Their story
Adapted in modern English from Alban Butler's Lives of the Saints · Baring-Gould original below · little is known
Jonas and Barachisius were brothers who were martyred in Persia under king Sapor, in the eighteenth year of his persecution. They had gone to Beth-Asa to encourage Christians who were imprisoned there.
The Magians questioned them at night, because Jonas spoke so powerfully that they feared he would win converts if he spoke in public. Red-hot iron plates and hammers were applied under his arms. Their acts were written by Esaias, who was an eyewitness. Butler and Baring-Gould agree on 327.
Early life
The book says little or nothing about early life. This is how the account begins.
Thin entry · the 1897 book gives only 132 words. We have not filled the gap with invented detail.
King Shapoor, or Sapor, of Persia, raised a savage persecution against the Christians in his realm, believing them to be in league with the Roman emperor. Amongst those who suffered were Jonas and Barachisius, because they refused to adore the sun and fire. Melted lead was poured down the nostrils of Jonas, and red-hot plates were placed under his arms, and he was hung up by one foot in his dungeon till he fainted.
