Zeno of Scetis

Holy Venerable Zeno of Scetis was an ascetic on Sinai in the fourth century, known for spiritual wisdom and for the gift of working miracles.

Once, speaking about prayer, he said that whoever wishes God to hear his prayer quickly must, standing before God with hands outstretched, first of all, even before praying for his own soul, pray with all his heart for his enemies; for this good deed God will hear him whatever he asks. It was said of him that at first he would accept nothing from anyone, and those who brought gifts went away from him grieved that he did not take them. Others came to receive something from him, but he had nothing to give them, and they too went away sorrowing. Seeing this, the elder said: "What shall I do? Those who bring are grieved, and those who have nothing to receive are grieved," and resolved: "If someone brings, I will take, and if someone asks, I will give him." So he was at peace himself, and others were content.

The saint is commemorated on 5 May (a movable date, new style), in the Synaxis of the Venerable Fathers of Sinai.