Saint George

Introducing Saint George to children in England
Al Khader and Saint George in Palestine

Saint George
The Palestinian who became the Patron Saint of England

Icon of Saint George in Lydda

Palestinians often link Saint George to the Islamic figure Al Khader. There are many traditions about Saint George or Al Khader that are shared by Christian and Muslim Arabs in Palestine and neighbouring countries. There is an interesting video on You Tube about St. George and his significance for Palestinians.

A Greek Orthodox church of Saint George is built above his tomb in Lydda. Sharing a courtyard garden with the church is a mosque named after Al Khader and Omar.

The symbolism of the dragon story is good overcoming evil and sin with the help of God.

The icon is typical of Icons of Saint George in the Eastern Churches.

Note the lack of aggression in the face and posture of Saint George, and how the dragon seems to be submitting, even opening its mouth to accept the spear. Evil and sin willing itself to be overcome by good and God.