Ambrose of Alexandria

Ambrose appears in early 3rd-century Christian sources as a wealthy, educated Alexandrian who, attracted by Origen's reputation, visited the Catechetical School of Alexandria in 212. Initially associated with gnostic Valentinians and Marcionists, he was persuaded by Origen's teaching to abandon those positions, became Origen's constant companion, was ordained a deacon, and thereafter served as patron and interlocutor for Origen's literary activity. His historical presence is preserved chiefly through Origen's dedications and letters.

The surviving sources give no physical or iconographic description of Ambrose. Descriptions focus on his social status — a wealthy nobleman and courtier — and on his education and literary taste rather than bodily features.

Ambrose's recorded 'abilities' are social, intellectual, and pastoral rather than supernatural: he provided material support (books and secretaries) for Origen's studies and composition; he persistently questioned and urged Origen to write (Origen calls him ἐργοδιώκτης); he solicited major works such as Contra Celsum; he served in ecclesiastical office as an ordained deacon; and he endured imperial persecution (under Maximinus Thrax in 235), later being released and honored as a confessor.