Basil organizes food relief during a Cappadocian famine
About this date: The famine is conventionally placed in the late 360s. Gregory's later funeral speech does not itself provide an exact calendar year.
Gregory recalls Basil persuading people with supplies to share them and organizing meals for those suffering hunger. Infants, older people, and entire households appear in the account.
Historical context
The inland city's difficulty obtaining food is part of Gregory's explanation. The episode connects preaching about possessions with the practical work of gathering and distributing provisions.
Key points
- The narrative emphasizes opening privately held food stores.
- Prepared food is distributed to vulnerable residents.
- Basil's personal participation forms part of Gregory's praise.
People
- Basil of Caesarea
- Gregory of Nazianzus
Sources and further reading
- Funeral Oration for Basil
Famine conditions and the organization of relief.