St. Shamoun (Simon) (d. 734)

Simon, the son of Mundher, was a native of Habesnas in Tur'abdin area (Turkey). He studied and became a monk at the Monastery of Qartamin (Mor Gabriel Monastery) around 657. In 682 he was ordained a priest and then became abbot of the same monastery. He is credited with building many churches and monasteries in Tur'abdin, which he also provided with large religious endowments. Among these were large tracts of vineyards and olive trees which he planted himself; hence, his nickname d'Zayte or Al-Zaytuni (the Man of Olives). He was also helped in carrying out his work by a treasure he found hidden in a cave, which he devoted to charitable purposes.

In 700, he became the bishop of the diocese of Harran and proved to be one of the best bishops of his time. He also established a school at Habesnas. In 726 he attended the council of Manazgird. He died on the first of June, 734, which is also the day of his commemoration by the Church.

In addition to his asceticism, piety and godliness, he was a man of learning. He composed many polemical books, against the Malkite opponents. According to the patriarch Elijah, he also wrote a treatise addressed to one of the Malkites, Constantine, bishop of Harran. His biography was written by the monk Job of Beth Man'im.

His prayers be with us and Glory be to our God forever. Amen

(History of Syriac Literature and Sciences, Patriarch Ignatius Ephrem I Barsoum, Presseggiata Press, p 118)