Macedonius of Syria, also known as Macedonius Kritophagus, was an ascetic monk who lived in Byzantine Syria during the transition from the fourth to the fifth century. He initially lived as a wandering pilgrim throughout Syria, Phoenicia, and Cilicia, sustaining himself on barley soaked in water. Later, he retreated to a remote wilderness, residing in a pit to avoid human contact. He viewed eating primarily as a medicinal necessity to prevent premature death rather than for pleasure.