Page:Early Christianity in Arabia.djvu/94

82 his hands, are compared to a river that flows on with a constant, never-failing stream.

Simeon, who, from the mode of life in which he is said to have passed part of his days, was named Stylites, was by birth an Arab, and was initiated into the monastic life by Maras, bishop of Gabala. His name was famous even among the Sabæans of Yaman and his friendship was courted by the Arabian chiefs. Amongst the number of his converts were the idolatrous inhabitants of the mountains of Libanus; the Christians of Arabia were supported and increased by his miracles and his eloquence, and it was his boast that they were respected equally by the wandering robber and the ferocious wild beast.