Basil the Confessor was an 8th-century monk from the Byzantine Empire who is recognized as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox tradition. During the period of iconoclasm, he and his mentor, Procopius of Decapolis, faced imprisonment under the rule of Emperor Leo III. They remained in captivity until the emperor's death in 741, after which they were permitted to return to their monastic life. He passed away in 750 and is commemorated on February 28.
Life and persecution
While living through the iconoclast controversy, Basil refused to comply with imperial decrees regarding the destruction of icons. His refusal to support the iconoclasts led to significant hardship, including periods of hunger and deprivation. He maintained his stance against the imperial orders, choosing to avoid any cooperation with those who sought to eliminate religious imagery.
Veneration
The saint is honored within the Eastern Orthodox tradition, where he is referred to as the Venerable. His feast day is observed on February 28. Historical records also note a Bishop of Parium with the same name who faced similar persecution for his refusal to sign the orders of the Synod of Hieria in 754.