Jerome
BIOGRAPHY
Jerome (Latin: Eusebius Sophronius Hieronymus; Ancient Greek: Εὐσέβιος Σωφρόνιος Ἱερώνυμος; c. 342–347 – 30 September 420), also known as Jerome of Stridon, was an early Christian priest, confessor, theologian, translator, and historian. He is most commonly known as Saint Jerome.
Jerome is best known for his translation of the Bible into Latin, a version known as the Vulgate. This translation was groundbreaking as he sought to base his Old Testament translation on Hebrew texts rather than the Greek Septuagint, which had been used in earlier Latin translations. His extensive list of writings includes not only biblical works but also polemical and historical essays, all rooted in his theological perspective.
Jerome's teachings on Christian moral life were particularly influential in cosmopolitan centers like Rome. He often focused on the lives of women, exploring how a woman devoted to Christ should live. This interest arose from his close relationships with several prominent female ascetics from affluent senatorial families.
His works also serve as a vital source for understanding the pronunciation of Hebrew in Byzantine Palestine.
Due to his monumental contributions, Jerome is honored as a saint and Doctor of the Church by the Catholic Church and as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Lutheran Church, and the Anglican Communion. His feast day is celebrated on 30 September in the Gregorian calendar.