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AND he said unto me; ‖ 1.1 Ye know that ye who are the Servants of the LORD, live here as in a Pilgrimage. For your City is far off from this City. If therefore ye know your City in which ye are to dwell, why do ye here buy
Estates, and provide your selves with Delicacies, and stately Buildings, and superfluous Houses? For he that provides himself these things in this City, do's not think of returning in∣to his own City. O foolish, and doubtful, and wretched Man! Who understandest not that all these things are other Mens, and under the Power of another! For the LORD of this City saith unto thee, either obey my Laws, or depart out of my City. What therefore shalt thou do who art subject to a Law in thine own City? Canst thou for thy Estate, or for any of those things which thou hast provided, deny thy Law? But if thou shalt deny it, and wilt afterwards return into thy own City, thou shalt not be received, but shalt be excluded thence. See therefore that like a Man in another Country, thou procure no more to thy self than what is necessary, and suffici∣ent for thee; and be ready, that when the God or LORD of this City shall drive thee out of it, thou mayst oppose his Law, and go into thine own City; where thou mayst with
all Chearfulness live according to thine own Law without Wrong. Take heed then ye that serve God, and have him in your Hearts; work ye the Works of God, being mind∣ful both of his Commands and of his Promises, which he has promised; and be assured that he will make them good unto you; if ye shall keep his Commandments. Instead therefore of the Possessions that ye would otherwise purchase, redeem ‖ 1.2 those that are in want from their Necessities, as every one is able; Justifie the Widows; Judge the Cause of the Fatherless; and spend your Riches and your Wealth in such Works as these. For, for this end has God enriched you, that ye might fulfil these kind of Services. It is much better to do this, than to buy Lands or Houses; because all such things shall perish with this present Time. But what ye shall do for the Name of the LORD, ye shall find in your City, and shall have Joy with∣out Sadness or Fear. Wherefore covet not the Riches of the Heathen; for they are destructive to the Servants
of God. But of your own Abundance which you have, do those things by which ye may attain unto Joy. And do not commit Adultery, nor touch any other Mans Wife; nor desire her: But covet that which is thy own Business, and thou shalt be saved.
AS I was walking into the Field, and consider'd the Elm and the Vine, and thought with my self of their Fruits; an Angel appear'd un∣to me, and said unto me; What is it that thou thinkest upon thus long within thy self? And I said unto him; Sir, I think of this Vine and this Elm, because their Fruits are fair. And he said unto me; ‖ 1.3 These two Trees are set for a Pattern to the Servants of God. And I said
unto him; Sir, I would know what the Pattern is for which these Trees are set. Hearken, saith he; Seest thou this Vine and this Elm? Sir, said I, I see them. This Vine, saith he, is fruitful, but the Elm is a Tree without Fruit. Nevertheless this Vine unless it were set by this Elm, and supported by it, would not bear much Fruit; but lying along upon the Ground, would bear ill Fruit, because it did not hang upon the Elm: Whereas now being supported upon the Elm, it bears Fruit both for its self and for that. See there∣fore how the Elm gives no less, but rather more Fruit than the Vine. How, Sir, said I, do's it bear more Fruit than the Vine? Because, said he, the Vine being supported upon the Elm gives both much and good Fruit: Whereas if it lay along upon the Ground it would bear but little, and that very ill too. This Simili∣tude therefore is set forth to the Ser∣vants of God; and it represents the Rich and Poor Man. I answer'd, Sir, make this manifest unto me. Hear, said he: The Rich Man has
Wealth; howbeit towards the LORD he is Poor: For he is taken up about his Riches, and prays but little to the LORD; and the Prayers which he makes are lazy and without force. When therefore the Rich Man reaches out to the Poor those things which he wants, the Poor Man prays unto the LORD for the Rich; and God grants unto the Rich Man all good things; because the Poor Man is Rich in Prayer; and his Requests have great Power with the LORD. Then the Rich Man ministers all things to the Poor, because he per∣ceives that he is heard by the LORD; and he the more willingly, and with∣out doubting affords him what he wants, and takes care that nothing be lacking to him. And the Poor Man gives Thanks unto the LORD for the Rich; because he do's this Work to him from the LORD. With Men therefore the Elm is not thought to give any Fruit; and they know not, neither understand that its Company being added to the Vine, the Vine bears a double En∣crease, both for its self and for the
Elm. Even so the Poor praying unto the LORD for the Rich, are heard by him; and their Riches are encreased, because they minister to the Poor of their Wealth. They are therefore both made Partakers of each others Good Works. Whosoever therefore shall do these things, he shall not be forsaken by the LORD, but shall be written in the Book of Life. Happy are they who are Rich, and perceive themselves to be en∣creased: For he that is sensible of this, will be able to minister somewhat to others.
AGAIN he shewed me many Trees whose Leaves were shed, and which seemed to me to be wi∣ther'd;
for they were all alike. And he said unto me, Seest thou these Trees? I said, Sir, I see that they look like dry Trees. He answering said unto me; These Trees are like unto the Men who live in this pre∣sent World. I reply'd; Sir, Why are they like unto dryed Trees? Be∣cause, said he, neither the Righte∣ous nor Unrighteous are known from one another; but are all alike in this present World. For this World is as the Winter to the Righteous Men, because they are not known, but dwell among Sinners. As in the Winter all the Trees, having lost their Leaves, are like dry Trees; nor can it be said which are Dry and which are Green: So in this pre∣sent World neither the Righteous nor Wicked are discern'd from each other, but they are all alike.
AGAIN he shewed me many other Trees, of which some had Leaves, and others appear'd dry and wither'd. And he said unto me, Seest thou these Trees? I answer'd, Sir, I see them; and some are dry, and others full of Leaves. These Trees, saith he, which are green are the Righteous, who shall pos∣sess the World to come. For the World to come, is the Summer to the Righteous; but to Sinners it is the Winter. When therefore the Mercy of the LORD shall shine forth, then they who serve God shall be made manifest, and plain unto all. For as in the Summer the Fruit of every Tree is shewn and made manifest,
so also the Works of the Righteous shall be declared and made manifest, and they shall all be restored in that World merry and joyful. For the other † 1.4 kind of Men, namely Wicked, like the Trees which thou sawest dry, shall as such be found dry and with∣out Fruit in that other World; and like dry Wood shall be burnt, and it shall be made manifest that they have done Evil in the time of their Life; and they shall be burnt because they have sinned, and have not repented of their Sins. And also all the other Nations shall be burnt, because they have not acknowledged God their Creator. Do thou therefore bring forth good Fruit, that in the Sum∣mer thy Fruit may be known; and keep thy self from much Business, and thou shalt not offend. For they that are involved in much Business, sin much; because they are taken up with their Affairs, and neglect to serve God. And how can a Man that do's not serve God, ask any thing of God, and receive it? But they who serve him, ask and receive what they desire. But if a Man has only
one thing to follow, he may serve God, because his Mind is not there∣by taken off from God, but he serves him with a pure Mind. If there∣fore thou shalt do thus, thou shalt have Fruit in the World to come; and all, as many as shall do in like manner, shall bring forth Fruit.
I. AS I was fasting, and sitting down in a certain Mountain, and giving Thanks unto God for all the things that he had done ‖ 1.5 unto me; behold I saw the Shepherd, who was wont to converse with me, sitting by me, and saying unto me: What has brought thee hither thus early in the Morning? I answer'd, Sir, To Day I keep a * 1.6 Station. He answer'd, What is a Station? I reply'd; It is a
Fast. He said; What is that Fast? I answer'd, I fast, as I have been wont to do. Ye know not, said he, what it is to fast unto God; nor is this a Fast which ye fast, profiting nothing with God. Sir, said I, what makes you speak thus? He reply'd; I speak it, because this is not the true Fast which you think that you fast; but I will shew you what that is which is a † 1.7 compleat Fast, and ac∣ceptable unto God. Hearken, said he, The LORD do's not desire such a needless Fast: For by Fasting in this manner, thou advancest nothing in Righteousness. But the true Fast is this; Do nothing wickedly in thy Life; but serve God with a pure Mind; and keep his Command∣ments, and walk according to his Precepts, nor suffer any wicked De∣sire to dwell in thy Mind. And trust in the LORD; that if thou dost these things, and fearest him, and abstainest from every evil Work, thou shalt live unto God. If thou shalt do this, thou shalt perfect a great Fast, and an acceptable one unto the LORD.
II. HEARKEN unto the Simi∣litude which I am about to propose unto thee, as to this matter. A cer∣tain Man having a Farm, and many Servants, planted a Vineyard in a certain part of his Estate for his Posterity: And taking a Journey in∣to a far Country chose one of his Ser∣vants which he thought the most faithful and approved, and deliver'd the Vineyard into his care; com∣manding him that he should stake up his Vines. Which if he did, and fulfilled his Command, he promised to give him his Liberty. Nor did he command him to do any thing more; and so went into a far Coun∣try. After then that that Servant had taken that Charge upon him; he did whatsoever his LORD com∣manded him. And when he had staked the Vineyard, and found it to be full of Weeds, he began to think with himself, saying; I have done what my Lord commanded me; I will now dig this Vineyard, and when it is digg'd it will be more beautiful; and the Weeds being pull'd up it
will bring forth more Fruit, and not be choak'd by the Weeds. So setting about his Work he digg'd it, and pluck'd up all the Weeds that were in it: And by that means the Vine∣yard became very beautiful and pros∣perous, and not over-run and choak'd with Weeds. After some time the LORD of the Vineyard comes and goes into the Vineyard, and when he saw that it was handsomely stak'd, and digg'd, and the Weeds pluck'd up that were in it, and the Vines flourishing, he rejoyced great∣ly at the Care of his Servant. And calling his Son whom he loved, and who was to be his Heir; and his Friends with whom he was wont to consult, he tells them what he had commanded his Servant to do, and what his Servant had done more: And they immediately congratulated that Servant, that he had received so full a Testimony from his Lord. Then he said unto them; I indeed promised this Servant his Liberty, if he observed the Command which I gave him; and he observed it, and besides has done a good Work to my
Vineyard, which has exceedingly pleased me. Wherefore for this Work which he hath done, I will make him my Heir together with my Son; because that when he saw what was good, he dissembled it not, but did it. This Design of the LORD, both his Son and his Friends approved, namely, that this Servant should be Heir together with his Son. Not long after this, the Master of the Fa∣mily calling together his Friends, sent from his Supper several kinds of Food to that Servant. Which when he had received, he took so much of them as was sufficient for himself, and divided the rest among his Fel∣low Servants. Which when they had received, they rejoyced; and wish'd that he might find yet greater favour with his Lord, for what he had done to them. When his Lord heard all these things, he was again fill'd with great Joy; and calling again his Friends and his Son together, he related to them what his Servant had done with the Meats which he had sent unto him. They therefore so much the more assented to the Ma∣ster
of the Houshold; that he ought to make that Servant his Heir to∣gether with his Son.
III. I SAID unto him; Sir, I know not these Similitudes, neither can I understand them, unless you expound them unto me. I will, says he, expound all things unto thee whatsoever I have talk'd with thee, or shewn unto thee. Keep the Com∣mandments of the LORD and thou shalt be approved, and shalt be writ∣ten in the Number of those that keep his Commandments. But if besides those things which the LORD hath commanded, thou shalt add some good thing; thou shalt purchase to thy self a greater Dignity, and be in more favour with the LORD than thou shouldst otherwise have been. If therefore thou shalt keep the Com∣mandments of the LORD, and shalt add to them these Stations, thou shalt rejoyce; but especially if thou shalt keep them according to my Com∣mands. I said unto him; Sir, What∣soever thou shalt command me, I will observe; for I know that thou
wilt be with me. I will, said he, be with thee, who hast taken up such a Resolution; and I will be with all those who purpose in like manner. This Fast, saith he, whilst thou dost also observe the Commandments of the LORD, is exceeding good. Thus therefore shalt thou keep it. First of all, take heed to thy self, and keep thy self from every wicked Act, and from every filthy Word, and from every hurtful Desire; and purifie thy Sense from all the Vanity of this pre∣sent World. If thou shalt observe these things, this Fast shall be such as it ought to be. Thus therefore do. Having perform'd what is before written, that day on which thou fastest thou shalt taste nothing at all but * 1.8 Bread and Water † 1.9 and computing the Quantity of Food which thou art wont to eat upon other Days, thou shalt * 1.10 lay aside the Expence which thou shouldst have made that Day, and give it unto the Widow, the Fatherless and the Poor. * 1.11 And thus thou shalt perfect the Humility of thy Soul; that he who receives of it may satisfie his Soul, and his
Prayer come up to the LORD God for thee. If therefore thou shalt thus accomplish thy Fast, as I command thee; thy Sacrifice shall be accepta∣ble uto the LORD, and thy Fast shall be written in his Book. This Station thus perform'd is good, and pleasing, and acceptable unto the LORD. These things if thou shalt observe with thy Children, and with all thy House, thou shalt be happy. And whosoever, when they hear these things, shall do them; they also shall be happy, and whatsoever they shall ask of the LORD they shall receive it.
IV. AND I pray'd him that he would expound unto me the Simili∣tude of the Farm, and the Lord; and of the Vineyard and of the Ser∣vant that had staked the Vine-yard; and of the Weeds that were pluck'd out of the Vineyard; and of his Son and his Friends which he took into Counsel with him. For I understood that that was the Similitude. He said unto me; Thou art very ready in asking: Howbeit thou oughst not
to ask any thing, for if it be fitting to shew it unto thee, it shall be shewed. I answer'd him; Sir, What∣soever thou shalt shew, without ex∣plaining it unto me, I shall in vain see it: And what Similitudes thou shalt propose, and not expound them, I shall in vain hear them. He an∣swered me again, saying, Whosoever is the Servant of God, and has the LORD in his Heart, desires Under∣standing of him, and receives it; and he explains every Similitude, and understands the Words of the LORD which need an Enquiry. But they that are lazy, and slow to pray; doubt to seek from the LORD, al∣though the LORD be of such an ex∣traordinary Goodness, that without ceasing he giveth all things to them that ask of him. Thou therefore who art strengthened by that Vene∣rable Messenger, and hast received such a powerful Gift of Prayer; see∣ing thou art not sloathful, why dost thou not now ask Understanding of the LORD and receive it? I said un∣to him; seeing I have thee present, it is necessary that I should seek it of
thee, and ask thee; for thou shewest all things unto me, and speakest to me when thou art present. But if I should see or hear these things when thou wert not present, I would then ask the LORD that he would shew them unto me.
V. AND he reply'd; I said a little before that thou wert subtle and bold, and that thou askest the mean∣ing of these Similitudes. But because thou still persistest; I will unfold to thee the Parable which thou desirest, that thou mayst make it known un∣to all Men. Hear therefore, said he, and understand. The Farm before mention'd denotes the whole Earth: The Lord of the Farm is he, who created and finished all things; and gave Vertue unto them. His Son is the Holy ‖ 1.12 Spirit; The Servant is the Son of God. The Vineyard is the People whom he saves. The Stakes are the * 1.13 Messengers which are set over them by the LORD, to support his People. The Weeds that are pluckt up out of the Vineyard, are the Sins which the Servants of God
had committed. The Food which he sent him from his Supper, are the Commands which he gave to his People by his Son. The Friends whom he call'd to Counsel with him, are the Holy Angels whom he first crea∣ted. The Absence of the Master of the Houshold is the Time that re∣mains unto his Coming. I said un∣to him; Sir, All these things are very excellent, and wonderful, and good. But, continued I, could I or any other Man besides, though ne∣ver so wise, have understood these things? Wherefore now Sir, tell me what I ask. He replied, ask me what thou wilt. Why, said I, is the Son of God in this Parable, put in the place of a Servant?
VI. Hearken, said he; The Son of God is not put in the condition of a Servant, but in great Power and Authority. And I answer'd, How, Sir? I understood it not. Because said he, The Son set his * 1.14 Messengers over those whom the Father deliver'd unto him, to keep every one of them; but he himself labour'd very much,
and suffer'd much, that he might blot out their Offences. For no Vineyard can be digg'd without much Labour and Pains. Wherefore having blotted out the Sins of his People, he shew'd to them the Paths of Life, giving them the Law which he had received of the Father. You see, said he, that he is the LORD of his People, having re∣ceived all Power from his Father. But why did the LORD take into Counsel his Son, concerning dividing the In∣heritance, and the Good Angels? Hear: Because that Messenger heark∣ned to the Holy Ghost, which was first of all infused into the Body in which God should dwell. For his Understanding placed him in the Bo∣dy, as it seem'd Good to him. This Body therefore into which the Holy Spirit was brought, served that Spi∣rit, walking rightly and purely in Modesty; nor ever defiled that Spirit. Seeing therefore the Body at all times obeyed the Holy Spirit, and labour'd rightly and chastly with him; nor falter'd at any time; that Body be∣ing wearied conversed indeed Servily, but being stoutly approved with the
Holy Spirit, was accepted by God. For such a powerful Course pleased God, because he was not defiled in the Earth, keeping the Holy Spirit in Council with him. He called there∣fore his Son, and the Good Angels, that there might be some place of standing given to this Body which had served the Holy Spirit without Complaint; least it should seem to have lost the reward of its Service. For every pure Body, shall receive its reward; that is found without Spot, in which the Holy Spirit has been appointed to dwell. And thus you have now the Exposition of this Pa∣rable also.
VII. SIR, said I, I now understand your Meaning, since I have heard this Exposition. Hearken farther, said he: Keep this thy Body Clean and Pure; that the Spirit which shall dwell in it may bear Witness unto it, and be judged to have been with thee. Also take heed that it be not instill'd into thy Mind that this Body perishes, and thou abuse it to any Lust. For if thou shalt defile thy Body; thou shalt
also at the same time defile the Holy Spirit; and if thou shalt defile the Holy Spirit, thou shalt not live. And I said; What if through Ignorance this should have been already committed, before a Man heard these Words; How can he attain unto Salvation, who has thus defiled his Body? He reply'd; As for Mens former Actions, which through Ignorance they have committed, God only can afford a remedy unto them; For all power belongeth unto him. But now Guard thy self; and seeing God is Almighty and Merciful, he will grant a reme∣dy to what thou hast formerly done amiss, if for the time to come thou shalt not defile thy Body and Spirit: For they are Companions together, and the One cannot be defiled but the other will be so too. Keep therefore both of them Pure, and thou shalt live unto God.
I. AS I was sitting at home, and praising God for all the things which I had seen; and was thinking concerning the Commands, that they were exceeding Good and Great, and Honest, and Pleasant; and such as would certainly bring a Man to Sal∣vation; I said thus within my self: I shall be happy if I shall walk accord∣ing to these Commands, and whoso∣ever shall walk in them shall live un∣to God. Whilst I was meditating on this wise, I saw him whom I had before been wont to see, sitting by me; and he spake thus unto me. What doubtest thou concerning the Commands which I have delivered unto thee? Doubt not whether they are Good, but trust in the LORD and thou shalt walk in them. For I will give thee strength ‖ 1.15 to fulfil them. These Commands are profitable to
those who shall repent of those sins which they have formerly commit∣ted; if for the time to come they shall not continue in them. Whoso∣ever therefore ye be that Repent, cast away from you the naughtiness of the present World. And put on all Vertue, and all Righteousness, and so shall ye be able to keep these Com∣mands; neither sin from henceforth any more. For if ye shall keep your selves from sin for the time to come, ye shall cut off a great deal of your former sins. Walk in my Commands, and ye shall live unto God: These things have I spoken unto you. And when he had said this, he added; let us go into the Field, and I will shew thee Shepherds of Sheep. I reply'd, Sir, let us go. And we came into a cer∣tain Field, and there he shew'd me a young Shepherd, * 1.16 finely array'd, with his Garments of a Purple Co∣lour. And he fed large Flocks; and his Sheep were full of Pleasure, and in much Delight and Chearfulness; and they ran here and there, as it were rejoicing. And the Shepherd took very great Satisfaction in his Flock;
and the Countenance of that Shepherd was Chearful, running up and down among his Flock.
II. THEN the Angel said unto me; See'st thou this Shepherd? I an∣swer'd, Sir, I see him. He said unto me; this is the † 1.17 Messenger of De∣light and Pleasure. He therefore cor∣rupts the Minds of the Servants of God, and turns them from the Truth, delighting them with many Pleasures, and they perish. For they forget the Commands of the living God, and live in luxury and in vain satisfacti∣ons; and are corrupted by this Evil-Angel, some of them unto Death; and others even to a falling off from the truth. I replied; I understand not what you mean, by being corrupted unto Death, and so falling away. Hear, says he: All those Sheep which thou sawest exceeding fair and joy∣ful, are such as have for ever departed from God, and given themselves up to the desires of this present Time. To these therefore there is no return, by Repentance, unto Life; because that to their other Sins they have ad∣ded
this, that they have Blasphemed the Name of the LORD. These kind of Men are ordained unto Death. But those Sheep which thou sawest not leaping for Joy, but feeding in one place; are such as have indeed given themselves up to Pleasures and De∣lights; but have not spoken any thing wickedly against the LORD. These have not departed from the Truth, and therefore have yet Hope laid up for them in Repentance. For such a Defection has some hope still left of a renewal; But they that are dead, are utterly gone for ever. Again we went a little farther forward; and he shew'd me a great Shepherd, who had as it were a Wild Figure; clad with a White Goats Skin, having his Bag up∣on his Shoulder, and in his Hand a Stick full of Knots, and very hard, and a Whip in his Other Hand; And his Countenance was Stern and Sour; enough to affright a Man; such was his look. He took from that young Shepherd such Sheep as lived in Plea∣sures, but did not skip up and down; and drove them into a certain Steep Craggy Place, full of Thorns and
Briars, insomuch that they could not get themselves free from them; but being entangled in them, fed upon Thorns and Briars, and were grie∣vously tormented with his Whipping. For he still drove them on, nor afford∣ed them any Place or Time to stand still.
III. WHEN therefore I saw them so cruelly whipp'd and afflicted, I was grieved for them, because they were greatly tormented, nor had they any Rest afforded them. And I said unto the Shepherd that was with me; Sir, Who is this cruel and implacable Shepherd, who is moved with no Compassion towards these Sheep? He answer'd, * 1.18 This Shep∣herd is indeed the ‖ 1.19 Messenger of the Righteous, but is set over them for their Punishment. To him there∣fore are deliver'd those who have erred from God, and follow'd the Desires and Pleasures of this World, and served them. For this Cause he punishes them every one according to their Deserts with cruel and va∣rious kind of Pains. Sir, said I, I
would know, what kind of Pains they are which every one under∣goes? Hearken, said he; The se∣veral Pains and Torments are those which Men every Day undergo in their present Lives. For some suffer Losses; others Poverty; others di∣vers Sicknesses. Some are Uncon∣stant; Others suffer injuries from those that are Unworthy; Others fall under many other Tryals and In∣conveniences. Many with an un∣setled design aim at many things, and it profiteth them not, and they say that they have not Success in their Undertakings. These things call to their Mind what they have done a∣miss, and they complain of the LORD. When therefore they shall have un∣dergon all kind of Vexation and In∣conveniencie; then they are deliver'd over to me for good Instruction, and are confirm'd in the Faith of the LORD, and serve the LORD all the rest of their Life with a pure Mind. And when they begin to repent of their Sins, then they call to mind their Works which they have done amiss, and give Honour to God, say∣ing,
That he is a just Judge, and that they have deservedly suffer'd all things according to their Deeds. And for what remains of their Lives they serve God with a pure Mind, and have Success in all their Under∣takings, and receive from the LORD whatever they desire. And then they give thanks unto the LORD that they were deliver'd unto me; nor do they suffer any more Cruelty.
IV. I SAID unto him; Sir, I intreat you now to shew me one thing. What, said he, dost thou de∣sire? I said unto him; Are they who depart from the Fear of God tormented for the same time that they enjoy'd their false Delight and Pleasures? He answer'd me; They are tormented for the same Time. And I said unto him, they are then tormented but little; whereas they who enjoy their Pleasures so as to forget God, ought to endure seven times as much Punishment. He an∣swer'd me; Thou art foolish; nei∣ther understandest thou the Efficacy of this kind of Punishment. I said unto him, Sir, If I understood it, I
would not desire you to tell me. Hearken, said he, and learn what the force of both is, both of the Plea∣sure and of the Punishment. An hour of Pleasure is terminated with∣in its own Space: But one hour of Punishment has the Efficacy of thirty Days. * 1.20 Whosoever therefore enjoys his false Pleasure for one Day, and is one Day tormented, that one Day of Punishment is equivalent to a whole years space. Thus look how many Days any one pursues his Pleasures, so many Years is he punish'd for it. You see therefore, how that the Time of Worldly Enjoyments is but short, but that of Pain and Torments, a great deal more.
V. I REPLY'D, Sir; forasmuch as I do not understand all these Times of Pleasure and Pain; I in∣treat you that you would explain your self more clearly concerning them. He answer'd me saying; Thy Foolishness still sticks inseparably un∣to thee. Shouldst thou not rather purifie thy Mind, and serve God? Take heed, least when thy Time is fulfill'd, thou shalt be found still un∣wise.
Hear then, as thou desirest, that thou mayst the more easily un∣derstand. He that gives himself up one Day to his Pleasures and De∣lights; and do's whatsoever his Soul desires; is full of great Folly, nor understands what he do's, but the Day following forgets what he did the Day before. For Sweetness and Worldly Pleasure have no Memory by reason of the Folly that is rooted in them. But when Pain and Tor∣ment befal a Man a Day, he is in Effect troubled the whole Year after; because his Punishment continues firm in his Memory. Wherefore he remembers it with Sorrow the whole Year; and then calls to mind his vain Pleasure and Delight, and perceives that for the sake of that he was pu∣nished. Whosoever therefore have deliver'd themselves over to such Pleasures, are thus punished; be∣cause that when they had Life, they rendred themselves liable to Death. I said unto him; Sir, And what Pleasures are hurtful? He answer'd, That is Pleasure to every Man which he do's willingly. For the Angry Man, gratifying his Passion perceives
Pleasure in it; and so the Adulterer, and Drunkard; the Detractor, and Lyar, and Covetous Man, and the Deceiver; and whosoever commits any thing like unto these, because he gratifies his Infirmities, he receives a Satisfaction in the doing of it. All these Pleasures and Delights are hurt∣ful to the Servants of God. For these therefore they are tormented and suf∣fer Punishment. There are also Plea∣sures that bring Salvation unto Men. For many, when they do what is good, find Pleasure in it, and are at∣tracted by the Delights of it. Now this Pleasure is profitable to the Ser∣vants of God, and brings Life to such Men: But those hurtful Pleasures, which were before mention'd, bring Torments and Punishment. And who∣soever shall continue in them, and shall not repent of what they have done, shall gain Death unto them∣selves.
AFTER a few Days I saw the same Person that before talked with me, in the same Field, in which I had before seen the Shepherds. And he said unto me; What seekest thou? Sir, said I, I came to intreat you, that you would command the Shepherd who is the Minister of Punishment, to depart out of my House, because he greatly afflicts me. And he an∣swer'd; It is necessary for thee to endure Inconveniencies and Vexati∣ons; for so that good Angel hath commanded concerning thee, because he would try thee. Sir, said I; What so great Offence have I committed, that I should be deliver'd to this ‖ 1.21 Messenger? Hearken, said he: Thou art indeed guilty of many Sins, yet not so many that thou shouldst be delivered to this ‖ 1.22 Messenger: But thy House hath committed many Sins and Offences, and therefore that good ‖ 1.23 Messenger being grieved at their
Doings commanded that for some time thou shouldst suffer Affliction, that they may both repent of what they have done, and may wash them∣selves from all desires of this present World. When therefore they shall have repented, and be purified, then that Messenger which is appointed over thy Punishment, shall depart from thee. I said unto him; Sir, If they have behaved themselves so as to an∣ger that good Angel, yet what have I done? He answer'd; They can∣not otherwise be afflicted, unless thou, who art the Head of the Fa∣mily, suffer. For whatsoever thou shalt suffer, they must needs feel it: But as long as thou shalt stand well establish'd, they cannot experience any Vexation. I replyed; But, Sir, behold they also now repent with all their Hearts. I know, says he, that they repent with all their Hearts; but dost thou therefore think that their Offences who repent are immediately blotted out? No, they are not pre∣sently; But he that repents must af∣flict his Soul, and shew himself hum∣ble in all his Affairs, and undergo many and divers Vexations. And
when he shall have suffer'd all things that were appointed for him; then perhaps he that made him and all things besides will be moved with Compassion towards him, and af∣ford him some Remedy; and espe∣cially if he shall perceive his Heart who repents, to be pure from every Evil Work. But at present it is ex∣pedient for thee and for thy House to be grieved; and it is needful that thou shouldst endure much Vexation; as the Angel of the LORD who committed thee unto me, has com∣manded. Rather give Thanks un∣to the LORD, that knowing what was to come, he thought thee wor∣thy to whom he should foretel that Trouble was coming upon those that were able to bear it. I said unto him; Sir, Be but thou also with me, and I shall easily undergo any Trouble. I will, said he, be with thee; and I will ask the Messenger who is set over thy Punishment, that he would moderate his Afflictions towards thee. And moreover thou shalt suffer Ad∣versity but for a little time; and then thou shalt again be restored to thy former Place; only continue on in
the Humility of thy Mind. Obey the LORD with a pure Heart; thou and thy House, and thy Children; and walk in the Commands which I have delivered unto thee. And then thy Repentance may be firm and pure. And if thou shalt keep these things with thy House, all In∣conveniencies shall depart from thee. And all Vexation shall in like man∣ner depart from all those, whosoe∣ver shall walk according to these Commands.
I. AGAIN he shew'd me a Wil∣low which covered the Fields and the Mountains, under whose Shadow came all such as were called by the Name of the LORD. And by that Willow stood the Angel of the LORD very excellent and lofty; and
did cut down Boughs from that Wil∣low with a great Hook; and reach'd out to the People that were under the Shadow of that Willow little Rods, as it were about a Foot long. And when all of them had taken them, he laid a∣side his Hook, and the Tree continued intire, as I had before seen it. At which I wondred, and mused within my self. Then that Shepherd said unto me; Forbear to wonder that that Tree continues whole, notwithstand∣ing so many Boughs have been cut off from it: But attend; for now it shall be shewn thee, what that An∣gel means, who gave those Rods to the People. So he again demanded the Rods of them; and in the same Order that every one had received them, was he call'd to him, and re∣stored his Rod: Which when he had received, he examin'd them. From some he received them Dry and Rot∣ten, and as it were touch'd with the Moth; those he commanded to be separated from the rest, and placed by themselves. Others gave him their Rods dry indeed, but not touch'd with the Moth; these also he order'd to be set by themselves. Others gave
in their Rods half dry; these also were set apart. Others gave in their Rods half dry, and cleft; these too were set by themselves. Others brought in their Rods, half dry and half green; and were in like man∣ner placed by themselves. Others de∣liver'd up their Rods two parts green, and the third dry; and they too were set apart. Others brought their Rods two parts dry and the third green; and were also placed by themselves. Others deliver'd up their Rods yet less dry, for there was but a very little, to wit, their Tops dry; but they had Clefts, and these were set in like manner by themselves. In the Rods of others there was but a little green, and the rest dry; and these were set aside by themselves. Others came, and brought their Rods green as they had received them, and the greatest part brought their Rods thus, and these also were put apart by themselves. Others brought their Rods not only green, but full of Branches; and these were set aside; being received by the Angel with great Joy. Others brought their Rods green with Branches, and those also
full of Fruit. They who had such Rods were very chearful; and the Angel himself took great Joy at them; nor was the Shepherd that stood with me less pleased with them.
II. THEN the Angel of the LORD commanded Crowns to be brought: And the Crowns were brought made of Palms; and the Angel crown'd those Men in whose Rods he found the young Branches with Fruit; and commanded them to go into the Tower. He also sent those into the Tower in whose Rods he found Branches without Fruit, giving his Seal unto them. For they had the same Garment, that is, one white as Snow, with which he had them go into the Tower. And so he did to those who return'd their Rods green as they received them, giving them a white Garment; and so sent them away to go into the Tower. Having done this, he said to the Shepherd that was with me; I go my way; but do thou send these within the Walls, every one into the place in which he has deserved to dwell, examining first their Rods; but examine them
diligently that no one deceive thee. But and if any one shall escape thee, I will try them upon the Altar. Having said this to the Shepherd he departed. After he was gone, the Shepherd said unto me; Let us take the Rods from them all, and plant them; if perchance they may grow green again. I said unto him, Sir, How can those dry Rods ever grow green again? He answer'd me; That Tree is a Willow, and always loves to live. If therefore these Rods shall be planted, and receive a little Moi∣sture, many of them will recover themselves. Wherefore I will try, and will pour Water upon them, and if any of them can live, I will rejoyce with him: But if not, at least by this means I shall be found not to have neglected my part. And they all came unto him, every one in the Rank in which he stood, and gave him their Rods; which having received, He planted every one of them in their several Orders. And after he had planted them all, he poured much Water upon them, in∣somuch that they were covered with Water, and did not appear above it.
And when he had water'd them, he said unto me; Let us depart, and after a little time we will return and visit them. For he who created this Tree, would have all those live that received Rods from it. And I hope, now that these Rods are thus wa∣tered, many of them, receiving in the Moisture, will recover.
III. I SAID unto him, Sir; Tell me what this Tree denotes? For I am greatly moved, that after so many Branches have been cut off, it seems still to be whole; nor do's there any thing the less of it appear to remain, which greatly amazes me. He an∣swer'd, Hearken. This great Tree which covers the Plains and the Moun∣tains, and all the Earth, is the Law of God, publish'd throughout the whole World. Now by this Law the Son of God is preach'd to all the Ends of the Earth. The People that stand under its Shadow, are those which have heard his Preaching, and believed. The great and good Angel which you saw, was MICHAEL, who has the Power over this People, and Governs them. For he has planted the Law in
the Hearts of those who have believed. And therefore he visits them to whom he has given the Law, to see if they have kept it. And he examines every ones Rod; and of those, many that are weakned. For those Rods are the Law of the LORD. Then he dis∣cerns all those who have not kept the Law, knowing the place of every one of them. I said unto him; Sir, why did he send away some to the Tower, and left others here to you? He re∣ply'd; those who have transgress'd the Law, which they receiv'd from him, are left in my Power, that they may repent of their Sins: But they who satisfied the Law and kept it, are under his Power. But who then, said I, are those, who went into the Tower Crowned? He reply'd; All such as having striven with the Devil, have overcome him, are Crown'd. And they are those, who have suffer'd in∣juries, that they might keep the Law. But they who gave up their Rods Green, and with young Branches, but without Fruit, have indeed endured Trouble for the same Law, but have not suffer'd Death; but neither have they deny'd their Holy Law: They
who deliver'd up their Rods Green as they received them; are those who were Modest and Just, and have lived with a very Pure Mind, and kept the Commandments of God. The rest thou shalt know, when I shall have consider'd those Rods which I have planted and watered.
IV. AFTER a few days we re∣turn'd, and in the same place stood that great Angel, and I stood by him. Then he said unto me; Gird thy self with a ‖ 1.24 Napkin, and serve me. And I girded my self with a clean Towel, which was made of Coarse Cloath. And when he saw me girded, and ready to minister unto him, he said; Call those Men whose Rods have been planted every one in his Order as they gave them. And he brought me into the Field, and I called them all, and they all stood ready in their several Ranks. Then he said unto them, let every one pluck up his Rod and bring it unto me. And first they deliver'd theirs, whose Rods were Dry and Rotten. And those whose Rods still continued so, he commanded to stand apart. Then they came whose Rods
were Dry but not Rotten. Some of these deliver'd in their Rods Green; Others dry and rotten, as if they had been touch'd by the Moth. Those who gave them up Green, he com∣manded to stand apart: But those whose Rods were dry and rotten, he caused to stand with the first sort. Then came they whose Rods were half dry, and Cleft: Many of these gave up their Rods Green, but still Cleft. Others delivered them up Green with Branches, and Fruit up∣on the Branches, like unto theirs who went Crown'd into the Tower. Others deliver'd them up Dry and Rotten: And some as they were be∣fore, half dry, and cleft. Every one of these he order'd to stand apart, some by themselves, others in their respective Ranks.
V. THEN came they whose Rods were for the most part Green; but cleft. These deliver'd their Rods altogether Green, and stood in their own Order. And the Shepherd rejoiced at these, because they were all even and free from their Clefts. Then they gave in their Rods, who had half Green and
half Dry. Of these some were found wholly Green, others half dry; others green, with young Shoots. And all these were sent away, every one to his proper Rank. Then they gave up their Rods, who had two parts Green, and the rest Dry: Many of these gave in their Rods Green; ma∣ny half dry; the rest dry but not rot∣ten. So these were sent away, each to his proper Place. Then came they who had their Rods two parts Dry and the third Green; many of these delivered up their Rods half dry; others dry and rotten; others half dry and cleft; but few Green. And all these were set every one in his own Rank. Then they reach'd in their Rods, who had them before a third part Green, and the rest dry; Their Rods were for the most part found Green, having little Boughs, with Fruit upon them; and the rest alto∣gether Green. And the Shepherd up∣on sight of these rejoiced exceedingly, because he had sound them thus. And they also went to their proper Or∣ders.
VI. NOW after he had examin'd all their Rods, he said unto me; I told thee that this Tree loved Life: Thou seest how many have repented, and attain'd unto Salvation. Sir, said I, I see it. That thou mightest know, saith he, that the Goodness and Mer∣cy of the LORD is Great and to be had in Honour; who gave his Spirit to them that were worthy of Repentance. I answer'd, Sir, why then did not all of them repent? He reply'd; Those whose Minds the LORD foresaw would be Pure, and that they would serve him with all their Hearts, to them he gave Repentance. But for those whose deceit and wickedness he beheld, and perceived that they would not truly return unto him; to them he deny'd any return unto Repentance, least they should again blaspheme his Law with wicked Words. I said unto him; Now Sir, make known unto me, what is the place of every one of those, who have given up their Rods, and what their ‖ 1.25 Portion; that when they who have not kept their Seal en∣tire, but have cast away the Seal which they received, shall hear and
believe these things, they may ac∣knowledge their Evil-deeds and re∣pent; and receiving again their Seal from you, may give Glory to God, that he was moved with Compassion towards them, and sent you to renew their Spirits. Hearken, said he: They whose Rods have been found dry and rotten, and as it were touch'd with the Moth; are the Deserters, and the Betrayers of the Church. Who with the rest of their Crimes, have also blasphemed the LORD, and deny'd his Name which was called upon them. Therefore all these are Dead unto God; and thou seest that none of them have repented, although they have heard my Commands which thou hast delivered unto them. From these Men therefore Life is far distant. And they also who have deliver'd up their Rods Dry but not Rotten, have not been far from them. For they have been Counterfeits, and brought in Evil-Doctrines; and have perverted the Servants of God; and especially those who had sinn'd, not suffering them to return unto Repentance; but keeping them back by their False Doctrines. These therefore have
Hope; and thou seest that many of them have repented, since the time that thou hast laid my Commands before them; and many more will yet Repent. But they that shall not Re∣pent; both they have lost Patience, and shall lose their Life. But they that have repented, their place is begun to be within the first Walls, and some of them are even gone into the Tower. Thou seest therefore, said he, that in the Repentance of sinners there is Life; but that for them who Repent not, Death is prepared.
VII. HEAR now concerning those who gave in their Rods half dry, and full of Clefts. They whose Rods were only half-dry, are the Doubtful; for they are neither Living nor Dead. But they who deliver'd in their Rods not only half-dry, but also full of Clefts, are both Doubtful and Evil-speakers; who detract from those that are absent, and have never peace among themselves; and that envy one ano∣ther. Howbeit to these there is yet lest space for Repentance; for thou seest that some of these also have re∣pented. Now all those of this kind
who have quickly repented, shall have a place in the Tower; but they who have been more slow in their Repen∣tance, shall dwell within the Walls: But they that shall not repent, but shall continue on in their wicked Do∣ings, shall die the Death. As for those who had their Rods Green, but yet Cleft; they are such as were always Faithful and Good; but who had some Envy and Strife among themselves concerning Dignity and Preheminence. Now all such are Vain and without Understanding, as contend with one another about these things. Never∣theless seeing they are otherwise Good, if when they shall hear these Commands they shall amend them∣selves, and shall at my Perswasion suddainly repent; they shall forthwith begin to dwell in the Tower, as they who have truly and worthily repented. But if any one shall again return to his Dissention, he shall be shut out from the Tower, and shall lose his Life. For the Life of those who keep the Commandments of the LORD, consists in doing what they are com∣manded; not in Principality, or in any other Dignity. For by Patience
and Humility of Mind Men shall at∣tain unto Life; but by Seditions, and Contempt of the Law, they shall pur∣chase Death unto themselves.
VIII. THEY who in their Rods had half Green and half Dry, are those who are engag'd in many Affairs; nor are wholly applied to Holy things. For which Cause half of them liveth, and half is dead. Wherefore many of these since the time that they have heard my Commands, have re∣pented; and begun to live in the Tower. But some of them have whol∣ly fallen away; to these there is no more place for Repentance. For by reason of their present Interests, they have blasphemed and denied God: And for this Wickedness have lost Life. And of these many are still in doubt; these may yet return; and if they shall quickly repent, they shall have a place in the Tower; but if they shall be more slow, they shall dwell within the Walls; but if they shall not repent, they shall die. As for those who had two parts of their Rods Green, and the third Dry; they have deny'd the LORD, by their ma∣nifold
sins. Of these many have re∣pented, and found a place in the Tower; and many have altogether departed from God. These have ut∣terly lost their Lives. And some be∣ing in a doubtful state, have raised up Dissentions: These may yet return, if they shall suddainly repent, and not be with-held by their pleasures; but if they shall continue in their Evil-doings they shall Die.
IX. THEY who gave in their Rods two parts Dry, and the other Green; are those who have indeed been faith∣ful, but withall Rich, and full of good things; and thereupon have desired to be famous ‖ 1.26 among those without, and have thereby fallen into great Pride, and began to aim at high mat∣ters, and to forsake the Truth: Nor did they hold fast to the Righteous, but lived ‖ 1.27 with Strangers; and this Life seem'd the more Pleasant to them. Howbeit they departed not from God, but continued in the Faith; only they did not exercise the Works of Faith. Many therefore of these repented; and began to dwell in the Tower. Yet others still living among strange
People, and being lifted up with their Vanities, have utterly fallen away from God; and follow'd the Works, and Wickednesses of the Heathen. These kind of Men therefore are reckon'd among Strangers to the Go∣spel. Others of these became Doubt∣ful minded; despairing by reason of their wicked doings ever to attain un∣to Salvation: Others being Dubious, stirr'd up Dissentions. To these there∣fore, and to those who by reason of their Doings are become doubtful, there is still hopes of return; but they must repent quickly, that their Place may be in the Tower. But they that repent not, but continue still in their Pleasures; are nigh unto Death.
X. As for those who gave in their Rods Green, excepting their Tops, which only were Dry, and had Clefts; These were always Good, and Faith∣ful, and Approved towards ••od: Nevertheless they sinn'd a little, by reason of their empty Pleasures, and little Disputes which they had among themselves. Wherefore many of them when they heard my words, repented forthwith; and began to dwell in the
Tower. Nevertheless some grew doubtful, and others to their doubt∣ful Minds added Dissentions. To these therefore there is still hope of return, because they were always Good; but they shall hardly be moved. As for those lastly, who gave in their Rods dry, their Tops only excepted, which alone were Green; They are such as have believed indeed in God, but have lived in Wickedness; yet without departing from God: Having always willingly Born the Name of the LORD; and readily received into their Houses the Servants of God. Wherefore hear∣ing these things, they return'd, and without delay repented, and lived in all Righteousness. And some of them suffered Death; others readily under∣went many trials, being mindful of their Evil-doings.
XI. AND when he had ended his Explications of all the Rods, he said unto me; Go, and say unto all Men that they Repent, and they shall live unto God: Because the LORD being moved with great Clemency hath sent me to preach Repentance unto all; even to those who by reason of their
Evil-doings, deserve not to attain unto Salvation. But the LORD will be Pa∣tient, and keep the Invitation that was made by his Son. I said unto him; Sir, I hope that All when they shall hear these things will repent. For I trust that every one acknow∣ledging his Crimes, and taking up the fear of the LORD, will return unto Repentance. He said unto me; Who∣soever shall repent with all their Hearts, and cleanse themselves from all the Evils that I have before men∣tioned; and not add any thing more to their sins, shall receive from the LORD the Cure of their former Ini∣quities; if they shall not make any Doubt of my Commands, and shall live unto God. But they that shall continue to add to their Transgressi∣ons, and shall still converse with the Lusts of this present World, shall Condemn themselves unto Death. But do thou walk in these Commands, and thou shalt live unto God. And who∣soever shall walk in these, and exercise them rightly, shall live unto God. And having shew'd me all these things, he said: I will shew thee the rest in a few days.
I. AFTER I had written the Commands and Similitudes of the Shepherd, the Angel of Repen∣tance; he came unto me, and said to me; I will shew thee all those things which the ‖ 1.28 Spirit spake with thee under the Figure of the Church. For that Spirit is the Son of God. And because thou wert weak in Body, it was not declared unto thee by the Angel, until thou wert strengthened by the Spirit, and encreased in force, that thou mightest also see the Angel. For then indeed the Building of the Tower was gloriously shewn unto thee by the Church; nevertheless thou sawest all things shewn unto thee as it were by a Virgin. But now thou art enlightned by the Angel, but indeed by the same Spirit. But thou must consider all things dili∣gently; for therefore am I sent into thine House by that Venerable * 1.29 Mes∣senger,
that when thou shalt have seen all things powerfully, thou mayst not be afraid as before. And he led me to the Top of a Mountain of Arcadia, and we sate upon its Top. And he shew'd me a great Plain, and about it Twelve Mountains in dif∣ferent Figures. The First was black as Soot. The Second was smooth, without Grass. The Third was full of Thorns and Thistles. The Fourth had Grass half dryed; of which the upper part was green, but that next the Root was dry; and some of the Herbs, when the Sun grew hot, were dry. The Fifth Mountain was very rugged; but yet had green Grass. The Sixth Mountain was full of Clefts, some lesser, and some greater; and in those Clefts grew Grass, not flourishing, but which seem'd to be withering. The Seventh Mountain had delightful Pasture; and was wholly fruitful; and all kinds of Cattle, and of the Birds of Heaven, fed upon it; and the more they fed of it, the more and better did the Grass grow. The Eighth Mountain was full of Fountains, and from those Fountains were water'd all kinds of
the Creatures of God. The Ninth Mountain had no Water at all, but was wholly destitute of it; and nou∣rish'd deadly Serpents, and de∣structive to Men. The Tenth Moun∣tain was full of tall Trees, and alto∣gether shady; and under the Shade of them lay Cattle resting and chew∣ing the Cud. The Eleventh Moun∣tain was full of the thickest Trees; and those Trees seem'd to be loaded with several sorts of Fruits; that whosoever saw them could not chuse but desire to eat of their Fruit. The Twelfth Mountain was altogether white, and of a most pleasant As∣pect, and its self gave a most excel∣lent Beauty to its self.
II. IN the middle of the ‖ 1.30 Plain he shew'd me a huge white Rock, which rose out of the Plain, and the Rock was higher than those Moun∣tains, and was square; so that it seem'd capable of supporting the whole World. It look'd to me to be old, yet had in it a new Gate, which seem'd to have been newly hewn out in it. Now that Gate was bright be∣yond the Sun its self; insomuch that
I greatly admired at its Light. About that Gate stood Twelve Virgins; of which Four that stood at the Cor∣ners of the Gate, seem'd to me to be the Chiefest; although the rest also were of worth, and they stood in the four parts of the Gate. It added also to the Grace of those Virgins, that they stood in pairs, cloathed with linnen Garments, and decently girded, their right Arms being at li∣berty, as if they were about to lift up a Hook, for so they were adorn'd; and were exceeding chearful and ready. When I saw this, I wonder'd with my self to see such great and noble things. And again I admir'd upon the Account of those Virgins, that they were so handsom and deli∣cate; and stood with such Firmness and Constancy, as if they would carry the whole Heaven. And as I was thinking thus within my self; the Shepherd said unto me; What thinkest thou within thy self, and art disquieted, and fillest thy self with Care? Do not seem to consider as if thou wert wise what thou dost not understand, but pray unto the LORD, that thou mayst have Ability
to understand it: What is to come thou canst not understand, but s••••st that which is before thee. Be not therefore disquieted at those things which thou canst not see; but get the Understanding of those which thou seest. Forbear to be curious: And I will shew thee all things that I ought to declare unto thee; but first consider what yet remains.
III. AND when he had said this unto me, I looked up, and behold I saw Six tall and Venerable Men coming; their Countenances were all alike; and they call'd a certain Multitude of Men; and they who came at their Call were also tall and stout. And those six commanded them to build a certain Tower over that Gate. And immediately there began to be a great Noise of those Men running here and there about the Gate, who were come together to build the Tower. Now those Vir∣gins which stood about the Gate per∣ceived that the Building of the Tower was to be hastned on by them. And they stretched out their Hands, as if they were about to receive somewhat
from them. Then those six Men commanded, that they should lift up Stones out of a certain deep place, and prepare them for the Building of the Tower. And there were lifted up ten white Stones, square, and † 1.31 not cut round. Then those six Men called the Virgins to them, and commanded them to carry all the Stones that were to be put into the Building; and having carried them through the Gate to deliver them to those that were about to build that Tower. Immediately the Virgins be∣gan to lift up all of them together those Stones, that were before taken out of the Deep.
IV. AND they also who stood about the Gate did carry Stones in such a manner, that those Stones which seem'd to be the strongest were laid at the Corners, the rest were put into the Sides; and thus they carried all the Stones, and bring∣ing them through the Gate, deliver'd them to the Builders, as they had been commanded. Now they re∣ceiving them at their Hands built with them. The Building was made
upon that great Rock, and over the Gate; and by these the whole Tower was supported. But the Building of the Ten Stones fill'd the whole Gate, which began to be made at the Foun∣dation of that Tower. After those ten Stones were five and twenty others lifted up out of the Deep; and these were placed in the Building of the same Tower; being lifted up by those Virgins, as the others had been before. After these were five and thirty others lifted up; and these were also in like manner fitted into the same Work. Then forty other Stones were brought up, and all these were added unto the Building of that Tower. So there began to be four Ranks in the Foundation of that Tower; and the Stones began to cease to be drawn out of the Deep; and they also which built rested a lit∣tle. Again, those six Men commanded the Multitude, that they should bring Stones out of those twelve Mountains to the Building of the same Tower. So they cut out of all the Moun∣tains Stones of divers Colours, and brought them, and gave them to the Virgins; which when they had re∣ceived
they reach'd them up, and carried them into the Building of the Tower. In which when they were built they became white, and different from what they were before; for they were all alike, and did change their former Colours. And some were reach'd up by the Men themselves, which when they came into the Building, continued such as they were put in. These neither became white, nor different from what they were before; because they were not carried by the Virgins through the Gate. Wherefore these Stones were disagreeable in the Building; which when those six Men perceived, they commanded them to be removed, and put again in the place from which they were brought. And they said to those who brought those Stones: Do not ye reach up to us any Stones for this Building; but lay them down by the Tower, that these Virgins may take them up and reach them to us. For unless they shall be car∣ried by these Virgins through this Gate, they cannot change their Co∣lours: Therefore do not labour in vain.
V. SO the Building that day was ended, howbeit the Tower was not finish'd; for it was afterwards to be built, therefore now also there was some delay made of it. And those six Men commanded those that built to depart, and as it were to rest for some time; but they order'd those Vir∣gins that they should not depart from the Tower: Now they seem'd to me to be left for the guarding of it. When all were departed, I said unto that Shepherd; Sir, Why is not the Building of the Tower finish'd? Be∣cause it cannot, said he, be finish'd until its Lord comes, and approves of the Building; that if he shall find any Stones in it that are not good they may be changed; for this Tower is built according to his Will. Sir, said I, I would know, what the Building of this Tower signifies; as also I would be inform'd concerning this Rock, and this Gate, and con∣cerning the Mountains, and the Vir∣gins, and the Stones that were drawn out of the Deep, and not cut, but put into the Building just as they came forth; and why the ten Stones
were first laid in the Foundation; then the twenty five; then thirty five; then forty? Also concerning those Stones that were put into the Building, and again taken out, and carried back into their place? Ful∣fil, I pray, the desire of my Soul as to all these things, and manifest all unto me. And he said unto me; If thou shalt not be dull, thou shalt know all, and shalt see all the other things that are about to happen in this Tower; and shalt understand diligently all these Similitudes. And after a few days we came into the same place where we had sate before; and he said unto me, Let us go unto the Tower; for the LORD of it will come and examine it. So we came thither, and found none but those Virgins there. And he asked them, whether the LORD of that Tower was come thither? And they re∣ply'd, that he would be there present∣ly, to examine the Building.
VI. AFTER a very little while I saw a great Multitude of Men coming, and in the middle of them a Man so tall, that he surpassed the
Tower in Bigness. And about him were those six, who before com∣manded in the Building, and all the rest of those who had built that Tower, and many others of great Dignity: And the Virgins that kept the Tower ran to meet him, and kissed him, and began to walk near unto him. But he examined the Build∣ing with so much care that he hand∣led every Stone; and strook every one with a Rod which he held in his Hand; of which some being so struck turn'd black as Soot; others were rough; some looked as if they had Cracks in them; others seem'd maimed; some neither black nor white; some look'd sharp, and a∣greed not with the other Stones, and others were full of Spots. These were the several kinds of these Stones which were not found proper in the Building: All which the LORD commanded to be taken out of the Tower, and laid near it, and other Stones to be brought, and put in their Places. And they that built, ask'd him from which of the Mountains he would have Stones brought to put in the Place of those that were laid
aside: But he forbad them to bring any from the Mountains, and com∣manded that they should take them out of a certain Field that was near: So they digged in that Field, and found many bright square Stones, and some also that were round. How∣beit all that were found in that Field were taken away, and carried through the Gate by those Virgins; and those of them that were square were fitted and put into the places of those that were pulled out. But the round ones were not put into the Building, be∣cause they were hard, and it would have required too much time to ••ut them; but they were placed about the Tower, as if they should here∣after be cut square, and put into the Building; for they were very white.
VII. WHEN he who was chief in Dignity, and LORD of the whole Tower saw this, he called to him the Shepherd that was with me, and gave him the Stones that were re∣jected and laid about the Tower, and said unto him; Cleanse these Stones with all Care, and fit them into the
Building of the Tower, that they may agree with the rest; but those that will not suit with the rest, cast away afar from off from the Tower. When he had thus commanded him, he departed, with all those that came with him to the Tower: But those Virgins still stood about the Tower to keep it. And I said unto that Shepherd; How can these Stones, seeing they have been rejected, re∣turn into the Building of this Tower? He reply'd; I will cut off the greatest part from these Stones, and will add them to the Building, and they will agree with the rest. And I said, Sir, How will they be able to fill the same place, when they shall be so much cut away? He answer'd; They that shall be found too little shall be put into the middle of the Building, and the greater shall be placed without, and keep them in. When he had said thus unto me, he added; Let us go, and after three days we will return, and I will put these Stones, being cleansed, into the Tower: For all these that are about the Tower must be cleansed, least the Master of the House chance to
come upon the suddain, and find those which are about the Tower, un∣clean, and so shall despise them; and these Stones shall not be put into this Building, and I shall be look'd upon to have been negligent. When therefore we came after three days to the Tower, he said unto me; Let us examin all these Stones, and let us see which of them may go into the Building. I answer'd, Sir, Let us see.
VIII. AND first of all we began to consider those which had been Black; for they were found just such as they were when they were pull'd out of the Tower: Wherefore he commanded them to be removed from the Tower, and put by themselves. Then he examined those which had been rough; and commanded many of those to be cut round, and to be fitted by the Virgins into the Build∣ing of the Tower: So they took them, and fitted them into the middle of the Building; and he commanded the rest to be laid by with the Black Ones, for they also were become Black. Next he considered those which
were full of Cracks; and many of those also he order'd to be pared away, and so to be added to the rest of the Building, by the same Virgins: These were placed without, because they were found entire; but the residue through the multitude of their Cracks could not be reform'd, and therefore were cast away from the Building of the Tower. Then he consider'd those that were maimed; many of these had Cracks, and were become Black: Others had large Clefts: These he commanded to be placed with those that were rejected; but the rest being cleansed and reform'd, he command∣ed to be put into the Building: These therefore those Virgins took up, and fitted into the Middle of the Build∣ing; because they were but Weak. After these he examined those which were found half White and half Black; and many of those were now Black; These also he order'd to be laid among those that were cast away. The rest were found altogether White; those were taken up by the Virgins, and fitted into the same Tower: ‖ 1.32 And these were put in the outside, because they were found entire; that so they
might keep in those that were placed in the middle; for nothing was cut off from them. Next he look'd upon those which were Hard and Sharp; But few of these were made use of, because they could not be Cut: For they were found very hard; but the rest were form'd, and fitted by the Virgins in∣to the middle of the Building, because they were more weak. Then he con∣sider'd those which had Spots; of these a few were found Black, and these were carried to their Fellows. The rest were White and Entire; and they were fitted by the Virgins into the Building, and placed in the Out∣side, by reason of their Strength.
IX. AFTER this he came to con∣sider those Stones which were White and Round; and he said unto me, What shall we do with these Stones? I answer'd, Sir, I cannot tell. He re∣ply'd, Canst thou think of nothing then for these? I answer'd, Sir, I un∣derstand not this Art; neither am I a Stone-Cutter, nor can I tell any thing. And he said, Seest thou not that they are very Round? Now to make them Square, I must cut off a
great deal from them; Howbeit it is necessary that some of these should go into the Building of the Tower: I answer'd; If it be Necessary, why do you perplex your self, and not ra∣ther chuse, if you have any Choice among them, and fit them into the Building? Upon this he chose out the largest and brightest, and squared them; which when he had done the Virgins took them up, and placed them in the Outside of the Building. And the rest that remained, were car∣ried back into the same Field from which they were taken: Howbeit they were not cast away; Because, said he, there is yet a little wanting to this Tower, which is to be Built; and perhaps the LORD will have these Stones fitted into this Building, be∣cause they are exceeding White. Then were there called twelve very Stately Women, cloath'd with a Black Gar∣ment, girded, and their Shoulders free, and their Hair loose. These seem'd to me to be Country Women. And the Shepherd commanded them to take up those Stones which were cast out of the Building, and carry them back to the Mountains out of
which they were taken. And they took them up joyfully, and carried them back to their Places from whence they had been taken. When not one Stone remain'd about the Tower, he said unto me; let us go about this Tower, and see that nothing be want∣ing to it. We began therefore to go round it; and when he saw that it was handsomely Built, he began to be very Glad: for it was so beauti∣fully framed, that any one that had seen it must have been in Love with the Building: For it seem'd to be all but one Stone, nor did a joynt any where appear; but it look'd as if it had all been cut out of One Rock.
X. AND when I diligently consi∣der'd what a Tower it was, I was extremely pleased; And he said unto me, Bring hither some Lime and little Shells, that I may fill up the Spaces of those Stones that were taken out of the Building, and put in again; for all things about the Tower, must be made Even. And I did as he com∣manded me, and brought them unto him; And he said unto me, Be ready to Help me, and this Work will quick∣ly
be finish'd. He therefore filled up the Spaces of those Stones, and com∣manded the place about the Tower to be cleansed. Then those Virgins took Beasoms, and cleansed all the place around, and took away all the Rubbish, and threw on Water. Which being done, the place became delight∣ful, and the Tower Beauteous. Then he said unto me; All is now Clean: If the LORD should come to finish the Tower, he will find nothing where∣by to complain of us. When he had said this he would have departed. But I laid hold on his Bag, and began to entreat him for the LORD's sake, that he would explain to me all things that he had shewn me. He said unto me, I have at present a little business; but I will suddainly explain all things un∣to thee. Tarry here for me till I come. I said unto him; Sir, What shall I do here alone? He answer'd, Thou art not alone, seeing all these Virgins are with thee. I said; Sir, Deliver me then unto them. Then he called them, and said unto them; I commend this Man unto you till I shall come. So I remain'd with those Virgins; Now they were Chearful
and Courteous unto me; especially the four, which seem'd to be the Chiefest among them.
XI. THEN those Virgins said un∣to me; that Shepherd will not return hither to day. I said unto them; What then shall I do? They answer'd, Tarry for him till the Evening, if perhaps he may come and speak with thee; But if not, yet thou shalt con∣tinue with us till he do's come. I said unto them, I will tarry for him till Evening; but if he comes not by that time I will go home, and return hi∣ther again the next Morning. They answered me; thou art deliver'd un∣to us, thou mayst not depart from us. I said, Where shall I tarry? They re∣plied; Thou shalt sleep with us as a Brother, not as a Husband: For thou art our Brother, and we are ready from henceforth to dwell with thee; for thou art very dear to us. Howbeit I was ashamed to continue with them. But she that seem'd to be the chiefest amongst them, em∣braced me, and began to kiss me. And the rest when they saw that I was kissed by her, began also to kiss
me as a Brother; and led me about the Tower, and play'd with me. Some of them also sung Psalms, o∣thers made up the Chorus with them. But I walked about the Tower with them, rejoycing silently and seem∣ing to my self to be grown young a∣gain. And when the Evening came on, I would forthwith have gone home, but they with-held me, and suffer'd me not to depart. Where∣fore I continued with them that Night near the same Tower. So they spread their Linnen Garments upon the Ground; and placed me in the middle, nor did they any thing else but Pray. I also pray'd with them without ceasing, no less than they. Who when they saw me pray in that manner, rejoyced greatly; and I continued there with them till the next day. And when we had worship'd God, then the Shepherd came and said unto them; You have done no Injury to this Man. They answer'd, Ask him. I said unto him, Sir, I have received a great deal of Satisfaction in that I have remained with them. And he said unto me, How didst thou sup? I answered,
Sir, I feasted the whole Night upon the Words of the LORD. They re∣ceived thee well then, said he? I said, Sir, Very well. He answer'd, Wilt thou now learn what thou didst desire? I reply'd, Sir, I will: And first I pray thee that thou shouldst shew me all things in the Order that I asked them. He answer'd. I will do all as thou wouldst have me, nor will I hide any thing from thee.
XII. FIRST of all Sir, said I, Tell me, what this Rock and this Gate denote? Hearken said he; This Rock, and this Gate are the Son of God. I reply'd, Sir, How can that be; seeing the Rock is old, but the Gate new? Hear, said he, O foolish Man! and understand. The Son of God is indeed more antient than any Creature; insomuch that he was in Council with his Father at the Cre∣ation of all things. But the Gate is therefore new, because he appear'd in the last days at the fulness of time; that they who shall attain unto Sal∣vation, may by it enter into the Kingdom of God. You have seen,
said he, those Stones which were carried through the Gate, how they were placed in the Building of the Tower; but that those which were not carried through the Gate, were sent away into their own places? I answer'd, Sir, I saw it. Thus, said he, No Man shall enter into the Kingdom of God, but he who shall take upon him the Name of the Son of God. For if you would enter in∣to any City, and that City should be encompassed with a Wall, and had only one Gate, could you enter into that City except by the Gate which it has? I answer'd, Sir, How could I do otherwise? As therefore, said he, there would be no other way of entring into that City but by its Gate, so neither can any one enter into the Kingdom of God, but only by the Name of the Son of God, who is most dear unto him. And he said unto me, Didst thou see the Multi∣tude that built that Tower? Sir, said I, I saw it. He answer'd, All those are the Angels, venerable in their Dignity. With these is the LORD encompassed as with a Wall; but the Gate is the Son of God; who is the
only Way of coming unto God. For no Man shall enter into the Kingdom of God by any other Way, but on∣ly by his Son. Thou sawest also, said he, the six Men, and in the middle of them that Tall, Great Man, who walk'd about the Tower, and rejected the Stones out of the Tower? Sir, said I, I saw them. He answer'd, that Man was the glorious Son of God; and those six were his Angels of most eminent Dignity, which stand about him on the Right Hand and on the Left. Of these excellent Angels none comes in unto God with∣out him. He added; Whosoever there∣fore shall not take upon him his Name, he shall not enter into the Kingdom of God.
XIII. THEN he said, What is this Tower? This said he, is the Church. And what, Sir, are these Virgins? He said unto me, these are the Holy Spirits; for no Man can enter into the Kingdom of God ex∣cept these cloath him with their Garment. For it will avail thee no∣thing to take up the Name of the Son of God, unless thou shalt also receive
their Garment from them. For these Virgins are the Powers of the Son of God. So shall a Man in vain carry his Name, unless he shall also carry his Powers. And he said unto me; Sawest thou those Stones that were cast away? They carried indeed the Name, but put not on their Gar∣ment. I said, Sir, What is their Garment? ‖ 1.33 Their very Names, said he, are their Garment. Therefore whosoever carries the Name of the Son of God, ought to carry their Names also; for the Son of God also himself carrieth their Names. As for those Stones, continued he, which being deliver'd by their Hands, thou sawest remain in the Building, they were cloathed with their Power; for which cause thou seest the whole Tower of the same † 1.34 Colour with the Rock, and made as it were of one Stone. So also those who have believed in God by his Son, have put on this Spirit. Behold there shall be one Spirit, and one Body, and one Colour of their Garments: And all they shall attain this, who shall carry the Names of these Virgins. And I said, Sir, Why then were
those Stones cast away which were rejected; seeing they also were car∣ried through the Gate; and deli∣vered by the Hands of these Vir∣gins into the Building of this Tower? Seeing, said he, thou takest care to enquire diligently into all things; hear also concerning those Stones which were rejected. All these re∣ceived the Name of the Son of God, and with that the Power of these Vir∣gins. Having therefore received these Spirits they were perfected, and brought into the Number of the Ser∣vants of God; and they began to be one Body, and to have one Gar∣ment; for they were sensible of the same Righteousness, which they a∣like exercised. But after that they beheld those Women which thou sawest cloathed with a black Gar∣ment, with their Shoulders at Liber∣ty and their Hair loose; they fix'd their Desires upon them, being tempted with their Beauty; and were cloathed with their Power, and cast off the Cloathing of the Virgins. Therefore were they cast off from the House of God, and de∣livered to those Women. But they
that were not corrupted with their Beauty, remained in the House of God. This, said he, is the signifi∣cation of those Stones which were re∣jected.
XIV. AND I said: Sir, What if any of these Men shall repent, and cast away their desire of those Wo∣men, and be converted, and return to these Virgins, and put on again their Vertue; shall they not enter into the House of God? They shall enter, said he, if they shall lay aside all the Works of those Women, and shall resume the Power of these Vir∣gins, and shall walk in their Works. And for this Cause there is a stop in the Building, that if they shall re∣pent, they may be added to the Build∣ing of this Tower; but if they shall not repent, that others may be built in their places, and they be utterly cast away. For all these things I gave Thanks unto the LORD, that be∣ing moved with Mercy towards all those upon whom his Name is called, he sent to us the Angel of Repentance to preside over us who have sinned against him; and that
he has renew'd our Spirits which were almost gone, and who had no hope of Salvation, but are now re∣freshed to the Renewal of Life. Then I said; Shew me now Sir, Why this Tower is not built upon the Ground, but upon a Rock, and upon the Gate? He replied; Thou art yet foolish and without Under∣standing, seeing thou askest this. And I said; Sir, I must needs ask all things of you, because I understand nothing. For all your Answers are great and excellent; and which a Man can hardly understand. Hear, said he: The Name of the Son of God is great and without Bounds, and the whole World is supported by it. If therefore, said I, every Crea∣ture of God be sustain'd by his Son; Why do's he not support those also who have been invited by him, and who carry his Name, and walk in his Commandments? Seest thou not, said he, that he do's support them, who with all their Heart carry his Name? He therefore is their Foun∣dation, and gladly supports those who do not deny his Name, but wil∣lingly bear it.
XV. AND I said: Sir, tell me, the Names of these Virgins; and of those Women that were cloathed with the black Garment. Hear, said he, the Names of those Virgins which are the more powerful, and stand at the Corners of the Gate. These are their Names: The First is called ‖ 1.35 Faith; the Second, Absti∣nence; the Third, Power; the Fourth, Patience; the rest which stand beneath these are, Simplicity; Innocence; Chastity; Chearfulness; Truth; Understanding; Concord; and Charity. Whosoever therefore carry these Names, and the Name of the Son God, shall enter into the Kingdom of God. Hear now, said he, the Names of those Women, which were cloathed with the black Garment. Of these, Four are the prin∣cipal; the First is Perfidiousness; the Second, Intemperance; the Third, Infidelity; the Fourth, Pleasure. And the rest which follow are called thus, Sadness; Malice; Lust; Anger; Lying; Foolishness; Pride, and Ha∣tred. The Servant of God which carries these Spirits, shall see indeed the Kingdom of God, but he shall
not enter into it. But Sir, what are those Stones which were taken out of the Deep and fitted into the Build∣ing? Then ten, said he, which were placed at the Foundation, are the first Age; the following five and twenty, the second, of Righteous Men. The next thirty five, are the Prophets and Ministers of the LORD. And the forty, are the Apostles and Doctors of the Preaching of the Son of God. And I said, Sir, Why did the Virgins carry even these Stones also through the Gate, and so put them into the Building? And he said, Because these first Spirits carried them; and they departed not one from the other, nei∣ther the Men from the Spirits, nor the Spirits from the Men; but the Spirits were joyned to those Men e∣ven to the day of their Death; who if they had not had these Spirits with them they could not have been useful to the Building of this Tower.
XVI. AND I said; Sir, Shew me this farther. He answer'd, What do'st thou demand? Why did these Stones come out of the Deep, and were placed into the Building of this
Tower, seeing that they long ago carried their just Spirits? † 1.36 It was necessary, said he, for them to ascend by Water, and so to be at rest. For they could not otherwise enter into the Kingdom of God, but by laying aside the Mortality of their former Life. They therefore being dead, were nevertheless sealed with the Seal of the Son of God, and so entred in∣to the Kingdom of God. For be∣fore a Man receives the Name of the Son of God, he is ordained unto Death; but when he receives the Seal he is freed from Death, and delivered unto Life. Now that Seal is Water, into which Men go down under the Obligation unto Death, but come up appointed unto Life. Wherefore to those also was this Seal ‖ 1.37 preached, and they made use of it, that they might enter into the Kingdom of God. And I said; Why then, Sir, did these forty Stones also ascend with them out of the Deep, having already received that Seal? He an∣swered; * 1.38 Because these Apostles and Teachers, who preached the Name of the Son of God, dying af∣ter they had received his Faith and
Power, preached to them who were dead before; and they gave this Seal to them. They went down therefore into the Water with them, and again came up. But these went down a∣live; whereas those, who were be∣fore dead, went down dead, but came up alive. Through these therefore they received Life and knew the Son of God: For which Cause they came up with them, and agreed in the Building of the Tower; and were not cut, but put in intire; because they dyed in great Purity being full of Righteousness; only this Seal was wanting to them. Thus you have the Explication of these things.
XVII. I ANSWER'D: Sir, Tell me now what concerns those Moun∣tains, why they are so different; some of one Form, and some of another. Hear, said he: These Twelve Moun∣tains which thou seest, are Twelve Nations, which make up the whole World. Wherefore the Son of God is preached to them, by those whom he sent unto them. But why, said I, are they different, and every one of a several Figure? He replied;
Hearken. Those Twelve Nations which possess the whole World, are Twelve Peoples: And as thou hast beheld these Mountains different, so are they. I will therefore open to thee the Meaning, and Actions of every Mountain. But first, Sir, said I, shew me this: Seeing these Moun∣tains are so different, how have they agreed into the Building of this Tower; and are no less bright than those which came out of the Deep? Because, reply'd he, all the Nations under Heaven, that have heard and believed, have been called in the same one Name of the Son of God. Where∣fore having received his Seal, they have all been made Partakers of the same Prudence and * 1.39 Knowledge; and their Faith and Charity have been the same; and they have carried the Spirits of these Virgins with his Name. And therefore the Building of this Tower seemed of the same Colour, and did shine like the Bright∣ness of the Sun. Howbeit after that they were thus perswaded, and that there began to be one Body of them all, some among them polluted them∣selves, and were cast off from the
Generation of the Righteous, and again return'd to their former State, and became even worse than they were before.
XVIII. HOW, said I, Sir, were they worse who knew the LORD? He answer'd; If he who knows not the LORD liveth wickedly, the Pu∣nishment of his Wickedness attends him. But he who has known the LORD, ought to abstain altogether from all Wickedness, and more and more be the Servant of Righteous∣ness. And do's not he then seem to thee to sin more who ought to follow Goodness, if he shall prefer the part of Sin; than he who offends with∣out knowing the Vertue of God? Wherefore these are indeed or∣dain'd unto Death; But they who have known the LORD, and have seen his wonderful Works, if they shall live wickedly, they shall be doubly punish'd, and shall die for e∣ver. As therefore thou hast seen that after the Stones were cast out of the Tower, which had been re∣jected; they were deliver'd to wicked and cruel Spirits; and thou beheldst
the Tower so cleansed, as if it had all been made of one Stone: ‖ 1.40 So the Church of God, when it shall be pu∣rified; (the Wicked and Counter∣feits, the Mischeivous and Doubtful, and all that have behaved themselves wickedly in it, and committed di∣vers kinds of Sin, being cast out;) shall become one Body, and there shall be one Understanding, one O∣pinion, one Faith, and the same Chari∣ty. Then shall the son of God rejoice among them; and shall receive his People with a pure Will. And I said; Sir, All these things are great and honourable: But now shew unto me the Effect and Force of every Moun∣tain; that every Soul which trusteth in the LORD, when it shall hear these things, many honour his Great, and Wonderful, and Holy Name. Hear, said he, the Variety of these Moun∣tains, that is, of the twelve Nations.
XIX. THEY who have believed of the first Mountain, which is Black, are those who have revolted from the Faith; and spoken wicked things against the LORD; and betray'd the Servants of God. To these Death
is proposed, but there is no Repen∣tance for them: And therefore they are Black, because their kind is wicked. Of the second Mountain which was Smooth, are the † 1.41 Hypo∣crites, who have believed, and the Teachers of Naughtiness: And these are next to the foregoing, which have not in them the Fruit of Righteous∣ness. For as their Mountain is bar∣ren, and without Fruit; so also such kind of Men have indeed the Name of Christians, but are empty of Faith; nor is there any Fruit of the Truth in them. Nevertheless there is room left to them for Repentance, if they shall suddainly pursue it: But if they shall delay, they also shall be Par∣takers of Death with the foregoing kind. I said, Sir, Why is there room left to those for Repentance, and not to the foregoing kind, seeing their Sins are well nigh the same? There is therefore, said he, to these a return unto Life, because they have not blasphemed their LORD, nor be∣tray'd the Servants of God: But by their desire of Gain have deceived Men, leading them according to the desires of Sinners; wherefore they
shall suffer for this thing. Howbeit there is still left them room for Re∣pentance, because they have not spoken any thing wickedly against their LORD.
XX. THEY who are of the third Mountain which had Thorns and Brambles, are those who believed, but were some of them Rich, others taken up with many Affairs: The Brambles are their Riches; the Thorns, those Affairs in which they were engaged. Now they who are entangled in much Business, and in Diversity of Affairs, joyn not them∣selves to the Servants of God, but wander, being called away by those Affairs with which they are choaked. And so they which are rich, with difficulty yield themselves to the * 1.42 Conversation of the Servants of God; fearing least any thing should be ask'd of them. These therefore shall hardly enter into the Kingdom of God. For as Men walk with dif∣ficulty bare-foot over Thorns; even so these kind of Men, shall scarcely enter into the Kingdom of God. Ne∣vertheless there is afforded to all these
a return unto Repentance; if so be they shall quickly return to it; that because in their former days they have neglected to work, in the time that is to come they may do some Good. If therefore having repented they shall do the Works of Righte∣ousness, they shall live: But if they shall continue in their Evil Courses, they shall be deliver'd to those Wo∣men that will take away their Life.
XXI AS for the fourth Mountain, which had much Grass, the upper part of which is green, but the rest dry, and some of which being touch'd with the Heat of the Sun, is wither'd; it denotes the doubtful, who have believed, and some others who carry the LORD in their Tongues, but have him not in their Heart: Therefore their Grass is dry, and without Root; because they live only in Words, but their Works are dead. These there∣fore are neither dead nor living, and withal are doubtful. For the Doubt∣ful are neither Green nor Dry, that is, neither Dead nor Alive. For as their Grass dries away at the Sight
of the Sun; so the Doubtful as soon as they hear of Persecution, and fear Inconveniences, return to their Idols, and again serve them, and are ashamed to bear the Name of their LORD. This kind of Men then is neither Dead nor Alive; neverthe∣less these also may live, if they shall presently repent: But if not, they shall be delivered to those Women, who shall take away their Life.
XXII. AS concerning the fifth Mountain that is craggy, and yet has green Grass: They are of this kind who have believed, and are Faithful indeed, but believe with Difficulty; and are bold, and self-conceited; that would be thought to know all things, but really know nothing. Where∣fore by reason of this Confidence Knowledge is departed from them, and a rash Presumption is entred into them. But they carry themselves high, and as prudent Men; and though they are Fools, yet would seem to be Teachers. Now by reason of this Folly many of them whilst they mag∣nifie themselves, are become vain and empty. For Boldness and vain
Confidence is a great Seducer. Where∣fore many of these are cast away: But others acknowledging their Er∣ror, have repented, and submitted themselves to those who are know∣ing: And to all the rest of this kind there is Repentance allow'd; foras∣much as they were not so much wicked as foolish, and void of Un∣derstanding. If these therefore shall repent, they shall live unto God; but if not, they shall dwell with those Women, who shall exercise their Wickedness upon them.
XXIII. FOR what concerns the sixth Mountain having greater and lesser Clefts, they are such as have believed; but those in which were the lesser Clefts are they who have had Controversies among themselves; and by reason of their Quarrels lan∣guish in the Faith: Nevertheless many of these have repented, and so will the rest when they shall hear my Commands; for their Contro∣versies are but small, and they will easily return unto Repentance. But those who have the greater Clefts, will be as stiff Stones, mindful of
Grudges and Offences, and practising Anger among themselves. These therefore are cast from the Tower, and rejected to be put into its Build∣ing; therefore this kind of Men shall hardly live. Our God and LORD, who ruleth over all things, and has Power over all his Creatures, will not remember our Offences, but is easily appeased by those who confess their Sins: But Man being Languid, Mortal, Infirm, and full of Sins, per∣severes in his Anger against Man; as if it were in his Power to save or to destroy him. But I, as the Angel who am set over your Repentance, ad∣monish you, that whosoever among you has any such purpose he would lay it aside, and return unto Repen∣tance; and the LORD will provide Remedies for your former Sins, if you shall purge your selves from this Evil Spirit; but if you shall not do it, ye shall be delivered to him unto Death.
XXIV. AS for the seventh Moun∣tain in which the Grass was green and flourishing, and the whole Mountain fruitful; and all kind of Cattel fed
upon the Grass of it; and the more the Grass was eaten, so much the more it flourished; they are such as believed, and were always good and upright; and without any Differen∣ces among themselves, but still re∣joyced in all the Servants of God, having put on the Spirit of these Vir∣gins; and been always ready to shew Mercy to all Men, and easi∣ly giving to all Men of their La∣bours without upbraiding, and with∣out Deliberation. Wherefore the LORD seeing their Simplicity and ‖ 1.43 Innocence, has encreased them in the Works of their Hands, and given them Grace in all their Works. But I, who am appointed over your Re∣pentance exhort you, that as many as are of this kind would continue in the same purpose, that your Seed may not be rooted out for ever. For the LORD hath try'd you, and writ∣ten you into our Number; and all your Seed shall dwell with the Son of God; for ye are all of his Spirit.
XXV. AS concerning the eighth Mountain in which were a great
many Springs, by which every kind of all the Creatures of God was wa∣tered; they are such as have believed the Apostles which the LORD sent in∣to all the World to preach; and some Teachers who have preached and taught purely and sincerely, and have not in the least yielded to any Evil Desires, but have constantly walked in Righteousness and Truth. These therefore have their Conversation a∣mong the Angels.
XXVI. AGAIN; as for what con∣cerns the ninth Mountain which was desert, and full of Serpents; they are such as have believed, but had many Stains: These are such Mi∣nisters as discharge their Ministry amiss; ravishing away the Goods of the Widows and Fatherless; and serve themselves, not others, out of those things which they have re∣ceived. These, if they continue in this Covetousness, shall deliver them∣selves unto Death, nor shall there be any hope of Life for them. But if they shall be converted, and shall dis∣charge their Ministry sincerely, they may live. As for those which were
found rough; they are such as have deny'd the Name of the LORD, and not return'd again to the LORD, but have become savage, and wild; not applying themselves to the Servants of God; but being separated from them, have for the sake of a little Anxiety lost their Lives. For as a Vine that is forsaken in a Hedge, and never dress'd, perishes and is choak∣ed by the Weeds, and in time be∣comes wild; and ceases to be useful to its LORD. So this kind of Men despairing of themselves, and being made sour, have begun to be unpro∣fitable to their LORD. Howbeit to these there is at last Repentance al∣low'd, if they shall not be found from their Hearts to have denied Christ: But if any of these shall be found to have denied him from his Heart, I cannot tell whether such a one can attain unto Life. And I say there∣fore, that if in these Days any one has denied, he should return unto Re∣pentance; for it cannot be that any one who now denies the LORD, can afterwards attain unto Salvation: Nevertheless Repentance is proposed unto them, who have formerly de∣ny'd.
But he who will repent must hasten on his Repentance, before the Building of this Tower is finished: Or if not, he shall be delivered by those Women unto Death. But they that are maimed, are the Deceit∣ful; and those who mix one with another: These are the Serpents that you saw in that Mountain. For as the Poyson of Serpents is deadly un∣to Men; So the Words of such Per∣sons infect and destroy Men. They are therefore maimed in their Faith, by reason of that kind of Life in which they lead. Howbeit some of them, having repented, have been saved; and so shall others of the same kind be saved, if they shall repent; but if not, they shall die by those Women whose Power and Force they enjoy.
XXVII. FOR what concerns the tenth Mountain, in which were the Trees covering the Cattle, they are such as have believed; and some of them been Bishops, that is, Go∣vernours of the Churches. Others, are such Stones, as have not feigned∣ly, but with a chearful Mind enter∣tain'd
the Servants of God. Then such as have been set over inferior Ministries; and have protected the Poor and the Widows; and have al∣ways kept a chast Conversation; therefore they also are protected by the LORD. Whosoever shall do on this wise, are honour'd with the LORD; and their Place is among the Angels, if they shall continue to o∣bey the LORD even unto the End.
XXVIII. AS to the eleventh Moun∣tain in which were Trees loaded with several sorts of Fruits; they are such as have believed, and suffered Death for the Name of the LORD; and have endured with a ready Mind, and have given up their Lives with all their Hearts. And I said, Why then Sir, have all these Fruit; but some fairer than others? Hearken, said he: Whosoever have suffered for the Name of the LORD are esteemed ho∣nourable by the LORD; and all their Offences are blotted out, because they have suffered Death for the Name of the Son of God. Hear now, why their Fruits are different, and some of them excel others. They who
being brought before Magistrates, and being ask'd, deny'd not the LORD, but suffered with a ready Mind; these are more honourable with the LORD. The Fruits therefore that are the most fair are these. But they who were fearful and doubtful; and have deliberated with themselves whether they should confess or deny Christ; and yet have suffered; their Fruits are smaller, because that this Thought came into their Hearts: For it is a wicked and evil Thought for a Ser∣vant to deliberate whether he should deny his Master. Take heed there∣fore ye who have such Thoughts, that this Mind continue not in you, and ye die unto God. But ye who suffer Death for his Name sake, ought to honour the LORD, that he has e∣steem'd you worthy to bear his Name; and that you should be de∣livered from all your Sins. And why therefore do you not rather esteem your selves happy? Why do you not think that if any one among you suffer, he performs a great Work? For the LORD giveth you Life, and ye understand it not. For your Of∣fences did oppress you; and had you
not suffer'd for his Names sake ye had now been dead unto the LORD. Wherefore I speak this unto you who deliberate whether ye should confess or deny him: Confess that ye have the LORD for your God; least at any time denying him, ye be delivered over into Bonds. For if all Nations punish their Servants which deny their Masters; What think you that the LORD will do un∣to you, who has the Power of all things? Remove therefore out of your Hearts these Doubts; that ye may live for ever unto God.
XXIX. AS for the twelfth Moun∣tain, which was white, they are such as have believed like sincere Children, into whose Thoughts there never came any Malice; nor have they e∣ver known what Sin was, but have always continued in their Integrity. Wherefore this kind of Men shall without all doubt inherit the King∣dom of God; because they have never in any thing defiled the Com∣mandments of God, but have con∣tinued with Sincerity in the same Condition all the days of their Life.
Whosoever therefore, said he, shall continue as Children without Ma∣lice; shall be more honourable than all those of whom I have yet spoken: For all such Children are honour'd by the LORD, and esteemed the first of all. Happy therefore are ye who have removed all Malice from you, and put on Innocence; because ye shall first see the LORD. And after he had thus ended his Explication of all the Mountains, I said unto him; Sir, Shew me now also what con∣cerns the Stones that were brought out of the Plain, and put into the Tower in the room of those that were rejected; as also concerning those round Stones which were added into the Building of the Tower; and also of those who still continued round.
XXX. HEAR now, says he, concerning those Stones which were brought out of the Plain into the Building of the Tower, and placed in the room of those that were re∣jected: They are the Roots of that white Mountain. Wherefore because those who have believed of that Moun∣tain, were very Innocent; the LORD
of this Tower commanded that they which were of the Roots of this Mountain should be placed into the Building. For he knew that if they were put into this Building they would continue bright; nor would any of them any more be made black. But if he had added on this manner from the rest of the Mountains, he would ‖ 1.44 have needed again to visit this Tower and to cleanse it. Now all these white Stones, are the young Men who have, and shall believe; for they are all of the same kind. Happy is this kind, because it is In∣nocent. Hear now also concerning those round and bright Stones. All these are of this white Mountain. But they are therefore found round, because their Riches have a little darkned them from the Truth, and dazzled their Eyes: Howbeit they have never departed from the LORD, nor has any wicked Word proceeded out of their Mouths; but all Righ∣teousness, and Vertue, and Truth. When therefore the LORD saw their Mind, and that they might adorn the Truth; he commanded that they should continue good, and that their
Riches should be pared away: For he would not have them taken whol∣ly away, to the End they might do some good with that which was left, and live unto God; because they also are of a good kind: Therefore they were a little cut away, and so put in∣to the Building of this Tower.
XXXI. AS for the rest which continu'd still round, and were not found fit for the Building, because they have not yet received the Seal, they were carried back to their place; because they were found very round. But this present World must be cut away from them, and the Vanities of their Riches; and then they will be fit for the Kingdom of God. For they must enter into the Kingdom of God, because God has blessed this innocent kind. Of this kind there∣fore none shall fall away; for though any of them being tempted by the Devil should offend, he shall soon re∣turn to his LORD God. I the An∣gel of Repentance esteem you hap∣py, whosoever are Innocent as little Children, because your part is good and honourable with the LORD.
And I say unto all you who have re∣ceived this Seal; keep Simplicity, and remember not Affronts, nor con∣tinue in Malice; neither suffer Bit∣terness to grow in your Spirits through the Memory of any Of∣fences that you have received; but provide Remedies for these evil Rents, and remove them from you; that the LORD of the Sheep may rejoyce in you; ‖ 1.45 for he will rejoyce, if he shall find all whole. But if any of these Sheep shall be found scatter'd away, Wo shall be to the Shepherds: And if the Shepherds themselves shall be scattered, how will they an∣swer to God for the Sheep? Will they say that they were troubled by the Sheep? But they shall not be believed. For it is not to be believed, that the Shepherd should suffer by his Flock; and he shall be the more pu∣nished for his Lie. Now I am the Shepherd; and I especially must give an Account of you.
XXXII. WHEREFORE provide for your selves whilst the Tower is yet building. The LORD dwells in those that love Peace; for true Peace
is dear; but he is far off from the Contentious, and those who are over∣taken with Malice. Wherefore re∣store unto him the Spirit intire, as ye received it. † 1.46 For if thou shalt give unto a Fuller a new Garment whole, thou wilt expect to receive it whole again: If therefore the Fuller shall restore it unto thee torn, wouldst thou receive it? Wouldst thou not presently be angry; and reproach him, saying; I gave my Garment to thee whole, why hast thou rent it, and made it useless to me? Now it is of no use to me, by reason of the Rent which thou hast made in it. Wouldst thou not say all this to a Fuller, for the Rent which he made in thy Garment? If therefore thou wouldst be concern'd for thy Gar∣ment, and complain that thou hadst not received it whole, what thinkest thou that the LORD will do, who gave his Spirit to thee intire, and thou hast render'd him altogether unpro∣fitable? So that he can be of no use unto his LORD? For being corrupted by thee, he is no longer profitable to him. Will not therefore the LORD do the same concerning his Spirit,
by reason of thy Sin? Undoubtedly, said I, he will do the same to all those whom he shall find to continue in the Remembrance of Injuries. Tread not then under foot, said he, his Mercy; but rather honour him, because he is so patient with respect to your Offences, and not like one of you; but repent, for that will be pro∣fitable for you.
XXXIII. ALL these things which are above written, I the Angel of Repentance have shewn and spoken to the Servants of God. If there∣fore ye shall believe and hearken to these Words, and shall walk in them, and shall correct your Ways, ye shall live. But if ye shall continue in your Wickedness, and in the Re∣membrance of Injuries, no such Sin∣ners shall live unto God. All these things which were to be deliver'd by me, I have thus spoken unto thee. Then the Shepherd said unto me, Hast thou ask'd all things of me? I answered, Sir, I have. Why then, said he, Hast thou not ask'd concerning the Form of these Stones that were put in the Building, that I
may explain that also unto thee? I answer'd, Sir, I forgot it. Hear then, said he, concerning those also. They are those who have heard these Commands, and have repented with all their Hearts: And when the LORD saw that their Repentance was good and pure, and that they could continue in it, he commanded their former Sins to be blotted out. For these Forms were their Sins, and they are therefore made even that their Sins might not appear.
I. AFTER that I had written this Book, the Angel which had deliver'd me to that Shepherd, came into the House where I was, and sate upon the Bed, and that Shep∣herd stood at his Right Hand. Then he called me and said unto me; I de∣liver'd thee and thy House to this Shepherd, that thou mightest be pro∣tected by him. I said, Yes LORD. If therefore, said he, thou wilt be protected from all Vexation, and from all Cruelty, and have Success
in every good Word and Work; and all Vertue and Righteousness; walk in those Commands which he has given thee; and thou shalt have Dominion over all Sin. For if thou keepest those Commands, all the De∣sire and Pleasure of this present World shall be subject to thee; and Success shall follow thee in every good Undertaking. Take there∣fore his Gravity and Modesty upon thee, and say unto all, that he is in great Honour and Renown with God, and is, a ‖ 1.47 Prince of great Au∣thority, and Powerful in his Of∣fice. To him only is the Power of Repentance committed throughout the whole World. Do's he not seem to thee to be of great Authority? But ye despise his Goodness, and the Mo∣desty which he shews towards you.
II. I SAID unto him; Sir, Ask him since the time that he came into my House, whether I have done any thing disorderly, or have of∣fended him in any thing? I know, said he, that thou hast done nothing disorderly, neither wilt thou hereaf∣ter do any thing; and therefore I
speak these things with thee that thou mayst persevere; for he has given me a good Account concern∣ing thee. But thou shalt speak these things to others, that they who ei∣ther have repented, or shall repent, may be of the same opinion with thee; and he may give me as good an Account of them also, and I may do the same unto the LORD. I an∣swer'd, Sir, I declare to all Men the wonderful Works of God: And I hope that all who love them and have before sinned, when they shall hear these things will willingly re∣pent, and so recover Life. Continue therefore, said he, in this Ministry, and perfect it. And whosoever shall fulfil the Commands of this Shepherd, shall live; and shall have great Ho∣nour both here, and with the LORD. But they that shall not keep his Com∣mands, flee from their Life, and are Adversaries unto it. And they that follow not his Commands, shall de∣liver themselves unto Death; and e∣very one shall be guilty of his own Bloud. But I say unto thee, keep these Commandments, and thou shalt find a Cure for all thy Sins.
III. MOREOVER I have sent these Virgins to dwell with thee, for I have seen that they are very kind to thee. Thou shalt therefore have them for thy Helpers, that thou mayst the better keep the Commands which have been given thee; for these Com∣mands cannot be kept without these Virgins. And thou seest how they are willing to be with thee; and I will also command them that they shall not at all depart from thy House. Only do thou purifie thy House; for they will readily dwell in a clean House. For they are Clean, and Chast, and Industrious; and all of them have Grace with the LORD. If therefore thou shalt have thy House pure, they will abide with thee. But if it shall be never so little pol∣luted, they will immediately depart from thy House; for these Virgins cannot endure any manner of Pollu∣tion. I said unto him; Sir, I hope that I shall so please them, that they shall always delight to dwell in my House. And as he to whom you have committed me makes no Com∣plaint of me; so neither shall they
complain. Then he said to that Shep∣herd; I see that the Servant of God will live and keep these Command∣ments; and place these Virgins in a pure Habitation. When he had said this he delivered me again to that Shepherd, and called the Vir∣gins, and said unto them; Foras∣much as I see that ye will readily dwell in this Mans House, I com∣mend him and his House to you; that ye may not at all depart from his House. And they willingly heard these Words.
IV. THEN he said unto me, Go on Manfully in thy Ministry; Declare to all Men the great things of God, and thou shalt find Grace in this Ministry. And whosoever shall walk in these Commands shall live, and be happy in his Life. But he that shall neglect them, shall not live, and shall be unhappy in his Life. Say unto all, that whosoever can do what is right, cease not to exercise themselves in good Works. For I would that all Men should be deli∣vered from the Inconveniences they lie under. For he that wants and suf∣fers
Inconveniences in his daily Life, is in great Torment and Necessity. Whosoever therefore delivers such a Soul from Necessity, gets great Joy unto himself. For he that is grieved with such Inconveniences, is equally tormented, as if he were in Chains. And many upon the Account of such Calamities, being not able to bear them, have chosen even to destroy themselves. He therefore that knows the Calamity of such a Man, and do's not free him from it, commits a great Sin, and is guilty of his Bloud. Wherefore exercise your selves in Good Works, as many as have re∣ceived Ability from the LORD; least whilst ye delay to do them the Building of the Tower be finish'd; because for your sakes the Building is stopp'd. Except therefore ye shall make haste to do well, the Tower shall be finish'd, and ye shall have no place in it. And after he had thus spoken with me, he rose up from the Bed, and departed, taking the Shepherd and Virgins with him. Howbeit he said unto me, that he would send back the Shepherd and Virgins unto my House, Amen.
Antioch. Hom. xv.
Soule.
Vid. Origen. in Jos. Hom. x.
Nations.
With me.
Vid. Not. Coteler. in loc. pag. 72, 73.
Coteler. ibid.
Vid. Not. Cotelerli. pag. 74. A. B. C.
Vid. Antioch. Hom. vii.
Vid. Not. Cotelerli. pag. 74. A. B. C.
Vid. Not. Cotelerli. pag. 74. A. B. C.
Vid. Edit. Oxon. Annot. a. p. 105.
Angels.
Angels.
In them.
Vid. Annot. Coteler. in loc.
Angel.
Vid. Origen. in Psal. xxxvii. Hom. 1.
Angel.
Origen. in Num. Hom. viii.
Angel.
Angel.
Angel.
Vid. Edit. Oxon. p. 129 not. d.
Sea••.
With foreign Nations.
With foreign Nations.
See above Book I.
Angel.
Origen. Hom. iii. in Ezech.
So Coteleri∣us in loc.
Vid. MS. Lamb. Edit. Oxon, p. 15••.
Vid. Annot. Edit. Oxon. p. 166. d.
Vid. Origen. Philocal. c. viii.
Origen. Hom. in Ezek.
Vid. Edit. Oxon. p. 171. b.
Vid. Coteler. Annot. in loc. pag. 77, 78. Comp. 1 Pet. iii. 19.
Vid. Clem. Alex. Strom. ii. Et vi.
Sense.
Vid. Orig. Philocal. C. viii.
Feigned.
Vid. Edit. Oxon. p. 178. Not. b.
Infancy.
Not.
Vid. Antioch. Hom. cxxii.
Antioch. Hom xciv.
President.