted throne, when Christ the Lord comes with glory to execute His righteous judgment; Then, holy one, beg His goodness to have mercy on us and not condemn us to eternal destruction, but to make us worthy to sing to Him with the saints: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

Human flair is not sufficient for the worthy glorification of your exploits and miracles, Simone, the most praiseworthy, in both cases, accept, disciple of the Savior, graciously and mercifully these little and simple songs of ours, offered in praise to you with faith and love, and hear those crying out to you:

Rejoice, praised and glorified from east to west.

Rejoice, thou who sanctified the Iveron country by thy death.

Rejoice, as a fruitful vine, in which Nina, Equal to the Apostles, grew spiritually.

Rejoice, you who brought fruit to Christ from the bosom of the host of saints.

Rejoice, thou who glorified the mountains and its valleys as ascetics of piety.

Rejoice, as a father of children, triumphant with the saints of Iveron in the abodes of paradise.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 10

The guarantee of salvation, the holy Orthodox faith, inherited from you, Apostle of Christ Simon, we also pray to you: keep us, your children, from all heresies and schisms, by your prayerful intercession to God, and help us to remain in unshakable Orthodoxy until the end of our days and sing faithfully To God: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

The chosen disciple of the Heavenly King Christ, Blessed Simon, pray to Him for us sinners, so that your God-loving zeal for the preservation of His law may be granted to us, unworthy, so that we may be ready for deeds of Christian good deeds and for the confession of our Orthodox faith, not just words, but and deeds, and appear as your children, not only by name, but by the truth itself. For this we pray and call you:

Rejoice, bright star, guiding everyone to the sun of Christ’s truth.

Rejoice, unquenchable light, ever burning in prayer at the Throne of the Lord of Glory.

Rejoice, unshakable pillar of the holy Church of Christ.

Rejoice, golden vial, pour out healing streams for us.

Rejoice, having received from Christ the power to knit and decide.

Rejoice, having received from Him the grace-filled gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 11

Bring the singing of the Most Holy Trinity to the mountain with all the saints, Simone, the most praiseworthy, and from the heavenly heights of your father you come to the place of your exploits and sufferings on earth, with your prayers helping all who faithfully honor your holy memory and sing a song to God about you: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

The light-giving lamp of the Trisolar Light appears to the faithful, Apostle of Christ Simon, and invisibly illuminates all of us on the path of Christian good deeds, may we not fall into the snare of the enemy, the devil, but may we remain unharmed from all his wicked traps and thus be able to cry out to you without condemnation:

Rejoice, good shepherd of the verbal flock of Christ.

Rejoice, do not allow the soul-destroying wolf to plunder your spiritual flock.

Rejoice, thou who through the midst of thy preaching caught the ends of the world unto salvation.

Rejoice, and now contribute to our salvation through your prayers.

Rejoice, wise architect of the Church of Christ.

Rejoice, the cornerstone of its foundation.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 12

Ask us for grace and mercy from the Lord, Simon the God-bearing Apostle of the Savior, as you have acquired great boldness towards Him, especially ask us from Him for repentance for sins and correction of our life, so that it will be filled with Christian virtues, so that we may still be able to sing on earth A heavenly song to our Creator: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing your illnesses and labors, Apostle of the Savior, in the image in which you labored in the gospel of Christ, we honor your holy and ever-glorious memory, which fragrant us spiritually and delights our souls: for the ointment has truly appeared before God, the sweat of yours and the drops of blood of suffering, poured out by you for Christ, our holy representative. That’s why we call you:

Rejoice, faithful preacher of the Most Holy Life-Giving Trinity.

Rejoice, worthy interlocutor of the angelic faces.

Rejoice, beauty and foundation of the Apostles.

Rejoice, exaltation of the human race.

Rejoice, free physician of mental and physical ailments.

Rejoice, our unshameable hope is in God and the Most Holy Theotokos.

Rejoice, Simon, Apostle of Christ and prayer book for our souls.

Kontakion 13

O holy, glorious and all-praised Apostle of Christ Simon, zealot of the law of God and our most powerful representative! Accept this small prayer song offered to you in praise, and beg the Savior Christ to deliver us from eternal torment and make us worthy of the joy of the saints, so that with them we may sing to Him forever: Alleluia.

(ThisToondak is read three times, hthenAndbraid 1 andToondak 1) .

Prayer

Holy glorious and all-praised Apostle of Christ Simon, who was deemed worthy to receive into your home in Cana of Galilee our Lord Jesus Christ and His Most Pure Mother, our Lady Theotokos, and to be an eyewitness to the glorious miracle of Christ revealed to your brother - the transformation of water into wine! We pray to you with faith and love: beg Christ the Lord to transform our souls from sin-loving to God-loving; save and protect us with your prayers from the temptations of the devil and the falls of sin and ask us from above for help during our despondency and helplessness, so that we may not stumble over the stone of temptation, but steadily walk the saving path of the commandments of Christ, until we reach those blessed abode of paradise, where you now reside and have fun. Hey, Apostle Spasov! Do not disgrace us, who firmly trust in you, but be your helper and protector in all our lives and help us end this temporary life in a pious and godly manner, receive a good and peaceful Christian death and be honored with a good answer at the Last Judgment of Christ, so that we escape the ordeals of the air and the power of the fierce ruler of the world, we will inherit the Kingdom of Heaven and glorify the magnificent name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.

Day of Simeon Zelotes. Towards the end of May, or rather on the 23rd of 2006, on a clear spring day, memorable, we set off on another, and as it seemed to us then, long and endless trip. We planned to cover about 700 kilometers in a week, based on the distance from the city we will not be more than three hundred away. I will not forget this trip until the end of my days. The first car had already been waiting for us outside the city for an hour. They had a snack at a roadside vomit stand, and stood at one of the turnoffs from the main highway... Our morning did not go well. A punctured wheel, traffic cops, a device head forgotten at home, all this did not contribute to the well-known proverb: The early bird gets the worm... The most unbearable thing is to wait and catch up. Crew No. 1, without waiting, moved on, notifying us by phone: - We’ll stop by Khandaevo for now, we’ll start there, and you catch up.... At this very time, Max was just picking me up. -Sanyok, I forgot my phone at home, and the traffic cops also gave me a hard time... Call Mishanka, let him come out with his trunks, now he’ll be calving... That’s for sure, Mishanya is like that... He’ll take with him a bunch of jackets, sleeping bags, coils different, mom don’t worry! How we fill our Niva to capacity... Then it turns out that almost everything that he took with him was useful, and it seems like something necessary and extremely necessary on the road. And how many times has it happened, you will be exhausted in five or six days on the road financially, in empty searches, then something appeared... but gasoline was running low, and there was almost no food... Is it really possible to hobble home without having had a sip? And then turn around and do it all over again, start racking up the kilometers? And here is Mishanya.... -Brothers, I have a reserve five, just in case... Let's go to the gas station, to the store, and then move on.. That's what he is, our Mishanya! Lucky! We had rides, but we wasted time...and time is precious these days...For time in the treasure-hunting universe is the most merciless creature! We’ve only just left the city, and the guys on the first Niva call back again... - It’s a bummer at Khandaevo, we’re leaving for Batalaevo, catch up.. There’s already a gap between us, we’re three hours away.. We ask Max to push, he’s pushing a hundred on his old Nyvka, the car shakes, hums, crackles and drives with all its might. Kalinov Most is playing in the cabin, a fresh spring breeze, through the open windows caresses our stern faces, we are happy! Sometimes you need so little to be happy! I sat comfortably in the back seat, and listened with pleasure to the cheerful chatter of the guys. They are again arguing about Admiral Kolchak. This is Mishanka’s favorite topic, he apparently knows everything about him. Where he got married, where he served, what he said... and it even seems that the admiral was thinking... -I read somewhere that Kolchak and Denikin didn’t share the gold, so they became enemies... says Max. “No, Maxim,” Mikha answers, it’s just that one was friends with the Germans, and the other planned to fight with them until victory... Sanya, tell him... I smile, I don’t want to delve into their dispute, since from the very beginning each of them seeks to enlist my support and gain some kind of numerical advantage in the conversation. I feel so good that I don’t want to delve into some essence, I don’t want to argue, I just want to continue to be on this trip so enthusiastically, look thoughtfully and fervently out the car window, enjoying the endless variety of miracles of Mother Nature and the most ordinary road driving, into this attractive and still unknown, but already predetermined by something, and then... then get to the right place as soon as possible, and slowly begin the incomparable excitement of searching for coins and treasures. And also the road!.. The road is one of the most exciting moments in our amateur profession of treasure hunting! “Do you know what day it is today?” Mishanya asks us. -Wednesday 23, what? -You general stores are not paved, that’s what! Today is the day of Simeon Zelotes! Patron of all treasure hunters! -So! but from this place in more detail... Half an hour later we already know everything about Simeon Zelotes. - Something’s definitely going to happen today! Here the guys are calling back... - God bless those who get up early! -What do you have? Found the clearing! Tens of nickels and other delights! Lyokha shopped his wallet, I bought a penny without letters from 1967! Natural first question... - Is it good? -Normal, everything is readable! -Where is the clearing? - Drive past Batalaevo, take the first turn to the right, cross the bridge and go straight down to the river, you’ll see us there. One piece per nose for entry! We hear them laughing together... - Is the clearing at least big? - Well, not to say very much... But we haven’t been walking for another hour, where are you? - We’re passing Kolyuzhino... - Where have you been? Let's be sharper, we'll boil the tea for now, let's finish... hurry up! Time flies inexorably, it’s already three o’clock in the afternoon, and we still have an hour and an hour and a half before the guys... We are going, knowing that they are waiting for us. Yes, today is definitely the day of Simeon the Zealot, I told you so! Then Mishanya speaks to Max. -Max, let’s turn to Torbeevo, remember Sanya, we’ve been wanting to stop by for a long time, everyone was flying past... Indeed, it happens that you’re in a hurry somewhere further, you see a residential place and you think we’ll stop by on the way back. On the way back, you’re either tired or have something to do already by nightfall. Well then next time! -Torbeevo is no more than 10 kilometers away, basically half an hour’s work, and we’ll know if there’s any point in looking there. ..Do you agree? After twenty minutes of jumping over country potholes and hillocks, we descend beyond Torbeevo... -Brothers! This is a veiny place! Look here is the skeleton, and here is another and another! Having quickly changed clothes and collected our equipment, we scattered around the clearing. The finds were not long in coming. A mismatched butorok, several imperial coins, a couple of Elizabethan money, still do not impress us, and we decide to quickly move towards the guys who, in our common understanding, should I'm about to dig up at least a few more Siberian copecks... I was already standing near the car and hurrying the guys. Max was dragging his long and heavy shovel along the ground, recklessly throwing the Explorer over his shoulder... Mikha was fussing again... - No I can determine the center, it’s a coin signal, I’m afraid I’ll damage the thing... Curiosity overcomes my desire to quickly move towards the guys on Batalaevo, and we approach Mishana. What we saw made us sweat... The last coin turned out to be the Pavlovsk dvundel of 1801. ..49 Siberian tens and 15 nickels! For three persons! We took a smoke break and called the guys back. -How are you doing? -We’re digging little by little, Lyokha twenty Katin canole, Ivan the seal of the foreman, I’m a ten Masonic 1834! That's it, the early bird gets the worm! Where are you? -We’ve settled down at Torbeevo, we’re tearing up Siberia’s purse! Dozens of nickels of all kinds, 65 in total! So whoever drives more quietly will go further! Do you know what day it is today? -In terms of? -You general store, swamp tundras! Today is the day of Simeon Zealot, the patron saint of all treasure hunters! You need to know such things! I'm being clever... We're waiting for you to visit, take more money, enter the clearing three at a time!... now we're laughing.... That's how it always happens, the one who laughs last laughs best! Well, yes, it was a long time ago... I could have embellished it a little, how many seasons have already flown by since then, can you really remember everything...

Series "LLC"
The best people of humanity
Simon the Canaanite Zealot the Apostle (12.10.)
(archive-10/12/aA/100711)

My dear contemporary, I am opening for you a historical series of articles “THE BEST PEOPLE OF HUMANITY” about the most respectable human destinies of people chosen by the Creator, who dedicated their lives to the triumph of the truth of the Author of life and Love on planet Earth. Any self-respecting person considers knowledge of history to be one of the most important in his unique life in order to really know the high price of life itself and the heroes who gave this priceless gift - life on the altar of sacrifice for the sake of our happy future.
/aA/

The Holy Apostle Simon the Zealot came from Cana of Galilee, was the son of the Holy Betrothed Joseph
Life..
Saint Joseph the Betrothed, according to the flesh, the brother of the Lord, and one of the 12 supreme ones in the total number of 153x (1+12+70+70) biblical apostles (John 21:11). The first miracle that the Savior performed - turning water into wine - happened in Simon's house: during the feast there was not enough wine for the guests. Then the Lord, through the intercession of the Most Holy Mother of God, turned the water into wine. Amazed by the miracle, Simon believed with all his heart and soul in the Lord Jesus as the promised Messiah and, leaving everything, followed Him. Simon received the name "zealot", i.e. zealot. On the day of Pentecost
About the holiday...
Day of the Holy Trinity.
The descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles, he accepted, together with the other Apostles, the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Apostle Simon preached the teachings of Christ in Judea, Egypt, Libya, Cyrene and Britain. In Abkhazia he suffered a martyr's death and was crucified on the cross. He was buried in the city of Nikopsia near Sukhumi. Subsequently (in the 19th century) on the site of the exploits of the holy Apostle, near Mount Iveron, the New Athos Monastery of Simon the Canaanite was built
Life..
Simon Zelot. The cave in which the holy Apostle labored has been preserved to this day.
http://days.pravoslavie.ru/Life/life1029.htm
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Apostle Simon the Canaanite with the instrument of his martyrdom
(Caravaggio, 1600s)

Simon the Canaanite (Zealot) (10.12.) (Greek ;;;;; ; ;;;;;;;;;) - one of the apostles (disciples) of Jesus Christ.
Information in the Gospels about Simon the Canaanite is extremely scarce. He is mentioned in the lists of the apostles in Matthew (10:4), Mark (3:18), Luke (Luke 6:15), as well as in the Acts of the Apostles (1:13). He is called Simon the Zealot or Simon the Zealot to distinguish him from Simon Peter. The New Testament does not provide any other information about the apostle.
The name Canaanite, which has sometimes been misunderstood as “from the city of Cana,” actually has the same meaning in Hebrew as the Greek word Zealot, “zealot.” Either this was the apostle’s own nickname, or it could mean his belonging to the political-religious movement of the Zealots (Zealots) - irreconcilable fighters against Roman rule.
The Apostle Simon should not be confused with Simon, the "brother of the Lord" mentioned in the Synoptic Gospels. Tradition says that the first miracle that Jesus performed - turning water into wine - happened precisely in the house of Simon, “the brother of the Lord.” He is identified with Simeon, an apostle of the 70, who became the second bishop of Jerusalem after the execution of James the Righteous.

Tradition
Apostle Simon (12.10)
(Greek icon)
According to legend, the holy Apostle Simon preached the teachings of Christ in Judea, Egypt and Libya. Perhaps he preached together with the Apostle Judas Thaddeus in Persia.
There is information (most likely legendary) about the visit of the Apostle Simon to Britain.
According to legend, the apostle suffered martyrdom on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus and was sawed alive with a saw.
He was buried in the city of Nikopsia, the location of which is controversial. According to the official theory, this city is the current New Athos in Abkhazia; according to another (more probable) - it was located on the site of the current village of Novomikhailovsky in the Krasnodar Territory. Subsequently (in the 19th century), on the supposed site of the exploits of the apostle, near the Apsara Mountain, the New Athos Monastery of Simon the Canaanite was built. Even today they show the cave in which the apostle labored.

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10) (Simon the Zelotes or Canaanite)
Simon Zelotes (Cananite) Simon Zelotes, the eleventh apostle, was chosen by Simon Peter. He was a capable man of good pedigree who lived with his family in Capernaum. He was twenty-eight years old when he joined the apostles. He was a fiery agitator. Besides, he was a man who spoke a lot without thinking. Before devoting himself entirely to the patriotic organization of the Zealots, he was a merchant in Capernaum.
Simon's strength was his inspiring devotion. If the apostles found a man or woman who was tormented by doubts about entering the Kingdom, they sent Simon. Usually it took no more than fifteen minutes for this inspired advocate of salvation through faith in God to dispel all doubts and eliminate any hesitation, to see the birth of a new soul in “the freedom of faith and the joy of salvation.”

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10.)
Peter brings Simon Zealot
Each of the disciple-apostles presented his candidate for the disciple-apostle, after which Jesus asked the others to vote for the candidate; thus all six new apostle candidates were officially accepted by all six senior disciples. Jesus then announced that they would all visit these candidates together and call them to ministry.
Among the newly elected was Simon the Zealot, who held a high position in the patriotic organization of the Zealots, but abandoned it in order to join the disciples and apostles of Jesus. Before becoming a Zealot, Simon was a merchant. He was chosen by Peter.
Jesus and the six apostle disciples went to Matthew, the tax collector. Matthew was waiting for them and by the time they arrived he managed to close the books, preparing to hand over the affairs of the service to his brother. As they approached the customs office, Andrew stepped forward with Jesus, who, looking Matthew in the eyes, said, “Follow Me.” And he got up and entered the house along with Jesus and the future apostles.
Matthew told Jesus that he was going to give a reception that evening - at least he would like to give a dinner for his family and friends if Jesus would agree to attend as the guest of honor. Jesus nodded in agreement. After this, Peter took Matthew aside and, explaining that he had invited a certain Simon to join the apostle disciples, received consent that Simon should also be invited to the feast.
After dinner at Matthew's house, Peter led everyone to Simon Zelotes. They found him in his former place, where his nephew was now doing business. When Peter led Jesus to Simon, the Master greeted the ardent patriot, saying only: “Follow Me.”
They all returned together to Matthew's house, where they talked about politics, religion, trust and faith until it was time for dinner. Levi's family had long been involved in commerce and collecting taxes; therefore, many of the guests invited by Matthew were called by the Pharisees nothing more than “publicans and sinners.”
In those days, when such dinner parties were held in honor of an important guest, there was a custom according to which anyone could go into the refectory to look at the diners and listen to the speeches and speeches of the noble guests. Therefore, many of the Pharisees of Capernaum came here to observe the behavior of Jesus in this unusual society.
During the festive dinner, the guests were in an extremely cheerful mood; the general joy was such that the watching Pharisees began to reproach Jesus in their hearts for participating in such a carefree and carefree activity. Later, as the congregation began to make speeches, one of the more vicious Pharisees allowed himself, turning to Peter, to condemn the behavior of Jesus: “How can you teach that this Man is righteous when He eats with tax collectors and sinners, allowing Himself to indulge in such careless pastimes?” ? Peter whispered this remark to Jesus before He delivered his farewell blessing to those present. Jesus began His speech with the words: “We are gathered here today to receive Matthew and Simon into our brotherhood. I am pleased to see your joy and joy, but you should rejoice even more, for many of you will enter the coming Kingdom of the Spirit, where you will abundantly taste the grace-filled gifts of the Kingdom of Heaven. To you who stand here and blame Me in your soul for having fun with my friends, let me note that I have come to proclaim joy to those who are rejected by society, and spiritual freedom to those who are captive to morality. Need I remind you that it is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick? I came not to call the pious, but sinners.”
It was truly an unusual sight for all Jewry: to see how a man, distinguished by a righteous character and noble feelings, freely and cheerfully communicated with ordinary people and even with a crowd of tax collectors and so-called sinners - lovers of entertainment far from religion. Simon the Zealot wished to speak at this meeting in Matthew's house, but Andrew - knowing that Jesus did not want the coming kingdom to be confused with the Zealot movement - persuaded him to refrain from speaking publicly. (pp. 1540-1541)
Simon Zelotes was responsible for the entertainment and recreation of the apostolic group, and he was an excellent organizer of leisure and recreation for the twelve apostles.
Simon's strength was his inspiring devotion. If the apostles found a man or woman who was tormented by doubts about entering the kingdom, they sent Simon. Usually it took no more than fifteen minutes for this inspired advocate of salvation through faith in God to dispel all doubts and eliminate any hesitation, to see the birth of a new soul in “the freedom of faith and the joy of salvation.”
Simon's great weakness was his materialistic mindset. He could not quickly transform from a Jewish nationalist into a spiritual internationalist. Four years is too short a time for such an intellectual and emotional transformation, but Jesus was always patient with him.
What Simon admired most about Jesus was the Teacher’s calmness, his confidence, self-control and incomprehensible self-control.
Although Simon was an ardent revolutionary, a fearless instigator of unrest, he gradually tamed his ardent nature until he became a bright and convincing preacher of “peace on earth and goodwill among men.” Simon was a skilled debater; he really liked to argue. And when it came to dealing with the legalism of the educated Jews or the intellectual sophisms of the Greeks, it was always entrusted to Simon.
He was a rebel by nature and a fighter against traditional beliefs by upbringing, but Jesus attracted him to His side to preach the high ideas of the Kingdom of Heaven. He always identified himself with the protest party; now he has joined the party of progress—unlimited and eternal progress in spirit and truth. Simon was a man of great loyalty and intense personal devotion, and he truly loved Jesus deeply.
Jesus was not afraid to communicate with businessmen, working people, optimists, pessimists, philosophers, skeptics, publicans, politicians and patriots.
The Master often talked with Simon, but He was never able to turn this zealous Jewish nationalist into an internationalist. Jesus often told Simon that it is human nature to desire improvements in social, economic and political conditions, but he always added: “This has nothing to do with the Kingdom of Heaven. We must devote ourselves to doing the will of the Father. Our business is to be messengers of the heavenly spiritual government, and we are not to be directly engaged in anything other than representing the will and character of the divine Father who presides over the government of which we are messengers.” It was difficult for Simon to understand all this, but gradually he began to comprehend some of the meaning of the teaching and living faith of Jesus.
When Jerusalem persecution scattered the disciples, Simon temporarily ceased his activities. He was literally broken. As a patriotic nationalist, he gave up everything for the teachings of Jesus; and now, it was all over. He fell into despair, but after a few years he was filled with hope again and set out on the road proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom.
He arrived in Alexandria and, rising to the headwaters of the Nile, penetrated into the interior of Africa, everywhere preaching the gospel of Jesus and baptizing believers. So he worked until he turned into a weak old man. He died and was buried in the heart of Africa. (pp. 1564-1565)
Simon Zelotes was responsible for recuperation and leisure activities. He organized days off on Wednesdays and tried to find a few hours every day for relaxation and entertainment. (p. 1547)
Simon paid a lot of attention to individual work and taught classes in special groups for visitors. (p. 1589)
Apostle Simon Zelotes
Characteristics of Simon
Simon Peter and Simon Zelotes ardently urged their fellows, trying to lead all the apostles to wholeheartedly accept the Teacher not only as the Messiah, but also as the divine Son of the living God. The two Simons agreed almost entirely in their assessment of Jesus, and they worked diligently to ensure that their brethren fully accepted their point of view. (p. 1746)
Among the apostles, the attempt to proclaim Jesus king was supported by Peter, John, Simon Zelotes and Judas Iscariot. (p. 1701)
Simon the Zealot expressed the belief, indeed the hope, that “the Heavenly Father may be about to intervene in some unexpected way to protect and support His Son” (p. 1707)
Disappointment, confusion
None of the twelve were more depressed than Matthew. Together with Simon Peter and Simon Zelot, he experienced severe nervous tension and by the evening he collapsed from fatigue.
For Simon the Zealot, Sunday began as a great day. He imagined wonderful things happening in Jerusalem in the next few days, and in this he was not mistaken; however, Simon dreamed of establishing a new national government of the Jews, with Jesus on the throne of David. Simon had already seen how, immediately after the proclamation of the Kingdom, the nationalists began to take active action, and he himself became the head of the emerging military forces of the new Kingdom. During the descent from the Mount of Olives, he even imagined that before sunset the Sanhedrin and all its supporters would be dead. He truly believed that something great was about to happen. He was the loudest of the crowd. By five o'clock in the afternoon he was a silent, broken and disappointed disciple - a future apostle. He never fully recovered from the depression that began as a result of the shock of that day; in any case, he remained in this state for a long time after the Resurrection of the Teacher. (pp. 1885, 1886)
Simon Zelotes was too broken to participate in the discussions. Most of the time he lay on the couch in the corner of the room, facing the wall. He spoke only a few words all day. His idea of ​​the Kingdom was destroyed, and he did not believe that the Resurrection of the Teacher could significantly change the situation. His disappointment was extremely personal and so acute that it was impossible to quickly bring him out of this state even with the help of such a startling fact as the Resurrection. (page 2038)
Intolerance, nationalist sentiments
It took some time before the rest of the apostolic disciples - especially Simon Zelotes and Judas Iscariot - came to terms with the presence of the publican Matthew in their midst. (p. 1559)
A man named Kirmet arrived at the Bethsaida camp from Baghdad, uttering prophecies in a state of trance. When this imaginary prophet fell into a trance, strange pictures appeared before him, and when his sleep was disturbed, he saw fantastic dreams. He caused serious unrest in the camp, and Simon the Zealot was prepared to deal rather harshly with this self-deluding false prophet, but Jesus intervened and allowed him to operate unhindered for several days. All who heard him preach immediately understood the foolishness of his teaching in the light of the Gospel of the Kingdom. He soon returned to Baghdad, taking with him only a handful of unstable and wavering souls. (p. 1666)
Simon was unusually frustrated as he tried to reconcile his patriotism and his love for the brotherhood of man. (p. 1611)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10)
Simon's questions, Teacher's explanations
Simon the Zealot asked: “However, Master, are all men sons of God?” And Jesus answered: “Yes, Simon, all men are sons of God, and this is the good news that you are to proclaim.” But the apostolic disciples were unable to comprehend such a teaching; this message was new, strange and startling. It was because of his desire to instill this truth in his future apostles that Jesus taught his followers to treat all people as their brothers. (p. 1585)
When Jesus was visiting a group of evangelists working under Simon the Zealot, at an evening meeting Simon asked him: “Teacher, why are some people so much happier and more content than others? Is there any connection between contentment and religious experience?” Jesus responded to Simon with, in part, the following:... (p. 1674)
Document 149. Conversation on Contentment
One evening, Simon the Zealot, commenting on one of Jesus’ statements, asked: “Teacher, what did you mean today when you said that many of the children of the world are wiser in their generation than the children of the kingdom, for they know how to win friends with unrighteous wealth?” Jesus answered:... (p. 1853)
Paper 169. Parable of the Cunning Manager
To Simon the Zealot He said: “Simon, even if you are broken by disappointment, your spirit will rise above all that can befall you. What you could not learn from Me, you will learn from My Spirit. Seek the true realities of the Spirit and stop being attracted to unreal material shadows.” (p. 1897)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10)
"You are the true son of Abraham"
Jesus approached Simon the Zealot, who stood up to listen to His command: “You are the true son of Abraham, but how difficult it was for Me to try to make you a son of the Kingdom of Heaven! I love you, just as all your other brothers love you. I know that you love Me, Simon, and that you also love the Kingdom, but you still strive to establish the Kingdom as you imagine it. I know very well that you will eventually understand the spiritual nature and meaning of My Gospel and that you will do great work to proclaim it, but I am concerned about what may happen to you after My departure. I would be glad if I knew that you will not stumble; I would be happy if I knew that after I go to the Father, you will not cease to be My apostle and will properly behave as a messenger of the Heavenly Kingdom.”
No sooner had Jesus completed His parting words to Simon the Zealot than this ardent patriot, wiping his eyes, replied: “Teacher, do not worry about my devotion. I have given up everything to dedicate my life to establishing Your Kingdom on earth, and I will not waver. I have dealt with all disappointments so far, and I will not leave You.”
Then, placing his hand on Simon's shoulder, Jesus said: “Your words cannot but encourage Me, especially at such a time; however, My good friend, you still do not know what you are talking about. I would not for a moment doubt your devotion, your zeal; I know that you, like everyone else, would not hesitate to go into battle and give your life for Me,” and they all nodded their heads decisively, “but this will not be required of you. I have already told you more than once that My Kingdom is not of this world and that My disciples will not fight to establish it. I've told you this many times, Simon, but you refuse to face the truth. I am not concerned about your devotion to Me and the Kingdom, but what will you do when I leave and you finally realize that you did not understand the meaning of My teachings and that you will have to change your erroneous ideas, bring them into line with a different, spiritual type of reality relationships in the Kingdom?
Simon wanted to say something else, but Jesus stopped him with a gesture and continued: “None of My apostles surpasses you in sincerity and sincerity, but after My departure, not one of them will be as upset and discouraged as you. In all your disappointments, My Spirit will be with you, and these brothers of yours will not leave you. Remember what I taught you about the relationship of citizenship on earth to sonship in the Divine Kingdom of the Father. Think carefully about all My words about giving to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's. Dedicate your life, Simon, to demonstrating how effectively mortal man is able to carry out My command to simultaneously accept temporal duties in relation to civil authorities and spiritual service in the brotherhood of the Kingdom. If you will learn from the Spirit of Truth, there will never be any conflict between the claims of earthly citizenship and heavenly sonship, unless worldly rulers demand from you the tribute and worship that belongs to God alone.
And again, Simon: when you finally really understand all this - and after you have overcome your depression and set out on the road proclaiming this gospel with all your might - never forget that I have been with you throughout your disappointments and that I will stay with you until the very end. You will forever remain My apostle, and when you are ready to use your spiritual vision and submit your will more fully to the will of the Heavenly Father, you will return to your work as My messenger, and no one will take away the authority I have given you just because you are slow to understand the truths that I taught you. So, Simon, I warn you once again: those who take the sword will perish by the sword; those who work in the spirit achieve eternal life in the coming kingdom with joy and peace in the present kingdom. And when the earthly work entrusted to you comes to an end, you, Simon, will sit with Me in my Heavenly Kingdom. You will actually see the Kingdom you dream of, but not in this life. Continue to believe in Me and what I have revealed to you, and you will receive the gift of eternal life.” (pp. 1956-1957)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10)
“Go, Simon, teach the Kingdom and preach it”
Simon Zelotes brought to Jesus a Persian named Tehermas, a merchant doing business in Damascus. Teherma heard about Jesus and came to Capernaum to see Him. There he learned that Jesus had gone with His apostle disciples along the Jordan road to Jerusalem, and he followed Him. Andrey introduced Teherma to Simon for training. Simon considered him a “fire worshiper,” despite all Teherma’s attempts to explain to him that fire is just a visible symbol of the Pure and the Holy. After speaking with Jesus, the Persian expressed his desire to stay a few days to attend the lessons and listen to the sermons.
When Simon the Zealot and Jesus were left alone, Simon asked the Teacher: “Why couldn’t I persuade him? Why did he resist me so stubbornly and began to listen to You so readily?” Jesus answered: “Simon, Simon, how many times have I told you to refrain from any attempt to take anything away from the hearts of people who are seeking salvation? How many times have I called you to work only to impart something to these yearning souls? Bring them into the Kingdom, and the great, living truths of the Kingdom will soon crowd out any serious error. When you have already introduced mortal man to the fact that God is his Father, it is easier for you to convince that man that he is truly the son of God. And by doing this, you will thereby bring the light of salvation to those who are in darkness. Simon, when the Son of Man first came to you, did He come denouncing Moses and the prophets and proclaiming a new and better life? No. I have not come to take away what you have inherited from your ancestors, but to show a more perfect idea of ​​what your fathers only partially saw. Therefore, go, Simon, teach the Kingdom and preach It, and when some person is reliably and confidently established in the Kingdom and turns to you with questions, then the time will come to tell him about the ascension of the soul in the Divine Kingdom.”
Simon was amazed at these words, but he did as Jesus told him, and the Persian Tegermas became one of those who entered the Kingdom.
That evening Jesus talked with the future apostles about new life in the Kingdom. Among other things, He said, “When you enter the Kingdom, you are born again. You cannot teach complex spiritual things to those who are born only in the flesh; before attempting to teach a man the progressive ways of the spirit, take care that he is born in the Spirit. Don't try to show people the beauty of the temple without first taking them to the temple. Introduce people to God as sons of God before discussing the doctrines of the fatherhood of God and the sonship of men. Don't fight with people - always be patient. This is not your kingdom; you are just messengers. Just go and proclaim: this is the kingdom of heaven - God is your Father, and you are His sons; and this good news, if you believe it with all your heart, is your eternal salvation.” (p. 1592)

John and Andrew believed that the Kingdom had already come; Peter and James believed that It had not yet come; Nathanael and Thomas honestly admitted that they did not know what to think; Matthew, Philip and Simon Zelotes were unsure and confused; the twins remained in a state of blissful ignorance of the existing differences, and Judas Iscariot remained silent, not taking either side. (p. 1618)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10.)
Tactical miscalculation
In the synagogue, Jesus found himself surrounded by a huge crowd of enemies and a handful of His followers, and in response to their rude questions and ominous ridicule, He answered: “Yes, I am the son of Joseph; I am that same carpenter, and it does not surprise Me that you remind Me of the proverb “doctor, heal yourself” and demand that Me do in Nazareth what you heard I did in Capernaum; but I call you to witness what was said in the Scriptures: “A prophet is not without honor - except in his own country and among his people.”
However, they pressed on Him, pointing accusing fingers at Him and saying: “You consider Yourself better than the people of Nazareth; You left here, although Your brother is a simple worker, and your sisters still live among us. We know Your Mother, Mary. Where are they today? They say strange things about You, but we see that, having returned to your native places, You do not perform miracles.” Jesus answered them: “I love the people who live in the city where I grew up, and I would be glad if you could all enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but it is not for me to decide for God how He should act. Grace transforms those who receive it in response to living faith.”
Jesus would have been able to good-naturedly control the crowd and successfully pacify even the most aggressive of His enemies, if not for the tactical miscalculation of one of the apostles - Simon Zelotes, who, together with the young evangelist Nagor, gathered a group of Jesus' friends in the crowd and militantly demanded from the Teacher's enemies that they got out. Jesus had long taught his apostles that a gentle answer subdues wrath, but His followers were not accustomed to having their beloved Teacher, whom they so readily call Master, treated with such rudeness and disdain. This was too much; they could not restrain their passionate and stormy indignation, which only awakened the instinct of the crowd in this gathering of savages and atheists. Led by hired vagabonds, these scoundrels grabbed Jesus, dragged him out of the synagogue and dragged him to the ledge of a nearby cliff, intending to throw him down to his death. But when they were about to push Him off the cliff, Jesus suddenly turned to his enemies and, looking at them, calmly folded his hands on his chest. He did not utter a word, but His friends were speechless with amazement as He moved forward and the crowd parted for Him, allowing Him to pass unharmed.
Accompanied by his followers, Jesus proceeded to the camp, where they discussed everything that had happened. That evening, following Jesus' orders, they prepared to return to Capernaum early the next morning. This stormy ending to the third preaching journey was a sobering experience for all Jesus' followers. They began to understand the meaning of some of His teachings; they began to realize that the Kingdom would come only through much suffering and bitter disappointment.
They left Nazareth on the first day of the week in the morning and, following different routes, assembled at Bethsaida by noon on the fourth day, March 10th. And they were not a band of victorious, enthusiastic, cross-cutting preachers, but a band of sober, serious, and disillusioned teachers of the gospel of truth. (pp. 1686-1687)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10.)
Arrogant attitude towards non-believers
Not far from the Karuska house, where the Teacher settled, there lived a Syrian woman who had heard about Jesus as the Great Healer and Teacher, and on Saturday afternoon she appeared here, bringing with her her daughter. The girl, who was about twelve years old, suffered from a severe nervous disorder, accompanied by convulsions and other painful symptoms.
Jesus told His companions not to tell anyone about His stay in the Karuska house, explaining that He wanted to rest. They carried out the instructions of their Teacher, but the maid Caruski went to this Syrian woman, Norana, and, informing her that Jesus was staying with her mistress, she ordered the unfortunate mother to bring her suffering daughter to the Healer. The mother, of course, believed that her child was possessed by a demon, an unclean spirit.
When Norana arrived with her daughter, the Alfeev twins explained to her through an interpreter that the Teacher was resting and that He should not be disturbed. In response, Norana said that she and her child would not move until the Teacher completed His rest. Peter also tried to reason with her and persuade her to return home. He explained that Jesus was tired from a long period of teaching and healing and that He came to Phenicia to find peace and get some rest. But it didn't give anything. Norana never wanted to leave. In response to Peter’s persistent entreaties, she only said: “I will not leave until I see your Teacher. I know that He can cast the demon out of my child, and I will leave only after the Healer looks at my girl.”
After this, Thomas tried to drive the woman away, but he too was unsuccessful. She told him: “I believe that your Teacher can exorcise the demon that is tormenting my child. I heard about the miracles He performed in Galilee, and I believe in Him. What happened to you, His disciples, that you are ready to drive away those who come to your Teacher for help?” Hearing these words, Thomas left.
Then Simon Zelotes came out to admonish Norana, saying: “Woman, you speak Greek and belong to the Gentiles. You should not expect the Master to take the bread intended for the children of the chosen house and throw it to the dogs.” But Norana did not take offense at Simon’s injection. She only replied: “Yes, teacher, I understood your words. In the eyes of the Jews I am just a dog, but as far as your Teacher is concerned, I am a believing dog. I am determined to have Him look at my daughter, for I am convinced that if He looks at her, she will be healed. Even you, good man, will not dare to deprive dogs of the right to take advantage of the crumbs that fall from the children’s table.”
Just at this time, the girl, in full view of everyone, began to convulse violently, and her mother exclaimed: “You see that my child is possessed by an evil spirit. If our misfortune does not touch you, I will turn to your Teacher, for I was told that He loves all people and is not afraid to heal even foreigners if they believe in Him. You are not worthy to be His disciples. I will not leave until my child is healed."
And then Jesus, who had heard all this conversation through the open window, came out of the house and, to their great surprise, said: “O woman, great is your faith - so great that I cannot deprive you of what you desire; go in peace. Your daughter has already recovered.” And from that moment the girl was healthy. As Norana and the child were leaving, Jesus asked them not to tell anyone about this incident. And although His companions complied with this request, mother and child continued to proclaim the healing of the girl throughout the entire region right up to Sidon, as a result of which, after a few days, Jesus came to the conclusion that He should move to another place.
The next day, while teaching his future apostles, Jesus explained the cure to the Syrian woman's daughter: “And so it has always been: you see for yourselves that the Gentiles are able to profess the same saving faith in the doctrines proclaimed in the Gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven. Truly, truly, I say to you, the kingdom of the Father will go to the Gentiles, unless the children of Abraham are willing to believe enough to enter into Him.” (pp. 1734-1735)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10.)
Failed attempt to exorcise demons
Jesus and His companions arrived at the apostolic camp. Coming closer, they saw that the apostles were surrounded by a crowd, and soon they began to hear loud voices of arguing and quarreling people. In total, there were about fifty people here; with the exception of the nine apostles, those present were divided into two equal groups - the Jerusalem scribes and the believing disciples who followed Jesus and His companions from Magadan.
Although the crowd argued over a variety of issues, the main point of contention was a certain resident of Tiberias, Jacob of Safed, who had arrived there the previous day in search of Jesus. His only child, a son about fourteen years old, suffered from a severe form of epilepsy. In addition to this nervous disease, the youth was possessed by one of those wandering, malignant and rebellious intermediate creatures which were present on earth in an uncontrolled state at that time, so that the youth was both epileptic and possessed.
For nearly two weeks, this unfortunate father, a minor official of Herod Antipas, wandered along the western borders of Philip's dominion in search of Jesus, hoping to persuade Him to cure his sick son. He managed to catch up with the apostolic party only at noon that day, when Jesus was on the mountain with the three apostles.
To the great surprise and great confusion of the nine apostles, this man, who was accompanied by about forty other people, suddenly appeared before them. At the moment of the appearance of this group, the nine apostles - at least most of them - were indulging in their old temptation, discussing who was to be greater than the others in the coming Kingdom; they enthusiastically argued about the possible position that one or another apostle would occupy. They simply could not completely free themselves from their long-standing dream of the material achievements of the Messiah. And now that Jesus Himself had admitted that He was the Deliverer—at least recognized the fact of His divinity—what could be more natural than, in the absence of the Master, to engage in a discussion of His favorite hopes and dreams? They were absorbed in this topic when Jacob of Safed, along with other people who were looking for Jesus, suddenly appeared before them.
Andrew stepped forward to greet father and son and asked, “Who are you looking for?” Jacob replied: “Good man, I am looking for your Teacher. I hope for healing for my suffering son. I would like to ask Jesus to cast out the demon that is possessing my son.” And the father began to tell the future apostles about his sick son and his severe seizures, which more than once threatened to take his life.
While the apostle disciples were listening to him, Simon Zelotes and Judas Iscariot approached their father and said: “We can heal him; you don't have to wait for Master's return. We are ambassadors of the Kingdom; We don't hide it anymore. Jesus is the Deliverer and the keys of the Kingdom have been given to us.” By this time, Andrei and Foma stepped aside to consult. Nathanael and the others looked on in amazement; they were all stunned by the sudden courage, not to say insolence, of Simon and Judas. Then the father said: “If it has been given to you to perform these miracles, I pray you to utter those words that will free my child from this bondage.” Then Simon stepped forward and, placing his hand on the child’s head, looked into his eyes and commanded: “Come out of him, you unclean spirit; in the name of Jesus submit to me.” But the young man only began to convulse even more, and the scribes ridiculed the disciple-apostles, and the disappointed believers had to listen to the barbs of these hostile critics.
Andrei was deeply upset by this ill-fated attempt and its shameful failure. He called the apostle disciples aside for counsel and prayer. After concentrated thought, acutely feeling the bitterness of defeat and feeling the humiliation to which they had all been subjected, Andrei also made an attempt to expel the demon, but his efforts also ended in failure. Andrei honestly admitted defeat and asked his father to stay with him until the morning or until Jesus returns, saying: “Perhaps this demon will only come out on the personal order of the Teacher.”
And so, while Jesus descended from the mountain with Peter, James and John, filled with enthusiasm and delight, nine of their brethren, embarrassed and deeply humiliated, also did not sleep. They represented depressed and ashamed people. But Jacob of Safed did not want to give up. Although they could not tell him anything regarding the time of Jesus' possible return, he decided to wait for the Master's arrival. (pp. 1755-1756)
Document 158. Jesus Heals a Boy

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10.)
Ten lepers
Jesus and the twelve went to Amath, which was on the border with Samaria. As they approached the city, they met a group of ten lepers living nearby. Nine of them were Jews, one was a Samaritan. Under normal circumstances, these Jews would have shunned any communication or connection with a Samaritan, but the common malaise was more than enough reason to overcome all religious prejudices. They had heard much about Jesus and His former miracles of healing, and since the first seventy apostolic disciples had made it a practice to report the time of the supposed arrival of Jesus in the days when the Master, together with the twelve apostolic disciples, made these journeys, the ten lepers knew that He is expected here around this time. So they set up on the outskirts of the city, where they hoped to attract His attention and ask for healing. When the lepers saw Jesus approaching, they - remaining at a great distance and not daring to approach - jumped up and shouted: “Teacher, have pity on us; cleanse us from our illness! Heal us as you healed others!”
Jesus was just explaining to the twelve why the gentiles of Perea, as well as the less orthodox Jews, were more willing to believe in the Gospel preached by the first seventy future apostles than the more orthodox and tradition-bound Jews of Judea. He drew the attention of the apostle disciples to the fact that their preaching found a greater response among the Galileans and even the Samaritans. However, at that time the twelve supreme disciple-apostles were hardly capable of kind feelings towards the long-despised Samaritans.
Therefore, when Simon Zelotes noticed a Samaritan among the lepers, he tried to persuade Jesus to go into the city, without stopping even for a moment to greet him. Jesus said to Simon, “What if the Samaritan loves God just like these Jews? Can we judge our fellow men? Who knows - if we manage to heal these ten, perhaps the Samaritan will be more grateful than the Jews. Are you sure of your opinion, Simon? And Simon immediately answered: “If you cleanse them, you will see.” And Jesus said: “Let it be so, Simon, and soon you will know the truth about the gratitude of people and the loving mercy of God.”
Approaching the lepers, Jesus said: “If you are healed, go immediately and show yourself to the priests, as the law of Moses requires.” And while they were walking, they were cleansed. But when the Samaritan saw that he was being healed, he turned back and, looking for Jesus, began to praise God loudly. Having found the Teacher, he fell prostrate at His feet and began to thank him for the healing. Nine Jews also discovered their healing, and although they too were grateful for the cleansing, they continued on their way to show themselves to the priests.
While the Samaritan continued to kneel at the feet of Jesus, the Master, glancing at His twelve disciples-apostles - and first of all at Simon the Zealot - said: “Were not all ten cleansed from the plagues? Where are the rest, the nine Jews? Only one - a foreigner - returned to give praise to God.” And after this He said to the Samaritan, “Rise and go in peace; your faith has healed you.”
After this Samaritan left, Jesus looked again at His future apostles. And all the disciples-apostles looked at Jesus, except Simon Zelotes, who stood with his eyes downcast. None of the twelve said a word. Jesus was also silent; everything was clear without words.
Although each of the ten was deeply convinced that he had leprosy, only four of them suffered from this disease. The remaining six were healed of a skin disease that was mistaken for leprosy. However, the Samaritan had real leprosy.
Jesus instructed the twelve not to say anything about the cleansing of the lepers, and as they continued on to Amath, He remarked: “You see how the children of a family—even if they disobey the will of the Father—take His blessings for granted. When the Father grants them healing, they consider it a trifle and forget to thank the Father; if the head of the house bestows gifts on strangers, they are amazed and cannot help but thank, full of gratitude for the benefits bestowed upon them.” And again the apostles did not respond to the Teacher’s words. (pp. 1827-1828)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10)
Plans for armed confrontation
Jesus and His followers stopped at Livias on their way to Jerusalem, completing their journey through southern Perea. It was this evening in Livias that Simon Zelotes and Simon Peter, having secretly agreed to receive more than a hundred swords here, distributed these weapons to everyone who wanted them, which they wore under their tunics. (p. 1871)
Before the eleven retired for the night, Simon Zelotes led them to his tent, where swords and other weapons were stored, and gave each of them military equipment. Everyone took these weapons and girded themselves with swords, except Nathanael. Refusing to arm himself, Nathanael said: “My brothers, the Master has repeatedly told us that His kingdom is not of this world and that His disciples should not seek to establish the Kingdom by the sword. I believe in it. I don't think Master needs us to use swords to protect Him. We have all seen His great power and know that He could protect Himself from His enemies if He wanted to. If He does not resist His enemies, then this means that such behavior means a desire to fulfill the will of the Father. I will pray, but I will not lift up the sword." After these words from Nathanael, Andrew returned the sword to Simon Zealot. That's why nine of them had weapons when they parted for the night. (p. 1966)
Judas was greatly concerned that they failed to find Jesus in the house of Mark in the company of eleven people, only two of whom could offer armed resistance. He accidentally learned that in the afternoon, leaving the camp, only Simon Peter and Simon Zelotes were armed with swords. Judas hoped to capture Jesus when the city became quiet and resistance was unlikely. The traitor feared that if he waited for them to return to camp, they would be faced with more than sixty loyal disciple-apostles, and he also knew that Simon Zealot had plenty of weapons at his disposal. Judas began to become increasingly nervous, thinking about how the eleven faithful disciples-apostles would curse him, and he was afraid that they would all seek to destroy him. He was distinguished not only by treachery; deep down he was a real coward. (pp. 1972-1973)

Simon Zelotes climbed the stone wall of the olive press and, having made a passionate oath of allegiance to the Teacher and the cause of the kingdom, called on the remaining disciple-apostles to immediately follow the crowd and free Jesus. Most of those present were ready to follow his decisive call, if not for the advice of Nathanael: as soon as Simon fell silent, he stood up and drew their attention to the fact that Jesus had spoken many times about non-resistance. (pp. 1975-1976)
Hanan silently examined the Teacher, after which he said: “You understand that something needs to be done regarding Your teaching, because You are disturbing the peace and order in the country.” Hanan looked at Jesus questioningly; The teacher looked him straight in the eyes, but did not answer. Hanan continued: “What are the names of the rest of your disciples, besides Simon Zelotes, the instigator?” Jesus looked at him again, but did not answer. (p. 1979)

Apostle Simon Zelotes (12.10)
Shortly after Pentecost
The resurrected Jesus talked with the ten apostles and John Mark for more than an hour, after which He began to take two apostles with him and walk with them along the shore - but these were no longer the same couples that He had once sent to preach the Gospel. All eleven apostles left Jerusalem together, but as they approached Galilee, Simon the Zealot became increasingly depressed, and when they approached Bethsaida, he left his brothers and went home.
Before leaving them that morning, Jesus asked that any two of them volunteer to go to Simon the Zealot and bring him back that same day, which Peter and Andrew did. (page 2047)
Jesus said, “Peter, don’t worry about what your brothers will do. What does it matter to you if I want John to stay here after you are gone, and even until I return? Think only about following Me yourself.”
This remark of Jesus spread among his brethren and was understood to mean that John would not die until the Master returned, as many thought and hoped for, to establish the Kingdom in power and glory. It was this interpretation of Jesus' words that played a big role in the fact that Simon Zelotes returned to ministry and remained one of the apostles. (page 2048)
The apostles gathered in the same upper hall, and each of them - with the exception of Thomas, Simon Zelotes and the Alpheus twins - solemnly vowed to set out on the road with public preaching of the kingdom of the risen Lord. (page 2051)
In the upper hall of Mary Mark's house, Jesus appeared to them and said:
“Peace be with you. I have asked you to tarry here in Jerusalem until I ascend to the Father and send you the Spirit of Truth, which will soon be poured out on all flesh and give you power from on high.” Simon the Zealot interrupted Jesus and asked: “And then, Master, will You restore the Kingdom and we will see the glory of God manifest itself on earth?” After listening to Simon's question, Jesus replied: “Simon, you still cling to your old ideas about the Jewish Messiah and the material kingdom. However, after the Spirit comes upon you, you will gain spiritual strength, and soon you will go into all the world preaching this Kingdom that is not of this world. As the Father sent Me into this world, so I send you. And I want you to love each other and trust each other. Judas Iscariot is no longer with you, because his soul has grown cold, and also because he has ceased to trust you, his faithful brothers. Haven’t you read in the Scripture: “It is not good for a man to be alone. No one lives on their own”? And also the place where it is said: “Whoever wants to have friends must be friendly himself”? And didn’t I send you to teach in twos, so that you would not feel alone and would not bring upon yourself the evil and suffering that disunity brings? You also know very well that when I lived in the flesh (earthly), I did not allow Myself to remain alone for a long time. From the very beginning of our communication, two or three of you were always near Me or close to Me, even if I communicated with the Father. So trust each other and rely on each other. And this is all the more necessary because today I am going to leave you alone in the world (for a long time). The time has come; soon I will go to the Father.” (page 2055)
Shortly after Pentecost, Simon the Zealot (10/12) retired for a while before setting out to preach the Kingdom.

By the beginning of the 15th century, several churches were built in Pitiunta (modern Pitsunda), the remains of which were studied by Soviet archaeologists. Now the excavations are mothballed, waiting in the wings...

In the first half of the 5th century, the Abkhazians adopted Christianity as the state religion, and from that time the construction of numerous temples began. In modern Abkhazia there are miraculously preserved churches from the 5th to 11th centuries, which survived numerous wars, natural disasters, and centuries of religious persecution. One of the churches is located in the village. Tsandrypsh. I want to tell you more about this village later...

Another Christian place is associated with the name of Simon the Canaanite.
Who is Simon the Canaanite?
Apostle Simon was one of the 12 Apostles. He is the third alleged brother of the Lord according to the flesh according to the Gospel of Matthew.
There is a legend that at the wedding of Simon the Canaanite, Jesus Christ performed the first miracle by turning water into wine. Having seen the miracle, Simon believed in Christ so much that he followed the Savior, despite the fact that he had just gotten married.

The name Canaanite, which has sometimes been misunderstood as “from the city of Cana,” actually has the same meaning in Hebrew as the Greek word Zealot, “zealot.” Either this was the apostle’s own nickname, or it could mean his belonging to the political-religious movement of the Zealots (Zealots) - irreconcilable fighters against Roman rule.

The Holy Apostle Simon preached the teachings of Christ in Judea, Egypt, Libya, Cyrene and Britain. He suffered a martyr's death in Abkhazia. According to legend, the apostle was sawed alive with a saw. According to other sources, he was crucified on the cross. He was buried in the city of Nikopsia (now New Athos). Subsequently (in the 19th century), on the site of the exploits of the holy Apostle, near Mount Iveron, the New Athos Monastery of Simon the Canaanite was built. The cave in which he lived has been preserved.

First, when approaching the cave, is the Temple of the Holy Apostle Simon the Canaanite, built on the relics of the apostle in the 9th-10th centuries. For some time, the temple was the tomb of the highest clergy and the center of the Sukhumi diocese. It was restored several times (last time in 1882), but from the outside it retained its original appearance. Inside, under a layer of late plaster, there are small fragments of ancient wall painting.

The cave is the place that particularly impressed me...

Firstly, the path to the cave of Simon the Canaanite is very beautiful. Gorge, Psyrtskha River, “path of sinners”...

This is the New Athos railway station, it is not working now, it is on the way to the cave.

On one side of the path there is a stone with the imprint of the foot of Simon the Canaanite. He showed this miracle to the Romans, who were leading him to execution. According to some sources, it was not the Romans who executed him, but the ancestors of the Abkhazians who did not want to accept Christianity.

Place of death of Simon the Canaanite

Simon worked miracles. Together with the Apostle of Jesus Christ, Andrew the First-Called (according to one version, hiding from Roman legionnaires), he went to the Caucasus, choosing this place for preaching. Andrew the First-Called did not stay in our area and went further to Scythia, the ancestral home of Russia.

And Simon the Canaanite settled in the secluded place of Psyrtskha, in a cave. Tradition says that he entered his cave-cell through a narrow hole in the vault.

This was in 55 AD. Traditions say that thanks to the sermons of Simon the Canaanite, the cruel pagan custom of sacrificing babies and cannibalism to the gods was destroyed in Abkhazia.

In ancient Abkhazian parables there are often references to Saint Simon, who treated various ailments with the touch of his hand, splashed water on a sore spot, read a prayer in an unknown language, and everything went away.

I was shocked that my camera, which refused to adequately photograph the beauty of the New Athos cave, suddenly decided in complete darkness (!), since the cave was not illuminated by anything except a couple of candles in front of the icons, to photograph clearly, clearly! This is despite the fact that I did not switch to photography mode in the dark... Just a miracle!

One of Jesus Christ's name was Simon the Canaanite. He was the son from the first marriage of Joseph, the husband of Mary the Virgin, that is, he was the half-brother of Jesus. The nickname Kananit is translated from Aramaic as “zealot.” in his writings he calls the Apostle Simon not a Canaanite, but in Greek a Zealot, which means the same thing.

The first miracle of Jesus Christ

It tells that during the wedding ceremony of his half-brother Simon, Jesus Christ performed his first miracle, namely, turning water into wine. Seeing this, the newly made groom believed in his brother Jesus Christ and became his zealous follower and disciple (apostle). In the Christian faith, Simon the Zealot is considered the patron saint of newlyweds and marriage. For 2000 years, during the Christian wedding ceremony, the priest has spoken lines from the Gospel telling about God's creation of this miracle.

Traveling around the world

According to the biblical scriptures, after the Savior ascended to heaven, the Apostle Simon the Canaanite, like all the disciples of Christ, received a divine gift that descended on him in the form of a fiery tongue. From then on, he began to preach the teachings of his brother Jesus Christ in various countries: in Judea, Edessa, Armenia, Libya, Egypt, Mauritania, Britain, Spain and others. This can be learned from the ancient legends of these peoples.

The news of the resurrection of Christ reaches the Black Sea coast

20 years after the resurrection of Christ, three of his apostles - Andrew the First-Called, Matthew and Simon the Zealot - went to the lands of Iveron, and then to the mountains of what is now Ossetia and Abkhazia. In the city of Sevaste (Sukhumi) their paths diverged. The Apostle Simon the Zealot settled in a cave located in a deep gorge of a mountain river, where he descended with the help of a rope, and Andrei went further along the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus. Each of them preached the teachings of Christ, talked about his life, about the miracles performed, about martyrdom and resurrection, and sought to convert local residents to Christianity.

New Athos

The area in which Simon the Zealot lived in those days was located in the vicinity of the modern resort of New Athos. Here the apostle, with the power bestowed upon him by heaven, performed signs and wonders, and thanks to this he was able to find followers and convert them to Christianity. In Abkhazia in those distant times, a pagan rite was in effect, according to which not only animals, but also innocent babies were brought to the sacrificial altar. Cannibalism was also common among local residents. Through the efforts of the Apostle Simon, the local residents realized how inhumane, cruel and savage these ancient customs were, and soon abandoned them. Simon the Canaanite also practiced healing and healed the sick with the power of his prayer and simple touches. This, like nothing else, instilled faith in the local population in him and his teaching. As a result of this, more and more pagans asked the Zealot to baptize them and accepted the Christian faith.

Persecution and martyrdom

The Georgian king Aderki, an ardent supporter of the pagan faith, began persecution against the apostle and his followers. As a result of this, Simon the Zealot was caught and, after much torture, brutally killed. Some accounts mention that he was crucified on a cross, while others mention that he was sawed alive with a saw. His lifeless body was buried by his disciples near the cave in which he spent the last years of his life. After this, many needy, sick and disadvantaged people came to his grave to pray for help and salvation, and the number of believers in Christ grew every day.

Temple dedicated to the Apostle Simon of Canaanite

More than 800 years later, Christian pilgrims came from the Greek city of Athos to the tomb of the apostle. They erected a white temple from local limestone next to Zealot’s grave, and the nearby settlement has since become known as New Athos. In the 11th-12th centuries, Abkhazia became a Christian state. From then on, monasteries, temples and churches began to be erected throughout Abkhazia. Later, it was attacked by the Arabs: most of the Christian churches, including Simono-Kananitsky, were destroyed, and the people, under the coercion of the Arab invaders, converted to Islam.

In the 19th century, after Abkhazia became part of the Russian Empire, Christianity began to spread again in these places and this name - Simon the Zealot - began to be mentioned more and more often. The temple, once dedicated to him, was restored, and nearby construction began on the New Athos Simon-Kananitsky monastery, which turned into a large spiritual and educational Orthodox center on the entire Caucasian coast of the Black Sea. The cathedral of the same name, which is located in the center of the monastery complex, is a fine example of Orthodox architecture of the late 19th century. Its interior walls are painted with beautiful icons made by skilled craftsmen, and the musical chimes of the bell tower were presented to the cathedral by the Russian Emperor Alexander III.

Conclusion

Today this place, located near the city of New Athos in Abkhazia, is one of the main attractions in the Caucasus. This spiritual and historical complex also includes a cave (grotto of the Apostle Simon), in which Simon the Zealot, one of the first disciples of Jesus Christ, lived before his martyrdom. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to his grave for blessings and in the hope of recovery.