Barypsabas was a hermit and holy martyr who lived during the first or second century. According to tradition, he was the keeper of a sacred relic consisting of the blood and water that flowed from the side of Jesus Christ. This relic, which had been collected by a righteous man named James, was preserved in a vessel covered with oil to hide its true nature. Barypsabas lived in the region of Kattara Sukhreia, which is believed to have been located in Persia.
Life and relic
The saint possessed a vessel containing the holy blood and water, which had been originally gathered in a gourd. This sacred substance, hidden under a layer of oil, was used to perform numerous miracles and healings. Barypsabas eventually received this treasure from another hermit before continuing his ascetic life in the East.
Death and legacy
Barypsabas was killed during the night by individuals motivated by greed. Before his death, he entrusted the sacred vessel to his disciple to ensure the relic remained protected. He is venerated in the Catholic and Orthodox traditions as a martyr who guarded a significant holy treasure.