He was initially a monk at the Monastery of Saint Macarius the Great in Scetes. He later went to a place near Singar, where he lived in a cave for more than 20 years. On 12 Paopi, 809 A.M. (9 October 1092 A.D.), he was ordained Pope of Alexandria. He was known for his love of the poor and needy, and for spending the church money on paying the Jizya for those Copts who could not afford to pay it, so that they could keep their Christianity. Michael IV departed on 30 Pashons, 818 A.M. (25 May 1102 A.D.) He remained on the Throne of Saint Mark for 9 years, 7 months, and 17 days.