Three Persian Martyr Acts: The Acts of Miles, Bishop of Susa, the Priest Abursam, and Deacon Sinai, The Martyrdom of Zebina and His Companions, and The Martyrdom of the Forty Martyrs of Beth Kashkraye

This volume brings together the texts and translations for three Syriac martyr acts, set in Sasanian Persia during the reign of Shapur II (309-379 CE). Miles, bishop of Susa, was a fiery church leader and wandering holy man prior to his arrest and martyrdom in the company of the priest Abursam and deacon Sinai. The story of Zebina and his companions includes the extended interrogation and torture of two monks, Yawnan and Brikishoʿ, who had set out to serve the others in prison. The Forty Martyrs recounts the tragically protracted story of two bishops, nine priests, sixteen deacons, six Sons of the Covenant, and seven Daughters of the Covenant, all of whom suffered unjustly at the hands of corrupt officials. These texts offer compelling witness to the challenges of a community’s need to honor memory and experience. They provide evidence towards the formation and sustenance of Christian identity in the midst of Persian society and culture. Above all, each draws upon scriptural and monastic traditions to weave distinctive portraits of notable literary quality.