Saint Onuphrius of Gareji, born Otar Machutadze, was an 18th-century Kartlian aristocrat known for his wealth, generosity, and deep spiritual yearning. Despite his noble life, he secretly wore a hair shirt and longed for monastic asceticism. With his wife's blessing, he left his worldly life behind and entered the David-Gareji Monastery, where he was tonsured a monk by Archimandrite Herman. Living with humility, Onuphrius devoted himself to prayer, fasting, and repentance. During a Dagestani raid on the monastery, he was taken captive but miraculously spared. Later, he was sent to collect alms for the impoverished brotherhood, and along the way, he healed a demon-possessed youth and a man with a wounded eye through his prayers and relics from Saint David’s grave.

Onuphrius eventually embraced the great schema, committing to a vow of silence, harsh asceticism, and a life of continual prayer. Though weakened by his strict lifestyle, he refused the comfort of a bed, insisting he would end his days on his mat. Even in suffering, he remained joyful and humble, welcoming pilgrims with deep reverence. As his death approached, he received Holy Communion and, on the Feast of Theophany, peacefully reposed. Saint Onuphrius was buried beside the grave of Saint David of Gareji, leaving behind a legacy of holiness, self-denial, and miraculous intercession.

Troparion — Tone 8

By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile, / and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance. / By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe! / O our holy father Onuphrius, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!