About the name Pantaley / Panteleimon
Etymology & meaning
Pantaley is the Bulgarian folk form of the Greek Panteleimon — "all-merciful", from pant- ("all") and eleēmōn ("merciful"). A name that is a whole character reference: "merciful to all".
History & patron saint
The Holy Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon (27 July) was a physician of Nicomedia who healed without payment in Christ's name and suffered under Diocletian. He is one of Orthodoxy's chief heavenly patrons of physicians and the sick.
Traditions & customs
In the folk calendar the day is "Pantaley the Traveller" — the saint was believed to journey, bringing the first signs of autumn. Celebrants treat guests at a summer table; in medical families the day carries special weight.
Popularity & notable bearers
Pantaley is an old name, rare today, alive in the surnames Panteleev and Pantev; the churches of Saint Panteleimon across the country keep the healer's memory.