Saint Joachim facts for kids
Quick facts for kids SaintJoachim |
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Saints Joachim and Anne, Parents of the Virgin Mary
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| Father of the Blessed Virgin Mary; Confessor | |
| Born | c. 75 BC Nazareth, Hasmonean Judea |
| Died | c. 15 BC Jerusalem, Herodian Kingdom of Judea |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholic Church Eastern Catholic Churches Eastern Orthodox Church Oriental Orthodox Church Anglican Communion Lutheranism Islam |
| Canonized | Pre-Congregation |
| Feast | 26 July (Anglican Communion), (Catholic Church); 9 September (Eastern Orthodox Church), (Greek Catholics); Calendar, 1738-1913); 16 August (General Roman Calendar, 1913-1969) |
| Attributes | Lamb, doves, with Saint Anne or Mary |
| Patronage | Fathers, grandparents. Adjuntas, Puerto Rico; Dolores, Eastern Samar; Fasnia (Tenerife) |
Joachim is an important figure in Christian tradition. He was the husband of Saint Anne and the father of Mary, who became the mother of Jesus. His name, Joachim, means "he whom Yahweh has set up."
The main story about Joachim and Anne comes from an ancient text called the Gospel of James. This text is not part of the official Bible, but it tells us more about Mary's early life. Christians celebrate Saint Joachim's feast day on July 26, which is also Saint Anne's day.
Contents
Joachim's Story in Christian Tradition
The story of Joachim, his wife Anne, and the amazing birth of their daughter Mary, is first found in the Gospel of James. This book was written in the 2nd century. It is sometimes called the Protoevangelium of James.
Joachim was known as a rich and religious man. He often gave money and help to people who were poor. However, some historians question if he truly owned many animals.
Why Was Joachim's Offering Rejected?
At the temple, Joachim tried to offer a sacrifice to God. But his offering was turned away. This happened because he and Anne did not have any children. In those times, not having children was sometimes seen as a sign that God was not pleased.
After this, Joachim went into the desert. He spent 40 days there, fasting (not eating) and doing penance (showing sorrow for sins). During this time, angels appeared to both Joachim and Anne. They promised the couple that they would have a child.
A Miraculous Birth for Mary
Joachim later went back to Jerusalem. He met Anne at the city gate of Jerusalem. There was an old belief that if an older mother, who had given up hope, had a child, that child would be special.
This idea is seen in other Bible stories. For example, Sarah, the wife of Abraham, had Isaac when she was old. Hannah gave birth to Samuel after many years. Also, the parents of Saint John the Baptist were elderly when he was born.
Joachim's Story in Art and History
The stories about Joachim and Anne became very popular. They were included in a famous book called the Golden Legend around 1260. This book was written by Jacobus de Voragine. These stories were often shown in Christian art.
However, during the Council of Trent (1545–1563), rules were made about what could be shown in art. This council limited the use of stories not found in the official Bible.
Saint Joachim's feast day was not always celebrated in the church calendar. It was added to the General Roman Calendar in 1584. At first, it was on March 20. Later, it was moved to August 16 by Pope Pius X. This was so Joachim could be remembered right after the celebration of Mary's special day, the Assumption of Mary.
In 1969, the celebration of Saint Joachim was combined with Saint Anne's day. Now, both are celebrated on July 26.
How Eastern Churches Remember Joachim
The Eastern Orthodox Churches and Greek Catholics remember Joachim on September 9. This day is called the Synaxis of Joachim and Anne. It is the day after the Nativity of the Theotokos (Mary's birth).
The Church of England also remembers Joachim (with Anne) on July 26. They celebrate it as a Lesser Festival.
Who Is Saint Joachim the Patron Of?
Saint Joachim is known as the patron saint of several groups. He is the patron saint of:
- Fathers
- Grandfathers
- Grandparents
- Married couples
- Cabinet makers
- Linen traders
How Is Joachim Shown in Art?
In old artworks, Joachim often wears a special pointed Jewish hat. He is usually shown with a halo, like other saints. However, some people in the Western church knew he likely died before Christianity began. So, they wondered if he could truly be called a Christian saint.
A popular art scene is "Joachim and Anne Meeting at the Golden Gate." This shows the moment they embraced at the city gate after the angel's promise.
Symbols linked to Saint Joachim include:
- A book or scroll, representing linen makers.
- A shepherd's staff, for the Christian Word.
- A basket of doves, symbolizing peace.
He is almost always dressed in green, which is the color of hope.
The San Joaquin River in California was named after Saint Joachim. Spanish explorers named it between 1805 and 1808.
Joachim in Islam
In Islam, Joachim is known as Imran (عمران). He is believed to be the father of Maryam and the grandfather of ʿIsa (Jesus).
One place believed to be his grave is in Salalah. It is said to be the "longest grave in the world," measuring 12 meters.
See also
In Spanish: Joaquín (padre de María) para niños
