Thecla, the beast fighter: The saint who faced down lions and killer seals is one of many ‘leading ladies’ in early Christian texts

The Christian apocrypha, texts not included in the Bible, include stories of Jesus’ female followers – including St. Thecla.

By: Christy Cobb, University of Denver, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 16, 2026

Words: 1,117

Last Updated: 2 months ago

By Christy Cobb, University of Denver

The Bible is filled with brave and courageous women.

Deborah, the judge who fought a war to protect her people. The widow Ruth, who wittingly convinces a man to marry her in order to continue the lineage of her mother-in-law, Naomi. Esther, who boldly stands up to an evil politician, Haman, in order to save the Jewish people from death. Judith, who beheads an opposing …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.