Martyr Barbarus (Varvar) of Lucania, the Former Robber

Saint Barbarus (Varvar) of Lucania lived in the first half of the 9th century in the region of Laconia in southern Greece (rendered as "Lucania" in Slavic tradition through a transliteration confusion, not Italy). A man of extraordinary physical strength, he spent years as a brigand, reportedly killing over three hundred people, including two priests. One day, gazing at plundered treasure in his cave, he was struck by divine grace and overcome with repentance. He went to a priest, confessed his sins, and — considering himself unworthy of human dignity — lived for three years crawling on all fours among the priest's dogs, then spent twelve more years grazing among livestock, eating only grass. He was accidentally shot by hunters who mistook him for a wild animal in the tall grass. His body was found incorrupt and exuded myrrh, granting healings to many.