John Damascene was a Christian theologian and monk who lived in the 7th and 8th centuries. He is best known for his writings on the nature of God and the veneration of icons, which are religious images used in worship. His works helped shape the understanding of the relationship between faith and reason in the Byzantine Empire. Born in Damascus, he served as a government official before dedicating his life to monasticism. John Damascene is also recognized as a Doctor of the Church, a title given to saints whose teachings have significantly influenced Christian doctrine. His feast day is celebrated on December 4.