The apostle who was skinned alive was Saint Bartholomew.
Saint Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. His life and martyrdom are central to Christian tradition, particularly the gruesome manner of his death, which led to his veneration by specific groups.
The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew
According to ancient traditions, Saint Bartholomew undertook extensive evangelical missions, believed to have reached areas as far as India, Mesopotamia, Persia, and Armenia. It was during one of these missions, often cited as being in Armenia or present-day Azerbaijan, that he faced his ultimate trial.
His martyrdom is famously depicted as one of extreme brutality:
- Flaying Alive: Saint Bartholomew was flayed alive, meaning his skin was peeled off his body while he was still living. This horrific act is a hallmark of his martyrdom and is frequently represented in Christian art.
- Beheading: Following the flaying, he was also beheaded, bringing an end to his suffering.
This particularly gruesome form of martyrdom has made Saint Bartholomew a distinctive figure among the apostles.
Patronage and Legacy
Due to the nature of his death, Saint Bartholomew became the patron saint of various professions associated with animal skins and those who work with them. This patronage includes:
- Tanners: Those who process animal hides into leather.
- Butchers: Given the association with skinning animals.
- Leather workers: Artisans who craft goods from leather.
- Bookbinders: As early book covers were often made from leather.
His feast day is observed on August 24th in the Western Christian tradition and August 11th in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Key Facts About Saint Bartholomew's Martyrdom
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Apostle Name | Saint Bartholomew (also Nathanael) |
| Method of Death | Flayed (skinned) alive, then beheaded. |
| Location | Traditionally believed to be in Armenia or a region in the East, during an evangelical mission. |
| Patronage | Tanners, butchers, leather workers, bookbinders, and others associated with skins. |
| Significance | His martyrdom underscores the extreme persecution faced by early Christians and apostles in spreading the faith. His unwavering faith, even in the face of such a horrific end, has inspired countless devotees. |
For more information on Saint Bartholomew and his life, you can refer to reputable sources such as Britannica: Saint Bartholomew.
