St. Great Mc. Areta; St. Mc. Marcu, Sotirih and Valentintranslated

Orthodox calendar October 24 The Holy Great Martyr Areta The Holy Great Martyr Areta († 523) – He suffered at the beginning of the 6th century and was originally from the land of Yemen (Arabia). The ruler of the city was Danaan, a Jew who had managed to reach the leadership and who hated the Christians, thus starting the persecution against them.

In the year 520 he exiled Saint Gregentiu, Bishop of Tafar, and on October 24, 523 he killed the Saint Great Martyr Areta, Reuma, his wife and his two daughters. Areta was the ruler of the city of Negran whose inhabitants were all Christians. Because the city of Negran was surrounded by strong walls and had a disciplined army, Danaan could not penetrate it in any way.

Finally, he makes a false promise that he only wants to enter the city and see it and collect the beer, without harming anyone. Although, Areta realized the hidden intention, still his servants opened the gates believing Danaan's words. Once he entered the city, he first killed all the priests, monks and nuns in number 427, after which he tried to make Areta and the others apostate...