Deaths on January 3

Benjamin, Coptic Orthodox Patriarch of Alexandria

Pope Benjamin I of Alexandria, who served as the 38th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark from 626 to 661 AD, is revered as one of the most distinguished and greatest patriarchs in the venerable history of the Coptic Orthodox Church. His leadership tenure coincided with one of the most tumultuous and transformative periods in Egyptian history, a time marked by successive shifts in imperial control that profoundly impacted the Christian population.

During his patriarchate, Egypt experienced a rapid succession of foreign dominations, each presenting unique challenges and threats to the indigenous Christian community:

• The Sassanid Persian Conquest (circa 619-621 AD): The era began with Egypt falling under the dominion of the Sassanid Persian Empire. Under the command of Shahin Vahmanzadegan, the Sassanids, long-standing rivals of the Byzantine Empire, seized control of Egypt as part of the broader Byzantine-Sassanid War of 602–628. This brief but significant occupation brought an end to Byzantine rule, albeit temporarily, and introduced a new foreign administration to Egypt.
• The Byzantine Reconquest (circa 628-630 AD): Following their ultimate victory over the Sassanids, the Byzantines, led by Emperor Heraclius, successfully reconquered Egypt. This restoration of Byzantine authority, however, did not bring relief to the Coptic Christians. The Chalcedonian Byzantines often pursued a policy of enforced theological conformity, leading to increased persecution of the non-Chalcedonian Coptic Orthodox Church. Pope Benjamin, a staunch defender of Coptic doctrine and the spiritual head of millions, faced significant pressure, threats, and even attempts on his life during this period due to his refusal to adhere to the Council of Chalcedon's decrees.
• The Arab Islamic Conquest (640-642 AD): The most profound and lasting shift came with the swift and decisive Arab Islamic Conquest of Egypt, led by Amr ibn al-As, a highly capable commander of the nascent Rashidun Caliphate. This conquest, which culminated in the fall of Alexandria in 642 AD, irrevocably altered the religious, political, and cultural landscape of Egypt, initiating centuries of Islamic rule.

Faced with severe persecution from the Byzantine authorities who sought to enforce Chalcedonian orthodoxy and remove him from his position, Pope Benjamin I was forced into exile during the latter part of Byzantine rule. He spent over a decade in hiding, seeking refuge in the deserts and monasteries of Upper Egypt, enduring immense personal hardship while attempting to guide his scattered flock and preserve the Coptic faith from afar. This period of forced displacement underscores the immense challenges he faced in safeguarding the very existence of the Coptic Church.

Remarkably, following the Arab Islamic Conquest, a pivotal and largely positive turn of events occurred for the Coptic Church. Amr ibn al-As, the Arab commander, having heard of Benjamin's wisdom and his people's suffering under Byzantine rule, extended an invitation for the exiled Pope to return to Alexandria. This gesture of recognition and tolerance was unprecedented. Benjamin was not only allowed to return from exile but was also permitted to fully resume his duties as Patriarch of Alexandria. This newfound freedom, granted under the initial Arab rule, allowed the Coptic Church a period of relative peace and stability after decades of profound religious and political strife. Benjamin's shrewd and resilient leadership during this delicate transition laid the groundwork for the enduring presence and distinct identity of the Coptic Church in Egypt under subsequent Islamic rule.

Pope Benjamin I's legacy is profoundly defined by his unwavering resolve, spiritual fortitude, and exceptional diplomatic skill in navigating these turbulent times. His ability to guide the Coptic community through multiple imperial transitions—from Persian to Byzantine and then to Arab rule—ensuring the survival and continuity of the venerable See of St. Mark, solidifies his standing as one of its most revered spiritual leaders. He is remembered for steadfastly preserving the Coptic identity and faith amidst profound societal and political changes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Benjamin I of Alexandria

Who was Pope Benjamin I of Alexandria?

Pope Benjamin I was the 38th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, leading the Coptic Orthodox Church from 626 to 661 AD. He is highly esteemed for his leadership and resilience during one of Egypt's most tumultuous historical periods.

What significant historical events occurred during his patriarchate?

His tenure coincided with three major imperial transitions in Egypt: the conquest by the Sassanid Persian Empire, its reconquest by the Byzantine Empire, and most notably, the decisive Arab Islamic Conquest in 642 AD, which fundamentally reshaped Egypt's future.

Why was Pope Benjamin I forced into exile?

He was forced into exile by the Byzantine authorities who, adhering to the Chalcedonian creed, severely persecuted non-Chalcedonian Coptic Christians in an attempt to impose their theological orthodoxy. Benjamin's staunch refusal to compromise Coptic doctrine led to him seeking refuge for over a decade.

How did Pope Benjamin I return to Alexandria?

Following the Arab Islamic Conquest, the new Arab commander, Amr ibn al-As, extended an invitation to the exiled Pope Benjamin I, recognizing his authority among the native Egyptian Christians. Benjamin was allowed to return from exile and fully resume his patriarchal duties, marking a significant period of initial religious tolerance under early Islamic rule.

Why is Pope Benjamin I considered one of the greatest Coptic Patriarchs?

He is revered for his profound spiritual strength, unwavering commitment to his faith, and diplomatic acumen in guiding the Coptic Church through an era of extreme political instability and intense religious persecution. His leadership was crucial in ensuring the preservation and continuity of the Coptic faith and identity during a critical juncture in history.