Saint John of Damascus

John of Damascus (c. 675–749) was a Byzantine Christian monk, theologian, hymnographer, and Church Father. Born in Damascus, he later became a monk at the monastery of Mar Saba near Jerusalem. He is best known for his defense of the veneration of icons during the Iconoclast controversy, arguing for the legitimacy of sacred images in Christian worship. His major theological synthesis, *Exposition of the Orthodox Faith*, forms part of his larger work *The Fount of Knowledge* and became influential in Eastern Orthodox theology. John also composed hymns and liturgical poetry that remain in use in Eastern Christian traditions.