Saint John The Short

Biography

Saint John the Short, also known as John Colobus, John Kolobos, John the Little, John the Dwarf, and Yoannis Pi Kolobos, was born around 339 in Basta, Egypt, to a poor but devoutly religious family. From a young age, John showed a great interest in the spiritual life, and at the age of 18, he decided to dedicate himself fully to God's service. He left his family and began his journey in search of solitude and a deeper connection with God. John found his calling in the desert of Skete, where he dug an underground cave to live in. This austere environment allowed him to focus on prayer, fasting, and contemplation. He became a spiritual student of Saint Poemen and Saint Ammoes, two renowned figures in the desert ascetic movement. One of the notable aspects of Saint John's life was his physical stature. He was short in height, and his diminutive appearance was the starting point for many who mocked him. John had a short temper and was conceited by nature, but as his faith deepened, he experienced a profound transformation. Through his spiritual journey, John learned to cultivate gentleness and humility, which became the defining characteristics of his later life. Saint John's faith and obedience were tested in a significant way when his spiritual director ordered him to water a walking staff stuck in the desert sand. John obediently followed this command, even though it seemed strange and lacked apparent purpose. Miraculously, the staff blossomed into a tree, and John referred to it as the "tree of obedience." This event served as a powerful illustration of the transformative power of obedience and the rewards it brings. In the year 395, the desert of Skete faced the threat of Berber invaders, and Saint John had to flee for his safety. He sought refuge on Mount Queolzum, near the present-day city of Suez, where he lived as a hermit for several years. Despite his solitude, Saint John's reputation as a spiritual teacher continued to grow, and he influenced many individuals who sought his wisdom, including Saint Arsenius. During his later years, Saint John was known for his absent-mindedness, as his thoughts were continually consumed by the spiritual life. He lived a life of extreme asceticism, enduring various physical hardships and restraints in his pursuit of union with God. Despite his physical and mental challenges, the depth of his spirituality never diminished. People were drawn to him because he radiated the love of Christ and offered guidance on the path of righteousness. Saint John the Short passed away on Mount Qolzum of natural causes, and his servant, who had been in a nearby village, had a vision of John being carried to heaven by a group of angels and saints. This celestial vision confirmed the sanctity of his life and the holiness of his soul. Following his death, his body was buried in the desert of Skete in 515, where his faithful followers could continue to venerate him. Saint John the Short's exemplary life of humility, simplicity, and obedience has made him an inspiration for countless individuals seeking spiritual growth and transformation. His story reminds us of the power of faith, the importance of personal discipline, and the rewards that come through obedience to God's will. Saint John continues to be a shining example of living a life steeped in reverence and surrender to God.