Prophet Samuel and the 37 Martyrs of Plovdiv commemorated

August 20 marks the name day for individuals named Samuel, Samuil, or Sami. The day commemorates the biblical Prophet Samuel, who lived in the 11th century BCE and served as the last and most prominent of the judges of Israel.

According to biblical tradition, Samuel was raised in the temple by High Priest Eli and possessed the gift of prophecy. He is credited with helping the Israelites escape Philistine bondage and played a central role in the transition to monarchy by anointing Saul and later David as kings.

The Orthodox Church also honors the 37 Martyrs of Plovdiv on this day, who were killed for their Christian faith in Philippopolis in 304 AD, alongside the martyrs Severus and Memnon.