Of Piety and Obedience.
THat the
greatest of vices is ingratitude,* 1.1 of obligations that to Parents, that a disobedient Son the Gods will not blesse: nor men love as doubting his return of either, knowing he doth it not where so much is due; is the sum of his discourse with Apiles
Our prayers should be for blessings in generall,* 1.2 for God knows best what is good for us, our offerings proportioned to our abilities, for he considers integrity, not munificence.
He said (with the Pythian Oracle) that
the Gods are to be worshipped according to the Law of the City where a man lives,* 1.3 they who do otherwise, he thought superstitious and vain.
The best way of worshipping God,* 1.4 is to do what he com∣mands.
Superstition is obedient to pride as its parent.* 1.5
A harsh Father like a severe law, must not withstanding be obeyed.* 1.6
The reproof of a Father is a kind remedy;* 1.7 it brings more ease then pain.