“The Legend of the Life of Alexander Nevsky. Appendix III. Saint Alexander Nevsky in the stories of contemporary eyewitnesses Six brave men showed themselves here

Read an excerpt from hagiographic literature.

“... This prince Alexander was born from a merciful and philanthropic father, and most of all - meek, the great prince Yaroslav and from his mother Theodosia... And he was handsome like no one else, and his voice was like a trumpet among the people, his face was like the face of Joseph , whom the Egyptian king installed as the second king in Egypt, his strength was part of the strength of Samson, and God gave him the wisdom of Solomon, and his courage was like that of the Roman king Vespasian, who conquered the entire land of Judea... Hearing about such valor of Prince Alexander, the king the country of Rome from the northern land thought to himself: “I will go and conquer the land of Alexander.” And he gathered a great force, and filled many ships with his regiments, and moved with a huge army, puffing up the military spirit. And he came to the Neva, intoxicated with madness, and sent his ambassadors, proud, to Novgorod to Prince Alexander, saying: “If you can, defend yourself, for I am already here and ruining your land.” Alexander, having heard such words, burned in his heart, and entered the church of St. Sophia, and, falling on his knees before the altar, began to pray with tears: “Glorious God, righteous, great God, strong, righteous God, who created heaven and earth and established borders for the nations, you commanded to live without transgressing the borders of others." And, remembering the words of the prophet, he said: “Judge, Lord, those who offend me and protect them from those who fight me, take a weapon and a shield and stand up to help me.” And, having finished the prayer, he stood up and bowed to the archbishop. The archbishop was then Spyridon, he blessed him and released him. The prince, leaving the church, dried his tears and began to encourage his squad, saying: “God is not in power, but in truth. Let us remember the Songmaker, who said: “Some with weapons, and others on horses, we will call on the name of the Lord our God; they, defeated, fell, but we resisted and stand upright.” Having said this, he went against the enemies with a small squad, not waiting for his large army, but trusting in the Holy Trinity. ... After that, Alexander hastened to attack the enemies at six o'clock in the afternoon, and there was a great slaughter with the Romans, and the prince killed countless numbers of them, and on the face of the king himself he left the mark of his sharp spear. Six brave men, like him, from Alexander’s regiment showed themselves here. The first one is named Gavrilo Oleksich. He attacked the auger and, seeing the prince being dragged by the arms, rode all the way to the ship along the gangplank along which he and the prince were running; those pursued by him grabbed Gavrila Oleksich and threw him off the gangplank along with his horse. But by God's mercy he emerged from the water unharmed, and again attacked them, and fought with the commander himself in the midst of their army. The second, named Sbyslav Yakunovich, is from Novgorod. This one attacked their army many times and fought with one ax, having no fear in his soul; and many fell by his hand, and they marveled at his strength and courage. The third - Yakov, a native of Polotsk, was a hunter for the prince. This one attacked the regiment with a sword, and the prince praised him. The fourth is a Novgorodian named Mesha. This man on foot and his retinue attacked the ships and sank three ships. The fifth is from the younger squad, named Sava. This one burst into the large royal golden-domed tent and cut down the tent pole. The Alexandrov regiments, seeing the fall of the tent, rejoiced... In the second year after Prince Alexander returned with victory, they again came from the Western country and built a city on the land of Alexandrov. Prince Alexander soon went and destroyed their city to the ground, and hanged them, some, took others with him, and, having pardoned others, released them, for he was immeasurably merciful. After Alexandrova’s victory, when he defeated the king, in the third year, in winter, he went with great strength to German land, so that they would not boast, saying: “Let us subdue the Slavic people.” And they had already taken the city of Pskov and imprisoned the German governors. He soon expelled them from Pskov and killed the Germans, and tied up others and liberated the city from the godless Germans, and fought and burned their land and took countless prisoners, and killed others. The Germans, being daring, united and said: “Let’s go and defeat Alexander and capture him.” When the Germans approached, the guards found out about them. Prince Alexander prepared for battle, and they went against each other, and Lake Peipus was covered with many of these and other warriors. Alexander's father, Yaroslav, sent his younger brother Andrei with a large squad to help him. And Prince Alexander had many brave warriors, like King David in ancient times, strong and steadfast. So Alexander’s men were filled with the spirit of war, because their hearts were like the hearts of lions, and they exclaimed: “O our glorious prince! Now the time has come for us to lay down our heads for you.” Prince Alexander raised his hands to the sky and said: “Judge me, God, judge my quarrel with the unrighteous people and help me, Lord, as in ancient times he helped Moses defeat Amalek and our great-grandfather Yaroslav the accursed Svyatopolk.” It was then Saturday, and when the sun rose, the opponents met. And there was a cruel slaughter, and there was a crash from breaking spears and a ringing from the blows of swords, and it seemed that a frozen lake was moving, and no ice was visible, for it was covered with blood...”

Using the text, select three correct judgments from the list given. Write down the numbers under which they are indicated in your answer.

1) the events described in the text of the life took place in the 12th century.

2) the city that the German knights built on the captured “Alexandrova land” was called Koporye

3) for services to Novgorod, the boyars proclaimed Prince Alexander Yaroslavich Prince of Novgorod “for all times”

4) in the battle on the Neva River, the army of Prince Alexander Yaroslavich fought with the army of the Danes

5) one of the military deeds of Prince Alexander Yaroslavich described in the life was the victory over the Germans on the ice of Lake Peipus

6) a squad from the Vladimir-Suzdal principality took part in the battle against the German knights

Explanation.

1) the events described in the text of the life took place in the 12th century. - NO, incorrect, the events date back to the 13th century.

2) the city that the German knights built on the captured “Alexandrova land” was called Koporye - YES, that’s right, the German knights built the Koporye fortress.

3) for services to Novgorod, the boyars proclaimed Prince Alexander Yaroslavich the Prince of Novgorod “for all time” - NO, incorrect, after the victory over the Swedes, Prince Alexander Nevsky left Novgorod after quarreling with the Novgorodians.

4) in the battle on the Neva River, the army of Prince Alexander Yaroslavich fought with the army of the Danes - NO, incorrect, on the Neva River in 1240, Prince Alexander Yaroslavich defeated the Swedes.

5) one of the military deeds of Prince Alexander Yaroslavich described in the life was the victory over the Germans on the ice of Lake Peipsi - YES, that’s right, in 1242 Russian troops under the leadership of Alexander Nevsky defeated the German knights on the ice of Lake Peipsi.

6) a squad from the Vladimir-Suzdal principality took part in the battle against the German knights - YES, that’s right.

Memorial Day: June 5 /May, 23rd; 12-th of September /August 30; December 6 /November 23

Near the St. Michael Athos Monastery there is a chapel in the name of the blessed prince Alexander Nevsky with a font.

Alexander Nevsky owns the saying “God is not in power, but in truth.” These words can be considered the motto of his life. When he had the strength, he attacked the enemy with all his might. When they were not there, he showed patience, restraint, humbled his pride and went to bow to the enemy so that he would not destroy Rus'.

Preface. Metropolitan Kirill about Alexander Nevsky

Alexander Nevsky was the greatest strategist... a person who sensed not political, but civilizational dangers for Russia. He did not fight against specific enemies, not against the East or the West. He fought for national identity, for national self-understanding. Without him there would be no Russia, there would be no Russians, there was no our civilization code.

According to Metropolitan Kirill, Alexander Nevsky was a politician who defended Russia with “very subtle and courageous diplomacy.” He understood that it was impossible to defeat the Horde at that moment, which “ironed Russia twice,” captured Slovakia, Croatia, Hungary, reached the Adriatic Sea, and invaded China. “Why doesn’t he start a fight against the Horde? – asks the Metropolitan. - Yes, The Horde captured Rus'. But the Tatar-Mongols did not need our soul and our brains were not needed. The Tatar-Mongols needed our pockets, and they turned these pockets out, but did not encroach on our national identity. They were not able to overcome our civilizational code. But when the danger arose from the West, when the Teutonic knights clad in armor went to Rus' - no compromise. When the Pope writes a letter to Alexander, trying to get him on his side... Alexander responds “no.” He sees a civilizational danger, he meets these armored knights on Lake Peipsi and defeats them, just as he, by a miracle of God, defeated the Swedish warriors who entered the Neva with a small squad.”

Alexander Nevsky gives away “superstructural values”, allowing the Mongols to collect tribute from Russia: “He understands that this is not scary. Mighty Russia will return all this money. We must preserve the soul, national identity, national will, and we need to give the opportunity to what our wonderful historiosopher Lev Nikolaevich Gumilyov called “ethnogenesis.” Everything is destroyed, we need to accumulate strength. And if they had not accumulated forces, if they had not pacified the Horde, if they had not stopped the Livonian invasion, where would Russia be? She wouldn't exist."

Alexander Nevsky was the creator of that multinational and multi-confessional “Russian world” that exists to this day. It was he who “teared the Golden Horde away from the Great Steppe.” With his cunning political move, he “persuaded Batu not to pay tribute to the Mongols. And the Great Steppe, this center of aggression against the whole world, found itself isolated from Rus' by the Golden Horde, which began to be drawn into the area of ​​Russian civilization. These are the first vaccinations of our union with the Tatar people, with the Mongol tribes. These are the first inoculations of our multinationality and multireligion. This is where it all started. He laid the foundation for the world-being of our people, which determined the further development of Rus' as Russia, as a great state.”

Alexander Nevsky, according to Metropolitan Kirill: is a ruler, thinker, philosopher, strategist, warrior, hero. Personal courage is combined in him with deep religiosity: “At a critical moment, when the power and strength of the commander should be shown, he enters into single combat and hits Birger in the face with a spear... And where did it all start? He prayed at Hagia Sophia in Novgorod. A nightmare, hordes many times larger. What resistance? He comes out and addresses his people. With what words? God is not in power, but in truth... Can you imagine what words? What power!

Metropolitan Kirill calls Alexander Nevsky an “epic hero”: “He was 20 years old when he defeated the Swedes, 22 years old when he drowned the Livonians on Lake Peipus... A young, handsome guy!.. Brave... strong. But the most important thing is that, being a politician, strategist, commander, Alexander Nevsky became a saint.“Oh my God! – Metropolitan Kirill exclaims. – If Russia had had holy rulers after Alexander Nevsky, what would our history be like! This is a collective image as much as a collective image can be... This is our hope, because today we still need what Alexander Nevsky did... Let us give our not only our voices, but also our hearts to the holy noble Grand Duke Alexander Nevsky - the savior and organizer of Russia !

THE TALE OF THE LIFE AND BRAVERY OF THE Blessed and Grand Duke ALEXANDER

The beginning of the story. Features of Prince Alexander

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

I, thin and sinful, narrow-minded, dare to describe the life of the holy Prince Alexander, son of Yaroslav, grandson of Vsevolodov. Since I heard from my fathers and myself witnessed his mature age, I was glad to tell about his holy, honest, and glorious life. But as the Tributary said: “Wisdom will not enter an evil soul: for it dwells in elevated places, stands in the middle of roads, and stops at the gates of noble people.” Although I am simple in mind, I will still begin, with the prayer of the Holy Mother of God and the help of Holy Prince Alexander.

This prince Alexander was born from a merciful and philanthropic father, and most of all, a meek one, the great prince Yaroslav and from his mother Theodosia. As Isaiah the prophet said: “Thus says the Lord: “I appoint princes; they are sacred, and I lead them.” And truly, his reign was not without God’s command.

And he was handsome like no other, and his voice was like a trumpet among the people, his face was like the face of Joseph, whom the Egyptian king made the second king in Egypt, and his strength was part of the strength of Samson, and God gave him the wisdom of Solomon, His courage is like that of the Roman king Vespasian, who conquered the entire land of Judea. One day he prepared for the siege of the city of Joatapata, and the townspeople came out and defeated his army. And only Vespasian remained, and turned those who opposed him to the city, to the city gates, and laughed at his squad, and reproached them, saying: “They left me alone.” Likewise, Prince Alexander won, but was invincible.

That is why one of the eminent men of the Western Country, from those who call themselves servants of God, came, wanting to see the maturity of his strength, just as in ancient times the Queen of Sheba came to Solomon, wanting to listen to his wise speeches. So this one, by the name of Andreas, having seen Prince Alexander, returned to his people and said: “I went through countries and peoples and did not see such a king among kings, nor a prince among princes.”

Battle with the Swedes at the Neva

The Swedes attack Rus'

Hearing about such valor of Prince Alexander, the king of the Roman country from the Midnight Land thought to himself: “I will go and conquer the land of Alexander.” And he gathered great strength, and filled many ships with his regiments, and moved with great strength, puffing with the military spirit. And he came to the Neva, intoxicated with madness, and sent his ambassadors, proud, to Novgorod to Prince Alexander, saying: “If you can, defend yourself, for I am already here and ruining your land.”

Alexander, having heard such words, burned in his heart and entered the Church of Hagia Sophia, and, falling on his knees before the altar, began to pray with tears: “Glorious God, righteous, great God, mighty, eternal God, who created heaven and earth and set the boundaries You commanded the peoples to live without transgressing other people’s borders.” And, remembering the words of the prophet, he said: “Judge, O Lord, those who offend me and protect them from those who fight me, take a weapon and a shield and stand up to help me.”

And, having finished the prayer, he stood up and bowed to the archbishop. The archbishop was then Spyridon, he blessed him and released him. The prince, leaving the church, wiped away his tears and said to encourage his squad: “God is not in power, but in truth. Let us remember the Songmaker, who said: “Some with weapons, and others on horses, but we call on the name of the Lord our God; They were defeated and fell, but we survived and are standing upright.” Having said this, he went against the enemies with a small squad, not waiting for his large army, but trusting in the Holy Trinity.

It was sad to hear that his father, the great prince Yaroslav, did not know about the invasion of his son, dear Alexander, and he had no time to send news to his father, for the enemies were already approaching. Therefore, many Novgorodians did not have time to join, as the prince hurried to speak. And he came out against the enemy on Sunday, July fifteenth, having great faith in the holy martyrs Boris and Gleb.

Appearance of the Holy Martyrs Boris and Gleb

And there was one man, the elder of the land of Izhora, named Pelugiy, he was entrusted with a night watch at sea. He was baptized and lived among his people, who were pagans, and his name was given in holy baptism Philip, and he lived pleasing to God, observing fasting on Wednesday and Friday, which is why God deigned him to see a wonderful vision on that day. Let's tell you briefly.

Having learned about the strength of the enemy, he went out to meet Prince Alexander to tell him about their camps. He stood on the seashore, watching both routes, and spent the whole night without sleep. When the sun began to rise, he heard a strong noise on the sea and saw one nasad floating on the sea, and standing in the middle of the nasad were the holy martyrs Boris and Gleb in red robes, holding their hands on each other’s shoulders. The rowers sat as if covered in darkness. Boris said: “Brother Gleb, tell us to row, and let us help our relative Prince Alexander.” Seeing such a vision and hearing these words of the martyrs, Pelugius stood, terrified, until the attack disappeared from his eyes.

Soon after this, Alexander came, and Pelugius, joyfully meeting Prince Alexander, told him alone about the vision. The prince told him: “Don’t tell this to anyone.”

Battle of the Neva. July 15, 1240

After that, Alexander hastened to attack the enemies at six o'clock in the afternoon, and there was a great slaughter with the Romans, and the prince killed countless numbers of them, and on the face of the king himself he left the mark of his sharp spear.

Six brave men, like him, from Alexander’s regiment showed themselves here.

The first one is named Gavrilo Oleksich. He attacked the auger and, seeing the prince being dragged by the arms, rode all the way to the ship along the gangplank along which he and the prince were running; those pursued by him grabbed Gavrila Oleksich and threw him off the gangplank along with his horse. But by God's mercy he emerged from the water unharmed, and again attacked them, and fought with the commander himself in the midst of their army.

The second one is named Sbyslav Yakunovich, a Novgorodian. This one attacked their army many times and fought with one ax, having no fear in his soul; and many fell by his hand, and they marveled at his strength and courage.

The third - Yakov, a native of Polotsk, was a hunter for the prince. This one attacked the regiment with a sword, and the prince praised him.

The fourth is a Novgorodian named Mesha. This man on foot and his retinue attacked the ships and sank three ships.

The fifth is from the younger squad, named Sava. This one burst into the large royal golden-domed tent and cut down the tent pole. The Alexandrov regiments, seeing the fall of the tent, rejoiced.

The sixth is from Alexander's servants, named Ratmir. This one fought on foot, and many enemies surrounded him. He fell from many wounds and died that way.

I heard all this from my master, Grand Duke Alexander, and from those who participated in this battle at that time.

God's help in the fight against the Latins

There was a wondrous miracle at that time, as in the old days under Hezekiah the king. When Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, came to Jerusalem, wanting to conquer the holy city of Jerusalem, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared and killed one hundred and eighty-five thousand of the Assyrian army, and when morning came, they found only dead corpses. This was the case after Alexandrov’s victory: when he defeated the king, on the opposite side of the Izhora River, where Alexandrov’s regiments could not pass, a countless number of those killed by the angel of the Lord were found here. Those who remained fled, and the corpses of their dead soldiers were thrown into ships and sank them into the sea. Prince Alexander returned in victory, praising and glorifying the name of his Creator.

Defense of Novgorod lands

In the second year after Prince Alexander returned with victory, they again came from the Western Country and built a city on the land of Alexandrova. Prince Alexander soon went and destroyed their city to the ground, and hanged them, some, took others with him, and, having pardoned others, released them, for he was immeasurably merciful.

After Alexandrova’s victory, when he defeated the king, in the third year, in winter, he went with great strength to German land, so that they would not boast, saying: “Let us subdue the Slovenian people.”

And they had already taken the city of Pskov and imprisoned the German governors. He soon expelled them from Pskov and killed the Germans, and tied up others and liberated the city from the godless Germans, and ravaged and burned their land and took countless prisoners, and killed others. The proud Germans gathered and said: “Let's go and defeat Alexander and capture him.”

Battle of Lake Peipsi. Liberation of Pskov

When the Germans approached, the guards found out about them. Prince Alexander prepared for battle, and they went against each other, and Lake Peipus was covered with many of these and other warriors. Alexander's father Yaroslav sent his younger brother Andrei with a large retinue to help him. And Prince Alexander also had many brave warriors, like King David in ancient times, strong and strong. So Alexander’s men were filled with the spirit of war, because their hearts were like the hearts of lions, and they exclaimed: “O our glorious prince! Now the time has come for us to lay down our heads for you.” Prince Alexander raised his hands to the sky and said: “Judge me, God, judge my quarrel with the unrighteous people and help me, Lord, as in ancient times he helped Moses overcome Amalek and our great-grandfather Yaroslav the accursed Svyatopolk.”

It was then Saturday, and when the sun rose, the opponents met. And there was a cruel slaughter, and there was a crash from breaking spears and a ringing from the blows of swords, and it seemed that a frozen lake was moving, and no ice was visible, for it was covered with blood.

And I heard this from an eyewitness who told me that he saw the army of God in the air, coming to the aid of Alexander. And so he defeated the enemies with the help of God, and they fled, but Alexander cut them down, driving them as if through the air, and they had nowhere to hide. Here God glorified Alexander before all the regiments, like Joshua at Jericho. And the one who said: “Let’s capture Alexander,” God gave into Alexander’s hands. And there has never been an opponent worthy of him in battle. And Prince Alexander returned with a glorious victory, and there were many captives in his army, and they led barefoot next to the horses of those who call themselves “God’s knights.”

And when the prince approached the city of Pskov, the abbots, and priests, and all the people met him in front of the city with crosses, giving praise to God and glorifying the lord Prince Alexander, singing the song: “You, Lord, helped the meek David to defeat the foreigners and our faithful prince with the arms of the godfather, liberate the city of Pskov from foreigners by the hand of Alexandra.”

And Alexander said: “O ignorant Pskovites! If you forget this before the great-grandsons of Alexander, then you will become like the Jews, whom the Lord fed in the desert with manna from heaven and baked quails, but they forgot all this and their God, who delivered them from captivity in Egypt.”

And his name became famous in all countries, from the Khonuzh Sea and to the Ararat Mountains, and on the other side of the Varangian Sea and to the great Rome.

At the same time, the Lithuanian people gained strength and began to plunder the Alexandrov possessions. He went out and beat them. One day he happened to ride out against his enemies, and he defeated seven regiments in one ride and killed many of their princes, and took others prisoner, while his servants, mocking, tied them to the tails of their horses. And from that time on they began to fear his name.

Negotiations with the Horde

At the same time, there was a strong king in the Eastern country, to whom God subjugated many nations, from the east to the west. That king, having heard about such glory and courage of Alexander, sent envoys to him and said: “Alexander, do you know that God has conquered many nations to me? So, are you the only one who doesn’t want to submit to me? But if you want to save your land, then come to me quickly and you will see the glory of my kingdom.”

After the death of his father, Prince Alexander came to Vladimir in great strength. And his arrival was menacing, and news of him rushed to the mouth of the Volga. And the Moabite wives began to frighten their children, saying: “Alexander is coming!”

Prince Alexander decided to go to the Tsar in the Horde, and Bishop Kirill blessed him. And King Batu saw him and was amazed, and said to his nobles: “They told me the truth, that there is no prince like him.” Having honored him with dignity, he released Alexander.

After this, Tsar Batu became angry with his younger brother Andrei and sent his governor Nevryuy to destroy the land of Suzdal. After the devastation of the Suzdal land by Nevruy, the great Prince Alexander erected churches, rebuilt cities, and gathered dispersed people into their homes. Isaiah the prophet said about such people: “A good prince in countries is quiet, friendly, meek, humble - and in this way he is like God.” Without being seduced by wealth, without forgetting the blood of the righteous, he judges orphans and widows with justice, is merciful, kind to his household and hospitable to those who come from foreign countries. God helps such people, for God does not love angels, but in His generosity He generously gifts people and shows His mercy in the world.

God filled the land of Alexander with wealth and glory and God extended his years.

Fight back against Catholic Rome

One day, ambassadors from the Pope from great Rome came to him with these words: “Our Pope says this: “We heard that you are a worthy and glorious prince and your land is great. That’s why they sent to you the two smartest of the twelve cardinals - Agaldad and Repair, so that you could listen to their speeches about the law of God.”

Prince Alexander, having thought with his sages, wrote him the following answer: “From Adam to the flood, from the flood to the division of nations, from the confusion of nations to the beginning of Abraham, from Abraham to the passage of the Israelites through the sea, from the exodus of the children of Israel to the death of King David , from the beginning of the reign of Solomon to Augustus and to the Nativity of Christ, from the Nativity of Christ to His Crucifixion and Resurrection, from His Resurrection and Ascension into Heaven and to the reign of Konstantinov, from the beginning of the reign of Konstantinov to the first Council and the seventh - we know all this well , but we will not accept teachings from you.” They returned home.

And the days of his life multiplied in great glory, for he loved priests, and monks, and beggars, and he revered and listened to metropolitans and bishops as to Christ himself.

Negotiations with the Horde. Hike to Yuryev

In those days there was great violence from non-believers; they persecuted Christians, forcing them to fight on their side. The great prince Alexander went to the king to pray his people out of this misfortune.

And he sent his son Dmitry to the Western countries, and sent all his regiments with him, and his close household members, saying to them: “Serve my son, as you serve me, with all your life.” And Prince Dmitry went in great strength, and conquered the German land, and took the city of Yuryev, and returned to Novgorod with many prisoners and with great booty.

Monastic tonsure. Departure to the Lord

His father, Grand Duke Alexander, returned from the Horde from the Tsar, and reached Nizhny Novgorod, and fell ill there, and, arriving in Gorodets, fell ill. Oh woe to you, poor man! How can you describe the death of your master! How will your eyes not fall out along with your tears! How can your heart not be torn out by the roots! For a man can leave his father, but he cannot leave a good master; If it were possible, I would go to the grave with him!

Having worked hard for God, he left the earthly kingdom and became a monk, for he had an immeasurable desire to take on the angelic image. God also vouchsafed him to accept a greater rank - schema. And so in peace he gave up his spirit to God in the month of November on the fourteenth day, in memory of the holy Apostle Philip.

Metropolitan Kirill said: “My children, know that the sun of the land of Suzdal has already set!” Priests and deacons, monks, poor and rich, and all the people exclaimed: “We are already perishing!”

The holy body of Alexander was carried to the city of Vladimir. The Metropolitan, the princes and boyars and all the people, small and large, met him in Bogolyubovo with candles and censers. People crowded, trying to touch his holy body on his honest bed. There was a cry, a groan, and a cry like never before, even the earth shook. His body was laid in the Church of the Nativity of the Holy Mother of God, in the Great Archimandrite, on the 24th day of November, in memory of Holy Father Amphilochius.

Miracle at the burial of the Holy Blessed Prince Alexander

There was a marvelous miracle then, worthy of memory. When his holy body was laid in the tomb, then Sebastian the Economist and Cyril the Metropolitan wanted to unclench his hand in order to insert a spiritual letter. He, as if alive, stretched out his hand and took the letter from the hand of the metropolitan. And confusion seized them, and they retreated slightly from his tomb. Metropolitan and Housekeeper Sevastian announced this to everyone. Who wouldn’t be surprised by that miracle, because his soul left his body and he was brought from distant lands in winter!

And so God glorified His saint.

Based on the Tale of the Life and Bravery of the Blessed and Grand Duke Alexander

On October 5, 2008, Metropolitan Kirill appeared on a television program dedicated to Alexander Nevsky. Project "Names of Russia"

Alexander Nevsky (c. 1220-1263) was the son of Grand Duke Yaroslav Vsevolodovich and Princess Feodosia, the grandson of Grand Duke Vsevolod III the Big Nest.

King Solomon, who is considered the author of the biblical Book of Proverbs of Solomon. The saying of the Pritochnik has two sources: Prem. 1.4 and Prov. 8.2-3; in the second case, the quote is inaccurate; in Solomon’s parables it reads: “She stands in high places, along the road, at crossroads; she calls at the gates at the entrance to the city..."

Old Testament prophet. The biblical Book of the Prophet Isaiah contains prophecies about the fate of nations, about the appearance of the Messiah, and condemns kings and nobles who live unrighteously. The author of the Life takes words from his Book, 13.3.

Joseph, the son of Jacob, was endowed with extraordinary intelligence and beauty. Hated by his brothers, he was sold by them to Egypt. Pharaoh, after Joseph predicted the famine and indicated the ways of salvation from it, “set him over all the land of Egypt” (Gen. 30-50).

The Old Testament hero, who possessed extraordinary strength, became famous in the fight against the Philistines. His life and exploits are narrated in the Book of Judges, 13-16.

Titus Flavius ​​Vespasian (9-79) - Roman commander, then emperor. The author of the life recalls one episode of the Jewish War (66-73) - the siege of the fortress of Joatapata, which is probably known to him from the “History of the Jewish War” by Josephus; the Old Russian translation of this work was distributed in Rus' already in the 11th-12th centuries.

This means Livonia.

The queen of the South Arabian state of Saba (Queen of Sheba), having heard a lot about the glory and wisdom of Solomon, came to Jerusalem to test him and was surprised by his wisdom.

Type of vessel.

Hezekiah is one of the kings of Judah. During his reign, the Assyrian king Sennacherib captured almost all of Judea, and Jerusalem remained unconquered. During the siege of Jerusalem, a miracle occurred, which the author of the life recalls. The siege of Jerusalem is told in 2 Kings 19.

The insert is made according to the Laurentian Chronicle.

This refers to the Koporye fortress, built by the Livonians in 1240 on land belonging to Novgorod; destroyed by Alexander in 1241

Pskov was captured by the Germans in 1240; they had their supporters in Pskov, led by mayor Tverdila Ivankovich, who helped the Germans take possession of the city. Alexander Nevsky liberated Pskov in March 1242.

Moses is the biblical prophet who led the Israelites out of Egypt. On their way to Palestine, Amalek, the leader of the Amalekites, resisted the Israelites. It was only thanks to the miraculous effect of Moses' prayer that Amalek was not able to gain victory (Ex. 17). Yaroslav Vladimirovich the Wise took revenge on Svyatopolk the Accursed for the murder of the brothers Boris and Gleb. In 1019, on the Alta River, where Boris was killed, Yaroslav defeated Svyatopolk.

Apparently, we are talking about one of the attempts of Pope Innocent IV to subjugate Rus' to the Catholic Vatican: for the transition to Catholicism, Innocent IV promised to help Rus' in the fight against the Horde.

Abraham is the forefather of the Jewish people.

When the Israelites fled Egypt, the Red Sea parted for them, and they walked freely along its bottom. Pharaoh and his army, following the Israelites, entered the seabed, but the waves closed and the sea swallowed up the pursuers (Ex. 14:21-22).

Gaius Julius Caesar Octavian Augustus (63 BC - 14 AD) - Roman emperor.

Constantine the Great, Roman Emperor.

The first Ecumenical Council was in 325. The seventh was in 787 in Nicaea.

By order of the Golden Horde Khan, the Russian princes had to send their regiments to participate in the Tatar campaigns. In 1262, Alexander went to the Horde and achieved the release of the Russians from the obligation to act in the war on the side of the Tatars.

This refers to the campaign against Yuryev in 1262.

Bogolyubovo is the former residence of Andrei Bogolyubsky, not far from Vladimir.

Alexander Nevsky was buried in the Monastery of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Vladimir. Until the middle of the 16th century. The Nativity Monastery was considered the first monastery of Rus', the “great archimandrite.”

During the burial ceremony, a prayer of permission is read for the forgiveness of sins. After reading, its text is placed in the right hand of the deceased.

THE LIFE OF ALEXANDER NEVSKY

The story of the life and courage of the blessed and Grand Duke Alexander

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the son of God.

I, pitiful and sinful, narrow-minded, dare to describe the life of the holy Prince Alexander, son of Yaroslav, grandson of Vsevolodov. Since I heard from my fathers and myself witnessed his mature age, I was glad to tell about his holy, honest, and glorious life. But as the Tributary said [*]: “Wisdom will not enter an evil soul: for it dwells in elevated places, stands in the middle of the roads, and stops at the gates of noble people.” Although I am simple in mind, I will still begin by praying to the Holy Mother of God and trusting in the help of Holy Prince Alexander.

This Prince Alexander was born from a merciful, philanthropic, and most of all meek father, the Great Prince Yaroslav, and from his mother Theodosia [*]. As Isaiah the prophet said: “Thus says the Lord: “I appoint princes; they are sacred, and I lead them.” And truly, his reign was not without God’s command.

And he was handsome like no other, and his voice was like a trumpet among the people, his face was like the face of Joseph, whom the Egyptian king made the second king in Egypt, and his strength was part of the strength of Samson, and God gave him the wisdom of Solomon, His courage is like that of the Roman king Vespasian, who conquered the entire land of Judea. One day he prepared to besiege the city of Joatapata, and the townspeople came out and defeated his army. And only Vespasian remained, and turned those who opposed him to the city, to the city gates, and laughed at his squad, and reproached them, saying: “They left me alone” [*]. Likewise, Prince Alexander won, but was invincible.

Once one of the eminent men of the Western country [*], from those who call themselves servants of God [*], came, wanting to see the maturity of his strength, as in ancient times the Queen of Sheba [*] came to Solomon, wanting to listen to his wise speeches . So this one, named Andreas [*], having seen Prince Alexander, returned to his people and said: “I went through countries and peoples and did not see such a king among kings, nor a prince among princes.”

Hearing about such valor of Prince Alexander, the king of the Roman country from the northern land [*] thought to himself: “I will go and conquer the land of Alexander.” And he gathered a great force, and filled many ships with his regiments, and moved with a huge army, blazing with the military spirit. And he came to the Neva, intoxicated with madness, and sent his ambassadors, proud, to Novgorod to Prince Alexander, saying: “If you can, defend yourself, for I am already here and ruining your land.”

Alexander, having heard such words, burned in his heart and entered the church of St. Sophia, and, falling on his knees before the altar, began to pray with tears: “Glorious God, righteous, great, strong God, eternal God, who created heaven and earth and set the boundaries You commanded the peoples to live without transgressing other people’s borders.” And, remembering the words of the prophet, he said: “Judge, Lord, those who have offended me and protect them from those who fight me, take a weapon and a shield and stand up to help me.”

And, having finished the prayer, he stood up and bowed to the archbishop. The archbishop was then Spyridon [*], he blessed him and released him. The prince, leaving the church, dried his tears and began to encourage his squad, saying: “God is not in power, but in truth. Let us remember the Songmaker, who said: “Some with weapons, and others on horses, we will call on the name of the Lord our God; they, defeated, fell, but we resisted and stand upright” [*]. Having said this, he went against the enemies with a small squad, not waiting for his large army, but trusting in the Holy Trinity.

It was sad to hear that his father, the great prince Yaroslav, did not know about the invasion of his son, dear Alexander, and he had no time to send news to his father, for the enemies were already approaching. Therefore, many Novgorodians did not have time to join, as the prince hurried to speak. And he came out against them on Sunday, July fifteenth, having great faith in the holy martyrs Boris and Gleb.

And there was one man, the elder of the land of Izhora [*], named Pelugiy, he was entrusted with the night watch at sea. He was baptized and lived among his family, the pagans, and his name was given in holy baptism Philip, and he lived godly, observing fasting on Wednesday and Friday, which is why God deigned him to see a wonderful vision on that day. Let's tell you briefly.

Having learned about the strength of the enemy, he went out to meet Prince Alexander to tell him about the enemy’s camps. He stood on the seashore, watching both routes, and spent the whole night without sleep. When the sun began to rise, he heard a strong noise on the sea and saw one nasad [*] floating on the sea, and standing in the middle of the nasad were the holy martyrs Boris and Gleb in red robes, holding their hands on each other’s shoulders. The rowers sat as if covered in darkness. Boris said:

“Brother Gleb, tell us to row, so we can help our relative Prince Alexander.” Seeing such a vision and hearing these words of the martyrs, Pelugius stood trembling until the attack disappeared from his eyes.

Soon after this, Alexander came, and Pelugius, joyfully meeting Prince Alexander, told him alone about the vision. The prince told him: “Don’t tell this to anyone.”

After that, Alexander hastened to attack the enemies at six o'clock in the afternoon, and there was a great slaughter with the Romans, and the prince killed countless numbers of them, and on the face of the king himself he left the mark of his sharp spear.

Six brave men, like him, from Alexander’s regiment showed themselves here.

The first one is named Gavrilo Oleksich. He attacked the auger [*] and, seeing the prince being dragged by the arms, rode all the way to the ship along the gangplank along which they were running with the prince, pursued by him. Then they grabbed Gavrila Oleksich and threw him off the gangplank along with his horse. But by God's mercy he emerged from the water unharmed, and again attacked them, and fought with the commander himself in the midst of their army.

The second, named Sbyslav Yakunovich, is from Novgorod. This one attacked their army many times and fought with one ax, having no fear in his soul; and many fell by his hand, and they marveled at his strength and courage.

The third - Yakov, a native of Polotsk, was a hunter for the prince. This one attacked the regiment with a sword, and the prince praised him.

The fourth is a Novgorodian named Mesha. This man on foot and his retinue attacked the ships and sank three ships.

The fifth is from the younger squad, named Sava. This one burst into the large royal golden-domed tent and cut down the tent pole. The Alexandrov regiments, seeing the fall of the tent, rejoiced.

The sixth is one of Alexander's servants, named Ratmir. This one fought on foot, and many enemies surrounded him. He fell from many wounds and died that way.

I heard all this from my master, Grand Duke Alexander, and from others who participated in this battle at that time.

There was a wondrous miracle at that time, as in the days of old under Hezekiah the king. When Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, came to Jerusalem, wanting to conquer the holy city of Jerusalem, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared and killed one hundred and eighty-five thousand of the Assyrian army, and when they got up in the morning, they found only dead corpses [*]. This was the case after Alexandrov’s victory: when he defeated the king, on the opposite side of the Izhora River, where Alexandrov’s regiments could not pass, a countless number of those killed by the angel of the Lord were found here. Those who remained fled, and the corpses of their dead soldiers were thrown into ships and sank them into the sea. Prince Alexander returned in victory, praising and glorifying the name of his creator.

In the second year after Prince Alexander returned with victory, they again came from the Western Country and built a city on the land of Alexandrova [*]. Prince Alexander soon went and destroyed their city to the ground, and hanged them, some, took others with him, and, having pardoned others, released them, for he was immeasurably merciful.

After Alexandrova’s victory, when he defeated the king, in the third year, in winter, he went with great force to the land of Pskov, for the city of Pskov had already been taken by the Germans. And the Germans came to Lake Peipus, and Alexander met them, and prepared for battle, and they went against each other, and Lake Peipus was covered with many of these and other warriors. Alexander's father, Yaroslav, sent his younger brother Andrei with a large squad to help him. And Prince Alexander had many brave warriors, like King David in ancient times, strong and steadfast. So Alexander’s men were filled with the spirit of war, because their hearts were like the hearts of lions, and they exclaimed: “O our glorious prince! Now the time has come for us to lay down our heads for you.” Prince Alexander raised his hands to the sky and said: “Judge me, God, judge my quarrel with the unrighteous people and help me, Lord, as in ancient times he helped Moses overcome Amalek [*], and our great-grandfather Yaroslav the accursed Svyatopolk” [*].

A life is dedicated to Alexander Nevsky as a wise statesman and great commander. This work was written in the Nativity Monastery in Vladimir, where the prince was buried. His role in the history of Rus' is that he led the fight against the German-Swedish invaders.

In 1240, Swedish knights invaded the northwestern lands of Rus'. They entered the Neva River on ships and stopped at the mouth of its tributary, Izhora. With a small retinue, Prince Alexander Yaroslavich attacked the enemy on June 15, 1240 and won a brilliant victory. Hence Alexander’s nickname - Nevsky.

In 1241-1242, he led the fight against the troops of Lithuanian knights who captured the Pskov and Novgorod lands. On April 5, 1242, a decisive battle took place on the ice of Lake Peipus, ending in the defeat of the enemies and going down in history as the “Battle of the Ice.”

Alexander Nevsky was an outstanding diplomat. Realizing the futility of military actions against the Golden Horde in the circumstances of that time, he maintained peaceful relations with the khan, pursued a policy of unifying northeastern and northwestern Rus' and strengthening the grand ducal power. The prince traveled to the Golden Horde several times, and even managed to achieve the release of the Russians from the obligation to supply troops to the Tatars.

The hagiographical story about Alexander Nevsky was supposed to show that, despite the subjugation of the Russian principalities to the Mongol-Tatars, there remained princes in Rus' whose courage and wisdom could resist their enemies. Even Batu recognized the greatness of Alexander.

The author of the life knew the prince and witnessed his state affairs and military exploits. Scientists believe that the life was written by Metropolitan Kirill. The narrator’s feeling of lively sympathy for Alexander, admiration for his military and state activities determined the special sincerity and lyricism of the narrative.

The characteristics of the prince in his life are very diverse. On the one hand, he is full of church virtues - quiet, meek, humble, on the other hand, he is a courageous and invincible warrior, swift in battle, selfless and merciless towards the enemy. This is how the ideal of a wise prince, ruler and brave commander is created.

Thus, in the battle on the Neva, “he firmly believed in the help of the saints and martyrs Boris and Gleb,” whose faces appeared in a vision to the elder of the land of Izhora, Pelguy, sent on patrol. In a ship sailing on the sea, Pelguy saw Boris and Gleb “in scarlet robes, holding their hands on each other’s shoulders, and the rowers sat as if dressed in darkness. And Boris said: “Brother Gleb, tell us to row, and let us help our relative, Prince Alexander "" 1 . Inspired by this vision, the prince decided to attack the enemy with a small army. “And there was a strong battle with the Romans (Swedish knights); he beat countless enemies and wounded the king himself in the face with his sharp spear” 2.

The episode dedicated to the Battle of the Neva tells about six heroes who distinguished themselves in the battle, who “fought without fear in their souls.” “Here, in Alexander’s regiment, six brave and strong men appeared, who fought hard with him. One, Gavrilo, nicknamed Aleksich; seeing the king, who was being dragged by the arms, he attacked the ship, rode along the plank all the way to the ship, and they ran everyone from him, then turned around and from the plank on which they boarded the ship, threw him and his horse into the sea, but with the help of God he got out of the sea unharmed and again attacked them and fought hard with the commander himself among their regiments. Novgorodian, named Zbyslav Yakunovich; this more than once attacked enemies, having no fear in his heart and fighting with one hatchet, and many fell from his hatchet; Prince Alexander Yaroslavich marveled at his strength and courage. The third - Yakov, a native of Polotsk, was he the prince's hunter; this one attacked the enemy regiment with a sword and fought bravely, and the prince praised him for it. The fourth was a Novgorodian named Misha; he was on foot and with his squad sank three Roman ships. The fifth was from the prince's younger squad, named Savva; this one ran into the large golden-domed royal tent and cut down the tent pillar; The Alexandrov regiments were very happy when they saw how this tent fell apart. The sixth of the prince’s servants is named Ratmir; On foot he was surrounded by enemies, and from many wounds he fell and died."

The life also depicts the battle with the German knights on Lake Peipus, who wanted to “disgrace the Slavic people.” “The Germans gathered and, boasting, said: “Let’s go, let’s defeat Prince Alexander, we’ll catch him with our hands.”... Prince Alexander gathered an army and went to meet the enemies. And they met on Lake Peipsi - a lot of people... When the sun rose, the regiments converged And the spears cracked, and the clanking of swords was heard, and the slaughter was so fierce that the ice on the lake began to move: there was no ice to be seen, it was all covered in blood" 4 .

The author turns to the testimony of an eyewitness: “we saw in heaven the regiment of God, which came to the aid of Prince Alexander,” and continues the story: “... and Alexander defeated the enemies with the help of God and they fled. So Alexander’s regiments drove and cut down the enemies, as if they were rushing through the air: and there was nowhere for them to run" 5.

This victory brought Alexander Nevsky great glory. The author admires the prince and attributes to him the best human qualities: he is handsome, strong, wise, and brave.

Often the author of the life turns to biblical motifs: in the depiction of the battles and victories of Alexander, he sees divine destiny, in the portrait of the prince the similarities with the characters of the Holy Scripture are emphasized. The beauty of his face is like the beauty of Joseph, his strength is like that of Samson, his wisdom is like that of Solomon, and his courage is like that of the Roman emperor Vespasian.

The final part of the life - the story of the death of the prince - is permeated with special solemnity and lyricism. On the way back from the Horde, Alexander Nevsky fell ill and soon died. The story ends with a story about a “wonderful” and “worthy of memory” miracle that occurred during the prince’s burial. When they wanted to put a “farewell letter” in the hand of the dead Alexander, he himself, as if alive, extended his hand and took the letter from the metropolitan. The author indulges in grief and sadness over the death of the prince: “Oh woe to you, poor man! How can you describe the death of your master! How will your apples not fall out along with your tears! How will your heart not break from bitter sadness” 6 .

Until the 16th century, “The Life of Alexander Nevsky” was a kind of model for depicting Russian princes.

QUESTIONS AND TASKS

1. Provide historical information about the battles on the Neva and Lake Peipsi.
2. What is known in science about the author of "The Life of Alexander Nevsky"?
3. How does the author assess the role of the prince in preserving the unity of Rus'?
4. How is the ideal of a wise ruler and a brave commander created?
5. How is the Battle of the Neva and the heroic deeds of the warriors described? Give a story about six brave men. How does the author feel about their feat?
6. For what purpose does the author introduce a biblical legend?
7. Describe the Battle of Lake Peipsi. What is the role of divine omens?
8. For what purpose does the author introduce the appearance of the holy martyrs Boris and Gleb before the battle?
9. How does the author mourn Alexander in the final part of the Life?
10. What is the patriotic pathos of “Life” and how is the author’s desire to glorify service to his native land and create the image of an ideal prince expressed?

Soon after this, Alexander came, and Pelugius, joyfully meeting Prince Alexander, told him alone about the vision. The prince told him: “Don’t tell this to anyone.”

After that, Alexander hastened to attack the enemies at six o'clock in the afternoon, and there was a great slaughter with the Romans, and the prince killed countless numbers of them, and on the face of the king himself he left the mark of his sharp spear. Six brave men, like him, from Alexander’s regiment showed themselves here.

The first one is named Gavrilo Oleksic. He attacked the auger and, seeing the prince being dragged by the arms, rode all the way to the ship along the gangplank along which he and the prince were running; those pursued by him grabbed Gavrila Oleksich and threw him off the gangplank along with his horse. But by God's mercy he emerged from the water unharmed, and again attacked them, and fought with the commander himself in the midst of their army.

The second, named Sbyslav Yakunovich, is from Novgorod. This one attacked their army many times and fought with one ax, having no fear in his soul; and many fell by his hand, and they marveled at his strength and courage.

The third - Yakov, a native of Polotsk, was a hunter for the prince. This one attacked the regiment with a sword, and the prince praised him.

The fourth is a Novgorodian named Mesha. This man on foot and his retinue attacked the ships and sank three ships.

The fifth is from the younger squad, named Sava. This one burst into the large royal golden-domed tent and cut down the tent pole. The Alexandrov regiments, seeing the fall of the tent, rejoiced.

The sixth is from Alexander’s servants, named Ratmir. This one fought on foot, and many enemies surrounded him. He fell from many wounds and died that way.

I heard all this from my master, Grand Duke Alexander, and from others who participated in this battle at that time. There was a wondrous miracle at that time, as in the days of old under Hezekiah the king. When Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, came to Jerusalem, wanting to conquer the holy city of Jerusalem, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared and killed one hundred and eighty-five thousand of the Assyrian army, and when they got up in the morning, they found only dead corpses.

This was the case after Alexandrov’s victory: when he defeated the king, on the opposite side of the Izhora River, where Alexandrov’s regiments could not pass, a countless number of those killed by the angel of the Lord were found here. Those who remained fled, and the corpses of their dead soldiers were thrown into ships and sank them into the sea. Prince Alexander returned in victory, praising and glorifying the name of his Creator.

In the second year after Prince Alexander returned with victory, they again came from the Western Country and built a city on the land of Alexandrova. Prince Alexander soon went and destroyed their city to the ground, and hanged them, some, took others with him, and, having pardoned others, released them, for he was immeasurably merciful. After Alexandrova’s victory, when he defeated the king, in the third year, in winter, he went with great strength to the German land, so that they would not boast, saying: “Let us subdue the Slavic people.”

And they had already taken the city of Pskov and imprisoned the German governors. He soon expelled them from Pskov and killed the Germans, and tied up others and liberated the city from the godless Germans, and fought and burned their land and took countless prisoners, and killed others. The Germans, being daring, united and said: “Let's go and defeat Alexander and capture him.”

When the Germans approached, the guards found out about them. Prince Alexander prepared for battle, and they went against each other, and Lake Peipus was covered with many of these and other warriors. Alexander's father, Yaroslav, sent his younger brother Andrei with a large squad to help him. And Prince Alexander had many brave warriors, like King David in ancient times, strong and steadfast.

So Alexander’s men were filled with the spirit of war, because their hearts were like the hearts of lions, and they exclaimed: “O our glorious prince! Now the time has come for us to lay down our heads for you.” Prince Alexander raised his hands to the sky and said: “Judge me, God, judge my quarrel with the unrighteous people and help me, Lord, as in ancient times he helped Moses overcome Amalek and our great-grandfather Yaroslav the accursed Svyatopolk.”

It was then Saturday, and when the sun rose, the opponents met. And there was a cruel slaughter, and there was a crash from breaking spears and a ringing from the blows of swords, and it seemed that a frozen lake was moving, and no ice was visible, for it was covered with blood.

And I heard this from an eyewitness who told me that he saw the army of God in the air, coming to the aid of Alexander. And so he defeated the enemies with the help of God, and they fled, but Alexander cut them down, driving them as if through the air, and they had nowhere to hide.

Here God glorified Alexander before all the regiments, like Joshua at Jericho. And the one who said: “Let’s capture Alexander,” God gave into Alexander’s hands. And there has never been an opponent worthy of him in battle. And Prince Alexander returned with a glorious victory, and there were many captives in his army, and they led barefoot beside the horses those who call themselves “God’s knights.”

And when the prince approached the city of Pskov, the abbots, and priests, and all the people met him in front of the city with crosses, giving praise to God and glorifying the lord, Prince Alexander, singing a song to him: “You, Lord, helped meek David to defeat foreigners and the faithful prince with our weapon of faith to liberate the city of Pskov from foreigners by the hand of Alexandra.”

And Alexander said: “O ignorant Pskovites! If you forget this before the great-grandsons of Alexander, then you will become like the Jews, whom the Lord fed in the desert with manna from heaven and baked quails, but they forgot all this and their God, who delivered them from captivity in Egypt.”

And his name became famous in all countries, from the Khonuzh Sea and to the Ararat Mountains, and on the other side of the Varangian Sea and to the great Rome.

At the same time, the Lithuanian people gained strength and began to plunder the Alexandrov possessions. He went out and beat them. One day he happened to ride out against his enemies, and he defeated seven regiments in one ride and killed many of their princes, and took others prisoner, while his servants, mocking, tied them to the tails of their horses. And from that time on they began to fear his name.

At the same time, there was a strong king in the eastern country, to whom God subjugated many nations from the east to the west. That king, having heard about such glory and courage of Alexander, sent ambassadors to him and said: “Alexander, do you know that God has conquered many nations to me. So, are you the only one who doesn’t want to submit to me? But if you want to save your land, then come to me quickly and you will see the glory of my kingdom.”

After the death of his father, Prince Alexander came to Vladimir in great strength. And his arrival was menacing, and news of him rushed to the mouth of the Volga. And the Moabite wives began to frighten their children, saying: “Here comes Alexander!”

Prince Alexander decided to go to the Tsar in the Horde, and Bishop Kirill blessed him. And King Batu saw him and was amazed, and said to his nobles: “They told me the truth, that there is no prince like him.” Having honored him with dignity, he released Alexander.

After this, Tsar Batu became angry with his younger brother Andrei and sent his governor Nevryuy to destroy the land of Suzdal. After the devastation of the Suzdal land by Nevruy, the great Prince Alexander erected churches, rebuilt cities, and gathered dispersed people into their homes.

Isaiah the prophet said about such people: “A good prince in countries is quiet, friendly, meek, humble - and in this way he is like God.” Without being seduced by wealth, without forgetting the blood of the righteous, he judges orphans and widows with justice, is merciful, kind to his household and hospitable to those who come from foreign countries. God helps such people, for God does not love angels, but people, in his generosity he generously bestows and shows his mercy in the world.

God filled Alexander's land with wealth and glory and extended his days.

One day, ambassadors from the Pope from great Rome came to him with these words: “Our Pope says this: “We heard that you are a worthy and glorious prince and your land is great. That’s why they sent to you the two smartest of the twelve cardinals – Agaldad and Remont, so that you could listen to their speeches about the law of God.”