Theodore of Bulgaria

Holy Martyr Theodore of Bulgaria (Bolgar), called the Jerusalemite (died 1323), was a wealthy merchant who traded in the cities of the Volga region. On 21 April 1323, while at Bolgar on business, he entered an open dispute about faith with the local Muslims. Unable to convince him of their view, the Muslims killed the merchant-⁠preacher.

Little is known of him. The nickname Jerusalemite suggests that he came from the Holy Land or from Byzantium. His other nickname, the Philosopher, shows that Theodore was an educated man, a zealous Christian who knew Holy Scripture well. He is commemorated on 17 October (new style) and in the Synaxis of the Saints of Kazan.