Philemon was an early Christian living in Colossae during the first century. He is primarily recognized as the recipient of a private letter written by Paul of Tarsus, which is included in the New Testament. This epistle, addressed to Philemon and his household, requests that he welcome back Onesimus, who may have been his former slave. Some traditions identify him as a wealthy minister or bishop, and he is honored as a saint in several Christian denominations.