Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Dagestani forces repeatedly raided and pillaged the Davit-Gareji Wilderness. They destroyed churches and monasteries, plundered sacred relics, and inflicted torture and death upon many of the monks who lived and labored there.

In the summer of 1851, a Dagestani army launched a major incursion into the Davit-Gareji Wilderness. They looted the Davit-Gareji Lavra, seizing numerous sacred treasures and books. Many monks were taken prisoner, and several of the most devout suffered brutal torture.

Hierodeacon Otar was stabbed to death, followed by the beheading of Hieromonk Gerontius. Hieromonk Serapion was slain under repeated blows from swords. Monk Herman was stabbed in the abdomen before being beheaded, and Monk Besarion also met the same fate. The young Simeon, only eighteen, attempted to escape on foot but was struck by arrows, captured, and then beheaded. Monk Michael, distinguished among his brothers for his deep humility and silence, endured the most severe and excruciating tortures.

After their martyrdom, the bodies of these holy men were said to be illumined with a divine light.

The account of their suffering and death was written in 1853 by Hieromonk Isaac of Gaenati, an eyewitness to the events. He himself was taken captive and led to Dagestan by the merciless invaders but was later released through the intervention of Tsar Nicholas I (reigned 1825–1855).

Troparion — Tone 4

Your holy martyrs, O Lord, / through their sufferings have received an incorruptible crown from You, our God. / For having Your strength, they laid low their adversaries, / and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. / Through their intercessions, save our souls!