To Quirinus: Three Books of Testimonies 3.59–3.118

Cyprian of Carthage · To Quirinus: Three Books of Testimonies · ca. 248–250 (book 3 perhaps later) · Carthage · 60 passages

Latin text: CSEL 3.1 (Latin text: W. von Hartel (CSEL 3.1, 1868), digitized by Open Greek and Latin, University of Leipzig (csel-dev), CC BY-SA 4.0).English: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), public domain (CC0). Compare: Ante-Nicene Fathers, vol. 5 (1886).

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Chapter 3

3.59CSEL 3.1:160–164

DE IDOLIS QVAE GENTILES DEOS PVTANT. In Sapientia Salomonis: Omnia idola nationum aestimauerunt deos, quibus neque oculorum uisus est ad uidendum neque nares ad percipiendum spiritum neque aures ad audiendum nec digiti in manibus ad tractandum, sed et pedes eorum pigri ad ambulandum. homo enim fecit illos, et qui spiritum mutuatus est is finxit illos. nemo autem sibi similem homo poterit deum fingere. cum sit enim mortalis, mortuum fingit manibus iniquis. melior est autem ipse his quos colit: quoniam ipse quidem uixit, illi numquam. Item illic: Neque operibus adtendentes agnouerunt quis esset artifex, sed aut ignem aut spiritum aut citatum aerem aut gyrum stellarum aut nimiam aquam aut solem aut lunam rectores orbis terrae deos putauerunt: quorum si propter speciem hoc aestimauerunt, sciant quanto his Dominus sit speciosior: aut si uirtutes et opera eorum mirati sunt, intellegant ab ipsis quoniam qui haec constituit fortia fortior est illis. Item in psalmo CXXXIIII: Simulacra gentium argentum et aurum, opera manuum hominum. os habent et non loquentur, oculos habent et non uidebunt, aures habent et non audient, neque enim est spiritus in ore ipsorum. similes illis fiant omnes qui faciunt ea [ et omnes qui confidunt in illis]. Item in psalmo XCV: Quoniam omnes dii gentium daemonia: Dominus uero caelos fecit. Item in Exodo: Non facietis uobis deos aureos neque deos argenteos. Et rursum: Non facies tibi idolum nec cuiusquam similitudinem. [Item in Hieremia: Haec dicit Dominus: secundum uias gentium nolite incedere et a signis caeli ne timueritis, quia timent illa in personis suis, quia legitima gentium uacua sunt. lignum de saltu excisum, opus fabri, et conflatum aurum et argentum speciose conposita sunt, in malleis et in clauis confirmauerunt illa et non mouebuntur, quia confixibilia sunt argentum adpositum est a Tharsis. uenit aurum Moab. opera artificum omnia. hyacinthum et purpuram uestiunt ea. tollentes tollunt illa, quia non prodient. nolite timere ea, quia malum non facient et bonum non est in illis. sic dicite: dii qui caelum et terram non fecerunt pereant a terra et de sub caelo isto. exhorruit caelum in hoc et obhorruit multo magis uehementer, dicit Dominus. haec maligna fecit plebs mea. dereliquerunt me fontem aquae uiuae, et foderunt sibi lacus contritos qui non poterant aquam continere. uerberauit te derelictio tua et nequitia tua accusabit te. et scito et uide quoniam amarum tibi erit quod dereliqueris me, dicit Dominus Deus tuus, et non speraueris in me, dicit Dominus Deus tuus, quia in saeculum contribulasti iugum tuum et dirupisti uincula tua, et dixisti: non seruiam, sed ibo super omnem montem excelsum et super omnem collem altum et super omne lignum umbrosum. ibi confundar in fornicatione. ligno dixerunt quia pater meus es tu, et lapidi: tu genuisti me. et conuerterunt ad me dorsum et non faciem suam. In Esaia: Cecidit Bel, dissolutus est draco. facta sunt sculptilia eorum ut bestiae et pecora. auferetis illa conligata quasi sarcinam laborantes et esurientes et non ualentes. Et iterum: Soluti simul non poterunt saluari de bello. ipsi autem captiui ducti sunt tecum. Et iterum: Cui me adsimilastis? uidete, conicite quia erratis corde qui conmittitis aurum de sacculo et argentum in statera ponderatis in pondera conducentes artificem. fecerunt manu facta et inclinantes se adorauerunt illud: ferunt illa umeris et sic ambulant. si autem posuerint illa, loco manebunt et non mouebuntur: et si qui clamauerint ad illa, non audient et a malis non saluabunt eos. Item in Hieremia: Dominus qui fecit caelum et terram in uirtute correxit orbem in sua prudentia et sua sapientia extendit caelum et multitudinem aquarum in caelo, perduxit nubes ab extremo terrae, fulgura in pluuiam fecit. et eiecit uentos de thesauris suis. infatuatus est omnis homo ab scientia sua, confusus est omnis artifex in sculptilibus suis, quia falsum conflauit. non est spiritus in illis. uacua sunt opera inlusa, in tempore conspectionis illorum peribunt. Et in Apocalypsi: Et sextus angelus tuba cecinit. et audiui unum ex quattuor angulis arcae aureae quae est in conspectu Dei dicentem sexto angelo qui habebat tubam: solue quattuor angelos ligatos super flumen magnum Euphratem. et soluti sunt quattuor angeli qui erant parati in horam et diem et mensem et annum, ut occiderent tertiam partem hominum. et numerus exercituum equestrium dismiriades myriadon: audiui numerum eorum. et sic uidi equos in uisu et sedentes super eos habentes loricas igneas et hyacinthinas et sulphureas, et capita equorum f, et ex ore eorum exiit ignis et fumus et sulphur. a tribus plagis istis occisa est tertia pars hominum ex igne et fumo et sulphure quod exiit de ore eorum: nam uis equorum in ore eorum est et in caudis eorum. caudae enim eorum similes anguibus, habentes capita, et in eis nocent. et reliqui hominum qui non sunt occisi in istis plagis nec paenitentiam egerunt opera factorum manuum suarum, ut non adorent daemonia et idola id est simulacra aurea et argentea et aerea et lapidea et lignea, quae neque uidere possunt neque ambulare: et non egerunt paenitentiam homicidiorum suorum neque fornicationis suae neque factorum suorum. Item illic: Et tertius angelus secutus est eos dicens in uoce magna: si quis adorat bestiam et simulacrum eius, et accepit inscriptionem in fronte sua aut super manum suam, is bibet de uino irae eius et punietur igne et sulphure sub oculis angelorum sanctorum et sub oculis agni, et fumus tormentorum eorum in saecula saeculorum ascendet].

On the idols which the heathen think are gods. In the Wisdom of Solomon: “They considered all the idols of the nations to be gods, which have neither the sight of eyes for seeing, nor nostrils for drawing breath, nor ears for hearing, nor fingers on their hands for handling, and their feet too are sluggish for walking. For a man made them, and one who has borrowed his breath fashioned them. But no man can fashion a god like himself; for since he is mortal, he fashions a dead thing with lawless hands. He himself is better than the things he worships, for he at least has lived, but they never.” Also there: “Nor, paying heed to the works, did they recognize who the craftsman was; but they thought either fire or wind or swift air or the circle of the stars or the great water or the sun or the moon to be gods, rulers of the world. If they supposed these to be gods because of their beauty, let them know how much more beautiful than these is their Lord; or if they marvelled at their power and works, let them understand from them that he who established these mighty things is mightier than they.” Also in Psalm 134 [135]: “The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the works of men's hands. They have a mouth and will not speak; they have eyes and will not see; they have ears and will not hear; for there is no breath in their mouth. Let all who make them become like them.” Also in Psalm 95 [96]: “For all the gods of the nations are demons, but the Lord made the heavens.” Also in Exodus: “You shall not make for yourselves gods of gold nor gods of silver.” And again: “You shall not make for yourself an idol, nor a likeness of anything.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

Ps 135:15–18 (134:15-Ps Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 96:5 (95:5 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence) · Exod 20:23 (quotation, high confidence) · Exod 20:4 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The idols of the heathen are lifeless works of human hands, and the gods of the nations are demons.

The quotations are Wis 15:15–17; 13:1, 2–4; Ps 135:15–18 (134:15–18 Vulg.); Ps 96:5 (95:5 Vulg.; “demons” follows the Greek); Exod 20:23; 20:4. Hartel prints in square brackets, as not Cyprian's, the end of Ps 135:18 (“and all who trust in them”) and a long further series of quotations on idols (Jeremiah, Isaiah, and the Apocalypse); following the edition, they are left untranslated.

Extrabiblical texts: Wis 15:15–17 (Wisdom of Solomon [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation); Wis 13:1–4 (Wisdom of Solomon [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.59 (CSEL 3.1:160–164; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-59).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.60CSEL 3.1:164

CIBORVM NIMIAM CONCVPISCENTIAM NON ADPETENDAM. Apud Esaiam: Manducemus et bibamus, cras enim moriemur. non remittetur uobis peccatum istud, quoadusque moriamini. Item in Exodo: Et consedit populus manducare et bibere, et surrexerunt ludere. Item Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Esca nos non commendat Deo: neque si manducauerimus, abundabimus, neque si non manducauerimus, egebimus. Item illic: Cum conuenitis ad manducandum, inuicem expectate. si quis esurit, domi manducet, ut non in iudicium conueniatis. Item ad Romanos: Non est regnum Dei esca et potus, sed iustitia et pax et gaudium in Spiritu sancto. Item in euangelio secundum Iohannem: Ego cibum habeo manducare quem uos non nostis. meus cibus est ut faciam uoluntatem eius qui me misit et perficiam opus eius.

That excessive craving for food is not to be indulged. In Isaiah: “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we shall die. This sin shall not be forgiven you until you die.” Also in Exodus: “And the people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Also the apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “Food does not commend us to God; neither if we eat shall we abound, nor if we do not eat shall we lack.” Also there: “When you come together to eat, wait for one another. If anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, so that you may not come together for judgment.” Also to the Romans: “The kingdom of God is not food and drink, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Also in the Gospel according to John: “I have food to eat that you do not know. My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.”

Isa 22:13–14 (quotation, high confidence) · Exod 32:6 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Cor 8:8 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Cor 11:33–34 (quotation, high confidence) · Rom 14:17 (quotation, high confidence) · John 4:32 (quotation, high confidence) · John 4:34 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Christians must not give way to greed for food, since God's kingdom is not food and drink.

The quotations are Isa 22:13–14; Exod 32:6; 1 Cor 8:8; 11:33–34; Rom 14:17; John 4:32, 34.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of I as l in the capital heading): ClBORVM → CIBORVM.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.60 (CSEL 3.1:164; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-60).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.61CSEL 3.1:164–166

POSSIDENDI CONCVPISCENTIAM ET PECVNIAM NON ADPETENDAM. Apud Salomonem in Ecclesiastico: Qui diligit argentum non satiabitur argento. Item in Prouerbiis: Captans annonam maledictus in plebe est. benedictio autem in eius capite est qui communicat. Item in Esaia: Vae qui coniungunt domum ad domum et agrum agro continuant, ut auferant proximo aliquid. numquid habitabitis soli super terram? Item apud Sophoniam: Aedificabunt domos et non inhabitabunt, et instituent uineas et non bibent uinum earum, quia prope est dies Domini. Item in euangelio secundum Lucam: Quid enim prodest homini, si totum orbem lucretur et animae suae detrimentum patiatur? Item illic: Dixit autem illi Deus: stulte, hac nocte expostulatur anima tua. quae ergo parasti, cuius erunt? Item illic: Commemorare quoniam percepisti bona in uita tua, Lazarus autem mala. nunc hic consolatur, tu autem cruciaris. Item in Actibus apostolorum: Dixit autem Petrus ad eum: argentum quidem et aurum non est mihi: quod autem habeo hoc tibi do. in nomine Iesu Christi Nazareni surge et ambula. et adprehensa manu eius dextera eleuauit eum. Item ad Timotheum prima: Nihil intulimus in hunc mundum, uerum nec auferre possumus. habentes itaque uictum et uestitum his contenti simus. qui autem uolunt diuites fieri incidunt in temptationem et laqueum diaboli et desideria multa et nocentia quae mergunt hominem in perditionem et in interitum. radix enim omnium malorum est cupiditas quam quidam adpetentes naufragauerunt a fide et inseruerunt se doloribus multis.

That the craving for possessions and money is not to be indulged. In Solomon, in Ecclesiasticus: “He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver.” Also in Proverbs: “He who hoards grain is cursed among the people; but blessing is on the head of him who shares it.” Also in Isaiah: “Woe to those who join house to house and add field to field, so as to take something from their neighbor. Will you dwell alone upon the earth?” Also in Zephaniah: “They will build houses and not live in them, and plant vineyards and not drink their wine, for the day of the Lord is near.” Also in the Gospel according to Luke: “For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and suffers the loss of his soul?” Also there: “But God said to him: Fool, this night your soul is required of you; then whose will the things you have prepared be?” Also there: “Remember that you received good things in your life, and Lazarus evil things; now he is comforted here, and you are in torment.” Also in the Acts of the Apostles: “But Peter said to him: Silver and gold I have none, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk. And taking him by the right hand he raised him up.” Also in First Timothy: “We brought nothing into this world, and neither can we take anything out. So having food and clothing, let us be content with these. But those who wish to become rich fall into temptation and the snare of the devil and many harmful desires, which plunge a man into ruin and destruction. For the root of all evils is covetousness, which some have craved and made shipwreck of the faith, and have entangled themselves in many sorrows.”

Eccl 5:10 (quotation, high confidence) · Prov 11:26 (quotation, high confidence) · Isa 5:8 (quotation, high confidence) · Zeph 1:13–14 (quotation, high confidence) · Luke 9:25 (quotation, high confidence) · Luke 12:20 (quotation, high confidence) · Luke 16:25 (quotation, high confidence) · Acts 3:6–7 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Tim 6:7–10 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The love of money and possessions is condemned, for it profits nothing and leads to ruin.

The quotations are Eccl 5:10 (cited as “Ecclesiasticus”; the saying is from Ecclesiastes); Prov 11:26; Isa 5:8; Zeph 1:13–14; Luke 9:25; 12:20; 16:25; Acts 3:6–7; 1 Tim 6:7–10.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.61 (CSEL 3.1:164–166; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-61).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.62CSEL 3.1:166–167

MATRIMONIVM CVM GENTILIBVS NON IVNGENDVM. Apud Tobiam: Vxorem accipe ex semine parentum tuorum et noli sumere alienam uxorem quae non est ex tribu parentum tuorum. Item in Genesi mittit puerum suum Abraham, ut de semine suo accipiatur Rebecca filio eius Isaac. Item in Esdra satis non fuit Deo, cum uastarentur Iudaei, nisi alienigenas uxores cum filiis quoque, quos ex illis procreauerant, dereliquissent. Item apostolus Paulus ad Corinthios prima: Mulier alligata est, quamdiu uiuit uir eius. si autem dormierit, liberata est: cui uult nubat, tantum in Domino. beatior autem erit, si sic permanserit. Item ad Corinthios prima: Nescitis quia corpora uestra membra Christi sunt? auferens membra Christi faciam membra meretricis? [absit.] aut nescitis quia qui coniungit se meretrici unum corpus est? erunt enim duo in carne una. qui autem coniungit se Domino unus spiritus est. Item ad Corinthios secunda: Nolite coniungi cum infidelibus. quae autem participatio est iustitiae et iniquitati? aut quae communicatio est lumini ad tenebras? Item de Salomone in Basilion tertio: Et auerterunt uxores alienigenae cor eius post deos suos.

That marriage is not to be contracted with the heathen. In Tobit: “Take a wife from the seed of your parents, and do not take a foreign wife who is not from the tribe of your parents.” Also in Genesis, Abraham sends his servant so that Rebecca may be taken from his own seed for his son Isaac. Also in Ezra, when the Jews were being laid waste, God was not satisfied until they had put away their foreign wives, together with the children they had begotten of them. Also the apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “A wife is bound as long as her husband lives; but if he has fallen asleep, she is free: let her marry whom she wishes, only in the Lord. But she will be happier if she remains as she is.” Also in First Corinthians: “Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I take the members of Christ and make them members of a harlot? Or do you not know that he who joins himself to a harlot is one body? For the two shall be in one flesh. But he who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit.” Also in Second Corinthians: “Do not be joined with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with iniquity? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” Also concerning Solomon in the third book of Kingdoms: “And his foreign wives turned his heart after their gods.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

Gen 24:1–4 (allusion, high confidence) · Ezra 10:3 (allusion, high confidence) · Ezra 10:44 (allusion, medium confidence) · 1 Cor 7:39–40 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Cor 6:15–17 (quotation, high confidence) · 2 Cor 6:14 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Kgs 11:4 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Christians must not marry pagans, as the examples of Isaac, Ezra, and Solomon and Paul's words “only in the Lord” show.

The quotations and references are Tob 4:12; Gen 24:1–4; Ezra 10:3, 11, 44; 1 Cor 7:39–40; 6:15–17; 2 Cor 6:14; 1 Kgs 11:4 (3 Kgdms 11:4 LXX, “Basilion tertio”). Hartel prints “absit” (“Far from it!”, 1 Cor 6:15) in square brackets as not Cyprian's; it is left out.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of V as Y; stray letter in the digital text; words run together in the digital text): ApudTobiam → Apud Tobiam; Yxorem → Vxorem; parentum b tuorum → parentum tuorum.

Extrabiblical texts: Tob 4:12 (Tobit [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Marriage, Divorce and remarriage

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.62 (CSEL 3.1:166–167; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-62).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.63CSEL 3.1:167

GRAVIVS DELICTVM ESSE FORNICATIONIS. Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Omne delictum quodcumque fecerit homo extra corpus est. qui autem fornicatur in corpus suum peccat. [non estis uestri: emti enim estis pretio magno. clarificate et portate Dominum in corpore uestro].

That the sin of sexual immorality is graver. The apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “Every sin that a man commits is outside the body; but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

1 Cor 6:18 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Sexual immorality is a graver sin, because it is committed against one's own body.

The quotation is 1 Cor 6:18. Hartel prints the following words (1 Cor 6:19–20, “You are not your own…”) in square brackets as not Cyprian's; they are left out.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.63 (CSEL 3.1:167; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-63).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.64CSEL 3.1:167

QVAE SINT CARNALIA QVAE MORTEM PARIANT ET QVAE SPIRITALIA QVAE AD VITAM DVCANT. Paulus apostolus ad Galatas: Caro enim concupiscit aduersus spiritum et spiritus aduersus carnem. haec enim inuicem aduersantur sibi, ut non quae uultis ipsa faciatis. manifesta autem sunt facta carnis, quae sunt adulteria fornicationes, inmunditiae, spurcitiae, idololatria, ueneficia, homicidia, inimicitiae, contentiones, aemulationes, animositates, prouocationes, simultates, dissensiones, haereses, inuidiae, ebrietates, comissationes et his similia: qui talia agunt regnum Dei non possidebunt. fructus autem spiritus est caritas, gaudium, pax, magnanimitas, bonitas, fides, mansuetudo, continentia, castitas. qui enim Christi sunt carnem suam crucifixerunt cum uitiis et concupiscentiis.

Which things are fleshly and bring forth death, and which are spiritual and lead to life. The apostle Paul to the Galatians: “For the flesh desires against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh; for these are opposed to one another, so that you do not do the very things you wish. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are adulteries, acts of sexual immorality, uncleanness, filthiness, idolatry, sorceries, murders, enmities, strifes, jealousies, animosities, provocations, grudges, dissensions, heresies, envyings, drunkenness, revellings, and things like these: those who do such things will not possess the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, great-heartedness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control, chastity. For those who are Christ's have crucified their flesh with its vices and desires.”

Gal 5:17 (quotation, high confidence) · Gal 5:19–24 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Paul lists the works of the flesh, which exclude from God's kingdom, and the fruit of the Spirit.

The quotation is Gal 5:17, 19–24. “Adulteries” renders adulteria, “acts of sexual immorality” fornicationes.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.64 (CSEL 3.1:167; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-64).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.65CSEL 3.1:167–168

OMNIA DELICTA IN BAPTISMO DEPONI. Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Neque fornicarii neque idolis seruientes neque adulteri neque molles neque masculorum concubitores neque fures neque fraudulenti neque ebriosi neque maledici neque raptores regnum Dei consequentur. et haec quidem fuistis: sed abluti estis, sed sanctificati estis, sed iustificati estis in nomine Domini Iesu nostri Christi et in spiritu Dei nostri.

That all sins are laid aside in baptism. The apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “Neither the sexually immoral, nor those who serve idols, nor adulterers, nor the effeminate, nor men who lie with males, nor thieves, nor the fraudulent, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor robbers will obtain the kingdom of God. And such indeed you were; but you have been washed, you have been sanctified, you have been justified in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.”

1 Cor 6:9–11 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Baptism washes away all former sins.

The quotation is 1 Cor 6:9–11.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (word truncated in the digital text): Neque forni neque → Neque fornicarii neque.

Topics: Baptism

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.65 (CSEL 3.1:167–168; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-65).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.66CSEL 3.1:168–169

DISCIPLINAM DEI IN ECCLESIASTICIS PRAECEPTIS OBSERVANDAM. Apud Hieremiam: Et dabo uobis pastores secundum cor meum, et pascent uos pascentes cum disciplina. Item apud Salomonem in Prouerbiis: Fili, ne neglexeris disciplinam Dei neque defeceris ab eo correptus. quem enim diligit Deus, corripit. Item in psalmo II: Adprehendite disciplinam, ne quando irascatur Dominus et pereatis a uia iusta: cum exarserit in breui ira eius, beati omnes qui confidunt in eo. Item in psalmo XLVIIII: Peccatori autem dicit Deus: Quare tu enarras iustitias meas et sumes testamentum meum per os tuum? tu uero odisti disciplinam et proiecisti sermones meos post te. Item apud Salomonem: Disciplinam qui abicit infelix est.

That the discipline of God is to be observed in the precepts of the church. In Jeremiah: “And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, and they will feed you, feeding you with discipline.” Also in Solomon, in Proverbs: “My son, do not neglect the discipline of God, nor faint when you are rebuked by him; for whom God loves, he rebukes.” Also in Psalm 2: “Lay hold of discipline, lest the Lord be angry and you perish from the right way, when his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who trust in him.” Also in Psalm 49 [50]: “But to the sinner God says: Why do you recount my righteous acts and take my covenant in your mouth? For you have hated discipline and cast my words behind you.” Also in Solomon: “He who rejects discipline is wretched.”

Jer 3:15 (quotation, high confidence) · Prov 3:11–12 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 2:12 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 50:16–17 (49:16-Ps Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The discipline God gives through the church's precepts must be kept, for those who reject it are wretched.

The quotations are Jer 3:15; Prov 3:11–12; Ps 2:12 (in the Greek and Latin form “lay hold of discipline”); Ps 50:16–17 (49:16–17 Vulg.); Wis 3:11 (cited as “Solomon”). “Discipline” renders disciplina, both correction and the rule of Christian life.

Extrabiblical texts: Wis 3:11 (Wisdom of Solomon [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.66 (CSEL 3.1:168–169; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-66).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.67CSEL 3.1:169

PRAEDICTVM QVOD DISCIPLINAM SANAM ASPERNATVRI ESSENT. Paulus apostolus ad Timotheum secunda: Erit tempus, quando sanam doctrinam non sustinebunt, sed secundum sua desideria coaceruabunt sibi magistros prurientes in audiendo [scalpentes aures]. et a ueritate quidem auditum auertent, ad fabulas autem conuertentur.

That it was foretold that they would spurn sound discipline. The apostle Paul in Second Timothy: “There will be a time when they will not endure sound teaching, but according to their own desires they will heap up for themselves teachers, itching in their hearing; and they will turn their hearing away from the truth and turn aside to fables.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

2 Tim 4:3–4 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Paul foretold that people would reject sound teaching for teachers who suit their desires.

The quotation is 2 Tim 4:3–4. Hartel prints “scalpentes aures” (“scratching their ears”), a second rendering of the same Greek phrase, in square brackets as not Cyprian's; it is left out.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of R as B in the capital heading; OCR misreading of R as E in the capital heading; words run together in the digital text): PBAEDICTVM → PRAEDICTVM; ASPEENATVRI → ASPERNATVRI; Erittempus → Erit tempus.

Topics: Heresy

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.67 (CSEL 3.1:169; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-67).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.68CSEL 3.1:169

RECEDENDVM AB EO QVI INORDINATE ET CONTRA DISCIPLINAM VIVAT. Paulus apostolus ad Thessalonicenses: Praecipimus autem uobis in nomine Domini nostri Iesu Christi, ut discedatis ab omnibus fratribus ambulantibus inordinate et non secundum traditionem quam acceperunt a nobis. Item in psalmo XLVIIII: Si uidebas furem, simul cum eo concurrebas et cum adulteris portionem tuam ponebas.

That we must withdraw from one who lives disorderly and against discipline. The apostle Paul to the Thessalonians: “Now we command you, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from all brothers who walk disorderly and not according to the tradition which they received from us.” Also in Psalm 49 [50]: “If you saw a thief, you ran along with him, and you cast your lot with adulterers.”

2 Thess 3:6 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 50:18 (49:18 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Believers must keep apart from a brother who lives in disorder and against the church's rule.

The quotations are 2 Thess 3:6; Ps 50:18 (49:18 Vulg.).

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.68 (CSEL 3.1:169; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-68).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.69CSEL 3.1:169–170

NON IN SAPIENTIA MVNDI NEC IN ELOQVENTIA ESSE REGNVM DEI SED IN FIDE CRVCIS ET VIRTVTE CONVERSATIONIS. Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Misit me Christus adnuntiare, non in sermonis sapientia, ne inanis fiat crux Christi. uerbum enim crucis stultitia est his qui pereunt, his autem qui saluantur uirtus Dei est. scriptum est enim: perdam sapientiam sapientium et prudentiam prudentium reprobabo. ubi sapiens, ubi scriba, ubi conquisitor saeculi huius? nonne stultam fecit Deus sapientiam huius mundi? quoniam quidem in sapientia Dei non cognouit mundus per sapientiam Deum, conplacuit Deo per stultitiam praedicationis saluare credentes: quoniam Iudaei signa desiderant et Graeci prudentiam quaerunt. nos autem praedicamus Christum crucifixum, Iudaeis quidem scandalum, gentibus autem stultitiam, ipsis autem uocatis Iudaeis et Graecis Christum Dei uirtutem et Dei sapientiam. Item illic: Nemo se decipiat. si quis putat sapientem se esse in uobis, saeculo huic stultus fiat ut sit sapiens. sapientia enim huius mundi stultitia est apud Deum. scriptum est enim: conprehendens sapientes in astutia ipsorum. Item illic: Dominus cognouit cogitationes sapientium, quia uanae sunt.

That the kingdom of God is not in the wisdom of the world nor in eloquence, but in the faith of the cross and in the power of one's way of life. The apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “Christ sent me to preach, not in wisdom of speech, lest the cross of Christ be made empty. For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to those who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the prudence of the prudent I will reject. Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe. For the Jews desire signs and the Greeks seek wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the gentiles foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” Also there: “Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks he is wise, let him become a fool in this world, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written: He catches the wise in their own craftiness.” Also there: “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.”

1 Cor 1:17–24 (quotation, high confidence) · Isa 29:14 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Cor 3:18–20 (quotation, high confidence) · Job 5:13 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 94:11 (93:11 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: God's kingdom rests not on worldly wisdom or eloquence but on faith in the cross and a life lived in its power.

The quotations are 1 Cor 1:17–24 (quoting Isa 29:14); 3:18–20 (quoting Job 5:13 and Ps 94:11).

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of R as E in the capital heading): EEGNVM → REGNVM.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.69 (CSEL 3.1:169–170; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-69).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.70CSEL 3.1:170

PARENTIBVS OBSEQVENDVM. Paulus apostolus ad Ephesios: Filii, obsequentes estote parentibus uestris. hoc enim est iustum. honora patrem tuum et matrem, quod est mandatum primum in promissione, ut bene sit tibi et sis longaeuus super terram.

That parents are to be obeyed. The apostle Paul to the Ephesians: “Children, be obedient to your parents, for this is right. Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise, that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”

Eph 6:1–3 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Children must obey and honor their parents.

The quotation is Eph 6:1–3.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.70 (CSEL 3.1:170; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-70).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.71CSEL 3.1:170–171

PATRES QVOQVE ASPEROS ESSE CIRCA FILIOS NON OPORTERE. Paulus apostolus ad Ephesios: Et uos, patres, nolite ad iracundiam prouocare filios uestros, sed nutrite eos in disciplina et correptione Domini.

That fathers too ought not to be harsh toward their children. The apostle Paul to the Ephesians: “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and correction of the Lord.”

Eph 6:4 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Fathers must not be harsh with their children.

The quotation is Eph 6:4.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.71 (CSEL 3.1:170–171; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-71).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.72CSEL 3.1:171

SERVOS CVM CREDIDERINT PLVS DOMINIS CARNALIBVS SERVIRE DEBERE. Paulus ad Ephesios: Serui, obaudite dominis carnalibus cum timore et tremore, in simplicitate cordis uestri sicut Christo, non ad oculum seruientes quasi hominibus placentes, sed quasi serui Christi.

That slaves, when they have believed, ought to serve their fleshly masters all the more. Paul to the Ephesians: “Slaves, obey your fleshly masters with fear and trembling, in the simplicity of your heart, as to Christ, not serving for the eye, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ.”

Eph 6:5–6 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Slaves who become believers should serve their earthly masters even more faithfully, as serving Christ.

The quotation is Eph 6:5–6.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.72 (CSEL 3.1:171; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-72).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.73CSEL 3.1:171

ITEM DOMINOS MITIORES ESSE DEBERE. Paulus apostolus ad Ephesios: Et uos, domini, eadem facite ad eos remittentes minas, scientes quia et uester et ipsorum dominus est in caelis, et personarum acceptio non est apud illum.

Also that masters ought to be gentler. The apostle Paul to the Ephesians: “And you, masters, do the same to them, giving up threats, knowing that both their Lord and yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality with him.”

Eph 6:9 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Masters must be gentle with their slaves, knowing they share one Lord in heaven.

The quotation is Eph 6:9.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.73 (CSEL 3.1:171; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-73).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.74CSEL 3.1:171

VIDVAS PROBATAS QVASQVE HONORANDAS. Paulus apostolus ad Timotheum prima: Viduas honora, quae uere uiduae sunt. quae autem in deliciis est, uiuens mortua est. Item illic: Adulescentiores autem uiduas deuita. cum enim deliciatae fuerint in Christo, nubere uolunt habentes damnationem, quoniam primam fidem reprobauerunt.

That all approved widows are to be honored. The apostle Paul in First Timothy: “Honor widows who are truly widows. But she who lives in luxury is dead while she lives.” Also there: “But avoid younger widows; for when they have grown wanton against Christ, they wish to marry, incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their first faith.”

1 Tim 5:3 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Tim 5:6 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Tim 5:11–12 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: True widows are to be honored, but younger widows who grow restless and wish to remarry are warned against.

The quotations are 1 Tim 5:3, 6; 5:11–12. “Grown wanton against Christ” renders “deliciatae fuerint in Christo”; the Latin phrase is compressed.

Topics: Remarriage, Divorce and remarriage

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.74 (CSEL 3.1:171; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-74).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.75CSEL 3.1:171–172

SVORVM ET MAXIME FIDELIVM CVRAM PLVS VNVMQVEMQVE HABERE DEBERE. Paulus apostolus ad Timotheum prima: Si quis autem suorum et maxime domesticorum non agit curam, fidem denegat et est deterior infideli. Item apud Esaiam: Si uideris nudum, uesti et domesticos seminis tui non despexeris. De quibus domesticis in euangelio dictum est: Si patremfamilias dixerunt Beelzebul, quanto magis domesticos eius.

That everyone ought to take greater care of his own, and especially of believers. The apostle Paul in First Timothy: “But if anyone does not take care of his own, and especially of his household, he denies the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” Also in Isaiah: “If you see someone naked, clothe him, and do not despise those of your own seed.” Concerning these household members it is said in the Gospel: “If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more his household!”

1 Tim 5:8 (quotation, high confidence) · Isa 58:7 (quotation, high confidence) · Matt 10:25 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Everyone must care for his own household, and especially for fellow believers, who are Christ's household.

The quotations are 1 Tim 5:8; Isa 58:7; Matt 10:25.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.75 (CSEL 3.1:171–172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-75).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.76CSEL 3.1:172

MAIOREM NATV NON TEMERE ACCVSANDVM. Paulus apostolus ad Timotheum prima: Aduersus maiorem natu accusationem noli recipere.

That an elder is not to be accused rashly. The apostle Paul in First Timothy: “Do not receive an accusation against an elder.”

1 Tim 5:19 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Accusations against an elder should not be lightly received.

The quotation is 1 Tim 5:19. “Elder” renders “maiorem natu” (one older in age), the Latin rendering of the Greek presbyteros; whether Cyprian understood it as an older man or as a church presbyter is not stated.

Topics: Church office

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.76 (CSEL 3.1:172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-76).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.77CSEL 3.1:172

PECCANTEM PVBLICE OBIVRGANDVM. Paulus apostolus ad Timotheum prima: Peccantem coram omnibus argue, ut ceteri timorem habeant.

That one who sins is to be rebuked publicly. The apostle Paul in First Timothy: “Rebuke one who sins in the presence of all, so that the rest may have fear.”

1 Tim 5:20 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Sinners are to be rebuked publicly as a warning to others.

The quotation is 1 Tim 5:20.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.77 (CSEL 3.1:172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-77).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.78CSEL 3.1:172

CVM HAERETICIS NON LOQVENDVM. Paulus apostolus ad Titum: Haereticum hominem post primam correptionem deuita sciens quoniam peruersus est huiusmodi et peccat et est a semet ipso damnatus. Item Iohannes apostolus: Ex nobis exierunt, sed non fuerunt ex nobis. si enim fuissent ex nobis, permansissent utique nobiscum. Item ad Timotheum secunda: Sermo eorum ut cancer serpit.

That we are not to talk with heretics. The apostle Paul to Titus: “Avoid a heretical man after a first rebuke, knowing that such a one is perverted and sins, and is condemned by himself.” Also the apostle John: “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would surely have remained with us.” Also in Second Timothy: “Their word creeps like a cancer.”

Titus 3:10–11 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 John 2:19 (quotation, high confidence) · 2 Tim 2:17 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Heretics are to be avoided after a first warning, since their teaching spreads like a cancer.

The quotations are Titus 3:10–11; 1 John 2:19; 2 Tim 2:17.

Topics: Heresy

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.78 (CSEL 3.1:172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-78).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.79CSEL 3.1:172–173

INNOCENTEM FIDENTER PETERE ET IMPETRARE. Iohannes apostolus: Si cor nostrum nos non reprehendat, fiduciam habemus ad Deum et quodcumque petierimus accipiemus ab eo. Item in euangelio secundum Matthaeum: Beati puro corde, quoniam ipsi Deum uidebunt. Item in psalmo XXIII: Quis ascendit in montem Domini aut quis stabit in loco sancto eius? innocens manibus et mundo corde.

That the innocent ask with confidence and obtain. The apostle John: “If our heart does not reproach us, we have confidence toward God, and whatever we ask we shall receive from him.” Also in the Gospel according to Matthew: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Also in Psalm 23 [24]: “Who shall ascend the mountain of the Lord, or who shall stand in his holy place? He who is innocent in hands and clean in heart.”

1 John 3:21–22 (quotation, high confidence) · Matt 5:8 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 24:3–4 (23:3-Ps Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Those with a clear conscience can pray with confidence and receive what they ask.

The quotations are 1 John 3:21–22; Matt 5:8; Ps 24:3–4 (23:3–4 Vulg.).

Topics: Prayer

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.79 (CSEL 3.1:172–173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-79).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.80CSEL 3.1:173

NIHIL LICERE DIABOLO IN HOMINEM, NISI DEVS PERMISERIT. In euangelio secundum Iohannem dixit Iesus: Nullam haberes aduersus me potestatem, nisi data esset tibi desuper. Item in Regnorum tertio: Et excitauit Dominus satanam ipsi Salomoni. Item in Iob prius Deus permisit, et sic diabolo licuit. Item in euangelio Dominus ante permittit dicendo Iudae: Quod facis fac citius. Item apud Salomonem in Prouerbiis: Cor regis in manu Dei.

That the devil has no power against a man unless God has permitted it. In the Gospel according to John Jesus said: “You would have no power against me unless it had been given you from above.” Also in the third book of Kingdoms: “And the Lord stirred up a satan against Solomon himself.” Also in Job, God first gave permission, and only so was the devil allowed. Also in the Gospel the Lord first gives permission, saying to Judas: “What you are doing, do quickly.” Also in Solomon, in Proverbs: “The heart of the king is in the hand of God.”

John 19:11 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Kgs 11:14 (quotation, high confidence) · Job 1:12 (allusion, high confidence) · Job 2:6 (allusion, high confidence) · John 13:27 (quotation, high confidence) · Prov 21:1 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The devil can do nothing against anyone except by God's permission.

The quotations and references are John 19:11; 1 Kgs 11:14 (3 Kgdms 11:14 LXX; “a satan”, i.e. an adversary); Job 1:12; 2:6; John 13:27; Prov 21:1.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of I as L in the capital heading; OCR misreading of I as l): NLHIL → NIHIL; dixit lesus → dixit Iesus.

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.80 (CSEL 3.1:173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-80).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.81CSEL 3.1:173

MERCEDEM MERCENNARIO CITO REDDENDAM. In Leuitico: Non dormiet merces mercennarii tui apud te usque in mane.

That a hired man's wages are to be paid promptly. In Leviticus: “The wages of your hired man shall not remain with you overnight until morning.”

Lev 19:13 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Workers' wages must be paid without delay.

The quotation is Lev 19:13.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.81 (CSEL 3.1:173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-81).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.82CSEL 3.1:173

NON AVGVRANDVM. In Deuteronomio: Non ominemini neque auguremini.

That we are not to practise divination. In Deuteronomy: “Do not take omens, nor practise augury.”

Lev 19:26 (quotation, high confidence) · Deut 18:10 (echo, low confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Taking omens and augury are forbidden.

The quotation is Lev 19:26 (introduced as Deuteronomy; compare Deut 18:10).

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.82 (CSEL 3.1:173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-82).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.83CSEL 3.1:173

CIRRVM NON HABENDVM. In Leuitico: Non facietis cirrum ex coma capitis uestri.

That a topknot is not to be worn. In Leviticus: “You shall not make a topknot from the hair of your head.”

Lev 19:27 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Christians should not wear the pagan-style topknot of hair.

The quotation is Lev 19:27 in Cyprian's Latin form. “Topknot” renders cirrus, a curl or lock of hair; the exact style meant (probably a lock left unshorn, associated with pagan practice) is uncertain.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of I as L in the capital heading): CLRRVM → CIRRVM.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.83 (CSEL 3.1:173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-83).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.84CSEL 3.1:173

NON VELLENDVM. In Leuitico: Non corrumpetis effigiem barbae uestrae.

That the beard is not to be plucked. In Leviticus: “You shall not spoil the shape of your beard.”

Lev 19:27 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The beard should not be plucked.

The quotation is Lev 19:27.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.84 (CSEL 3.1:173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-84).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.85CSEL 3.1:174

SVRGENDVM, CVM EPISCOPVS AVT PRESBVTER VENIAT. In Leuitico: A facie senioris exurges et honorabis personam presbyteri.

That we are to rise when a bishop or presbyter comes. In Leviticus: “You shall rise up before the face of an elder, and you shall honor the person of a presbyter.”

Lev 19:32 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Believers should stand to honor a bishop or presbyter.

The quotation is Lev 19:32, where Cyprian's Latin renders the Greek “elder” (presbyteros) by “presbyter”, and so applies the command to the church's clergy.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (words run together in the digital text): InLeuitico → In Leuitico.

Topics: Church office

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.85 (CSEL 3.1:174; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-85).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.86CSEL 3.1:174

SCHISMA NON FACIENDVM, ETIAMSI IN VNA FIDE ET IN EADEM TRADITIONE PERMANEAT QVI RECEDIT. Apud Salomonem in Ecclesiastico: Scindens ligna periclitabitur in eis, si exciderit ferrum. Item in Exodo: In domo una comedetur, non eicietis de domo carnem foras. Item in psalmo CXXXII: Ecce quam bonum et quam iucundum habitare fratres in unum. Item in euangelio secundum Matthaeum: Qui non est mecum aduersus me est, et qui non colligit mecum spargit. Item Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Obsecro autem uos, fratres, per nomen Domini nostri Iesu Christi, ut id ipsum dicatis omnes et non sint in uobis schismata, sitis autem perfecti in eodem sensu et in eadem sententia. Item in psalmo LXVII: Deus qui habitare facit unanimes in domo.

That schism must not be made, even if he who withdraws remains in the one faith and in the same tradition. In Solomon, in Ecclesiasticus: “He who splits logs will be endangered by them, if the iron flies off.” Also in Exodus: “In one house it shall be eaten; you shall not carry any of the flesh outside the house.” Also in Psalm 132 [133]: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell in unity.” Also in the Gospel according to Matthew: “He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters.” Also the apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “Now I beseech you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all say the same thing, and that there be no schisms among you, but that you be perfected in the same mind and in the same judgment.” Also in Psalm 67 [68]: “God, who makes those of one mind dwell in a house.”

Eccl 10:9–10 (quotation, medium confidence) · Exod 12:46 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 133:1 (132:1 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence) · Matt 12:30 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Cor 1:10 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 68:6 (67:7 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Schism is forbidden even for those who keep the same faith and tradition, since the church is one house.

The quotations are Eccl 10:9–10 (cited as “Ecclesiasticus”; the saying is from Ecclesiastes); Exod 12:46; Ps 133:1 (132:1 Vulg.); Matt 12:30; 1 Cor 1:10; Ps 68:6 (67:7 Vulg.). In the Latin the saying on splitting wood (scindens) plays on schism (scindere, to split).

Topics: Heresy

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.86 (CSEL 3.1:174; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-86).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.87CSEL 3.1:174–175

. FIDELES SIMPLICES CVM PRVDENTIA ESSE DEBERE. In euangelio secundum Matthaeum: Estote prudentes sicut serpentes et simplices sicut columbae. Item illic: Vos estis sal terrae. si autem sal infatuatum fuerit, in quo salietur? in nihilum ualet, nisi ut proiciatur foras et conculcetur ab hominibus.

That believers ought to be simple, but with prudence. In the Gospel according to Matthew: “Be prudent as serpents and simple as doves.” Also there: “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt has lost its savor, with what will it be salted? It is good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled by men.”

Matt 10:16 (quotation, high confidence) · Matt 5:13 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Believers should be simple and guileless, yet also prudent.

The quotations are Matt 10:16; 5:13.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.87 (CSEL 3.1:174–175; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-87).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.88CSEL 3.1:175

FRATREM NON CIRCVMVENIENDVM. Paulus apostolus ad Thessalonicenses prima: Non circumuenire in negotio fratrem suum, quia ultor est Deus de his omnibus.

That a brother is not to be cheated. The apostle Paul in First Thessalonians: “Not to overreach one's brother in business, because God is the avenger in all these things.”

1 Thess 4:6 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Christians must not cheat one another in business.

The quotation is 1 Thess 4:6.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of R as E in the capital heading): CIECVMVENIENDVM → CIRCVMVENIENDVM.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.88 (CSEL 3.1:175; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-88).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.89CSEL 3.1:175

SVBITO VENIRE FINEM MVNDI. Paulus apostolus ad Thessalonicenses prima: Dies Domini sicut fur in nocte ita adueniet. cum dixerint: pax et securitas, tunc illis subitaneus ueniet interitus. Item in Actibus apostolorum: Nemo potest cognoscere tempus aut tempora quae pater posuit in sua potestate.

That the end of the world will come suddenly. The apostle Paul in First Thessalonians: “The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. When they say, ‘Peace and security,’ then sudden destruction will come upon them.” Also in the Acts of the Apostles: “No one can know the time or the times which the Father has set in his own power.”

1 Thess 5:2–3 (quotation, high confidence) · Acts 1:7 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The end will come suddenly, at a time no one can know.

The quotations are 1 Thess 5:2–3; Acts 1:7.

Topics: Eschatology

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.89 (CSEL 3.1:175; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-89).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.90CSEL 3.1:175

VXOREM A VIRO NON RECEDERE AVT, SI RECESSERIT, INNVPTAM MANERE. Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: His autem quae nupserunt praecipio, non ego sed Dominus, uxorem a uiro non recedere, si autem recesserit, manere innuptam aut reconciliari uiro, et uir uxorem ne dimittat.

That a wife is not to depart from her husband, or, if she departs, is to remain unmarried. The apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “To those who are married I command, not I but the Lord, that a wife is not to depart from her husband; but if she departs, she is to remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband; and a husband is not to put away his wife.”

1 Cor 7:10–11 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: A wife must not leave her husband; if she does, she must remain unmarried or be reconciled.

The quotation is 1 Cor 7:10–11.

Topics: Marriage, Divorce, Remarriage, Divorce and remarriage

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.90 (CSEL 3.1:175; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-90).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.91CSEL 3.1:175–176

TANTVM VNVMQVEMQVE TEMPTARI QVANTVM POTEST SVSTINERE. Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Temptatio uos non occupabit nisi humana. fidelis autem. Deus qui non patietur uos temptari super quod potestis, sed faciet cum temptatione etiam euadendi facultatem, ut possitis tolerare.

That each person is tempted only as much as he is able to bear. The apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “No temptation will seize you but what is human. But God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also provide a way of escape, so that you may be able to endure.”

1 Cor 10:13 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: God never allows anyone to be tempted beyond what he can bear.

The quotation is 1 Cor 10:13.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.91 (CSEL 3.1:175–176; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-91).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.92CSEL 3.1:176

NON QVIDQVID LICET ESSE FACIENDVM. Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Omnia licent, sed non omnia expediunt. omnia licent, sed non omnia aedificant.

That not everything that is lawful is to be done. The apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “All things are lawful, but not all things are expedient; all things are lawful, but not all things build up.”

1 Cor 10:23 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Not everything permitted is beneficial or edifying.

The quotation is 1 Cor 10:23.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.92 (CSEL 3.1:176; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-92).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.93CSEL 3.1:176

PRAEDICTVM QVOD HAERESES FVTVRAE ESSENT. Paulus apostolus: Oportet et haereses esse, ut et qui probati sunt manifesti fiant in uobis.

That it was foretold that heresies would come. The apostle Paul: “There must also be heresies, so that those who are approved may be made manifest among you.”

1 Cor 11:19 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Paul foretold that heresies would arise to reveal who is genuine.

The quotation is 1 Cor 11:19.

Topics: Heresy

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.93 (CSEL 3.1:176; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-93).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.94CSEL 3.1:176

CVM TIMORE ET HONORE EVCHARISTIAM ACCIPIENDAM. In Leuitico: Anima autem quaecumque manducauerit ex carne sacrificii salutaris quod est Domini et inmunditia eius super ipsum est, peribit anima illa de populo suo. Item ad Corinthios prima: Quicumque manducauerit panem et biberit calicem Domini indigne reus erit corporis et sanguinis Domini.

That the Eucharist is to be received with fear and honor. In Leviticus: “But whatever soul eats of the flesh of the sacrifice of salvation, which is the Lord's, with his uncleanness upon him, that soul shall perish from his people.” Also in First Corinthians: “Whoever eats the bread and drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.”

Lev 7:20 (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Cor 11:27 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The Eucharist must be received with reverence, since unworthy reception brings guilt.

The quotations are Lev 7:20 (“sacrifice of salvation”: the peace offering); 1 Cor 11:27.

Topics: Eucharist

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.94 (CSEL 3.1:176; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-94).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.95CSEL 3.1:176–177

BONIS CONVIVENDVM, MALOS AVTEM VITANDOS. Apud Salomonem in Prouerbiis: Ne adduxeris impium in habitaculum iustorum. Item in Ecclesiastico: Viri iusti sint tibi conuiuae. Item illic: Amicus fidelis medicamentum uitae et inmortalitatis. Item illic: Longe abesto ab homine potestatem habente occidendi [et non suspicaberis timorem]. Item illic: Felix qui inuenit amicum uerum et qui enarrat iustitiam auri audienti. Item illic: Saepi aures tuas spinis et noli audire linguam nequam. Item in psalmo XVII: Cum sancto sanctus eris et cum uiro innocente innocens eris et cum peruerso subuerteris. Item Paulus apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Conrumpunt mores bonos conloquia mala.

That we are to live with the good, but avoid the wicked. In Solomon, in Proverbs: “Do not bring the ungodly man into the dwelling of the righteous.” Also in Ecclesiasticus: “Let righteous men be your companions at table.” Also there: “A faithful friend is a medicine of life and immortality.” Also there: “Keep far from a man who has power to kill.” Also there: “Happy is he who finds a true friend, and who tells of righteousness to an ear that hears.” Also there: “Hedge your ears with thorns, and do not listen to a wicked tongue.” Also in Psalm 17 [18]: “With the holy you will be holy, and with the innocent man you will be innocent, and with the perverse you will be overturned.” Also the apostle Paul in First Corinthians: “Evil conversations corrupt good morals.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

Prov 24:15 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 18:25–26 (17:26-Ps Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence) · 1 Cor 15:33 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Christians should keep company with the good and avoid the wicked, since bad company corrupts.

The quotations are Prov 24:15; Sir 9:16; 6:16; 9:13; 25:9; 28:24; Ps 18:25–26 (17:26–27 Vulg.); 1 Cor 15:33 (itself a line of Menander). Hartel prints the end of Sir 9:13 (“and you will not suspect fear”) in square brackets as not Cyprian's; it is left out. The Sirach verse numbers follow the English Bible and are approximate where Cyprian's Latin differs.

Extrabiblical texts: Sir 9:16 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation); Sir 6:16 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation); Sir 9:13 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation); Sir 25:9 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation); Sir 28:24 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.95 (CSEL 3.1:176–177; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-95).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.96CSEL 3.1:177–178

FACTIS NON VERBIS OPERANDVM. Apud Salomonem in Ecclesiastico: Noli citatus esse in lingua tua et inutilis et remissus in operibus tuis. Item apostolus ad Corinthios prima: Non in sermone est regnum Dei sed in uirtute. Item ad Romanos: Non auditores legis iusti sunt apud Deum, sed factores legis iustificabuntur. Item in euangelio secundum Iohannem: Qui fecerit et sic docuerit magnus uocabitur in regno caelorum. Item secundum Matthaeum: Omnis qui audit uerba mea et facit ea similabo eum uiro sapienti, qui aedificauit domum suam supra petram. descendit pluuia, uenerunt flumina, flauerunt uenti et inpegerunt in domum illam, et non cecidit. fundata enim erat super petram. et omnis qui audit uerba mea et non facit ea similabo eum uiro stulto, qui aedificabit domum suam super harenam. descendit pluuia, uenerunt flumina, flauerunt uenti et inpegerunt in domum illam, et cecidit et facta est ruina domus illius magna.

That we must act by deeds, not words. In Solomon, in Ecclesiasticus: “Do not be quick with your tongue, and useless and slack in your works.” Also the apostle in First Corinthians: “The kingdom of God is not in word but in power.” Also to the Romans: “It is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law will be justified.” Also in the Gospel according to John: “He who does and so teaches will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Also according to Matthew: “Everyone who hears my words and does them I will liken to a wise man, who built his house upon the rock. The rain came down, the floods came, the winds blew and beat against that house, and it did not fall, for it was founded upon the rock. And everyone who hears my words and does not do them I will liken to a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand. The rain came down, the floods came, the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the ruin of that house.”

1 Cor 4:20 (quotation, high confidence) · Rom 2:13 (quotation, high confidence) · Matt 5:19 (quotation, high confidence) · Matt 7:24–27 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Faith must show itself in deeds, not words alone, like the wise man who built on rock.

The quotations are Sir 4:29; 1 Cor 4:20; Rom 2:13; Matt 5:19 (introduced as John); Matt 7:24–27.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (words run together in the digital text): Itemsecundum → Item secundum.

Extrabiblical texts: Sir 4:29 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.96 (CSEL 3.1:177–178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-96).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.97CSEL 3.1:178

AD FIDEM ET AD CONSECVTIONEM PROPERANDVM. Apud Salomonem in Ecclesiastico: Ne tardes conuerti ad Dominum et ne differas de die in diem. subito enim uenit ira illius.

That we must hasten to faith and to attainment. In Solomon, in Ecclesiasticus: “Do not delay to turn to the Lord, and do not put it off from day to day; for his wrath comes suddenly.”

Notes and citation

Summary: No one should delay turning to the Lord.

The quotation is Sir 5:7. “Attainment” renders consecutio, probably the obtaining of grace in baptism.

Extrabiblical texts: Sir 5:7 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.97 (CSEL 3.1:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-97).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.98CSEL 3.1:178

CATECHVMENVM PECCARE IAM NON DEBERE. Paulus apostolus ad Romanos: Faciamus mala, dum ueniunt bona: quorum damnatio iusta est

That a catechumen ought no longer to sin. The apostle Paul to the Romans: “Let us do evil, that good may come: their condemnation is just.”

Rom 3:8 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Those preparing for baptism must already stop sinning, not presume on the grace to come.

The quotation is Rom 3:8, which Cyprian applies to catechumens who might sin freely on the ground that baptism will wash it away.

Topics: Baptism, Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.98 (CSEL 3.1:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-98).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.99CSEL 3.1:178

IVDICIVM SECVNDVM TEMPORA FVTVRVM VEL AEQVITATIS ANTE LEGEM VEL LEGIS POST MOVSEN. Paulus apostolus ad Romanos: Quotquot inique peccauerunt, inique peribunt. et quotquot in lege peccauerunt, per legem iudicabuntur.

That the judgment will be according to the times, whether of natural equity before the law, or of the law after Moses. The apostle Paul to the Romans: “As many as have sinned without the law will perish without the law; and as many as have sinned under the law will be judged by the law.”

Rom 2:12 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: God judges each according to his time: those before the law by natural equity, those after Moses by the law.

The quotation is Rom 2:12. “Without the law” renders “inique”, which in Cyprian's Latin translates the Greek anomōs (lawlessly, without law).

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of I as L in the capital heading; OCR misreading of R as E in the capital heading): FVTVEVM → FVTVRVM; AEQVITATLS → AEQVITATIS.

Topics: Eschatology

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.99 (CSEL 3.1:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-99).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.100CSEL 3.1:178–179

GRATIAM DEI GRATVITAM ESSE DEBERE. In Actibus apostolorum: Pecunia tua tecum sit in perditionem, quia existimasti gratiam Dei per pecuniam possideri. Item in euangelio: Gratis accepistis, gratis date. Item illic: Domum patris mei domum negotiationis fecistis [et domum orationis uos fecistis speluncam latronum]. Item apud Esaiam: Qui sititis ite ad aquam et quotquot non habetis pecuniam euntes emite et bibite sine pecunia. Item in Apocalypsi: Ego Α et Ω, initium et finis. ego sitienti dabo de fonte aquae uiuae gratis. qui uicerit possidebit ea et eorum hereditatem, et ero eius Deus, et ille erit mihi filius.

That the grace of God ought to be free. In the Acts of the Apostles: “Your money perish with you, because you thought the grace of God could be possessed by money.” Also in the Gospel: “Freely you have received, freely give.” Also there: “You have made my Father's house a house of trade.” Also in Isaiah: “You who thirst, go to the water; and as many as have no money, go, buy and drink without money.” Also in the Apocalypse: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To him who thirsts I will give from the fountain of the water of life freely. He who conquers will possess these things and their inheritance, and I will be his God, and he will be my son.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

Acts 8:20 (quotation, high confidence) · Matt 10:8 (quotation, high confidence) · John 2:16 (quotation, high confidence) · Isa 55:1 (quotation, high confidence) · Rev 21:6–7 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: God's grace is given freely and must not be bought or sold.

The quotations are Acts 8:20; Matt 10:8; John 2:16; Isa 55:1; Rev 21:6–7. Hartel prints “and you have made the house of prayer a den of robbers” (compare Matt 21:13) in square brackets as not Cyprian's; it is left out. The digital text garbles the Greek letters Alpha and Omega (“A et £ 2”); corrected.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of R as E in the capital heading; the Greek letters Alpha and Omega garbled in the digital text): GEATVITAM → GRATVITAM; Ego A et £ 2, → Ego Α et Ω,.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.100 (CSEL 3.1:178–179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-100).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.101CSEL 3.1:179

SPIRITVM SANCTVM IN IGNE FREQVENTER APPARVISSE. In Exodo: Et mons Sina fumabat totus, quoniam descenderat Deus in eum in igne. Item in Actibus apostolorum: Et factus est subito de caelo sonus, quasi ferretur flatus uehemens, et inpleuit totum locum illum, in quo erant sedentes. et uisae sunt illis linguae diuisae quasi ignis, qui et insedit in unumquemque illorum: et inpleti sunt omnes Spiritu sancto. Item in sacrificiis quaecumque accepto habebat Deus descendebat ignis de caelo qui sacrificia consumeret. Item in Exodo: In flamma ignis adparuit angelus Domini de rubo.

That the Holy Spirit has often appeared in fire. In Exodus: “And Mount Sinai was all smoking, because God had come down upon it in fire.” Also in the Acts of the Apostles: “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a violent wind rushing, and it filled the whole place where they were sitting. And there appeared to them tongues divided as of fire, which also rested on each one of them; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit.” Also in the sacrifices: whichever God held acceptable, fire came down from heaven to consume them. Also in Exodus: “The angel of the Lord appeared in a flame of fire from the bush.”

Exod 19:18 (quotation, high confidence) · Acts 2:2–4 (quotation, high confidence) · Lev 9:24 (allusion, medium confidence) · 1 Kgs 18:38 (allusion, medium confidence) · Exod 3:2 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The Holy Spirit has often shown himself in fire, at Sinai, at Pentecost, and on accepted sacrifices.

The quotations and references are Exod 19:18; Acts 2:2–4; the fire from heaven on sacrifices (e.g. Lev 9:24; 1 Kgs 18:38); Exod 3:2.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of R as E in the capital heading): FEEQVENTER → FREQVENTER.

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.101 (CSEL 3.1:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-101).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.102CSEL 3.1:179

CORREPTIONEM BONOS QVOSQVE LIBENTER AVDIRE DEBERE. In Prouerbiis Salomonis: Qui corripit impium odietur ab eo. corripe sapientem, et diliget te.

That all good people ought to listen willingly to rebuke. In the Proverbs of Solomon: “He who rebukes an ungodly man will be hated by him. Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.”

Prov 9:7–8 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The wise welcome correction, while the ungodly resent it.

The quotation is Prov 9:7–8.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.102 (CSEL 3.1:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-102).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.103CSEL 3.1:179

A MVLTILOQVENTIA TEMPERANDVM. In Prouerbiis Salomonis: Ex multiloquio non effugies peccatum, parcens autem labiis sapiens eris.

That we must refrain from much speaking. In the Proverbs of Solomon: “In much speaking you will not escape sin; but if you spare your lips you will be wise.”

Prov 10:19 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Much talk leads to sin; restraint of speech is wisdom.

The quotation is Prov 10:19.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.103 (CSEL 3.1:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-103).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.104CSEL 3.1:179–180

NON MENTIENDVM. In Prouerbiis Salomonis: Abominatio est Domino labia mendacia.

That we are not to lie. In the Proverbs of Solomon: “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.”

Prov 12:22 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Lying is an abomination to God.

The quotation is Prov 12:22.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.104 (CSEL 3.1:179–180; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-104).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.105CSEL 3.1:180

FREQVENTER EMENDANDOS QVI DELINQVVNT IN DOMESTICO MINISTERIO. In Prouerbiis Salomonis: Qui parcit baculo suo odit filium suum. Item illic: Ne destiteris paruulum emendare.

That those who do wrong in the household are to be corrected often. In the Proverbs of Solomon: “He who spares his rod hates his son.” Also there: “Do not cease to correct a child.”

Prov 13:24 (quotation, high confidence) · Prov 23:13 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Children and members of the household who do wrong should be corrected regularly.

The quotations are Prov 13:24; 23:13. “In the household” renders “in domestico ministerio” (in household service).

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of I as T in the capital heading; OCR misreading of R as E in the capital heading): FREQVENTEE → FREQVENTER; MINTSTERIO → MINISTERIO.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.105 (CSEL 3.1:180; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-105).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.106CSEL 3.1:180

INIVRIA ACCEPTA PATIENTIAM TENENDAM ET VLTIONEM DEO RELINQVENDAM. In Prouerbiis Salomonis: Ne dixeris: ulciscar me de inimico meo sed expecta Dominum, ut tibi auxilio sit. [Item alibi: Mihi uindictam, ego retribuam, dicit Dominus.] Item apud Sophoniam: Expecta me, dicit Dominus, in die resurrectionis meae in testimonium: quoniam iudicium meum ad congregationes gentium, ut excipiam reges et effundam super eos iram meam.

That when injury has been received, patience is to be kept and vengeance left to God. In the Proverbs of Solomon: “Do not say, ‘I will avenge myself on my enemy’; but wait for the Lord, that he may be your help.” Also in Zephaniah: “Wait for me, says the Lord, on the day of my rising again for a testimony; for my judgment is upon the assemblies of the nations, to take hold of kings and pour out my wrath upon them.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

Prov 20:22 (quotation, high confidence) · Zeph 3:8 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Injuries should be borne patiently, leaving vengeance to God.

The quotations are Prov 20:22; Zeph 3:8 (in the Greek form “the day of my rising up”, which Cyprian's Latin renders “resurrection”). Hartel prints a further quotation, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord” (Rom 12:19), in square brackets as not Cyprian's; it is left out.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.106 (CSEL 3.1:180; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-106).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.107CSEL 3.1:180–181

NON DETRAHENDVM. Apud Salomonem in Prouerbiis: Noli diligere detrahere ne eradiceris. Item in psalmo XLVIIII: Sedens aduersus fratrem tuum detrahebas et aduersus filium matris tuae ponebas scandalum. Item Paulus apostolus ad Romanos: Optabam ego ipse anathema esse a Christo pro fratribus meis. Item ad Colossenses: De nullo male loqui nec litigiosos esse.

That we are not to disparage others. In Solomon, in Proverbs: “Do not love to disparage, lest you be rooted out.” Also in Psalm 49 [50]: “You sat and disparaged your brother, and set a stumbling block against your mother's son.” Also the apostle Paul to the Romans: “I myself wished to be accursed from Christ for my brothers.” Also to the Colossians: “To speak evil of no one, and not to be quarrelsome.”

Prov 20:13 (quotation, medium confidence) · Ps 50:20 (49:20 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence) · Rom 9:3 (quotation, high confidence) · Titus 3:2 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Christians must not slander others but love them, as Paul loved his brothers.

The quotations are Prov 20:13 (in the Greek form, “do not love to slander”); Ps 50:20 (49:20 Vulg.); Rom 9:3; Titus 3:2 (introduced as Colossians).

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.107 (CSEL 3.1:180–181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-107).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.108CSEL 3.1:181

NON ESSE PROXIMO INSIDIANDVM. Apud Salomonem in Prouerbiis: Qui fodit foueam proximo suo incidet in eam ipse.

That we must not lay snares for our neighbor. In Solomon, in Proverbs: “He who digs a pit for his neighbor will himself fall into it.”

Prov 26:27 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Whoever plots against his neighbor will fall into his own trap.

The quotation is Prov 26:27.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of D as O in the capital heading; OCR misreading of x as r): INSIOIANDVM → INSIDIANDVM; prorimo → proximo.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.108 (CSEL 3.1:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-108).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.109CSEL 3.1:181

INFIRMOS VISITANDOS. Apud Salomonem in Ecclesiastico: Ne pigriteris uisitare infirmum. ex his enim in dilectione firmaberis. Item in euangelio: Infirmus fui, et uisitastis me: in carcere fui, et uenistis ad me.

That the sick are to be visited. In Solomon, in Ecclesiasticus: “Do not be slow to visit the sick; for by such things you will be made firm in love.” Also in the Gospel: “I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me.”

Matt 25:36 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Visiting the sick strengthens love and is done to Christ himself.

The quotations are Sir 7:35; Matt 25:36.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (word split in the digital text): euan gelio → euangelio.

Extrabiblical texts: Sir 7:35 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.109 (CSEL 3.1:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-109).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.110CSEL 3.1:181

SVSVRRONES MALEDICTOS ESSE. In Ecclesiastico: Susurrio et bilinguis maledictus, multos enim turbauit pacem habentes.

That whisperers are accursed. In Ecclesiasticus: “The whisperer and the double-tongued is accursed, for he has troubled many who were at peace.”

Notes and citation

Summary: Gossips and the double-tongued are accursed for destroying peace.

The quotation is Sir 28:13.

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of A as 4 in the capital heading): M4LEDICTOS → MALEDICTOS.

Extrabiblical texts: Sir 28:13 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.110 (CSEL 3.1:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-110).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.111CSEL 3.1:181

SACRIFICIA MALORVM ACCEPTA NON ESSE. In Ecclesiastico: Dona iniquorum non probat altissimus.

That the sacrifices of the wicked are not acceptable. In Ecclesiasticus: “The Most High does not approve the gifts of the unrighteous.”

Notes and citation

Summary: God does not accept the offerings of the wicked.

The quotation is Sir 34:19 (34:23 in some editions).

Extrabiblical texts: Sir 34:19 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.111 (CSEL 3.1:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-111).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.112CSEL 3.1:181

GRAVIVS IVDICARI DE HIS QVI IN SAECVLO PLVS HABVERINT POTESTATIS. In Ecclesiastico: Iudicium durissimum in his qui praesunt fiet. exiguo enim conceditur misericordia, potentes autem potenter tormenta patientur. Item in psalmo secundo: Et nunc, reges, intellegite, erudimini qui iudicatis terram.

That those who have held greater power in the world are judged more severely. In Ecclesiasticus: “A most severe judgment will fall on those who rule; for mercy is granted to the lowly, but the mighty will suffer torments mightily.” Also in the second Psalm: “And now, O kings, understand; be instructed, you who judge the earth.”

Ps 2:10 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Those with greater worldly power will face a stricter judgment.

The quotations are Wis 6:5–6 (cited as “Ecclesiasticus”); Ps 2:10.

Extrabiblical texts: Wis 6:5–6 (Wisdom of Solomon [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Eschatology

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.112 (CSEL 3.1:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-112).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.113CSEL 3.1:181–182

VIDVAM ET PVPILLOS PROTEGI OPORTERE. Apud Salomonem: Esto pupillis misericors ut pater et pro uiro matri illorum: et eris uelut filius altissimi, si obaudieris. Item in Exodo: Omnem uiduam et orphanum non uexabitis. si autem uexabitis eos et uociferantes exclamauerint ad me, exaudiam exclamationes eorum et irascar animo et occidam uos gladio: et erunt uxores uestrae uiduae et filii uestri orphani. Item apud Esaiam: Iudicate pupillo et iustificate uiduam: et uenite, disputemus, dicit Dominus. Item apud Iob: Conseruaui egenum de manu potentis et pupillo cui non erat adiutor auxiliatus sum: os uiduae benedixit me. Item in psalmo LXVII: Patris orphanorum et iudicis uiduarum.

That the widow and orphans ought to be protected. In Solomon: “Be merciful to orphans as a father, and as a husband to their mother; and you will be like a son of the Most High, if you obey.” Also in Exodus: “You shall not afflict any widow or orphan. But if you afflict them and they cry aloud to me, I will hear their cries, and I will be angry in my soul and kill you with the sword; and your wives will be widows and your children orphans.” Also in Isaiah: “Judge for the orphan and do justice to the widow; and come, let us reason together, says the Lord.” Also in Job: “I kept the needy from the hand of the mighty, and I helped the orphan who had no helper; the mouth of the widow blessed me.” Also in Psalm 67 [68]: “Father of orphans and judge of widows.”

Exod 22:22–24 (quotation, high confidence) · Isa 1:17–18 (quotation, high confidence) · Job 29:12–13 (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 68:5 (67:6 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Widows and orphans must be protected, since God himself is their father and judge.

The quotations are Sir 4:10 (cited as “Solomon”); Exod 22:22–24; Isa 1:17–18; Job 29:12–13; Ps 68:5 (67:6 Vulg.).

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (words run together in the digital text): etuenite → et uenite.

Extrabiblical texts: Sir 4:10 (Sirach [in RC, EO, ETH canons]; quotation)

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.113 (CSEL 3.1:181–182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-113).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.114CSEL 3.1:182

DVM IN CARNE EST QVIS, EXOMOLOGESIN FACERE DEBERE. In psalmo VI: Apud inferos autem quis confitebitur tibi. Item in psalmo XXVIIII: Numquid exomologesin faciet tibi puluis? Item alibi exomologesin faciendam: Paenitentiam peccatoris malo quam mortem. Item apud Hieremiam: Haec dicit Dominus: numquid qui cadit non resurget aut qui auertitur non conuertetur?

That while one is in the flesh, he ought to make confession. In Psalm 6: “But in the underworld who will confess to you?” Also in Psalm 29 [30]: “Will the dust make confession to you?” Also elsewhere, that confession is to be made: “I prefer the repentance of the sinner to his death.” Also in Jeremiah: “Thus says the Lord: Shall he who falls not rise again, or he who turns away not turn back?”

Ps 6:5 (6:6 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence) · Ps 30:9 (29:10 Vulg.) (quotation, high confidence) · Ezek 33:11 (allusion, high confidence) · Ezek 18:23 (allusion, medium confidence) · Jer 8:4 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Confession and repentance must be made in this life, since there is none after death.

The quotations are Ps 6:5 (6:6 Vulg.); Ps 30:9 (29:10 Vulg.); a saying based on Ezek 18:23, 32; 33:11; Jer 8:4. “Confession” renders the Greek loanword exomologesis, here the penitent's confession of sin (in Cyprian's usage often the public penitential rite).

Notes on the original text

Digital text corrected (OCR misreading of the Roman numeral; missing space in the digital text): XXVITII → XXVIIII; puluis?Item → puluis? Item.

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.114 (CSEL 3.1:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-114).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.115CSEL 3.1:182

ADVLATIONEM PERNICIOSAM ESSE. Apud Esaiam: Qui uos felices dicunt in errorem uos mittunt et semitam pedum uestrorum conturbant.

That flattery is ruinous. In Isaiah: “Those who call you happy lead you into error and disturb the path of your feet.”

Isa 3:12 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: Flattery leads people astray.

The quotation is Isa 3:12 (in the Greek form).

Topics: Ethics

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.115 (CSEL 3.1:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-115).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.116CSEL 3.1:182–183

PLVS AB EO DILIGI DEVM, CVI IN BAPTISMO PLVRA PECCATA DIMITTVNTVR. In euangelio secundum Lucam: Cui [plus dimittitur plus diligit, et cui] pusillum remittitur, modicum diligit.

That God is loved more by him to whom more sins are forgiven in baptism. In the Gospel according to Luke: “He to whom little is forgiven loves little.”

Textual problem in this passage: see the notes.

Luke 7:47 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The more sins forgiven in baptism, the greater one's love for God.

The quotation is Luke 7:47. Hartel prints the words “more is forgiven loves more, and he to whom” in square brackets as not Cyprian's; without them the quotation reads as translated.

Topics: Baptism

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.116 (CSEL 3.1:182–183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-116).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.117CSEL 3.1:183

FORTEM CONGRESSIONEM ESSE ADVERSVS DIABOLVM ET IDEO FORTITER NOS STARE DEBERE VT POSSIMVS VINCERE. Paulus apostolus ad Ephesios: Non est nobis conluctatio aduersus carnem et sanguinem, sed aduersus potestates et principes huius mundi et harum tenebrarum, aduersus spiritalia nequitiae in caelestibus. propter hoc induite tota arma Dei, ut possitis resistere in die nequissimo, ut cum omnia perfeceritis, stetis adcincti lumbos uestros in ueritate, induentes loricam iustitiae et calciati pedes in praeparatione euangelii pacis, in omnibus adsumentes scutum fidei, in quo possitis omnia candentia iacula nequissimi extinguere et galeam salutis et gladium spiritus qui est sermo Dei.

That the struggle against the devil is a hard one, and that we ought therefore to stand firm so that we may conquer. The apostle Paul to the Ephesians: “Our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the powers and princes of this world and of this darkness, against spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the most evil day, so that, having accomplished all things, you may stand, your loins girded with truth, putting on the breastplate of righteousness, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, taking up in all things the shield of faith, with which you may be able to quench all the burning darts of the most wicked one, and the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

Eph 6:12–17 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The fight against the devil is hard, so believers must put on God's whole armor and stand firm.

The quotation is Eph 6:12–17.

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.117 (CSEL 3.1:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-117).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.

3.118CSEL 3.1:183

DE ANTICHRISTO QVOD IN HOMINE VENIAT. Apud Esaiam: Hic homo, qui concitat terram, commouet reges, qui ponit orbem terrae totum desertum.

On the Antichrist, that he will come as a man. In Isaiah: “This is the man who stirs up the earth, who shakes kings, who makes the whole world a desert.”

Isa 14:16–17 (quotation, high confidence)

Notes and citation

Summary: The Antichrist will come in the form of a man.

The quotation is Isa 14:16–17, originally about the king of Babylon, which Cyprian applies to the Antichrist.

Topics: Eschatology

Cite (SBL): Cyprian, Test. 3.118 (CSEL 3.1:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/cyprian-testimonia/3-59/#p-3-118).

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Translation: Translated by Claude from the Latin text of CSEL 3.1; made independently of existing English translations.