Saint Sadoth of Seleucia

Biography

Saint Sadoth of Seleucia, also known by various other names such as Sadosh, Sadot, Sadota, Sahdost, Schadost, Schiadustes, Shahdost, and Zadok, was a devout deacon who served faithfully under the guidance of Saint Barbasymas in the diocese of Seleucia-Ctesiphon. Little is known about the early life of Sadoth, but historical records mention his presence at the Council of Nicaea in the year 325. This significant gathering of bishops and clergy from across the Christian world discussed important matters of faith and issued a statement of belief that would eventually become the Nicene Creed. Sadoth's involvement in this council is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the Christian faith. When Saint Barbasymas, his mentor and superior, was martyred for his unwavering commitment to Christ, Sadoth was chosen to succeed him as the bishop of Seleucia-Ctesiphon. It was a time of great persecution and turmoil for Christians in the region, as the Sassanian Persian Empire, under the rule of King Shapur II, sought to suppress the Christian faith. Following his appointment as bishop, Sadoth, along with his priests, went into hiding. They clandestinely ministered to their flock, providing spiritual guidance and sacraments in moments of darkness and uncertainty. However, their efforts to preserve and spread the Christian faith were not without consequences. Eventually, the forces of King Shapur discovered their whereabouts in Seleucia. Sadoth, together with 128 of his priests, deacons, and nuns, was arrested. Most of these faithful servants were subjected to immediate execution, becoming martyrs for their unyielding devotion to Christ. Sadoth and a few companions were spared immediate death and instead faced prolonged suffering and torture for their refusal to renounce their Christian beliefs. Despite intense persecution, Sadoth and his companions remained resolute in their faith. King Shapur offered them relief and freedom if they would renounce Christianity and submit to the worship of the sun, an act that would be seen as an abandonment of their Christian identity. However, they firmly refused the king's demand, maintaining their loyalty to Christ and His teachings. For their unwavering faith, Sadoth and his companions were subjected to brutal torture and cruel treatment in prison. Despite enduring unimaginable suffering, they did not waver in their commitment to Christ. Finally, in the year 342, Sadoth was beheaded outside the walls of Seleucia, Mesopotamia, joining the ranks of Christian martyrs who had given their lives for the Gospel. The impact of Sadoth's life and martyrdom reverberated throughout the Christian community, inspiring faith and devotion in the face of persecution. His dedication to his flock, even in the direst of circumstances, became a powerful example of Christian leadership and sacrificial love. Although Saint Sadoth does not have an assigned patronage in the Catholic tradition, his life and witness continue to inspire Christians today. His feast days are commemorated on February 18th, and in some calendars, February 20th. Sadoth was recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church before the formal process of canonization was established, known as a pre-congregation saint. It is fitting that Saint Sadoth is often depicted in religious artwork at the bottom of a ladder that reaches into heaven, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to Christ and his ultimate journey to eternal glory. Sometimes, he is depicted alongside Saint Barbasymas, his mentor and fellow martyr, paying tribute to their shared devotion to God and the Christian faith.