About Philemon
Philemon was a presbyter and bishop.
Philemon (; , ) was an early Christian in Asia Minor who was the recipient of a private letter from Paul of Tarsus which forms part of the Christian New Testament. This letter is known as Epistle to Philemon, although it is addressed "to Philemon, our dear friend and fellow worker, also to Apphia our sister (possibly Philemon's wife) and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets in your home". Paul asks Philemon to "take back" Onesimus, who may previously have been his slave.
Philemon is known as a saint by several Christian churches along with Apphia (or Appia), seen as his wife.
The Menaia of 22 November speak of Philemon as a holy apostle who, in company with Apphia, Archippus, and Onesimus, had been martyred at Colossae during the first general persecution in the reign of Nero. In the list of the Seventy Apostles, attributed to Dorotheus of Tyre, Philemon is described as bishop of Gaza.
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Important facts
Frequently asked questions
Who was Philemon?
New Testament person
When was Philemon born?
Philemon was born in Colossae.
When did Philemon die?
Philemon died in Colossae.
What was Philemon's occupation?
Philemon was a presbyter and bishop.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: Philemon (biblical figure)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Philemon. https://biography.guide/philemon-presbyter/
MLA: "Philemon." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/philemon-presbyter/.
Chicago: "Philemon." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/philemon-presbyter/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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