The Remarkable Rise of Olga the Wise from Pagan Roots to Christian Queen
- Ken Kalis
- Jul 14
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 13
July 15 is the day Christians honor Ogla of Kiev ( 890-969) and St. Vladimir (958- 1015) who brought the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Russia. Their work was difficult and violently opposed, but Jesus gave them the victory. These two royal missionaries were deeply committed Believers and lived their lives for Jesus *(4 BC -30 AD)with all their hearts.
An asterisk (*) after a name indicates that the person is featured in my book, SPIRITUAL LIVES.
Olga of Kiev is a captivating historical figure, celebrated as both a fierce warrior and an innovative leader. She transformed from a young pagan bride into a powerful Christian queen who shaped the future of Kievan Rus. This blog post will explore her incredible journey, highlighting pivotal moments and decisions that forged her legacy.
Olga's Early Life and Marriage
Olga was born into a pagan society, where power dynamics and alliances dictated survival. At just 13 years old, she married Igor, the King of Kiev (912-945). This politically motivated union would lay the groundwork for her significant impact on her kingdom. Their marriage was not conventional by today’s standards, but it served as a critical step in strengthening alliances.
A key event overshadowing her early years was the birth of her son, Sviatoslav, when she was in her fifties. This milestone is remarkable, especially considering the challenges she had faced by that point. Tragically, only three years after Sviatoslav's birth, Igor was ambushed and killed by the Derevlians—a tribe seeking to exploit Kievan Rus' vulnerability.
The Showdown with the Derevlians
After Igor's death, the Derevlians thought they could easily dominate the kingdom, underestimating Olga's capabilities. They sent a delegation of twenty men, expecting her to submit without resistance. To their shock, Olga's response was strategic and brutal.
In a decisive move, she had the Derevlians executed, burning them alive. This shocking display of strength sent a clear message about her determination to defend her realm. As a result, her reputation as a clever and formidable leader was solidified, earning her the respect and fear of both allies and enemies.
Consolidating Power and Establishing Rule
With the Derevlians dealt with, Olga focused on consolidating her power as regent of Kievan Rus. In a time when women were often sidelined, she actively governed through her young son, taking bold steps to enhance the kingdom. She established laws and imposed equitable taxes, laying the foundation for long-term success.
For example, her restructuring of tribute demands introduced fairer tax distribution, which boosted the economy and increased loyalty among the populace. By effectively managing internal and external threats, she not only preserved stability but also became a symbol of resilience and strategic leadership for her people.
The Journey to Christianity
A pivotal moment in Olga's life was her visit to Greece and Constantinople, where she encountered the reigning Emperor. In 957, he baptized her as a Christian, initiating significant change for her personal faith and the future of Kievan Rus.
She later shared her experience with her son, Vladimir, saying, "My son, I have learned to know God, and am glad for it. If you know him, you too will rejoice." Her insights aimed to influence Vladimir, though he hesitated due to concerns about his followers’ reactions. Olga's arguments demonstrated how faith can unify and strengthen leadership, laying the groundwork for future change.
The Birth of a New Era: Vladimir
Olga's son, Vladimir, born in 958, would later revolutionize Kievan Rus with his conversion to Christianity. Growing up immersed in tales of virtue and courage, he had exceptional role models, including his mother and his uncle, Dobrynya (circa 985)
Vladimir's upbringing instilled in him a profound understanding of leadership. He learned from the stories and lessons that surrounded him, shaping his identity as a ruler poised to make a difference.
Vladimir's Christian Reign
Vladimir's reign was marked by exemplary charity and adherence to Christian principles. He sought to enhance the welfare of his people, encapsulating a philosophy that emphasized service and compassion.
For instance, he often distributed food and drink to the impoverished, linking his faith with practical action. His powerful message, "Share the burden of your neighbor," resonated deeply, fostering a sense of community within Kievan Rus.
The Impact of Olga's Legacy
Olga's transformation from a pagan queen to a Christian regent had profound implications for Kievan Rus. Her journey not only laid the groundwork for the region's Christianization but also played a crucial role in defining its cultural and spiritual identity for generations.
By embracing and promoting Christianity, she set her son, Vladimir, on a path that would lead to significant reforms in governance, social structures, and cultural practices throughout Kievan Rus. The transition resulted in a more unified and cohesive society, underscoring the enduring impact of her influence.
Reflection on Olga's Journey
The story of Olga the Wise transcends time and culture, illustrating the remarkable potential for leadership and transformation. From a young pagan bride to a powerful Christian queen, her experience inspires us to reflect on our paths and the strength we carry within.
Olga's boldness, wisdom, and devotion to her people left an enduring imprint on history. Her journey reminds us that true leadership arises from resilience, faith, and the ability to adapt. Like Olga, each of us has the potential to rise and lead, no matter our starting point.
Yet we all have sinned, Olga spectacularly, but the Holy Spirit convicted her of her sin and she repented and came to Jesus and the cross of Calvary. She was born again, and her life changed the world after God changed her! He wants to do that for you, too! Come to Him today and ask Him to wash you and give you HIs great salvation.
Sadly, there is a war between Russia and Ukraine going on today. This is not of God. Let's pray for peace!
Russia is our sacred state,
Russia is our beloved country.
A mighty will, great glory -
Your dignity for all time!
Be glorified, our free Fatherland,
The age-old union of fraternal peoples,
Ancestor-given wisdom of the people!
Be glorified, country! We are proud of you!
From the southern seas to the polar edge
Our forests and fields are spread out.
You are the only one in the world! You are the only one -
The native land so kept by God!
Be glorified, our free Fatherland,
The age-old union of fraternal peoples,
Ancestor-given wisdom of the people!
Be glorified, country! We are proud of you!
A wide scope for dreams and for life
The coming years open to us.
We are given strength by our fidelity to the Fatherland.
So it was, so it is and it will always be so!
Be glorified, our free Fatherland,
The age-old union of fraternal peoples,
Ancestor-given wisdom of the people!
Be glorified, country! We are proud of you!
Russian National Hymn
The glory and freedom of Ukraine has not yet perished
Luck will still smile on us brother-Ukrainians.
Our enemies will die, as the dew does in the sunshine,
and we, too, brothers, we'll live happily in our land.
We’ll not spare either our souls or bodies to get freedom
and we’ll prove that we brothers are of Kozak kin.
Ukrainian National Anthem
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