Abaskhiron the Soldier, also known as Eskhayron the Soldier, was a Coptic martyr and saint hailing from Qallin, Egypt, in the 3rd century. The name "Abaskhyron" is a combination of "Abba," an honorific title meaning father, and "skhyron" or sometimes "eshseros" and "eskaros," signifying strength.

 

Abaskhiron served as a soldier under Arianus, the governor of Ansena. When the Edict of Diocletian mandated the worship of idols, Abaskhiron bravely resisted, refusing to participate. The governor, angered by his defiance, struck him on the mouth. Undeterred, Abaskhiron removed his soldier's uniform and threw it at the governor's feet, further provoking his anger. As a consequence, Abaskhiron was thrown into a dungeon where Christians faced brutal torture.

 

Despite the harsh conditions, Abaskhiron remained resolute, ready to endure any pain. He was joined by five fellow soldiers - Alfius, Armanius, Arkias, Peter, and Cranius - who also chose to shed their blood for Christ. The governor subjected them to various tortures, including crucifixion and beheading.

 

Abaskhiron's resilience caught the attention of the governor, who ordered the sorcerer Alexander to concoct a deadly poison. In a supernatural turn of events, Abaskhiron, after making the sign of the cross, drank the poison unharmed. Witnessing this miracle, the sorcerer converted to Christianity but was subsequently martyred by the governor.

 

The governor intensified his torture, even throwing Abaskhiron into a furnace and attempting to blind him. However, the Archangel Michael intervened, protecting Abaskhiron's eyes and healing him. Eventually, Abaskhiron was beheaded, earning the crown of martyrdom.

 

In a miraculous event, the Church of St. Abaskhiron in Qallin was transported, along with its congregation, tree, and well, to the village of Biho in the south of Egypt during a celebration of group weddings. This relocation was attributed to the intercession of St. Abaskhiron.

 

His relics are currently preserved in the Monastery of Saint Pishoy and the Monastery of Saint Samuel the Confessor. The feast day dedicated to Abaskhiron is celebrated on 14 June (7 Paoni).