Who is Saint Ann’s sister? Meet Sobe

In the rich tapestry of Christian traditions and historical accounts, the figures surrounding the family of Jesus Christ often take center stage. One such intriguing character is Sobe, also known as Sovin, a lesser-known but significant figure in medieval Byzantine sources. According to these sources, Sobe was not only a sister of Saint Anne but also the mother of St. Elizabeth.

The Historical Context:

The Bible, in its records, mentions Elizabeth as a descendant of Aaron and a cousin or relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus. However, the specific details of Elizabeth’s parentage and her connection to Mary and Anne are not extensively covered in the canonical scriptures.

Sobe’s Mention in Byzantine Sources:

The name Sobe first surfaces in writings dating back to about the 7th century, as documented by Hippolytus of Thebes, Andrew of Crete, and Epiphanius Monachus. Later, Nicephorus Callistus and Andronicus also contribute to the narrative. The shared passage from these sources reveals a fascinating genealogy:

“There were three sisters of Bethlehem, daughters of Matthan the priest, and Mary his wife, under the reign of Cleopatra and Sosipatrus, before the reign of Herod, the son of Antipater: the eldest was Mary, the second was Sobe, the youngest’s name was Anne. The eldest being married in Bethlehem, had for daughter Salome the midwife; Sobe the second likewise married in Bethlehem, and was the mother of Elizabeth; last of all, the third married in Galilee, and brought forth Mary the mother of Christ.”

Anne Catherine Emmerich’s Visions:

In the 19th century, the mystic Anne Catherine Emmerich provided additional insights into this intricate family tree. According to her visions, Sobe was indeed a sister of Anne, but she identified Emerentia, Sobe and Anne’s maternal aunt, as the mother of Elizabeth.

The story of Sobe adds a layer of complexity and depth to the familial connections surrounding Jesus’ birth. While her existence and role are not explicitly detailed in the canonical Bible, medieval Byzantine sources and mystical visions have woven a narrative that places Sobe as a key figure in the lineage leading to St. Elizabeth. As we explore these historical accounts, we uncover the rich and diverse tapestry of Christian traditions that continue to captivate and inspire.