Paul the Simple lived in the 4th century in Egypt and became one of the early monks known today as the Desert Fathers.
According to traditional monastic stories, Paul was originally a farmer who discovered that his wife had been unfaithful. Instead of reacting with anger or revenge, he simply walked away from his former life. Already about 60 years old, he went into the desert to seek a life of prayer.
There he approached the well-known monk Anthony the Great and asked to become his disciple.
Traditional accounts say Anthony tested him first. Desert life was harsh, and many people came with enthusiasm but quickly left. Anthony reportedly tried to discourage Paul and gave him difficult tasks.
Paul remained calm and patient. He did not argue or complain. Because of that attitude, Anthony eventually accepted him.
The early monks described him as “simple,” not because he lacked intelligence, but because he had a straightforward and honest heart. He followed instructions without pride or complicated reasoning. Some of the ancient stories even say Anthony believed he had deep spiritual clarity despite having little formal learning.
Like many Desert Father accounts, these stories were preserved mainly to teach spiritual lessons.
Today, the example of Saint Paul the Simple can still be understood in a very practical way. Life becomes complicated when pride, arguments, and the need to prove ourselves take over. His story suggests another approach: stay calm, be honest, and simply do what is right. It may look ordinary, but that kind of consistent faithfulness often holds a life together.
Let’s keep learning the saints’ way—day by day.
⌨ ᴛʸᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᴏᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʙˡᵘᵉ ᵈᵃʳᵉᵐ ᵐᵘˢⁱᶜ ᵇˡᵒᵍ
