Saint Paul ⓘ (c. 5–64/65 AD), originally Saul of Tarsus, was a Jewish Pharisee educated in the traditions of the Law who initially opposed the early Christian movement. His conversion followed a visionary encounter with the risen Christ, traditionally associated with the road to Damascus, after which he became one of Christianity’s most influential missionaries.

Paul undertook extensive journeys throughout Asia Minor and Greece, establishing and nurturing Christian communities among non-Jewish converts. Known as the “Apostle to the Gentiles,” he articulated a theology that emphasised salvation through faith in Christ rather than adherence to the Mosaic Law. Several letters attributed to him form a substantial portion of the New Testament and were foundational to early Christian doctrine. According to tradition, Paul was martyred in Rome during the persecution of Christians under the emperor Nero.