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This beautifully crafted medal is really like a little sterling silver
portrait! It is cast in exquisite detail and includes the saint's name in raised lettering encircling the image. This 3/4" sterling silver medal and its companion 18" stainless steel chain come in a classic
hinged jewelry box, ready to become a classic gift!
About St. Benjamin . . . Christians in Persia had enjoyed 12 years of peace when in 420 it was disturbed by the indiscreet zeal of Abdas, a Christian Bishop who burned the Temple of Fire, the great sanctuary of the Persians. The king, King Isdegerd, threatened to destroy all the churches of the Christians unless the Bishop would rebuild it. Abdas refused to comply and the threat was executed; the churches were demolished, Abdas himself was put to death, and a general persecution began which lasted 40 years. The king died in 421, but his son and successor carried on the persecution with great fury. The Christians were submitted to the most cruel tortures. Among those who suffered was St. Benjamin, a Deacon, who had been imprisoned a year for his faith. At the end of this period, an ambassador of the Emperor of Constantinople obtained his release on condition that he would never speak to any of the courtiers about religion. St. Benjamin, however, declared it was his duty to preach Christ and that he could not be silent. He neglected no opportunity of preaching. He was again apprehended and brought before the king. He was tortured numerous times. The martyr died in agony about the year 424.
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