E06987: The Greek Conversion of *Taisia (penitent of Egypt, S02646) recounts the story of a prostitute in Alexandria who is converted to the monastic life by *Serapion Sindonios (travelling ascetic of Egypt, S02647). Written in Egypt, it survives in two versions, probably originating from the 5th century.

The Conversion/Penance of Taisia (BHG 1695-1697)

Short Summary:

Taisia was an extremely beautiful woman from Alexandria, who as a girl was sold into prostitution by her mother. Her beauty infatuated innumerable men, rich and poor alike, who spent all their money to be with her. She attracted the attention of the ascetic Sarapion Sindonios, who visited her, seemingly in order to use her services. Alone in her bedroom, he convinced her to abandon her way of life and seek forgiveness from God. She burnt all her belongings in the centre of Alexandria, and was taken by Sarapion to a convent. He instructed that she be locked in a dark cell, and only be given some bread and water, without being allowed to leave even for her hygiene. Three years later, Sarapion visited the monastery of *Antony ['the Great', monk of Egypt, ob. 356, S00098] and asked the monks to seek a revelation as to whether Taisia's sins have been forgiven. A vision was granted to *Paulos the Simple [ascetic of Egypt, ob. c. 340, S01480] confirming the salvation of the former prostitute. Sarapion went to Taisia's monastery and released her from her cell, although she implored that she be allowed to continue her asceticism. She died two weeks later.

Text: Nau 1903. Summary: E. Rizos.