School at Monastery of St. Sergius

School at Monastery of St. Sergius in Metilene

The Monastery of Sergius was established in the second half of the tenth century in Jubas, near Melitene (current day Malatya). It was founded by monks originating from the Monastery of Za'faran, with the monk Kisu being the most prominent among them. They named the monastery Sergius after the martyrs Sergius and Bacchus, placing their relics there in 958.

The monks subsequently brought in the learned monk John, a disciple of Maron, to teach. As a result of his instruction, the monastery quickly developed into a school. John's fame spread, attracting students from various regions. Rabban Kisu became the school's first head. John, who became famously known as Maron, was an influential figure of his era due to his knowledge and piety. He taught philosophy at the Monastery of Sergius for approximately 29 years, attracting students of literature from all over. Around 987, the governor, Kulaib, commanded John to move to a different monastery. This monastery had been started by a monk named Ibn Haji but remained unfinished upon his death. John completed the construction, and monks gathered around him to study. After teaching there for twelve years, John left for the Monastery of Mar Aharon on the blessed mountain, where he passed away in 1003.

Kisu's successor in the leadership was his disciple, the Abbot Elias, who was responsible for accumulating a valuable library of diverse books. Abbot Elias was succeeded by Abbot John, who greatly expanded the school's operations. Abbot John appointed readers and interpreters and constructed new buildings for the students, teachers, and scribes. The school fostered the development of many high priests, including a group of twelve mentioned by Mar Michael, such as Ignatius II Maphrian and Timothy of Karkari, both celebrated figures in their time.

The school continued its function until 1066, when the monastery, its school, and its entire library suffered significant destruction. Despite this, the Monastery of Sarjisiyya endured and remained important centers of knowledge throughout the twelfth century.