Episode 1705: Sts. Ananias, Azarias and Misael

Sts. Ananias, Azarias, and Misael: The Three Holy Youths
Sts. Ananias, Azarias, and Misael, also known as the Three Holy Youths or The Three Young Men in the Fiery Furnace, are revered figures in both Judaism and Christianity. Their story, recounted in the Book of Daniel, is one of unwavering faith, courage in the face of adversity, and miraculous deliverance.

Early Life and Captivity:

Born into noble Jewish families in Jerusalem, Ananias, Azarias, and Misael were among the young men taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar II, king of Babylon, in the 6th century BC. (Image of Nebuchadnezzar II, king of Babylon)
Renamed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, they were chosen to serve in the king's palace, receiving education in Babylonian language, literature, and science.
Despite their new surroundings, they remained faithful to their Jewish customs and God's commandments.
Refusal to Worship the Golden Statue:

King Nebuchadnezzar had erected a massive golden statue and commanded everyone to bow down before it.
Ananias, Azarias, and Misael, however, refused to compromise their faith. They believed worshipping any idol besides God was a sin and remained steadfast in their convictions. (Image of Golden Statue of Nebuchadnezzar)
Thrown into the Fiery Furnace:

Their refusal enraged the king, who condemned them to be thrown into a blazing furnace.
Miraculously, God intervened, sending an angel to protect the three youths from the flames. They walked unharmed amidst the fire, singing praises to God. (Image of Three Holy Youths in the Fiery Furnace)
Symbol of Faith and Deliverance:

The story of Ananias, Azarias, and Misael has become a powerful symbol of faith and deliverance in the face of persecution.
Their unwavering belief in God and their refusal to compromise their principles serve as an inspiration to people of all faiths.
The image of the three youths emerging unscathed from the fiery furnace is often depicted in art and religious iconography.
Legacy and Veneration:

Sts. Ananias, Azarias, and Misael are venerated as saints by both Christian and Jewish traditions.
Their feast day is celebrated on December 17th in the Catholic Church and on December 16th in the Orthodox Church.
Their story continues to inspire people of faith to remain steadfast in their beliefs and trust in God's protection, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Further Resources:

Book of Daniel, Chapter 3
OCA - The Holy Youths Ananias, Azarias and Misael
Catholic Online - Saint Ananias, Saint Azarias and Saint Misael