Saint Simon the Stylite — known in the Syriac tradition as Shemun — is one of the most remarkable and singular ascetics in the history of the Church. Born around 390 AD in the village of Sisan in Syria, he was the son of a shepherd. In his youth he was deeply moved by hearing the Beatitudes proclaimed in church, and from that moment he resolved to pursue the monastic life with all the fervor of his soul. He entered a monastery and quickly distinguished himself by the intensity of his fasting and ascetic practices — so intense that the abbot eventually asked him to withdraw, fearing that his example would overwhelm the other brothers.

Simon withdrew to a remote pit in the mountains, living in complete solitude. A vision came to the abbot of the monastery warning him not to cast away God’s servant, and the monks went to search for him and asked him to return. But Simon’s heart was drawn ever deeper into solitary prayer and penance, and he soon left again to pursue his unique calling.

Life Upon the Pillar

To escape the crowds of people who increasingly sought him out for healing, counsel, and blessing, Simon devised an extraordinary solution: he climbed atop a pillar and made it his dwelling place. Over time he raised the height of the pillar — eventually reaching approximately eighteen meters — where he lived for an astounding 37 years, exposed to every element, standing or sitting in prayer day and night in his small enclosed space. He became the first and greatest of the Stylites — from the Greek word for pillar — giving his name to an entire tradition of pillar-dwelling ascetics in the Eastern Church.

A Beacon to All

Far from being cut off from the world atop his pillar, Saint Simon became a spiritual father to thousands. Visitors came from across the Roman Empire and beyond — seeking healing, wisdom, prayer, and conversion. He is said to have converted many thousands to the Christian faith. When he reposed in 459 AD, his body was found by a disciple, stooped as if in prayer. His pillar became a site of pilgrimage and his memory inspired generations of ascetics — men and women — to emulate his extraordinary dedication to God. The Syriac Orthodox and Malankara Orthodox churches honor his feast on July 27, giving thanks for this Syrian father whose life on the pillar was a living sermon to the whole world.