COSROES (Husraw) I, PERSIAN EMPEROR. He reigned from 531 to 579. In 540 COSROES began his campaigns against the Byzantines and at the same time unleashed a persecution against his Christian subjects, promoted especially by the magi. The principal victims were Pirangunasp, called Gregory, and Yazdpanāh, two illustrious converts from Mazdaism. Many others were harassed and persecuted, among them the distinguished katholikòs of the Nestorian Church, Mār Abā, who was spared death thanks to a certain benevolence shown him by COSROES and to the fear of provoking dangerous reactions from the numerous Christians. Indeed, Mār Abā intervened on behalf of COSROES against his rebellious son Anōshazād. After the death of Mār Abā, COSROES chose as his successor Joseph (552), who, however, was not well received by the bishops. They later deposed him, probably in 567. COSROES approved the appointment of Ezekiel as his successor. In his later years the persecution had abated. A son of COSROES converted to Christianity and was baptized with the name George.
Ignazio Ortiz de Urbina