Basil was born at Caesarea in Cappadocia approximately the year 330. He received his education at Constantinople and Athens, where he encountered his friend and companion, Gregory of Nazienzen. He later returned to Caesarea and, in 356, began to lead the life of a hermit. This hermetical life was already practiced by his mother, Emilia, and his sister, Macrina. His spiritual writings dating from this period are very rich.

His principal writings include treatises on the Holy Spirit, the monastic life, a commentary on scripture, sermons, and numerous letters defending the Catholic faith against the Arians.

Gregory was born in the region of Nazianzen approximately the year 330. He accomplished the majority of his studies at Alexandria and Athens, where he established his friendship with Basil. He returned to his village in 357 and there received Christian baptism. His father, who was the bishop of Nazianzen, ordained him to the priesthood. Gregory was later consecrated the bishop of a small city which was dependent on Caesarea.

The desert life of a solitary attracted him, so he took up the life of a hermit, but continued with his writings and exhortations of the faithful.