(small). In Hebrew, Saul. Born at Tarsus in Cilicia, of Benjamite parents, about the beginning of 1st century; a Pharisee in faith; a tentmaker by trade (Phil. 3:5; Acts 18:3; 21:39; 23:6). Studied law with Gamaliel at Jerusalem; persecuted early Christians; converted near Damascus (Acts 5:34; 7:58; 9:1-22). Commissioned an apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 26:13-20). Carried the gospel to Asia Minor, Greece, and Rome. Author of fourteen epistles, amplifying the Christian faith. Supposedly a martyr at Rome, A. D. 68.