Ephrem was a poet, orator and defender of the faith. He is the only Syrian to be called Doctor Of The Church. He took it upon himself the special task of opposing many false doctrines rampant at his time.

He had a prolific pen and his writings best illumine his holiness. His works reflect deep insight and knowledge of the Scriptures. He even wrote hyms against the heretics of his day. He would take the popular songs of the heretical groups and using their melodies, compose beautiful hymns embodying orthodox doctrine. His hymns have earned him the title, “Harp of the Holy Spirit”.

He preferred a simple, austere life, living in a small cave overlooking the city of Edessa. It was here he died around 373.