Early Years:

Born around 590 in Barshüt, within the Beheira region of the western Nile Delta, little is known about Benjamin's early life, except that he hailed from a comfortable Coptic family. Some speculate that his proximity to Alexandria may have contributed to his education there.

 

Family and Monastic Vows:

Benjamin had a brother named Mennas, who faced persecution for his faith. At the age of thirty in 620, Benjamin embraced asceticism, taking monastic vows at the Canopus monastery in Egypt. He deepened his ascetic practices in cenobitic communities, following the rule of Pachomius. During this time, he met an older monk named Theonas, who played a significant role in shaping Benjamin's understanding of monastic life.

 

Alexandria and Patriarchate:

A vision led Benjamin to believe he would shepherd the flock of Christ. Though warned of potential pride by his spiritual father, Theonas, Benjamin's piety and ability caught the attention of Patriarch Andronicus. Benjamin was eventually ordained as a priest, becoming Andronicus's assistant and heir presumptive. His election as patriarch followed Andronicus's death, and Benjamin worked on ecclesiastical matters and the end of Sassinid rule.

 

Challenges and Exile:

Under Persian rule in 623, the Copts faced religious restrictions. The Byzantines regained control in 628, appointing Cyrus as Melkite patriarch of Egypt. Benjamin, opposing Cyrus, fled to St. Macarius in Upper Egypt. Cyrus used force, leading to Benjamin's brother Mennas' execution and the confiscation of property.

 

Arab Conquest and Restoration:

In 639, Arab general 'Amr ibn al-'As conquered Egypt. Benjamin, possibly due to animosity toward Cyrus, was said to have delivered the country to 'Amr. After 'Amr restored Benjamin's rights, the patriarch worked to rebuild the Coptic church, mend relations, and restore unity among the fragmented population.

 

Death and Veneration:

Benjamin faced illness in his last two years, dying on January 3, 661. He is venerated as a saint by the Coptic church, commemorated on the 8th day of Toba. Revered for guiding the church through Islamic conquest, legends circulated about angels escorting Benjamin's soul to heaven alongside Athanasius of Alexandria, Severus of Antioch, and Theodosius I of Alexandria.