The most popular story that is related about Ammonius would seem quite unbelievable if it were not recorded in such a large number of historical sources, including many that were contemporary with his life. Although praised for his learning and his asceticism, he is most vividly remembered for the vehemence with which he resisted ordination.

Ammonius was one of four brothers who became monastic hermits in Scete in northern Egypt, disciples of the great ascetic Pambo. Although most of the monks in that settlement were illiterate, Ammonius had been exceptionally well educated. He is said to have had the entire Old and New Testament memorized, as well as the works of many early Christian theologians. Although he left no writings, many of his students and colleagues did, perhaps the most famous of whom is Evagrius of Pontus.

In addition to his great knowledge, Ammonius was also very strict in his spiritual practice and was well loved as a spiritual director and guide. Because of all of this, the inhabitants of a nearby village wanted him to be their bishop. Forcible ordination was not unusual in the early church, and so Bishop Timothy of Alexandria told the people that if they were able to bring this holy man to him, he would absolutely ordain him.

Ammonius pleaded with them not to do this thing, but they would not hear it, and a large crowd of them gathered to drag him back to Alexandria by force. Seeing that they were too numerous for him to resist or to flee, Ammonius seized a sword and chopped off his ear in front of the shocked observers. He then calmly replied that he was now utterly disqualified for ecclesiastical office since the law forbids a man who is mutilated to become a priest (Leviticus 21:16-24). Deeply shaken, the people returned to Bishop Timothy, who told them: “This law is only observed by the Jews. If you bring him to me, I will ordain him even if he chops off his nose too!”

Therefore, they returned, but when they attempted to drag Ammonius off again, this time he said to them, “I swear to you that if you do such a thing to me, I shall cut out my tongue as well!” Alarmed by the prospect of losing his preaching and exhortation, they finally left him in peace. This story was as striking in antiquity as it is today, and is recounted by a number of writers (including his disapproving bishop). Most sources refer to him as “Ammonius the Earless” from that time forth.

Despite his strident refusal of the episcopate, Ammonius was by no means anti-clerical. His own brother Dioscorus had become a bishop, his other two brothers were both priests, and when he left Egypt toward the end of his life during the theological controversies that had embroiled Scete, he sought out the company of his close friend John Chrysostom. He was also a close companion and associate of Melania the Elder, welcoming her as a guest to his monastic settlement, visiting her in Jerusalem at hers, and welcoming her protege Evagrius to his community. He died while visiting John Chrysostom sometime around the year 403.

Excerpted directly from “Lesser Feasts and Fasts 2022,” p. 498-499.