Saint Shalva of Akhaltsikhe was a distinguished Georgian military commander under Queen Tamar. After a victorious battle at Shamkori, he offered the captured caliph’s flag and spoils to the Khakhuli Icon, symbolizing Christian triumph. Queen Tamar rewarded him with the rank of commander-in-chief.

During Queen Rusudan’s reign, Georgia was invaded by Sultan Jalal al-Din. In the battle near Garnisi, Shalva and his brother John led the advance guard of 6,000 against a vastly larger Muslim force. The main commander, John Atabeg, driven by envy, refused to support them. The Georgians were defeated, John was killed, and Shalva was captured.

Jalal al-Din tried to convert Shalva to Islam with promises of wealth and honor. Shalva refused, remaining steadfast in his Christian faith. He was tortured and eventually died a martyr in prison.