Yohannan (Yoseph of Awgin)

Yohannan (also known as Yoseph of Awgin) was an East Syriac Christian author and monastic reformer who lived in the late 8th and early 9th centuries. He is best known for his role in revitalizing monastic life within the Church of the East, particularly in the region of Beth Nuhadra (modern-day northern Iraq).

Details of Yohannan's early life are scarce. His association with Awgin (modern-day Beth 'Augin, near Nisibis) stems from his time spent at the monastery founded by Awgin (Eugene), an Egyptian monk who had established a monastic community in the region in the 4th century.

Yohannan's reforms focused on restoring discipline and adherence to monastic rules within the monasteries of the region. He emphasized asceticism, prayer, and obedience, advocating for a return to the original ideals of monasticism. He travelled extensively, visiting various monasteries, preaching, and encouraging monks to embrace a stricter way of life.

While no extensive writings by Yohannan have survived, his teachings and reforms are known primarily through hagiographical accounts and historical chronicles of the Church of the East. These sources portray him as a charismatic leader and a dedicated reformer who significantly influenced the development of monasticism in the East Syriac tradition. His influence extended beyond his own lifetime, and his name continued to be revered within the Church of the East as a model for monastic life.