Simeon Stylites the Younger

Timeline

1. 521–541Antioch · Northern SyriaSimeon the Younger was born in Antioch; his mother Martha was also a devout believer, later canonized by the church. He showed strong religious fervor from childhood, and around 528 (age seven) joined the ascetic community maintained by the disciples of Simeon Stylites the Elder after the latter's death, beginning ascetic training near Mons Admirabilis outside Antioch, gradually becoming known for fasting, prayer, and vigils.
2. c. 541–596Mons Admirabilis · Northern SyriaAround the age of twenty Simeon formally ascended a stone pillar atop Mons Admirabilis outside Antioch, reportedly over ten meters high, living, praying, and preaching atop it for some 68 years until his death. He bestowed blessings and healings on streams of pilgrims, corresponded with Byzantine emperors, bishops, and believers across regions, and influenced the adjudication of theological controversies such as the Monophysite question. His mother Martha also practiced asceticism nearby and was later canonized by the Eastern Church.