The genuine epistles of the apostolical fathers, S. Barnabas, S. Ignatius, S. Clement, S. Polycarp, the Shepherd of Hermas, and the matyrdoms of St. Ignatius and St. Polycarp, written by those who were present at their sufferings : being, together with the Holy Scriptures of the New Testament, a compleat collection of the most primitive antiquity for about CL years after Christ / translated and publish'd, with a large preliminary discourse relating to the several treaties here put together by W. Wake ...

THE SHEPHERD OF St. HERMAS.

THE CONTENTS.

The First BOOK.

• Vision I. AGAINST Filthy and Proud Thoughts: Al∣so the Correction of HERMAS for his Neglect of his Sons.
• II. Again of his Neglect in correcting his Talkative Wife; and of his Lewd Sons; and of his own Man∣ners.
• III Of the Building of the Church-Triumphant: And of the several Orders of Reprobates.
• IV. Of the Tryal and Tribulation, that is about to come upon Men.

The Second BOOK. An Introduction to the following COMMANDS.

• Command I. OF Believing in One God.
• II. That we must avoid Detraction; and do our Alms-Deeds with Sim∣plicity.
• III. Of Avoiding Lying: And the Re∣pentance of HERMAS for his Dis∣simulation.
• IV. Of putting away Ones Wife for ADULTERY.
• V. Of the Sadness of the Heart; and of Patience.
• VI. That every Man has two Angels; and of the Suggestions of both.
• VII. That we must fear God, but not the Devil.
• VIII. That we must flee from Evil, and do Good.
• IX. That we must ask of God daily, and without doubting.
• X. Of the Sadness of the Heart; and that we must take heed not to grieve the Spirit of God that is in us.
• ...

• XI. That the Spirits and Prophets are to be tried by their Works; and of a Two-fold Spirit.
• XII. Of a two-fold Desire: That the Commands of God are not impos∣sible: And that the Devil is not to be feared by them that Believe.

The Third BOOK.

• Similitude I. THAT seeing we have no abiding City in this World; we ought to look after that which is to come.
• II. As the Vine is supported by the Elm, so is the Rich-Man help'd by the Prayers of the Poor.
• III. As the Green Trees in the Win∣ter cannot be distinguish'd from the Dry; so neither can the Righteous from the Wicked in this present World.
• IV. As in Summer the living Trees are distinguish'd from the Dry by their Fruit and Green Leaves; so in the World to come the Righte∣ous shall be distinguish'd from the Unrighteous by their Happiness.
• ...

• V. Of a True Fast, and the Reward of it: Also of the Cleanness of the Body.
• VI. Of two Sorts of Voluptuous Men; and of their Death, De∣fection, and of the Continuance of their Pains.
• VII. That they who Repent, must bring forth Fruits worthy of Repentance.
• VIII. That there are many kinds of Elect, and of Repenting Sin∣ners: And how all of them shall re∣ceive a Reward proportionable to the Measure of their Repentance and Good Works.
• IX. The Greatest Mysteries of the Militant and Triumphant Church which is to be built.
• X. Of Repentance and Alms-Deeds.

The First BOOK OF St. HERMAS, Which is Called His VISIONS.

The First VISION. Against filthy and proud Thoughts: also the Correction of Hermas for his Neglect of his Sons.

I. HE who had bred me up Sold a certain young Maid at Rome: whom when I saw many Years after, I remembred her, and began to love her as a Sister. It happen'd some time afterwards,

that I saw her wash'd in the River Tyber; and I reach'd out my hand unto her, and help'd her out of the River. And when I saw her, I thought with my self, saying, That I should be happy had I fortun'd to have met with a Wife like unto her both for her Beauty and Manners. This I thought with my self; nor did I think any thing more. But not long after, as I was walking and musing on these Thoughts, I began to honor the Creature of God, think∣ing with my self how noble and beautiful it is. And when I had walk'd a little, I fell asleep. And the Spirit caught me away, and car∣ried me through a certain Place to∣wards the Right-hand, through which no Man could pass. It was a Place among Rocks, very steep, and unpassable for Water. When I was past this Place I came into a Plain; and there falling down upon my Knees, I began to pray unto the LORD, and to confess my Sins. And as I was praying, the Heaven was opened, and I saw the Woman which I had coveted, saluting me from Hea∣ven,

and saying, HERMAS, hail! And I looking upon her, answered, Lady, What dost thou do here? She answered me, I am taken up hither to convince thee of Sin unto the LORD. Lady, said I, Wilt thou con∣vince me? No, said she: but hear the Words which I am about to speak unto thee. God who dwelleth in Heaven, and hath made All things out of Nothing, and has multiplied them for his Holy Churches sake, is angry with thee, because thou hast sinned against me. And I answering said unto her, Lady, If I have sinned against thee, tell me where, or in what Place, or when did I ever speak an unseemly or dishonest Word unto thee? Have I not always esteemed thee as a Lady? Have I not always reverenced thee as a Sister? Why then dost thou imagine these wicked things against me? Then she, smi∣ling upon me, said, The desire of Naughtiness has risen up in thy heart. Does it not seem to thee * 1.1 to be an ill thing for a Righteous Man to have an evil desire rise up in his heart? It is indeed a Sin, and that a

very great one, to such a Man: for a righteous Man thinketh what is righteous. And whilst he does so, and walketh uprightly, he shall have the LORD in Heaven favourable unto him in all his Works. But as for those who think wickedly in their hearts, they take to themselves Death and Captivity: and especially those who love this present World, and glory in their Riches, and regard not the good things that are to come; their Souls wander up and down, and know not where to fix. Now this is the Case of such as are Doubtful, who trust not in the LORD, and de∣spise and neglect their own life. But do thou pray unto the LORD, and he will heal thy Sins, and the Sins of thy whole House, and of all his Saints.

II. AS soon as she had spoken these Words the Heavens were shut, and I remained utterly swallowed up in Sadness and Fear; and said within my self, If this be laid against me for Sin, how can I ever be saved? or how shall I ever be able to intreat

the LORD for my many and great Sins? With what Words shall I be∣seech him to be merciful unto me? As I was thinking over these things, and meditating in my self upon them, behold a Chair set over against me of the whitest Wool, as bright as Snow. And there came an old Woman in a bright Garment, having a Book in her hand, and sate alone,* 1.2 and salu∣ted me, saying, HERMAS, hail! And I being full of Sorrow, and weeping, answered, Hail, Lady! and she said unto me, Why art thou sad, Hermas, who wert wont to be pati∣ent, and modest, and always cheer∣ful? I answered, and said to her, Lady, a Reproach has been objected to me by an excellent Woman, who tells me that I have sinned against her. She replied, Far be any such thing from the Servant of God. But it may be the desire of her has risen up in thy Heart? For indeed there is such a Thought even in the Servants of God, leading unto Sin. Nor ought such a detestable Thought to be in the Servant of God; nor should a Spirit that is approved desire that

which is evil; nor especially HER∣MAS, who contains himself from all wicked Appetites, and is full of all Simplicity, and of great Innocence.

III. NEVERTHELESS the LORD is not angry with thee for thine own sake, but upon the account of thy House, which has committed Wick∣edness against the LORD, and against their Parents. And that Act of thy Fondness towards thy Sons; in that thou hast not admonished them, but hast permitted them to live wickedly; and for this Cause the LORD is angry with thee: But he will heal all the Evils that are done before thee in thy House. For through their Sins and Iniquities, thou art wholly consumed in secular Affairs. But now the Mer∣cy of God hath taken Compassion upon thee, and upon thine House, and hath * 1.3 greatly comforted thee; only as for thee, do not wander, but be of an even Mind, and comfort thy House. As the Workman bring∣ing forth his Work, offers it to whom∣soever he pleases; so shalt thou by teaching every day what is just, cut

off a great sin. Wherefore cease not to admonish thy Sons, for the LORD knows that they will repent with all their heart, and he will write thee in the Book of Life. And when she had said this, she added unto me; Wilt thou hear me Read? I answer'd her, Lady, I will. Hear then, said she; And opening the Book she read, glo∣riously, greatly, and wonderfully, such things as I could not keep in my Memory. For they were terri∣ble Words, such as no Man could bear. Howbeit I committed her last Words to my Remembrance; for they were but few, and of great use.

Behold the mighty LORD, who by his invincible Power, and with his excellent Wisdom made the World, and by his glorious Counsel encom∣passed the Beauty of his Creature, and with the Word of his strength fix'd the Heaven, and founded the Earth upon the Waters; and by his powerful Vertue establish'd his Holy Church, which he hath blessed: Behold, he will remove the Heavens, and the Mountains, the Hills and the Seas; and all

things shall be made Plain for his Elect; that he may render unto them the Promise which he has pro∣mised with much Honor and Joy; if so be that they shall keep the Commandments of God, which they have received with great Faith.

IV. AND when she had made an end of Reading, she rose out of the Chair; and behold four Young∣men came, and carried the Chair to the East. And she called me unto her, and touch'd my Breast, and said unto me, Did my Reading please thee? I answered, Lady, These last things please me; but what went be∣fore was severe and hard. She said unto me, These last things are for † 1.4 the Righteous, but the foregoing for the Revolters and Heathen. And as she was talking with me, Two more appeared, and took her up on their shoulders, and went to the East, where the Chair was. And she went chearfully away; and as she was go∣ing, said unto me, HERMAS, be of good chear.

VISION II. Again, of his Neglect in Cor∣recting his Talkative Wife; and of his Lewd Sons; and of his Own Manners.

I. AS I was on the Way to Cumae, about the same time that I had been the last Year, I began to call to mind the Vision I formerly had. And again the Spirit carried me away, and brought me into the same Place, in which I had been the Year before. And when I was come into the Place, I fell down upon my Knees, and began to Pray unto the LORD, and to Honour his Name, that he had esteemed me worthy, and had manifested unto me my former Sins. And when I arose from Prayer, behold I saw over against me the Old Woman whom I had seen the last Year, walking and reading in a cer∣tain Book. And she said unto me, Can'st thou tell these things to the

Elect of God? I answered and said unto her, Lady, I cannot retain such great things in my Memory, but give me the Book, and I will write them down. Take it, says she, and see that thou restore it again to me. As soon as I had receiv'd it, I went aside into a certain Place of the Field, and transcribed every Letter, for I found no Syllables.* 1.5 And as soon as I had finished what was written in the Book, the Book was suddenly caught out of my hands, but by whom I saw not.

II. AFTER fifteen days, when I had fasted, and intreated the LORD with all earnestness, the Knowledge of the Writing was revealed unto me. Now the Writing was this: Thy Seed, O HERMAS! hath sin∣ned against the LORD, and have be∣trayed their Parents, through their great Wickedness. And they have been called the Betrayers of their Pa∣rents, and have gone on in their Treachery. And now have they added Lewdness to their other Sins, and the Pollutions of Naughtiness;

Thus have they fill'd up the Mea∣sure of their Iniquities. But do thou upbraid thy Sons with all these Words; and thy Wife, which shall be thy Sister. And let her learn to refrain her Tongue, with which she calumniates. For when she shall hear these things, she will refrain her self, and shall obtain Mercy. And ‖ 1.6 they shall be instructed, when thou shalt have reproach'd them with these Words, which the LORD has commanded to be revealed unto thee. Then shall their Sins be for∣given which they have heretofore committed, and the Sins of all the Saints, who have sinned even unto this day; if they shall repent with all their Hearts, and remove all Doubts out of their Hearts. For the LORD hath sworn by his Glory concerning his Elect, having determined the certain Day, that if any one shall even now sin, he shall not be saved. For the Repentance of the Righte∣ous has its End. The Days of Repen∣tance are fulfilled to all the Saints; but to the Heathen, there is Repen∣tance even unto the Last Day. Thou

shalt therefore say to those who are over the Church, that they order their Ways in Righteousness; that they may fully receive the Promise with much Glory. Stand fast there∣fore ye that work Righteousness; and continue to do it, that your De∣parture may be with the Holy An∣gels. Happy are ye, as many as shall endure the Great Tryal that is at hand, and whosoever shall not deny his Life. For the LORD hath sworn by his Son, that who so de∣nieth his Son and him, being afraid of his Life; he will also deny him in the ‖ 1.7 World that is to come. But those who shall never deny him, he will of his exceeding great Mercy be favourable unto them.

III. BUT thou, O Hermas! re∣member not the Evils which thy Sons have done, neither neglect thy Sister, but take care that they amend of their former Sins. For they will be instructed by this Doctrine, if thou shalt not be mindful of what they have done wickedly. For the Re∣membrance of Evils worketh Death;

but the Forgetting of them, Life Eter∣nal. But thou, O HERMAS! hast under∣gone a great many Wordly Trou∣bles for the Offences of thy House; because thou hast neglected them, as things that did not belong unto thee; and thou art wholly taken up with thy great Business. Never∣theless, for this cause shalt thou be saved, that thou hast not departed from the Living God; And thy Sim∣plicity, and singular Continency shall preserve thee, if thou shalt continue in them. Yea, they shall save All such as do such things; and walk in Innocence and Simplicity. They who are of this kind, shall prevail against all Impiety, and continue unto Life Eternal. Happy are all they that do Righteousness, they shall not be consumed for ever. But thou wilt say; Behold there is a great Tryal coming. If it seems good to thee, Deny him again. The LORD is nigh to them that turn to him, as it is written in the Books of Heldam and Modal, who prophecy'd to the Israelites in the Wilderness.* 1.8

IV. MOREOVER, Brethren, it was reavealed to me, as I was sleeping, by a very goodly young Man, saying unto me; What thinkest thou of that old Woman from whom thou receivedst the Book; Who is she? I answered, a Sybil. Thou art mistaken, said he, she is not. I reply'd, who is she then, Sir? He an∣swered me, it is the Church of God. And I said unto him, Why then do's she appear Old? She is there∣fore, said he, an Old Woman, be∣cause she was the first of all the Creation, and the World was made for her. After this I saw a Vision at home in my own House, and the Old Woman whom I had seen be∣fore, came to me and ask'd me, whe∣ther I had yet deliver'd the Book which she had given me to the Elders of the Church? And I answered, that I had not yet. She reply'd, Thou hast well done, for I have cer∣tain Words more to tell thee. But when I shall have finished all the Words, they shall be clearly under∣stood by the Elect.* 1.9 And thou shalt write two Books, and send one to

Clement, and one to Grapté. For Clement shall send it to the foreign Cities, because it is permitted to him so to do. But Grapté shall admonish the Widows and Orphans. But thou shalt read it to the Elders that are over the Church.

VISION III. Of the Building of the Church-Triumphant; and of the se∣veral Orders of Reprobates.

I. THE Vision which I saw, Brethren, was this. When I had often fasted and pray'd unto the LORD, that he would manifest unto me the Revelation which he had promised by the Old Woman to shew unto me: The same Night she appear'd unto me, and said unto me; because thou dost thus afflict thy self, and art so desirous to know All things, come into the Field, where thou wilt, and about the sixth Hour, I will appear unto

thee, and shew thee what thou must see. I ask'd her, saying; Lady, in∣to what part of the Field? She an∣swered, wherever thou wilt, only chuse a good and a private place. And before I could begin to speak and tell her the place, she said unto me; I will come where thou wilt. I was therefore, Brethren, in the Field, and I observed the Hours, and came into the place where I had ap∣pointed to go. And I beheld a Bench placed; it was a linnen Pillow, and over it spread a Covering of fine Linnen. When I saw these things or∣der'd in this Manner, and that there was no Body in the place, I began to be astonish'd, and my Hair stood on end, and a kind of Horror seiz'd me, for I was alone. But being come to my self, and calling to mind the Glory of God, and taking Courage, I fell down upon my Knees, and be∣gan again to confess my Sins as be∣fore. And whilst I was doing this, the Old Woman came thither with the six young Men whom I had seen before, and stood behind me as I was praying and confessing my

Sins unto the LORD. And touching me, she said; leave off now to pray only for thy Sins; pray also for Righteousness, that thou maist re∣ceive a part from her in thy House. And she lifted me up from the place, and took me by the Hand, and brought me to the Seat; and said to the young Men, Go, and Build. As soon as they were departed, and we were alone, she said unto me; sit here. I answered her; Lady, let those who are Elder sit first. She reply'd, sit down as I bid you. And when I would have sate on the right side, she suffered me not, but made a sign to me with her Hand, that I should sit on the left. As I was therefore musing, and full of Sorrow, that she would not suffer me to sit on the right side, she said unto me, HERMAS, why art thou sad? The place which is on the right Hand is theirs who have already attain'd unto God, and have suffered for his Name sake. But there is yet a great deal remaining unto thee, before thou canst sit with them. But con∣tinue, as thou dost in thy Sincerity,

and thou shalt sit with them; as all others shall that do their Works, and shall bear what they have born.

II. I said unto her; Lady, I would know what it is that they have suf∣fered? Hear then, said she: Wild Beasts, Scourgings, Imprisonments, and Crosses for his Name sake. For this cause the right Hand of Holi∣ness belongs to them, and to all o∣thers as many as shall suffer for the Name of God; but the left belongs to the rest. Howbeit the Gifts and the Promises belong to both; to them, and to those on the left Hand; only that sitting on the right Hand they have some Glory above the others. But thou art desirous to sit on the right Hand with them; and thy De∣fects are many. But thou shalt be purg'd from thy Defects: As also all who doubt not, shall be cleansed from all the Sins which they have commit∣ted unto this Day. And when she had said this she would have departed; Wherefore falling down before her Feet, I began to intreat her, for the LORD'S sake, that she would shew

me the Vision which she had pro∣mised. Then she again took me by the Hand, and lifted me up, and made me sit upon the Seat on the left side; and holding up a certain bright Wand, said unto me; seest thou that great thing? I reply'd; Lady, I see nothing. She answered; Dost thou not see over against thee a great Tower, which is built upon the Water with bright square Stones? For the Tower was built upon a square by those six young Men that came with her. And thousands of other Men brought Stones: Some drew them out of the Deep; Others carried them from the Ground, and gave them to the six young Men. And they took them, and built. As for those Stones which were drawn out of the Deep, they put them all into the Building; for they were polish'd, and their Squares exactly answered one another, and so one was joyn'd in such wise to the other, that there was no space to be seen where they joyn'd. Insomuch that the whole Tower appear'd to be built as it were of one Stone. But

as for the other Stones that were taken off from the Ground, some of them they rejected, others they fitted into the Building. Others they cut out, and cast at a distance from the Tower. Moreover there were many other Stones, which lay round about the Tower, which they made no use of in the Building. Some of these were rough, others had Clefts in them; others were white and round, not proper for the build∣ing of the Tower. Besides these, I saw other Stones cast afar off from the Tower, and falling into the High-Way, but not continuing in the Way, but were rolled from the Way into a desert Place. Others I saw falling into the Fire and burn∣ing: Others were glowing hot just by the Water, yet could not roll themselves into it, though very de∣sirous to fall into the Water.

III. AND when she had shew'd me these things she would have de∣parted. But I said unto her, Lady, What do's it profit me to see these things, and not understand what they

mean? She answer'd and said unto me, you are very cunning, in that you are desirous to know those things which ‖ 1.10 relate to the Tower. Yea, said I, Lady, that I may declare them unto the Brethren; and they may rejoyce, and hearing these things may glorifie God with great Honour. Then she said; Many indeed shall hear them, and when they shall have heard them, some shall rejoyce, and others weep. And yet even these, if they shall repent, shall rejoyce too. Hear therefore what I shall say con∣cerning the Parable of the Tower, and after this be no longer importu∣nate with me about the Revelation. For these Revelations have an end, seeing they are fulfilled. But thou dost not leave off to desire Revela∣tions; for thou art very † 1.11 urgent. As for the Tower which thou seest built, it is I my self, namely the Church, which have appeared to thee both now, and heretofore. Wherefore ask what thou wilt con∣cerning the Tower, and I will reveal it unto thee, that thou mayst re∣joyce with the Saints. I said unto

her, Lady, Because thou hast thought me once worthy to receive from thee the Revelation of all these things, declare them unto me. She answer'd me; whatsoever is fit to be revealed unto thee, shall be revealed: * 1.12 Only let thy Heart be with the LORD, and doubt not, whatsoever thou shalt see. I ask'd her, Lady, why is the Tower built upon the Water? She replied; I said before to thee that thou wert very Wise to enquire di∣ligently concerning the Building! therefore thou shalt find the Truth. Hear therefore why the Tower is built upon the Water:* 1.13 Because your Life is and shall be saved by Water. For it is founded by the Word of the Almighty and Honourable Name; and is supported by the Invisible Power and Virtue of God.

IV. AND I answering said unto her; These things are very admira∣ble: But Lady, who are those six young Men that build? They are, said she, the Angels of God, which were first appointed, and to whom the LORD has deliver'd all his Crea∣tures,

to build them up, and to rule over. For by these the Building of the Tower shall be finish'd. And who are the rest who bring them Stones? They also are the Holy Angels of the LORD; but the other are more excellent than these. Where∣fore when the whole Building of the Tower shall be finished, they shall all feast together besides the Tower, and shall glorifie God, because the Structure of the Tower is finish'd. I ask'd her, saying; I would know the Condition of the Stones, and the meaning of them, what it is? She answering said unto me; Art thou better than all others, that this should be revealed unto thee? For others are both before thee, and better than thou art, to whom these Visions should be made manifest: Never∣theless that the Name of God may be honour'd, it has been, and shall be reveal'd unto thee, for the sake of those who are doubtful, and think in their Hearts whether these things are so or not? Tell them that all these things are true; and that there is nothing in them that

is not true; but all are firm, and truly established.

V. HEAR now then concern∣ing the Stones that are in the Build∣ing. The square and white Stones, which agree exactly in their joynts; are the Apostles, and Bishops, and Doctors, and Ministers who through the Mercy of God have come in, and govern'd, and taught, and mi∣nistred holily and modestly to the Elect of God, both that are fallen asleep, and which yet remain; and have always agreed with them, and have had peace within themselves and with each other. For which cause their Joints exactly meet together in the Building of the Tower. They which are drawn out of the Deep and put into the Building, and whose Joynts agree with the other Stones which are already built, are those which are already fallen asleep, and have suffered for the sake of the LORD'S Name. And what are the other Stones, Lady, that are brought from the Earth; I would know what they are? She answer'd, They which

lie upon the Ground and are not po∣lished, are those which God has ap∣proved because they have walked in the Law of the LORD, and directed their ways in his Commandments. They which are put in the Building of the Tower, are the young in Faith and the Faithful. And these are ad∣monish'd by the Angels to do well, because that Iniquity is not found in them. But who are those whom they rejected, and laid besides the Tower? They are such as have sinn'd, and are willing to repent; for which cause they are not cast far from the Tower, because they will be useful in the Building if they shall repent. They therefore that are yet to repent, if they shall repent shall become strong in the Faith; that is, if they repent now, whilst the Tower is building. For if the Building shall be finish'd, there will then be no place for them to be put in, but they shall be rejected; For he only has this Priviledge, who shall now be put to the Tower.

VI. BUT would you know who they are that were cut out and cast afar off from the Tower? ‖ 1.14 Lady, said I, I desire it. They are the Children of Iniquity, who believed only in Hypocrisie, and departed not from their Evil Ways: For this cause they are not saved, because they are not of any Use in the Building by reason of their Sins. Wherefore they are cut out, and cast afar off, because of the Anger of the LORD, and be∣cause they have provoked him to an∣ger against them. As for the great Number of other Stones which thou hast seen placed about the Tower, but not put into the Building; those which are rugged, are they who have known the Truth, but have not continued in it, nor been joyn'd to the Saints; and therefore are un∣profitable. Those that have Clefts in them, are they who keep up Dis∣cord in their Hearts against each o∣ther, and live not in Peace; that are friendly when present with their Brethren, but as soon as they are departed from one another, their

Wickedness still continues in their Hearts. These are the Clefts which are seen in those Stones. Those that are maim'd and short are they who have believed indeed; but still are in great measure full of Wickedness; for this cause are they maim'd and not whole. But what are the white and round Stones, Lady, and which are not proper for the Building of the Tower? She answering said un∣to me; How long wilt thou continue Foolish and without Understanding; asking every thing and discerning nothing? They are such as have Faith indeed; but have withal the Riches of this present World. When therefore any Troubles arise, for the sake of their Riches they deny the LORD. I answering said unto her; when therefore will they be Profita∣ble to the LORD? When their Riches shall be cut away, says she, in which they take delight, then they will be profitable unto the LORD for his Building. For as a round Stone, un∣less he be cut away, and cast some∣what oft of its Bulk cannot be made square; so they who are rich in this

World, unless their Riches be pared off, cannot be made profitable unto the LORD. Learn this from thy own Experience: When thou wert Rich, thou wast unprofitable; but now thou art profitable, and fit for the Life which thou hast under∣taken; for thou also once wast one of those Stones.

VII. AS for the rest of the Stones which thou sawest cast afar off from the Tower, and running in the Way; and tumbled out of the Way into Desert places; they are such as have believed indeed, but through their doubting have forsaken their true Way, thinking that they could find a better. But they wander and are miserable; going into desolate Ways. Then for those Stones which fell into the Fire, and were burnt; They are those who have for ever departed from the Living God; nor has it e∣ver come into their Hearts to repent, by reason of the Affection which they bear to their Lusts and Wicked∣nesses which they commit. And what are the rest which fell by the Wa∣ter,

and could not roll into the Wa∣ter? They are such as have heard the Word; and were willing to be baptized in the Name of the LORD; but considering the great Holiness which the Truth requires, have with∣drawn themselves, and walk'd again after their wicked Lusts. Thus she finish'd the Explication of the Tower. But I being still urgent, ask'd her: Is there Repentance allow'd to all those Stones which are thus cast away and were not suitable to the Building of the Tower; and shall they find place in this Tower? They may repent, said she, but they cannot come into this Tower; but they shall be placed in a much lower Rank; and this after that they shall have been afflicted, and fulfill'd the Days of their Sins. And for this cause they shall be removed, because they have received the Word of Righteousness. And then they shall be translated from their Afflictions, if they shall have a true sense in their Hearts of what they have done amiss. But if they shall not have this Sense in their Hearts, they shall not be

saved, by reason of the Hardness of their Hearts.

VIII. WHEN therefore I had done asking her concerning all these things, she said unto me; Wilt thou see somewhat else? And I being desi∣rous of seeing it, I became very chear∣ful of Countenance. She therefore looing back upon me, and smiling a little, said unto me: Seest thou se∣ven Women about the Tower? La∣dy, said I, I see them. This Tower, replied she, is supported by them, according to the Command of the LORD: Hear therefore the Effects of them. The first of them which holds her Hand fast, is called Faith; by her the Elect shall be saved. The next which is girt up, and looks Manly, is named Abstinence: She is the Daughter of Faith. Whoso∣ever therefore shall follow her shall be happy in all his Life; because he shall abstain from all evil Works, be∣lieving that if he shall contain him∣self from all Concupiscence, he shall be the Heir of Eternal Life. And what Lady, said I, are the other five?

They are, reply'd she, the Daugh∣ters of One another. One of them is called Simplicity; the next Inno∣cence; the third Modesty; then Discipline, and the last of all is Cha∣rity. When therefore thou shalt have observed the Works of their Mo∣ther, thou shalt be able to observe all things. Lady, said I, I would know what particular Virtue every one of these has. Hear then, replied she; They have equal Vertues; and their Vertues are knit together, and follow one another as they were born. From Faith proceeds Abstinence; from Abstinence, Simplicity; from Simplicity, Innocence; from Inno∣cence, Modesty; from Modesty, Discipline and Charity. Therefore the Works of these are Holy and Chast, and Right. Whosoever there∣fore shall serve these, and hold fast to their Works, he shall have his Dwelling in the Tower with the Saints of God. Then I ask'd her con∣cerning the Times, whether the End were now at Hand? But she cry'd out with a loud Voice, saying; O foolish Man! Dost thou not see the

Tower that it is always building? When therefore the Tower shall be finish'd, and built, it shall have an End; and indeed it shall soon be ac∣complished. But do not ask me any more Questions. What has been said may suffice for thee and for all the Saints; with the renewal of your Spirits. For these things have not been revealed to thee only, but that thou mayst make them manifest un∣to all. For therefore, O HERMAS, after three Days thou must under∣stand these Words which I begin to speak unto thee, that thou mayst speak them in the Ears of the Saints; that when they shall have heard and done them, they may be cleansed from their Iniquities, and thou to∣gether with them.

IX. HEAR me therefore, O my Sons! I have bred you up in much Simplicity, and Modesty, and In∣nocency; for the Mercy of God, which has dropp'd down upon you in Righteousness; that you should be sanctified, and justified from all Sin and Wickedness: But ye will not

cease from your evil Doings. Now therefore hearken unto me, and have Peace one with another, and visit one another, and receive one ano∣ther, and do not enjoy the Creatures of God alone. Give freely to them that are in need. For some by too free feeding contract an Infirmity in their Flesh, and do Injury to their Bodies; whilst the Flesh of others, who have not Food, withers away, because they want sufficient Nourish∣ment, and their Bodies are consum'd. Wherefore this Intemperance is hurt∣ful to you, who have, and do not communicate to them that want. Prepare for the Judgment that is a∣bout to come upon you. Ye that are the more Eminent search out them that are Hungry, whilst the Tower is yet unfinish'd. For when the Tower shall be finish'd, ye shall be willing to do good, and shall not find any place for it. See therefore, ye that glory in your Riches, least perhaps they groan who are in want; and their Sighing come up unto God, and ye be shut out with your Goods without the Gate of the Tower.

Behold I now warn you who are set over the Church, and love the highest Seats; be not ye like unto those that work Mischief. And they indeed carry about their Poison in Boxes; but ye contain your Poison and Me∣dicines in your Hearts; and will not purge them, and mix your Sense with a Pure Heart, that ye may find Mercy with the Great King. Take heed, my Children, that your Dissen∣tions deprive you not of your Lives. How will ye instruct the Elect of God, when ye your selves want Correction? Wherefore admonish one another, and be at Peace among your selves; that I standing before your Father, may give an Account for you unto the LORD.

X. AND when she had made an end of talking with me, the six young Men that built came and carried her to the Tower; and four others took up the Seat on which she sate, and went away again, they also, to the Tower. I saw not the Faces of these, for their Backs were towards me. As she was going along

I asked her, that she would reveal to me what concern'd the three Forms in which she had appear'd unto me. But she answering said unto me; concerning these things thou must ask some other, that they may be revealed unto thee. Now, Brethren, in the First Vision the last Year, she appeared unto me exceed∣ing old, and sitting in a Chair. In another Vision, she had indeed a youthful Face, but her Flesh and Hair were old; and she talked with me standing, and was more chearful than the first time. In the third Vi∣sion, she was in all respects much younger, and comely to the Eye; only she had the Hair of an Aged Person: Yet she looked chearful, and sate upon a Seat. I was therefore very sad concerning these things, un∣til I might understand the Vision. Wherefore I saw the same Old Wo∣man in a Vision of the Night saying unto me; All Prayer needeth Hu∣mility. Fast therefore, and thou shalt learn from the LORD that which thou dost ask. I fasted therefore one Day. The same Night a young Man

appear'd to me and said; Why dost thou thus often desire Revelations in thy Prayers? Take heed that by asking many things, thou hurt not thy Body. Let these Revelations suffice thee; Canst thou see more notable Revela∣tions than those which thou hast al∣ready received? I answered and said unto him; Sir, I only ask this one thing upon the account of the three Figures of the Old Woman that ap∣peared to me, that the Revelation may be compleat. He answer'd me; You are not without Understanding, but your Doubts make you so; for∣asmuch as you have not your Heart with the LORD. I replyed and said; But I shall learn these things more carefully from you.

XI. HEAR then, says he, con∣cerning the Figures, about which you enquire. And first, in the first Vision she appear'd to thee in the Shape of an Old Woman; because your ancient Spirit was decay'd, and without Strength, by reason of your Infirmities, and the Doubtfulness of your Heart. For as they who are

Old have no hope of renewing them∣selves, nor expect any thing but their Departure: So you being weakned through your worldly Affairs gave your self up to Sloath, and cast not away your Sollicitude from your self upon the LORD; and your Sense was confused, and you grew Old in your Sadness. But Sir, I would know why she sate upon a Chair? He answered; Because every one that is weak sitteth upon a Chair by reason of his Infirmity; that his Weakness may be upheld: See therefore the Figure of the first Vi∣sion.

XII. IN the second Vision you saw her standing, and having a youthful Face, and more chearful than her former; but her Flesh and her Hair were ancient. Hear, said he, this Parable also. When any one grows Old, He despairs of himself by reason of his Infirmity and Po∣verty; and expects nothing but the last Day of his Life. But on the suddain an Inheritance is left to him; and he hears of it, and rises; and

being become chearful, he puts on new Strength; And now he no longer lies along, but stands; and is de∣liver'd from his former Sorrow; and sits not, but acts manfully. So you, having heard the Revelation which God revealed unto you; because God had Compassion upon you, and renew'd your Spirit; both laid a∣side your Infirmities, and Strength came to you, and you grew strong in the Faith; and God seeing your Strength rejoyced. For this cause he shewed you the Building of the Tower; and will shew other things unto you, if you shall have Peace with all your Heart among each o∣ther.

XIII. BUT in the third Vision you saw her yet younger; fair and chearful, and of a serene Counte∣nance. For as if some good News comes to one that is sad, he straight∣way forgets his Sadness, and regards nothing else but the good News which he has heard; and for the rest he is comforted, and his Spirit is renew'd through the Joy which

he has received: Even so you have been renew'd in your Spirit, by see∣ing these good things. And for that you saw her sitting upon a Bench, it denotes a strong Position; because a Bench has four Feet, and stands strongly. And even the World its self is kept up by the four Elements. They therefore that repent perfect∣ly, shall be young; and they that turn from their Sins with their whole Heart, shall be establish'd. And now you have the Revelation fully; ask no more to have any thing farther revealed unto you. But if any thing be to be revealed, it shall be made manifest unto you.

VISION IV. Of the Tryal and Tribulation that is about to come upon Men.

I. I Saw a Vision, Brethren, twenty Days after the former Vision; a Figure of the Tribulation that is at hand. I was walking in the Field

Way: Now from the publick Way to the Mannour whither I went is about ten Furlongs. It is a Way very little frequented: And as I was walk∣ing alone, I entreated the LORD that he would confirm the Revelations which he had shew'd unto me by his Holy Church: and would grant Repentance to all his Servants, who had been offended, that his great and honourable Name might be glorified; and because he thought me Worthy to whom he might shew his Won∣ders; and that I might honour him, and give thanks unto him. And be∣hold somewhat like a Voice answer'd me; Doubt not, HERMAS. Where∣fore I began to think, and say with∣in my self; why should I doubt, seeing I am thus setled by the LORD, and have seen such glorious things? I had gone but a little far∣ther, Brethren, when behold I saw a Dust rise up to Heaven. I began to say within my self; Is there a Drove of Cattle coming, that raises such a Dust? It was about a Fur∣long off from me. And behold I saw the Dust rise more and more, inso∣much

that I began to suspect that there was somewhat extraordinary in it. And the Sun shone a little; and be∣hold I saw a great Beast, as it were a Whale; and fiery Locusts came out of his Mouth. The Heigth of the Beast was about a hundred Feet; and he had a Head like a ‖ 1.15 large Earthen Vessel. I began to weep, and to pray unto the LORD, that he would deliver me from it. Then I call'd to mind the Word which I had heard; Doubt not, HERMAS. Wherefore, Brethren, put∣ting on the Faith of God, and remem∣bring who it was that had taught me great things, I deliver'd my self bold∣ly unto the Beast. Now the Beast came on in such a manner, as if it could with one Blast have devour'd a City. I came near unto it; and the Beast extended its whole Bulk upon the Ground; and put forth nothing but its Tongue, nor once moved its self, till I had quite pass'd by it. Now the Beast had upon its Head four Colours, first Black, then a Red, and Bloudy Colour, then a Golden; and then a White.

II. AFTER that I had pass'd by it, and was gon forward about thirty Foot; behold there met me a certain Virgin well-adorn'd, as if she had been just come out of her Bride-Chamber, all in white, having on white Shoes, and a Vail down her Face; and cover'd with shining Hair. Now I know by my former Visions that it was the Church; and thereupon grew the more chearful. And she saluted me saying, Hail O Man! I re∣turn'd the Salutation, saying, Lady, Hail! She answering said unto me, Did nothing meet you, O Man! I re∣plyed; Lady, There met me such a Beast, as seem'd able to devour a whole People: But by the Power of God, and through his singular Mercy I escap'd it. Thou didst escape it well, said she; because thou didst cast thy whole Care upon God; and open'dst thy Heart unto him; believing that thou couldst be safe by no other, than by his Great and Honourable Name. For this cause the LORD sent his Angel, who is over the Beasts, whose Name is HEGRIN, and stopp'd his

Mouth, that he should not devour thee. Thou hast escap'd a great Tryal by means of thy Faith; and because thou, didst not doubt for such a terrible Beast. Go therefore, and relate to the Elect of God, the great things that he hath done for thee. And thou shalt say unto them, that this Beast is the Figure of the Tryal that is about to come. If therefore ye shall have prepared your selves, ye may escape it, if your Heart be pure and without Spot; and if ye shall serve God all the rest of your Days without complaint. Cast all your Cares upon the LORD, and he will direct them. Believe in God, ye doubtful, because he can do all things; He can both turn a∣way his Wrath from you, and send you Help and Security. Wo to the double-minded, to those who shall hear these Words, and shall despise them; It had been better for them that they had not been born.

III. THEN I ask'd her concern∣ing the four Colours which the Beast had upon its Head. But she answer'd me, saying; Again art thou curious

in that thou askest concerning these things. And I said unto her, La∣dy; Shew me what they are? Hear, said she: The Black which thou sawest, denotes the World in which you dwell. The Fiery and Bloudy Colour, signifies, that this Age must be destroyed by Fire and Bloud. The Golden Part are ye, who have escaped out of it. For as Gold is try'd by the Fire, and is made Pro∣fitable; so are ye also in like man∣ner try'd who dwell among the Men of this World. They therefore that shall endure to the end, and be proved by them, shall be purged. And as Gold, by this Tryal is cleansed and loses it Dross; so shall ye also cast away all Sorrow, and Trouble; and be made pure for the Building of the Tower. But the White Colour, de∣notes the time of the World which is to come, in which the Elect of God shall inhabit: Because the Elect of God shall be pure and without Spot unto Life Eternal. Wherefore do not thou cease to speake these things in the Ears of the Saints. Here ye have the Figure of the great Tri∣bulation

that is about to come; which if you please, shall be nothing to you. Keep therefore in mind the things which I have said unto you. When she had spoken thus much, she departed: But I saw not whither she went. But suddainly I heard a Noise, and I turn'd back, being a∣fraid; for I thought that the Beast was coming toward me.

The Second BOOK OF St. HERMAS Which is Called His COMMANDS.

The Introduction.

WHEN I had pray'd at home, and was sate down upon the Bed; a certain Man came in to me with a Reverend Look, in the Habit of a SHEPHERD cloath'd with a white Cloak, having his Bag upon his Back, and his Staff in his Hand, and saluted me. I re∣turn'd his Salutation; and immedi∣ately he sate down by me, and said unto me; I am sent by that Venera∣ble

Messenger, that I should dwell with thee all the remaining Days of thy life. But I thought that he was come to try me, and said unto him, Who are you? For I know to whom I am delivered. He said unto me, Do you not know me? I answer'd, No. I am, said he, that SHEPHERD, to whose Care you are delivered. Whilst he was yet speak∣ing his Shape was changed; and when I knew that it was he to whom I was committed, I was asham'd, and a suddain Fear came upon me, and I was utterly overcome with Sadness, because I had spoken so foolishly un∣to him. But he said unto me, Be not asham'd, but stir up Vertue in thy Mind, through the Commands which I am about to deliver unto thee. For, said he, I am sent to shew unto thee all those things again, which thou hast seen before; and especially such of them as may be of most use unto you. And first of all write my COM∣MANDS and SIMILITUDES, that by often reading of them, you may the more easily ‖ 1.16 keep them in Memory. Whereupon I wrote his Commands

and Similitudes, as he bad me. Which things if when you have heard, ye shall observe to do them; and shall exercise your selves in them, and walk according to them with a pure Mind; ye shall receive from the LORD those things which he has promised unto you. But if having heard them ye shall not repent, but shall still go on to add to your Sins; ye shall be pu∣nish'd by him. All these things that SHEPHERD, the Angel of Repen∣tance, commanded me to write.

The First COMMAND. Of Believing in ONE GOD.

* 1.17FIRST of all believe that there is One God who created and fi∣nished All things; and made All things out of Nothing. He com∣prehends all things, and is only Im∣mense, not to be comprehended by Any. Who can neither be defined by any Words, nor conceived by the Mind. Therefore believe in him, and fear

him; and fearing him abstain from all Evil. Keep these things, and cast all Iniquity far from thee; and put on Righteousness; and thou shalt live to God, if thou shalt keep this Commandment.

The Second COMMAND. That we must avoid Detraction; and do our Alms-Deeds with Simplicity.

I. HE said unto me; Be inno∣cent and ‖ 1.18 without disguise; so shalt thou be like an Infant who knows no Malice, which destroys the Life of Man. And especially see that thou speak Evil of None; nor willingly hear any one speak Evil of Any. For if thou shalt hear them, thou shalt be partaker of the Sin of him that speaketh Evil; and by be∣lieving such a one thou also shalt have Sin; because thou believedst him that spake Evil of thy Brother.

* 1.19 Detraction is a pernicious thing; an inconstant † 1.20 Evil Spirit; that ne∣ver continues in Peace, but is always in Discord. Wherefore refrain thy self from it; and keep Peace ever∣more with thy Brother. Put on a Holy Constancy, in which there are no Sins; but all is full of Joy: and do good of thy Labours. ‖ 1.21 Give * 1.22 without distinction to all that are in Want; not doubting to whom thou givest. But give to All; for God will have us give to all of † 1.23 the Goods which he dispenses to us. They therefore that receive shall give an Account to God, both where∣fore they received, and for what End. And they that receive with∣out a real need, shall give an account for it; but he that gives shall be In∣nocent: For he has fulfill'd his Duty as he received it from God; not making any Choice to whom he should give, and to whom not. And this Service he did with Simplicity, and ‖ 1.24 to the Glory of God. Keep therefore this Command according as I have deliver'd it unto thee; that thy Repentance may be found

to be sincere; and that Good may come to thy House; and have a pure Heart.

The Third COMMAND. Of avoiding Lying and the Re∣pentance of HERMAS for his Dissimulation.

‖ 1.25 MOREOVER he said unto me; Love Truth; and let all the Speech be true which pro∣ceeds out of thy Mouth; that the Spirit which the LORD hath appoint∣ed in thy Flesh may be found true towards all Men; and the LORD be magnified, who hath given such a Spirit unto thee: Because God is true in all his Words, and there is no Lie found in him. But they that lie, deny the LORD; * 1.26 not rendring to God what they received from him. For they received the Spirit without a Lie: if therefore they make that a Lyar, they defile the Command∣ment of the LORD, and become De∣ceivers.

And when I heard this, I wept bitterly. And when he saw me weeping he said unto me; Why weepest thou? And I said; Because, Sir, I doubt whether I can be saved? He ask'd me, Wherefore? I reply'd; Because, Sir, I never spake a true Word in my Life; but always lived in Dissimulation; and affirm'd a Lie for Truth to all Men; and no Man contradicted me, but all gave Credit to my Words. How then can I live, seeing I have done in this manner? And he said unto me; Thou thinkest well, and truly. For thou oughtest, as the Servant of God, to have walked in the Truth, and not have joyn'd an Evil Con∣science with the Spirit of Truth; nor have grieved the Holy and true Spirit of God. And I reply'd unto him; Sir, I never before hearkned so diligently to these things. He answer'd; Now thou hearest them: Take care from henceforth, that even those things which thou hast formerly spoken falsly for the sake of thy Business, may by thy present Truth, receive Credit. For even

those things may be credited, if for the time to come thou shalt speak the Truth: and † 1.27 by so doing thou mayst attain unto Life. And who∣soever shall hearken unto this Com∣mand, and do it; and shall depart from all Lying, he shall live unto God.

The Fourth COMMAND. Of putting away ones Wife for Adultery.

I. FURTHERMORE, said he, I command thee, that thou keep ‖ 1.28 thy self Chast; and that thou suf∣fer not any thought † 1.29 of any other Marriage, or of Fornification, to enter into thy Heart; For such a Thought produces a great Sin. But be thou at all times mindful of the LORD, and thou shalt never sin. For if such an Evil Thought should arise in thy Heart, thou wouldst be guil∣ty of a great Sin; and they who do such things, follow the way of Death.

Look therefore to thy self, and keep thy self from such a Thought: For where Chastity remains in the Heart of a Righteous Man, there an Evil Thought ought never to arise. And I said unto him, Sir, Suffer me to speak a little with you. He bad me, Say on. And I answer'd, Sir, If a Man shall have a Wife that is faith∣ful in the LORD, and shall catch her in Adultery; shall a Man sin that continues to live still with her? And he said unto me; As long as he is ignorant of her Sin, he commits no fault in living with her: But if a Man shall know his Wife to have offended; and she shall not repent of her Sin, but go on still in her Fornication, and a Man shall con∣tinue nevertheless to live with her, he shall become guilty of her Sin, and partake with her in her Adulte∣ry. And I said unto him; what therefore is to be done if the Woman continues on in her Sin? He an∣swered; Let her Husband put her away, and let him continue by him∣self. But if he shall put away his Wife, and marry another, he also

shall commit Adultery. And I said; What if the Woman that is so put a∣way shall repent, and be willing to return to her Husband, shall she not be received by him? He said unto me, Yes; and if her Husband shall not receive her, he will sin; and commit a great Offence against him∣self: But he ought to receive her though an Offender, if she repents; only not often. For to the Servants of God there is but one Repentance. And for this Cause a Man that put∣teth away his Wife ought not to take another, because she may re∣pent. This Act is alike both in the Man and in the Woman. Now they commit Adultery, not only who pollute their Flesh, but who also make an Image. ‖ 1.30 If therefore a Woman perseveres in any thing of this kind, and repents not; depart from her, and live not with her: Otherwise thou also shalt be Par∣taker of her Sin. But it is therefore commanded that both the Man and Woman should remain unmarried, because such Persons may repent. Nor do I in this administer any Oc∣casion

for the doing of these things so; but rather that whoso has offend∣ed should not offend any more. But for their former Sins, God who has the Power of Healing will give a Remedy: For it is he who can do all things.

II. I ASKED him again, and said; Seeing my LORD has thought me worthy with whom to dwell continually; speak a few Words unto me, because I understand no∣thing and my Heart is hardned through my former Conversation; and open my † 1.31 Understanding be∣cause I am very dull, and apprehend nothing at all. And he answering said unto me; I am the ‖ 1.32 Minister of Repentance, and give † 1.33 Under∣standing to all that repent. Do's it not seem to thee to be * 1.34 a very wise thing to repent? Because he that do's so gets a great † 1.35 Feeling: For he † 1.36 feels himself to have sinn'd and done wickedly in the sight of the LORD; and he remembers ‖ 1.37 with∣in himself that he has offended, and repents and do's no more wickedly;

but do's that which is good, and humbles his Soul, and afflicts it, be∣cause he has offended. You see therefore that Repentance is a deep Sense. And I said unto him; For this cause, Sir, I enquire diligently into all things, because I am a Sin∣ner, that I may know what I must do that I may live; and because my Sins are many. And he said unto me; Thou shalt live if thou shalt keep these my Commandments. And whosoever shall hear and do these Commands, shall live unto God.

III. AND I said unto him; I have even now heard from certain Teachers that there is no other Re∣pentance besides that of Baptism; when we go down into the Water, and receive the Forgiveness of our Sins: and that after that, we must sin no more, but live in * 1.38 Purity. And he said unto me, thou hast † 1.39 been rightly inform'd. Neverthe∣less seeing now thou enquirest dili∣gently into all things, I will mani∣fest this also unto thee; yet not so as to give any Occasion of sinning

either to those who shall hereafter believe, or who have already believ'd in the LORD. For neither they who have already believed, or who shall hereafter believe have any Repen∣tance of Sins, but Forgiveness of them. But as to those who are al∣ready called, the LORD before ‖ 1.40 that time appointed Repentance: Be∣cause God knoweth the Thoughts of all Mens Hearts, and their Infirmi∣ties; and the manifold Wickedness of the Devil, who is always con∣triving something against the Ser∣vants of God; and maliciously lays Snares for them. Therefore our merciful LORD had Compassion to∣wards his Creature, and appointed that Repentance, and gave unto me the Power of it. And therefore I say unto thee, If any one after that Great and Holy Calling shall be tempted by the Devil and Sin, he has but one * 1.41 Repentance. But if he shall often sin and repent; it shall not profit such a one; for he shall hardly live unto God. And I said, Sir, I am restored again to Life since I have thus diligently hearken'd to

these Commands. For I perceive, that if I shall not hereafter add any more to my Sins, I shall be saved. And he said, Thou shalt be saved; and so shall all others, as many as shall observe these Command∣ments.

IV. AND again I said unto him; Sir, seeing thou hearest me patient∣ly, shew me yet one thing more. Tell me, saith he, what it is. And I said; If a Husband or Wife die, and the Party which survives marry again, do's he sin in so doing? ‖ 1.42 He that marries (says he) sins not: Howbeit if he shall remain single, he shall thereby gain to himself great Honour with the LORD. Keep therefore thy Chastity, and Mode∣sty; and thou shalt live unto God. Observe from henceforth those things which I speak with thee, and com∣mand thee to observe; from the time that I have been deliver'd un∣to thee, and dwell in thy House. So shall thy former Sins be for∣given, if thou shalt keep these my Commandments. And in like man∣ner

shall all others be forgiven, who shall observe these my Command∣ments.

The Fifth COMMAND. Of the Sadness of the Heart: And of Patience.

I. BE Patient, says he, and of an Even-Mind; so shalt thou have Dominion over all Wicked Works, and shalt fulfil all Righte∣ousness. For if thou shalt be Pa∣tient, the Holy Spirit which dwel∣leth in thee shall be pure; and not be darkned by any other Evil Spirit; But being full of Joy shall be en∣larged, and feast in the † 1.43 Body in which it dwells, and shall appear before the LORD with Joy, and in great Peace. But if any †† 1.44 Anger shall over-take thee, presently the Holy Spirit which is in thee will be straightned and seek to depart from thee. For he is choaked by the Evil

Spirit; and has not the ‖ 1.45 Liberty of appearing before the LORD as he would. For he is grieved by †† 1.46 An∣ger. * 1.47 When therefore both these Spirits dwell together, it is destru∣ctive to a Man. As if one should take a little Wormwood, and put it into a Vessel of Honey, the whole Honey would be spoiled; and a great Quantity of Honey is corrupt∣ed by a very little Wormwood, and loses the Sweetness of Honey, and has no longer any Favour with its Lord; because the whole Honey is made bitter, and loses its Use. But if no Wormwood be put into the Honey it is sweet and profitable to its Lord. Thus is an Equality of Mind sweeter than Honey, and pro∣fitable to the LORD, who dwel∣leth in it. But †† 1.48 Anger is unpro∣fitable. If therefore †† 1.49 Anger shall be mixed with Equanimity, the Soul is distress'd, and its Prayer is not profitable ‖ 1.50 with God. And I said unto him; Sir, I would know the Sinfulness of †† 1.51 Anger, that I may keep my self from it. And he said unto me, Thou shalt know it;

and if thou shalt not keep thy self from it, thou shalt lose thy Hope with all thy House. Wherefore de∣part from it. For I the * 1.52 Messenger of Righteousness am with thee; and all that depart from it, as many as shall repent with all their Hearts, shall live unto God; and I will be with them, and will keep them all. For all such as have repented, have been justified, by the * 1.53 Messenger which bringeth Salvation.

II. AND now, says he, hear the Wickedness of †† 1.54 Anger; How E∣vil and Hurtful it is, and how it o∣verthrows the Servants of God. For nothing can hurt those that are full of Faith, Because the ‖ 1.55 Power of God is with them. But he over∣throws the doubtful, and those that are destitute of Faith: But as often as he sees the other sort, he will cast himself into their Hearts. Let not therefore any Man or Woman be in Bitterness for any thing; whether for such things as they have occasion for here; or for Sustenance; or for any vain Word, if any should chance

to fall in; or by reason of any Friend; or for any Debt; or for any superfluous things of the like Nature. For these things are foolish, and superfluous, and vain to the Servants of God. But Equanimity is strong, and forcible; and of great Power, and sitteth in great Enlarge∣ment; is chearful, rejocing in Peace; and glorifying God at all times with Meekness. And this Equality of Mind dwells with those that are full of Faith. But †† 1.56 Anger is foolish, and light, and empty. Now Bitter∣ness is bred through Folly; by Bit∣terness, †† 1.57 Anger; by †† 1.58 Anger, Fury. And this Fury arising from many evil Principles, worketh a great and uncurable Sin. For when all these things are in the same * 1.59 Man in which the Holy Spirit dwells; the Vessel cannot contain them, but runs over: And because the tender Spirit cannot tarry with the Evil-One; it departs and dwells with him that is mild. When therefore it is departed from the Man in whom it dwelt; that Man becomes desti∣tute of the Holy Spirit, and is af∣terwards

filled with Wicked Spi∣rits, and is blinded with Evil Thoughts. Thus do's it happen to all Angry Men. Wherefore de∣part thou from Anger, and put on Equanimity, and resist Wrath; and thou shalt be found with Modesty and Chastity by God. Take good heed therefore that thou neglect not this Commandment. For if thou shalt obey this Command, then shalt thou also be able to observe the o∣ther Commandments which I shall command thee. Wherefore strengthen thy self now in these Commands, that thou mayst live unto God. And whosoever shall observe these Com∣mandments shall live unto God.

The Sixth COMMAND. That every Man has two * 1.60 Angels, and of the Suggestions of both.

I COMMANDED thee, said he, in my first Commandment, that thou shouldst keep Faith, and Fear,

and Repentance. Yes, Sir, said I. He continued; But now I will shew thee the Vertues of these Commands, that thou mayst know their Effects; how they are † 1.61 prescribed alike to the Just and Unjust. Do thou there∣fore believe the Righteous, but give no Credit to the Unrighteous. For Righteousness keepeth the right Way, but Unrighteousness the wicked Way. Do thou therefore keep the right Way, and leave that which is Evil. For the Evil Way has not a Good End, but hath many Stumb∣ling-Blocks; it is rugged and full of Thorns, and leads to Destruction, and is hurtful to all such as walk in it. But they who go in the right Way, walk with Evenness, and without Offence; because it is not Rough, nor Thorny. Thou seest therefore, how it is best to walk in this Way. Thou shalt therefore go, says he, and all others as many as be∣lieve in God with all their Heart shall go through it. And now, says he; ‖ 1.62 Understand first of all what belongs to Faith. There are two Angels with Man; One of Righte∣ousness,

the Other of Iniquity. And I said unto him; Sir, How shall I know that there are two such Angels with Man? Hear, says he, and un∣derstand. The Angel of Righteous∣ness, is Mild, and Modest, and Gen∣tle, and Quiet. When therefore he gets into thy Heart, immediately he talks with thee of Righteousness, of Modesty, of Chastity, of Bounti∣fulness, of Forgiveness, of Charity, and Piety. When all these things come into thy Heart, know then that the Angel of Righteousness is with thee. Wherefore hearken to this Angel and to his Works. Learn also the Works of the Angel of Ini∣quity. He is first of all Bitter, and Angry, and Foolish; and his Works are pernicious, and overthrow the Servants of God. When therefore these things come into thy Heart; thou shalt know him by his Works, that it is the Angel of Iniquity. And I said unto him; Sir, How shall I understand these things? Hear, says he, and understand. When Anger overtakes thee, or Bitterness, know that he is in thee: As also, when

the desire of many * 1.63 things, and of the best Meats, and of Drunkenness; when the Love of what belongs to others; of Pride, and of much Speech, of Ambition; and of the like things, come upon thee. When therefore these things arise in thy Heart, know that the Angel of Ini∣quity is with thee. Seeing there∣fore thou knowest his Works, depart from them all, and give no Credit to him: Because his Works are E∣vil, and agree not to the Servants of God. Here therefore thou hast the Works of both these Angels. Know now and believe the Angel of Righ∣teousness, because his Instruction is Good. For let a Man be never so happy; yet if the Thoughts of the other Angel arise in his Heart, that Man or Woman must needs sin. But let a Man or Woman be never so Wicked, and the Works of the Angel of Righteousness come into his Heart, that Man or Woman must needs do some Good. Thou seest therefore how it is good to follow the Angel of Righteousness. If there∣fore thou shalt follow him, and be∣lieve

in his Works, thou shalt live unto God. And as many as shall be∣lieve in his Works, shall live also unto God.

The Seventh COMMAND. That we must fear God, but not the Devil.

‖ 1.64 FEAR God, says he, and keep his Commandments. For if thou keepest his Commandments thou shalt be powerful in every Work, and all thy Counsel shall be excellent. For by fearing God, thou shalt do every thing well. This is that Fear with which thou must be affected, that thou mayst be saved. But fear not the Devil: For if thou fearest the LORD thou shalt have Dominion over him; because there is no Power in him. Now if there be no Power in him, then neither is he to be feared. But he in whom Power is Excellent, he is also to be feared. For

every one that has Power is to be feared. But he that has no Power is despised by every one. Fear the Works of the Devil because they are Evil. For by fearing the LORD, thou wilt fear and not do the Works of the Devil, but keep thy self from them. For there is a twofold Fear; For if whilst thou fearest the LORD thou wilt do that which is Evil, thou shalt not do even that. But if thou wilt do good, the Fear of the LORD is Strong, and Great, and Glorious. Wherefore, Fear God and thou shalt live. And whosoever shall fear him, and keep his Commandments, their Life is with the LORD. But they who keep them not, neither is Life in them.

The Eighth COMMAND. That we must Flee from Evil, and Do Good.

I HAVE told thee, said he, that there are two kinds of Crea∣tures of the LORD, and that there

is a two-fold * 1.65 Abstinence. From some therefore thou must abstain, and from others not. I answered, Tell me, Sir, from what I must abstain, and from what not. Hearken, said he. Keep thy self from Evil, and do it not. But abstain not from Good, but do it. For if thou shalt abstain from what is Good, and not do it; thou shalt sin. Abstain there∣fore from all Evil, and thou shalt know all Righteousness. I said; What Evil things are they from which I must abstain? Hearken, said he; from Adultery; from Drunkenness; from wicked Riots; from Excess of Eating; from Dain∣tiness and Dishonesty; from Pride; from Denials; from Lying; from Detraction; from feigned Wicked∣ness; from Remembrance of Inju∣ries; and from Evil Reports. For these are ‖ 1.66 all the Works of Iniqui∣ty; from which the Servant of God must abstain. For he that cannot keep himself from these things, can∣not live unto God. But hear, said he, what follows of these kind of things. And indeed many more

there are from which the Servant of God must abstain. From Theft, and Cheating; from False-Witness; from Covetousness; from Boasting; and all other things of the like Nature. Do these things seem to thee to be E∣vil or not? Indeed they are very Evil to the Servants of God. Where∣fore every such Person must abstain from all these * 1.67 Works. Keep thy self therefore from them, that thou mayst live unto God, and be written among those that abstain from them. And thus have I shewn thee what things thou must avoid: Now learn from what thou must not abstain. Abstain not from any good Works, but do them. Hear, said he, what the Vertue of those good Works is which thou must do, that thou mayst be saved. The first of all is Faith; the Fear of the LORD; Charity; Concord; Pie∣ty; Equity; Truth; Patience; Cha∣stity. There is nothing better than these things in the Life of Man; who shall keep and do these things in their Life. Hear next what fol∣low these. To minister to the Wi∣dows;

not to despise the Father∣less and Poor; to redeem the Ser∣vants of God from Necessity; to be Hospitable; for in Hospitality there is sometimes great Fruit. Not to be contentious, but be quiet; to be humble above all Men; to reverence the Aged; to labour to be Righte∣ous; to keep up Brotherhood; to bear Affronts; to be equal minded; not to cast away those that have fallen from the Faith; but to make them gentle; to admonish Sinners; not to oppress those that are our Debtors; and all other things of alike kind. Do these things seem to thee to be good, or not? And I said, what can be better than these Words? Live, then said he, in these Commandments, and do not depart from them. For if thou shalt keep all these Command∣ments, thou shalt live unto God. And all they that shall keep these Com∣mandments shall live unto God.

The Ninth COMMAND. That we must ask of God daily; and without Doubting.

AGAIN he said unto me; ‖ 1.68 Re∣move from thee all Doubting; and Question nothing at all. When thou askest any thing of the LORD, say not within thy self; How shall I be able to ask any thing of the LORD and receive it, seeing I am so great a Sinner against him? Do not think thus, but turn unto the LORD with all thy Heart. Ask without Doubting, and thou shalt know the Mercy of the LORD; How that he will not forsake thee, but will fulfil the Request of thy Soul. For God is not as Men, mindful of the Inju∣ries he has received; but he forgets Injuries, and has Compassion upon his Creature. Wherefore purifie thy Heart from all the Vices of this pre∣sent World; and observe the Com∣mands I have before deliver'd unto thee from God; and thou shalt re∣ceive

whatsoever good things thou shalt ask, and nothing shall be want∣ing unto thee of all thy Petitions; if thou shalt ask of the LORD without doubting. But they that are not such, shall obtain none of those things which they ask. For they that are full of Faith, ask with Confidence, and receive from the LORD, be∣cause they ask without doubting. But he that doubts; shall hardly live unto God, except he repent. Wherefore purifie thy Heart from doubting, and put on Faith; and trust in God; and thou shalt receive all that thou shalt ask. But and if thou shouldst chance to ask somewhat and not receive it, yet do not therefore doubt, because thou hast not pre∣sently received the Petition of thy Soul. For it may be thou shalt not yet receive it for thy Tryal, or else for some Sin which thou knowest not. But do not thou leave off to ask, † 1.69 and then thou shalt receive. Else if thou shalt cease to ask, thou must complain of thy self, and not of God, that he has not given unto thee what thou didst desire. Consider there∣fore

this Doubting how cruel and per∣nicious it is; and how it utterly roots out many from the Faith, who were very faithful and firm. For this Doubting is the Daughter of the De∣vil; and deals very wickedly with its Servants. Despise it therefore, and thou shalt rule over it ‖ 1.70 on every Occasion. Put on a firm and power∣ful Faith. For Faith promises all things, and perfects all things. But doubting will not believe, that it shall obtain any thing, by all that it can do. Thou seest therefore, says he, how Faith cometh from above, from God; and has great Power. But Doubting is an Earthly Spirit, and proceedeth from the Devil, and has no Strēgth. Do thou therefore keep the Vertue of Faith, and depart from Doubting, in which is no Ver∣tue, and thou shalt live unto God. And all shall live unto God, as many as shall do these things.

The Tenth COMMAND. Of the Sadness of the Heart; and that we must take heed not to grieve the Spirit of God that is in us.

I. PUT all Sadness far from thee; for it is the Sister of Doubt∣ing and of Anger. How, Sir, said I, Is it the Sister of these? For Sad∣ness, and Anger, and Doubting, seem to me to be very different from one another. And he answered; ‖ 1.71 Art thou without Sense that thou dost not understand it? For Sadness is the most mischievous of all Spirits, and the worst to the Servants of God: It destroys the Spirits of all Men, and torments the Holy Spirit; and again it saves. Sir, said I, I am very foolish, and understand not these † 1.72 things. I cannot apprehend how it can torment, and yet save? Hear, said he, and understand. They who never sought out the Truth, nor en∣quired concerning the Majesty of God; but only believed, are involved in the Affairs of the Heathen. And

there is another * 1.73 lying Prophet, that destroys the Senses of the Servants of God; that is, of those that are doubtful, not of those that fully trust in the LORD. Now those doubtful Persons come to him, as to a Divine Spirit, and enquire of him, what shall befal them. And this lying Pro∣phet, having no Power in him of the Divine Spirit, answers them ac∣cording to their Demands; and fills their Souls with Promises according as they desire. Howbeit that Pro∣phet is vain, and answers vain things to those who are themselves vain. And whatsoever is asked of him by vain Men, he answers them vainly. Nevertheless he speaketh some things truly. For the Devil fills him with his Spirit, that he may overthrow some of the Righteous.

II. WHOSOEVER therefore are strong in the Faith of the LORD, and have put on the Truth; they are not joyned to such Spirits, but depart from them. But those that are doubt∣ful, and often repenting; like the Hea∣thens, consult them, and heap up

to themselves great Sin, serving I∣dols. As many therefore as are such, enquire of them upon every Occa∣sion; worship Idols, and are foolish, and void of the Truth. For every Spirit that is given from God is not asked; but having the Power of the Divinity speaks all things of its self; because it comes from above from the Power of the Holy Spirit. But he that being ask'd speaks ac∣cording to Mens desires, and con∣cerning many other Affairs of this present World, understands not the things which relate unto God. For these Spirits are darkned through such Affairs, and corrupted, and broken. As good Vines if they are neglected, are oppress'd with Weeds and Thorns, and at last kill'd by them; So are the Men who believe such Spirits: They fall into many Actions and Businesses, and are void of Sense, and when they think of things per∣taining unto God, they understand nothing at all. But if at any time they chance to hear any thing con∣cerning the LORD, their † 1.74 Thoughts are upon their Business: But they

that have the Fear of the LORD, and search out the Truth concerning God, have all their Thoughts with the LORD. They apprehend what∣soever is said to them, and forth∣with they understand it, because they have the Fear of the LORD in them. For where the Spirit of the LORD dwells, there is also a great Sense added. Wherefore joyn thy self to the LORD, and thou shalt understand and apprehend all things.

III. LEARN now, O Unwise Man! How Sadness grieves the Holy Spirit, and how it saves. When a Man that is doubtful is engaged in any Affair, and do's not accomplish it by reason of his Doubting; this Sadness enters into him, and grieves the Holy Spirit, and makes him sad. Again, Anger when it overtakes any Man for any Business, he is great∣ly moved; and Anger possesses his Heart; and he is disturb'd in his Work which he is about, and after∣wards repents, because he did amiss. Thus both Doubting and Sadness hurt the Holy Spirit. Doubting,

because his Work did not succeed; and Sadness, because he angr'd the Holy Spirit. ‖ 1.75 Remove therefore Sad∣ness from thy self; and offend not the Holy Spirit which dwelleth in thee; least he ask the LORD, and depart from thee. For the Spirit of the LORD which is given to us in the Flesh, endures not Sadness. Where∣fore cloath thy self with Chearful∣ness, which has always Favour with the LORD, and thou shalt rejoyce in it. For every chearful Man do's well, and relishes those things that are good, and despises Unrighteous∣ness. But the sad Man do's wicked∣ly, because he grieves the Holy Spi∣rit, which is given to the chearful Man. And again he do's ill, because he prays with Sadness unto the LORD, except he first makes a thankful acknowledgment unto him of former Mercies; and obtains not of God what he asks. For the Prayer of a sad Man has not always Effi∣cacy to come up to the Altar of God. And I said unto him, Sir, Why has not the Prayer of a sad Man Vertue to come up to the Altar of God?

Because, said he, that Sadness re∣maineth in his Heart. When there∣fore a Man's Prayer shall be accom∣panied with Sadness, it will not suf∣fer his Requests to ascend pure to the Altar of God. For as Wine when it is mingled with Vinegar, has not the Sweetness it had before; so Sad∣ness being mix'd with the Holy Spi∣rit, suffers not a Man's Prayer to be Pure, as it would be otherwise. Where∣fore purifie thy self from Sadness, which is Evil, and thou shalt live unto God. And all others shall live unto God, as many as shall lay aside Sadness, and put on Chearfulness.

The Eleventh COMMAND. That the Spirits and Prophets are to be tried by their Works; and of a Two-fold Spirit.

HE shew'd me certain Men sit∣ting upon Benches, and one sitting in a Chair: And he said un∣to me; Seest thou those who sit

upon the Benches? Sir, said I, I see them. He answer'd; They are the Faithful; and he who sits in the Chair, is an Earthly Spirit. For he cometh not into the Church ‖ 1.76 with the Faithful, but avoids it. But he joyns himself to the Doubtful and Empty; and prophecies to them in hidden Places and Corners; and pleases them by speaking according to all the Desires of their Hearts. For that which is fitted to empty Vessels is not broken, but the one agrees to the other. But when such a one comes into the Company of Just Men, who have the Spirit of God, and they pray unto the LORD; that Man is emptied, because that Earthly Spirit flies from him, and he is dumb, and cannot speak any thing. As if in a Store-House you shall stop up Wine or Oyl; and a∣mong those Vessels shall place an empty Jar; and shall afterwards come to open it, you shall find it empty as you stopp'd it up: So those em∣pty Prophets, when they come a∣mong the Spirits of the Just, are found to be such as they came. Thus

you see the Life of each of these kind of Prophets. Wherefore prove that Man by his Life and Works, who says that he hath the Holy Spirit. And believe the Spirit which comes from God, and has Power as such. But believe not the Earthly Spirit, in whom there is no Trust nor Vertue, but he is empty; be∣cause he is from the Devil. Hear now the Similitude which I am a∣bout to speak unto thee. Take a Stone, and throw it up towards Heaven; or take a Spout of Water, and mount it up thither-ward; and see if thou canst reach unto Heaven. Sir, said I; How can this be done? For neither of those things, which you have mentioned, are possible to be done. And he answer'd; There∣fore as these things cannot be done, so is the Earthly Spirit without Ver∣tue, and without Effect. Under∣stand yet farther the Power of the other, in this Similitude. The Grains of Hail that drop down are exceeding small; and yet when they fall upon the Head of a Man, how do they cause Pain to it? And again; con∣sider

the Droppings of a House; how the little Drops falling upon the Earth, work a Hollow in the Stones. So in like manner the least things which come from above, and fall upon the Earth, have great force. Wherefore join thy self to this Spirit, which has Power; and depart from the other which is empty.

The Twelfth COMMAND. Of a two-fold Desire: That the Com∣mands of God are not impossible: And that the Devil is not to be feared by them that Believe.

I. AGAIN he said unto me; * 1.77 Re∣move from thee all Evil De∣sires, and put on all Good and Holy Desires. For having put on a good Desire, thou shalt hate that which is Evil, and bridle it as thou wilt. But an Evil Desire is dreadful, and hard to be appeas'd. It is very horrible and wild; and by its Wildness con∣sumes Men. And especially if the

Servant of God shall chance to fall into it, except he be very Wise, he shall be ruined by it. For it de∣stroys those who have not the Garment of a good Desire; and engages them in the Affairs of this present World, and delivers them unto Death. Sir, said I, What are the Works of an evil Desire, which shall bring Men unto Death? Shew them to me, that I may depart from them. Hear, said he, in what Works an evil Desire shall bring the Ser∣vants of God unto Death. The Spirit of all Men is Earthly, and light, and has no Vertue, and speaks much. I said; How then shall a Man be able to discern them? Con∣sider what I am going to say con∣cerning both kinds of † 1.78 Men; and as I speak unto thee so shalt thou prove the Prophet of God, and the False Prophet. And first, try the Man who hath the Spirit of God; because the Spirit, which is from above, is humble, and quiet, and departs from all Wickedness, and from the vain Desires of the present World; and makes himself more

humble than all Men; and answers to none when he is ask'd; nor to every one singly; neither do's the Spirit of God speak to a Man when he will; but speaks when God pleases. When therefore a Man who has the Spirit of God shall come into the Church of the Righteous, who have the Faith of God, and they pray unto the LORD; then the Holy Angel of God fills that Man with the Blessed Spirit, and he speaks in the Congregation as he is moved by God. Thus therefore is the Spirit of God known, because whosoever speaks by the Spirit of God, speaketh as the LORD will.

II. HEAR now concerning the Earthly Spirit which is empty and foolish, and without Vertue. And first of all the Man, who may be supposed to have this Spirit exalteth himself, and desires to have the first Seat, and is wicked and full of Words; and spends his time in Plea∣sure, and in all manner of Volup∣tuousness; and receives the Reward of his Divination. Which if he re∣ceives

not, he do's not divine. Al∣though the Spirit of God may re∣ceive Reward, and Divine: But it becomes not the Prophet of God so to do. But it is an evil Desire to covet another Mans Wife; or for a Woman to covet anothers Hus∣band; as also to desire the Dainties of Riches; and Multitude of super∣fluous Meats; and Drunkenness; and many Delights. For in much Delicacy there is Folly; and many Pleasures are needless to the Servants of God. Such Lusting therefore is evil and pernicious, which brings to Death the Servants of God. For all such Lusting is from the Devil. Whosoever therefore shall depart from all evil Desires, shall live unto God: But they that are subject un∣to them shall die for ever. For this evil Lusting is deadly. Do thou therefore put on the Desire of Righ∣teousness, and being armed with the Fear of the LORD resist all wicked Lusting. For Fear dwelleth in good Desires; and when evil Coveting shall see thee arm'd with the Fear of the LORD, and resisting

it; it will flie far from thee, and not appear before thee, but be afraid of thy Armour; and thou shalt have the Victory, and be crown'd for it; and shalt attain unto that Desire which is good; and shalt give the Victory which thou hast obtain'd unto God, and shalt serve him in doing what thou thy self wouldst do. For if thou shalt be subject to good Desires, and follow them; thou shalt be able to get the Dominion over thy wicked Lustings; and they shall be subject to thee as thou wilt.

III. AND I said; Sir, I would know how I ought to serve that Desire which is good? Hearken, said he, Fear God, and put thy Trust in him; and love Truth, and Righteousness; and do that which is good. If thou shalt do these things, thou shalt be an approved Servant of God; and shalt serve him. And when he had fulfilled these Twelve Commands, he said unto me; Thou hast now these Commands, walk in them; and exhort those that hear them that they repent; and that

they keep their Repentance pure all the remaining Days of their Life. And fulfil diligently this Service which I commit to thee, and thou shalt receive great Advantage by it, and shalt find Favour with all such as shall repent, and shall believe thy Words. For I am with thee, and will force them to believe. And I said unto him; Sir, These Commands are Great and Excellent, and able to chear the Heart of that Man that shall be able to keep them. But Sir, I cannot tell, whether they can be observed by any Man? He answer'd; Thou shalt easily keep these Com∣mands, and they shall not be hard: Howbeit if thou shalt suffer it once to enter into thy Heart that they cannot be kept by any one, thou shalt not fulfil them. But now I say unto thee; If thou shalt not observe these Commands, but shalt dissemble, thou shalt not be saved, nor thy Children, nor thy House: Because thou hast judged that these Commands cannot be kept by Man.

IV. THESE things he spake very angrily unto me, insomuch that he greatly affrighted me. For he changed his Countenance, so that a Man could not bear his Anger. And when he saw me altogether troubled and confounded, he began to speak more moderately and chearfully say∣ing; O foolish, and without Under∣standing! Unconstant, not know∣ing the Majesty of God, how great, but withal how merciful he is; who created the World for Man; and hath made every Creature subject unto him, and given him all Power, that he should be able to overcome all these Commands. He is able, said he, to overcome all these Commands, who has the LORD in his Heart: But they who have the LORD only in their Mouths, and their Heart is hardned, are far from the LORD. To such Persons these Commands are hard and difficult. Put there∣fore ye that are empty and light in the Faith, the LORD your God, and keep him in your Hearts; and ye shall understand how that nothing is

more easie then these Commands, nor more pleasant, nor more gentle and holy: And turn your selves to the LORD your God, and forsake the Devil and his Pleasures, because they are Evil, and Bitter, and Impure. And fear not the Devil, because he has no Power over you. For I am with you, the * 1.79 Messenger of Re∣pentance, who have the Dominion over him. The Devil do's indeed affright Men; but his Terror is vain. Wherefore fear him not, and he will flee from you.

V. AND I said unto him; Sir, Hear me speak a few Words unto you. He answer'd, Say on: A Man indeed desires to keep the Command∣ments of God; and there is no one but what prays unto God, that he may be able to keep his Command∣ments. But the Devil is hard, and by his Power rules over the Servants of God. And he said; He cannot rule over the Servants of God, who believe in him with all their Hearts. The Devil may strive, but he cannot overcome them. For if ye resist

him, he will flee away with shame from you. But they that are not full in the Faith, fear the Devil, as if he had some great Power. For the Devil tries the Servants of God, and if he finds them empty, he de∣stroys them. For as a Man, when he fills up Vessels with good Wine, † 1.80 and among them puts a few Vessels half full, and comes to try and tast of the Vessels, do's not try those that are full, because he knows that they are good; but tasts those that are half full, least they should grow sowre; for Vessels half full soon grow sowre, and lose the Tast of Wine: So the Devil comes to the Servants of God to try them. They that are full of Faith resist him stoutly, and he de∣parts from them, because he finds no place where to enter into them; then he go's to those that are not full of Faith, and because he has place of entrance he goes into them and do's what he will with them, and they become his Servants.

VI. BUT I, the ‖ 1.81 Messenger of Repentance, say unto you, Fear

not the Devil. For I am sent unto you, that I may be with you, as many as shall repent with your whole Heart, and that I may confirm you in the Faith. ‖ 1.82 Believe therefore ye who by reason of your Transgres∣sions have forgot God, and who company your Salvation with your Sins, lead your Lives in Trouble; that if ye shall turn to the LORD with your whole Hearts, and shall serve him according to his Will; he will give a Remedy to your Souls, notwithstanding your former Sins, and ye shall have dominion over all the Works of the Devil. Be not then afraid in the least of his Threat∣nings; for they are without force; as the Sinews of a dead Man. But hearken unto me, and fear the LORD Almighty who is able to save and to destroy you; and keep his Com∣mands, that ye may live unto God. And I said unto him; Sir, I am now confirm'd in all the Commands of the LORD whilst that you are with me; and I know that you will break all the Power of the Devil. And we also shall overcome him, if we shall

be able, through the help of the LORD, to keep these Commands which you have delivered. Thou shalt keep them, said he, if thou shalt purifie thy Heart towards the LORD. And all they also shall keep them who shall cleanse their Hearts from the vain desires of the present World, and shall live unto God.

The Third BOOK OF St. HERMAS Which is Called His SIMILITUDES.

The First SIMILITUDE. That seeing we have no abiding City in this World; we ought to look af∣ter that which is to come.

AND he said unto me; ‖ 1.83 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 ‖ 1.84 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.

The Second SIMILITUDE. As the Vine is supported by the Elm, so is the Rich-Man help'd by the Prayers of the Poor.

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; ‖ 1.85 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.

The Third SIMILITUDE. As the Green Trees in the Win∣ter cannot be distinguish'd from the Dry; so neither can the Righteous from the Wicked in this present World.

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.

The Fourth SIMILITUDE. As in Summer the living Trees are distinguish'd from the Dry by their Fruit and Green Leaves; so in the World to come the Righteous shall be distinguish'd from the Un∣righteous by their Happiness.

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 † 1.86 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.

The Fifth SIMILITUDE. Of a True Fast, and the Rewards of it: Also of the Cleanness of the Body.

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 ‖ 1.87 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 * 1.88 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 † 1.89 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 * 1.90 Bread and Water † 1.91 and computing the Quantity of Food which thou art wont to eat upon other Days, thou shalt * 1.92 lay aside the Expence which thou shouldst have made that Day, and give it unto the Widow, the Fatherless and the Poor. * 1.93 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 ‖ 1.94 Spirit; The Servant is the Son of God. The Vineyard is the People whom he saves. The Stakes are the * 1.95 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 * 1.96 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.

The Sixth SIMILITUDE. Of two sorts of Voluptuous Men, and of their Death, Defection, and of the Continuance of their Pains.

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 ‖ 1.97 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, * 1.98 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 † 1.99 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, * 1.100 This Shep∣herd is indeed the ‖ 1.101 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. * 1.102 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.

The Seventh SIMILITUDE. That they who Repent, must bring forth Fruits worthy of Repentance.

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 ‖ 1.103 Messenger? Hearken, said he: Thou art indeed guilty of many Sins, yet not so many that thou shouldst be delivered to this ‖ 1.104 Messenger: But thy House hath committed many Sins and Offences, and therefore that good ‖ 1.105 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.

The Eighth SIMILITUDE. That there are many kinds of Elect, and of Repenting Sinners: And how all of them shall receive a Re∣ward proportionable to the Measure of their Repentance and Good Works.

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 ‖ 1.106 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 ‖ 1.107 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 ‖ 1.108 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 ‖ 1.109 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.

The Ninth SIMILITUDE. The Greatest Mysteries of the Mili∣tant and Triumphant Church which is to be built.

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 ‖ 1.110 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 * 1.111 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 ‖ 1.112 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 † 1.113 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: ‖ 1.114 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? ‖ 1.115 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 † 1.116 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 ‖ 1.117 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? † 1.118 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 ‖ 1.119 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; * 1.120 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 * 1.121 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: ‖ 1.122 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 † 1.123 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 * 1.124 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 ‖ 1.125 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 ‖ 1.126 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; ‖ 1.127 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. † 1.128 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.

The Tenth SIMILITUDE. Of Repentance and Alms-Deeds.

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 ‖ 1.129 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.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Edit. Oxon. aliter 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.2

  Vid. Hieron. in Hosoam. vii.9.
• * 1.3

  In Glory. — Edit. Oxon. Hath preserved thee in Glory.
• † 1.4

  Edit. Oxon.
• * 1.5

  Clem. Alex. Strom. vi.
• ‖ 1.6

  So Coteler. Edit. Oxon. And she, &c.
• ‖ 1.7

  Days that are coming.
• * 1.8

  Numb. xi.26, 27.
• * 1.9

  Origen. Philo∣cal. cap. 1.
• ‖ 1.10

  Are abou••.
• † 1.11

  Edit. Oxon.
• * 1.12

  Clem. Alex. Strom. xii.
• * 1.13

  Baptism.
• ‖ 1.14

  Vid. Edit. Oxon.
• ‖ 1.15

  Vas ur••ale.
• ‖ 1.16

  Observe them.
• * 1.17

  Irenaeus lib. 1. c. 3. Origen. de Princ. l. 1. c. 3. Euseb. Hist. Eccles. l. v. c. 8. Atha∣nas. de Incarn. Verb. &c.
• ‖ 1.18

  Simple.
• * 1.19

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. xxix.
• † 1.20

  Daemon.
• ‖ 1.21

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. xcviii.
• * 1.22

  Simply.
• † 1.23

  His own.
• ‖ 1.24

  Gloriously to God.
• ‖ 1.25

  Antioch. Hom. lxvi.
• * 1.26

  See below, Book lii. Si••. x Chap. 32.
• † 1.27

  If thou shalt keep the Truth
• ‖ 1.28

  Chastity.
• † 1.29

  Another Mans.
• ‖ 1.30

  See 1 Cor. vii.15▪
• † 1.31

  Sense.
• ‖ 1.32

  Praepositus: See below, Chap. iii.
• † 1.33

  Sense.
• * 1.34

  Great Wis∣dom.
• † 1.35

  Sense.
• † 1.36

  Sense.
• ‖ 1.37

  In his Vnder∣standing.
• * 1.38

  Chastity.
• † 1.39

  Rightly hear••
• ‖ 1.40

  Those days.
• * 1.41

  Vid. Annot. Coteler. in loc. pag. 60, 61.
• ‖ 1.42

  Vid. Not. Co∣teler. in loc. p. 64. B. C. Rom. vii.3. Comp. 1 Cor. vii.
• † 1.43

  The Vessel.
• †† 1.44

  Disposition to Anger: And so in what follows.
• ‖ 1.45

  Place.
• †† 1.46

  Disposition to Anger: And so in what follows.
• * 1.47

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. ••x.
• †† 1.48

  Disposition to Anger: And so in what follows.
• †† 1.49

  Disposition to Anger: And so in what follows.
• ‖ 1.50

  To.
• †† 1.51

  Disposition to Anger: And so in what follows.
• * 1.52

  Angel.
• * 1.53

  Angel.
• †† 1.54

  Angriness.
• ‖ 1.55

  Vertue.
• †† 1.56

  Angriness: Disposition to Anger. See a∣bove.
• †† 1.57

  Angriness: Disposition to Anger. See a∣bove.
• †† 1.58

  Angriness: Disposition to Anger. See a∣bove.
• * 1.59

  Vessel.
• * 1.60

  Vid Coteler. Annot. in loc. pag. 67.68. Comp. Edit. Oxon. p. 61. Not. a.
• † 1.61

  Placed.
• ‖ 1.62

  Vid Antioch Hom. lxi. Comp Orig. L. lii. De Princip. Et in L••c. Hom xxxv.
• * 1.63

  Works.
• ‖ 1.64

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. cxxvii.
• * 1.65

  Antioch. Hom. lxxix.
• ‖ 1.66

  Of all Ini∣quities.
• * 1.67

  Vid. Coteler. in loc.
• ‖ 1.68

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. lxxxiii.
• † 1.69

  Asking the Petition of thy Soul.
• ‖ 1.70

  In every thing.
• ‖ 1.71

  Without Sense thou dost not understand it.
• † 1.72

  Questions.
• * 1.73

  Vid. Edit. Oxon. p. 70. b. Comp. 2 Cor. vii.10.
• † 1.74

  Senses.
• ‖ 1.75

  Antioch. Hom. xxv.
• ‖ 1.76

  Of Men.
• * 1.77

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. lxxiv.
• † 1.78

  Vessels.
• * 1.79

  Angel.
• † 1.80

  Origen. in Matth. xxiv.42.
• ‖ 1.81

  Angel.
• ‖ 1.82

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. lxxvii.
• ‖ 1.83

  Antioch. Hom. xv.
• ‖ 1.84

  Soule.
• ‖ 1.85

  Vid. Origen. in Jos. Hom. x.
• † 1.86

  Nations.
• ‖ 1.87

  With me.
• * 1.88

  Vid. Not. Coteler. in loc. pag. 72, 73.
• † 1.89

  Coteler. ibid.
• * 1.90

  Vid. Not. Cotelerli. pag. 74. A. B. C.
• † 1.91

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. vii.
• * 1.92

  Vid. Not. Cotelerli. pag. 74. A. B. C.
• * 1.93

  Vid. Not. Cotelerli. pag. 74. A. B. C.
• ‖ 1.94

  Vid. Edit. Oxon. Annot. a. p. 105.
• * 1.95

  Angels.
• * 1.96

  Angels.
• ‖ 1.97

  In them.
• * 1.98

  Vid. Annot. Coteler. in loc.
• † 1.99

  Angel.
• * 1.100

  Vid. Origen. in Psal. xxxvii. Hom. 1.
• ‖ 1.101

  Angel.
• * 1.102

  Origen. in Num. Hom. viii.
• ‖ 1.103

  Angel.
• ‖ 1.104

  Angel.
• ‖ 1.105

  Angel.
• ‖ 1.106

  Vid. Edit. Oxon. p. 129 not. d.
• ‖ 1.107

  Sea••.
• ‖ 1.108

  With foreign Nations.
• ‖ 1.109

  With foreign Nations.
• ‖ 1.110

  See above Book I.
• * 1.111

  Angel.
• ‖ 1.112

  Origen. Hom. iii. in Ezech.
• † 1.113

  So Coteleri∣us in loc.
• ‖ 1.114

  Vid. MS. Lamb. Edit. Oxon, p. 15••.
• ‖ 1.115

  Vid. Annot. Edit. Oxon. p. 166. d.
• † 1.116

  Vid. Origen. Philocal. c. viii.
• ‖ 1.117

  Origen. Hom. in Ezek.
• † 1.118

  Vid. Edit. Oxon. p. 171. b.
• ‖ 1.119

  Vid. Coteler. Annot. in loc. pag. 77, 78. Comp. 1 Pet. iii. 19.
• * 1.120

  Vid. Clem. Alex. Strom. ii. Et vi.
• * 1.121

  Sense.
• ‖ 1.122

  Vid. Orig. Philocal. C. viii.
• † 1.123

  Feigned.
• * 1.124

  Vid. Edit. Oxon. p. 178. Not. b.
• ‖ 1.125

  Infancy.
• ‖ 1.126

  Not.
• ‖ 1.127

  Vid. Antioch. Hom. cxxii.
• † 1.128

  Antioch. Hom xciv.
• ‖ 1.129

  President.