Prophet Zacharias Father of St John the Baptist

Prophet Zacharias Father of St. John the Baptist Feast Day and Greek Name Day

Prophet Zacharias, Father of St. John the Baptist, is honored in the Orthodox Christian Church as a righteous priest and prophet who was chosen by God to be the father of the Forerunner of Christ. His feast day is celebrated on September 5, and on this day people named Zacharias, Zachariah, Zachary, Zakarias, Zakaria, Zakaros, Zakos, and Zak, among other variations, celebrate their Greek name day.

Who Was Prophet Zacharias

Prophet Zacharias was a Jewish priest who served in the Temple in Jerusalem. He and his wife Elizabeth were known for their devotion to God, but they had remained childless for many years.

According to the Gospel of Luke, while Zacharias was serving in the Temple, the Archangel Gabriel appeared to him and announced that Elizabeth would give birth to a son who would become John the Baptist.

The Birth of John the Baptist

At first, Zacharias doubted the angel’s message because of their old age. Because of this doubt, Gabriel told him that he would remain unable to speak until the child was born.

When the child was finally born, Zacharias confirmed that the boy’s name would be John, and immediately his speech returned. He then praised God and prophesied about the future mission of his son.

Martyrdom and Honor in the Church

Church tradition teaches that Zacharias was later martyred in the Temple during a period of persecution. Because of his righteousness and faith, he is honored both as a prophet and as the father of St. John the Baptist.

His life represents faithfulness to God and the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Greek Name Day for Zacharias

Because Prophet Zacharias is commemorated on September 5, this date is also the Greek name day for:

Zacharias

Zachariah

Zachary

Zakarias

Zakaria

Zakaros

Zakos

Zak

In Greek culture, celebrating a name day is often just as important as celebrating a birthday. Friends and family commonly offer well wishes or visits to honor the person whose name is being celebrated.

When Prophet Zacharias Is Celebrated

The feast of Prophet Zacharias, Father of St. John the Baptist, is observed each year on September 5 in the Greek Orthodox Church. The day honors the righteous priest whose son would become the great prophet who prepared the way for Christ.