Q&A Home > S > St. George Is the story of St. George fighting Satan, depicted as a dragon in the picture, a true story? Did he really fight Satan or was that symbolic? The Synaxarium's account of the life and martyrdom of St. George, the Prince of Martyrs, in 307 A.D. does not indicate that he battled an actual dragon. Rather, his triumphant defeats over all of Satan's relentless beastly attacks on him are highlighted. Not only was his faith not shaken, but he inspired others to believe in our Lord Jesus Christ. By observing his faith in action, many people of diverse social backgrounds, converted and willingly paid with their own martyrdom the price for their Christian faith. Thus, by his unyielding faith, St. George repeatedly humiliated either Diocletian, or Satan, or both, who are pictorially represented by the weakened and wounded dragon.
The story of St. George and the dragon may have been the result of a legendary addendum many years later which depicts him in a real battle with an actual dragon fighting on behalf of injustice. Different versions portray the reason for this battle, but conclude that following his victory over the dragon, his request was that the people of the land be baptized. Since there is the possible influence of legend which may corrupt the actual events, it is preferred that you maintain the documented account of St. George as it is stated in the Synaxarium.
It is a special blessing that your thoughts are on this great saint on the eve of his commemoration which is celebrated on the 1st of May.
| |