Biography

Saint Epiphanius of Salamis was born early in the fourth century (dates range from 310-320) in Palestine. His death occurred at sea in 403. Epiphanius spent some time in Egypt where he continued his education while living the life of a monk. Upon returning to Palestine, he began a monastery. He was made the Bishop of Salamis on the island of Cyprus. Epiphanius was passionate about orthodoxy and did all he could to battle heresies and heretics. Origen and his teachings were the targets of Epiphanius. Epiphanius wrote Panarion (374–377) in which 80 heretical teachings were discredited. Additionally, he wrote Ancoratus (374) which laid out the teaching of the Catholic Church. Epiphanius produced other works which illuminate the theology and history of the fourth century.

Wailand Groenendyk
CCEL Staff Writer