On December 11, we bow to the memory of a great saint who left a bright mark in the history of Christianity.
Today, the name day is celebrated by: Daniel, Danail, Danila, Danaila, Dani, Daniela, Daniel, Denny, Danelia.
Saint Daniel was born in Mesopotamia, says Blitz. He was waited for for many years, because his parents could not have children. And they, like the parents of the Most Holy Theotokos - Saint Anna and Saint Joachim, constantly prayed to the Almighty, until one day the miracle happened. But before little Daniel was born, his parents made a vow that if they ever became parents, they would dedicate him to God.
To fulfill their vow, when the boy turned 5, his parents took him to a monastery. The abbot decided that he was still quite young and refused to take him in.
Saint Daniel lived with his parents for another 7 years, and when he turned 12, he himself wished to leave his home. His parents were extremely pleased because he kept their word. In the monastery, where he became a novice, Saint Daniel showed extraordinary zeal both in prayer and in other spiritual pursuits.
In the monastery, the young man amazed even the strictest ascetics with his zeal for prayer and work. After a few years, he wished to worship at the holy places where the Savior lived and suffered. The abbot detained him. Later, he sent him to Antioch on some business. Daniel rejoiced because he had the opportunity to visit the Venerable Simeon the Pillar, which he had long desired.
The Venerable Simeon the Pillar lived on top of a tower that resembled a pillar. Saint Simeon blessed Saint Daniel and ordered him to go to Byzantium. Saint Daniel found a suitable place not far from the city of Byzantium. There he built a tower following the example of Saint Simeon the Pillar and lived as an ascetic for 33 years. His life was not easy at all.
The pagans harassed him, the authorities tried to break his faith, but he did not renounce it. He remembered the words of Saint Simeon that Jesus would always be with him, and this thought strengthened his faith even more. Saint Daniel became famous for his wisdom.
Many students settled around him, and the highest rulers and dignitaries came to seek his advice.
Saint Daniel was a miracle worker and helped people in trouble with the prayers he addressed to God.