# Four Books of the Gospels - Author: [Juvencus](https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/authors/juvencus/) - Latin title: *Evangeliorum libri quattuor* - Date: ca. 330 (probable) - Source: Johannes Huemer, ed., Gai Vetti Aquilini Iuvenci Evangeliorum libri quattuor, CSEL 24 (Vienna: Tempsky, 1891) (Latin text: J. Huemer (CSEL 24, 1891), digitized by Open Greek and Latin, University of Leipzig (csel-dev), CC BY-SA 4.0) - Translation: Claude, from the original text, unless a passage says otherwise; each passage below gives the translator - Work page: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/ - Passages: 129 ## Preface, lines 1–27 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-0-1 - Source: CSEL 24:2lines 1–27 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Juvencus's preface: the world will burn, but a true poem on Christ's deeds may win lasting fame and help its poet at the judgment. ### Latin text Inmortale nihil mundi conpage tenetur, Non orbis, non regna hominum, non aurea Roma, Non mare, non tellus, non ignea sidera caeli. Nam statuit genitor rerum inreuocabile tempus, Quo cunctum torrens rapiat flamma ultima mundum. Sed tamen innumeros homines sublimia facta Et uirtutis honos in tempora longa frequentant, Adcumulant quorum famam laudesque poetae. Hos celsi cantus, Smyrnae de fonte fluentes, Illos Minciadae celebrat dulcedo Maronis. Nec minor ipsorum discurrit gloria uatum, Quae manet aeternae similis, dum saecla uolabunt Et uertigo poli terras atque aequora circum Aethera sidereum iusso moderamine uoluet. Quod si tam longam meruerunt carmina famam, Quae ueterum gestis hominum mendacia nectunt, Nobis certa fides aeternae in saecula laudis- Inmortale decus tribuet meritumque rependet. Nam mihi carmen erit Christi uitalia gesta, Diuinum populis falsi sine crimine donum. Nec metus, ut mundi rapiant incendia secum Hoc opus; hoc etenim forsan me subtrahet igni Tunc, cum flammiuoma discendet nube coruscans Iudex, altithroni genitoris gloria, Christus. Ergo age! sanctificus adsit mihi carminis auctor Spiritus, et puro mentem riget amne canentis Dulcis Iordanis, ut Christo digna loquamur. ### English translation (Claude) Nothing immortal is held in the frame of the world: not the globe, not the kingdoms of men, not golden Rome, not the sea, not the land, not the fiery stars of heaven. For the Father of all things has fixed a time that cannot be revoked, in which the last flame will seize and sweep away the whole world. Yet lofty deeds and the honour of virtue keep countless men alive through long ages, men whose fame and praises the poets heap up. Some are celebrated by the lofty songs that flow from the spring of Smyrna, others by the sweetness of Maro, son of the Mincius. Nor does the glory of those poets themselves spread less widely: it remains like an eternal glory, while the ages fly and the turning sky wheels the starry heaven round the lands and seas under the governance commanded to it. But if songs that weave lies into the deeds of men of old have earned so long a fame, for us sure faith will grant the immortal honour of a praise that lasts for ages and will repay our merit. For my song will be the life-giving deeds of Christ, a divine gift to the peoples, free from the charge of falsehood. Nor do I fear that the fires of the world will carry this work away with them; for this work perhaps will rescue me from the fire then, when Christ, the Judge, the glory of the Father enthroned on high, comes down flashing in a flame-spewing cloud. Come then! Let the Holy Spirit, author of song, be with me, and let the sweet Jordan water the mind of the singer with its pure stream, so that we may say what is worthy of Christ. ### Scripture references - 2 Pet 3:10: echo, medium confidence - Matt 24:30: echo, medium confidence ### Extrabiblical texts - Homer, Il. (Homer, Iliad): echo, low confidence - Virgil (Virgil): echo, low confidence ### Translation notes - The spring of Smyrna is Homer; Maro, son of the Mincius (the river of Mantua), is Virgil. The burning of the world: cf. 2 Pet 3:10; Christ's coming in the clouds: Matt 24:30. Stray marks after 'gesta' in the digital text are removed. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 0.1 (CSEL 24:2lines 1–27; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1). ## Book 1, lines 1–25 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-1 - Source: CSEL 24:3lines 1–25–4 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The angel announces John's birth to Zacharias in the temple. ### Latin text Rex fuit Herodes Iudaea in gente cruentus, Sub quo seruator iusti templique sacerdos Zacharias, uicibus cui templum cura tueri Digesto instabat lectorum ex ordine uatum. Huius inhaerebat thalamis dignissima coniux. Cura his ambobus parilis moderaminis aequi, Ambos adnexos legis praecepta tenebant. Nec fuit his suboles, iam tum uergentibus annis, Gratius ut donum iam desperantibus esset. Sed cum forte aditis arisque inferret odores Zacharias, uisus caelo discendere aperto Nuntius et soli iussas perferre loquellas (Cetera nam foribus tunc plebs adstrata rogabat): 'Quem tibi terribilis concussit corde pauorem Visus, cum laeti sermonis gratia placat? Nam me dimissum rerum pater unicus alto E caeli solio tibi nunc in uerba uenire Praecipit et cara tibi mox e coniuge natum Promittit, grandis rerum cui gloria restat, Plurima qui populis nascendo gaudia quaeret; Sobrius aeternum, clausum quem Spiritus ipsis Visceribus matris conplebit numine claro. Istius hic populi partem pleramque docendo Ad uerum conuertet iter, Dominumque Deumque Continuo primus noscet plebemque nouabit. ### English translation (Claude) There was a king, Herod, cruel, in the nation of Judaea; under him was Zacharias, keeper of justice and priest of the temple, on whom the charge of guarding the temple pressed in his turn, in the appointed order of the chosen priests. To his bridal chamber clung a most worthy wife. Both had an equal care for just conduct; the precepts of the law held both bound together. They had no offspring, and their years were already declining, so that the gift might be the more welcome to those already in despair. But when Zacharias happened to be bringing incense to the sanctuary and the altar, a messenger was seen to come down from the opened heaven and to deliver to him alone the words he was commanded to bring (for the rest of the people were then praying, prostrate at the doors): "Why has the sight struck such terrible fear into your heart, when the grace of a joyful message should calm you? For the one Father of all things sends me down from the high throne of heaven and commands me now to come and speak with you, and he promises you a son soon from your dear wife, for whom great glory awaits, who by his birth will win many joys for the peoples; sober for ever, he will be filled with a bright divine power by the Spirit, shut in his mother's very womb. By his teaching he will turn the greater part of this people to the true way; he will be the first to know at once the Lord and God, and will renew the people." ### Scripture references - Luke 1:5: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:13: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:15: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:17: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 1:5–17. Juvencus has the messenger come down from an opened heaven, where Luke has the angel standing at the right of the altar. 'Priests' renders uates. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.1 (CSEL 24:3lines 1–25–4; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-1). ## Book 1, lines 26–49 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-26 - Source: CSEL 24:4lines 26–49–5 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Zacharias doubts, is struck dumb, and returns home. ### Latin text Nomine Iohannem hunc tu uocitare memento.' Olli confusa respondit mente sacerdos: 'Aemula promissis obsistit talibus aetas, Nec senibus fetus poterit contingere fessis, Quem deus auertens primaeuo in flore negauit.' Haec trepidans uates; cui talia nuntius addit: 'Si tibi mortalis subolem promitteret ullus, Ad desperandum forsan cunctatio mentis Debuerat tardis haerens insistere uerbis. Nunc ego, quem dominus caeli, terraeque repertor, Ante suos uultus uoluit parere ministrum, Auribus ingratis hominis uisuque receptus, Supremi mandata Dei temnenda peregi. Quare promissis manet inreuocabile donum, Sed tibi claudetur rapidae uox nuntia mentis, Donec cuncta Dei firmentur munera uobis.' Haec ait et sese teneris inmiscuit auris. Interea populus miracula longa trahebat, Quid tantum templo uellet cessare sacerdos. Progressus trepide numen uidisse supernum Nutibus edocuit, miserae et dispendia uocis. Inde domum remeat conpleto ex ordine uates Officio, amissamque leuant promissa loquellam; Nec dilata diu uenerunt munera prolis. ### English translation (Claude) "Remember to call him by the name John." To him the priest answered with confused mind: "My age stands against such promises, and offspring cannot come to the weary old, which God turned away and denied us in the first flower of youth." So spoke the trembling priest, and the messenger adds: "If any mortal promised you offspring, perhaps your mind's hesitation might rightly have lingered on despair in slow, clinging words. Now I, whom the Lord of heaven, the maker of the earth, willed to stand before his face as his minister, received by a man's ungrateful ears and sight, have delivered the commands of the supreme God only to have them scorned. Therefore the gift remains in the promises beyond recall, but your voice, the messenger of your quick mind, will be shut up, until all God's gifts are made sure to you." So he spoke, and mingled himself with the thin air. Meanwhile the people were long wondering why the priest delayed so long in the temple. Coming forth trembling, he showed by nods that he had seen a heavenly presence, and the loss of his poor voice. Then the priest returned home when his service was completed in its order, and the promises lightened the loss of speech; nor were the gifts of offspring long delayed. ### Scripture references - Luke 1:18: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:19: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:20: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:22: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 1:13, 18–24. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.26 (CSEL 24:4lines 26–49–5; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-26). ## Book 1, lines 50–75 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-50 - Source: CSEL 24:5lines 50–75–7 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The annunciation to Mary. ### Latin text Anxia sed uentris celabat gaudia coniux, Donec quinque cauam conplerent lumina lunam. Tunc maiora dehinc idem mandata minister Detulit ad Mariae dimissus uirginis aures. Haec desponsa suo per tempora certa propinquo Abdita uirgineis caste pubescere tectis Et seruare diem iussis permissa parentum. Ad quam tranquillum sermonem nuntius infit: 'Salue, progenie terras iutura salubri, Desine conspectu mentem turbare uerendo. Nam tua concipient caelesti uiscera iussu Natum, quem regnare Deus per saecula cuncta Et propriam credi subolem gaudetque iubetque. Hunc ubi sub lucem dederis, sit nomine Iesus.' Ad quem uirgo dehinc pauido sic inchoat ore: 'Nullos conceptus fieri sine coniuge dicunt; Vnde igitur subolem mihimet sperabo uenire?' Nuntius haec contra celeri sermone profatur: 'Virtus celsa Dei circumuolitabit obumbrans, Spiritus et ueniet purus, lectissima uirgo, Ac tibi mox puerum casto sermone iubebit Magnificum gigni populis, quem credere sanctum Supremique Dei natum uocitare necesse est. Sic cognata tibi, sterilis quae credita cunctis, Zachariae coniux mortali germine nuper Aeuo defessis hausit miracula membris. ### English translation (Claude) But the wife kept the anxious joys of her womb hidden, until the light had five times filled the hollow moon. Then the same minister was sent down and brought greater commands to the ears of the virgin Mary. Betrothed to her kinsman for an appointed time, she was allowed by her parents' command to grow up chastely, hidden in a virgin's dwelling, and to keep the day. To her the messenger begins a calm speech: "Hail, you who will help the earth with saving offspring; cease to trouble your mind at this awesome sight. For by heaven's command your womb will conceive a son, whom God rejoices and commands to reign through all ages and to be believed his own offspring. When you have brought him into the light, let his name be Jesus." Then the virgin begins thus to him with fearful lips: "They say that no conception happens without a husband; from where, then, shall I hope that offspring will come to me?" The messenger replies quickly: "The lofty power of God will hover around you, overshadowing you, and the pure Spirit will come, most chosen virgin, and soon by a chaste word will command a boy to be born to you, glorious for the peoples, whom it is necessary to believe holy and to call the Son of the supreme God. So too your kinswoman, whom all believed barren, the wife of Zacharias, has lately drawn wonders from mortal seed into limbs worn out with age." ### Scripture references - Luke 1:24: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:27: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:31: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:34: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:35: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:36: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 1:24–37. Juvencus calls Joseph Mary's kinsman (propinquus) and has her kept at home by her parents until the day of marriage; neither detail is in Luke. A stray dash in the digital text is removed. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.50 (CSEL 24:5lines 50–75–7; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-50). ## Book 1, lines 76–100 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-76 - Source: CSEL 24:7lines 76–100–8 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Mary visits Elisabeth; the child leaps; Mary begins her song of praise. ### Latin text Sextus adest mensis: parent sic omnia iussis. Virgo dehinc: 'Domino famulam nunc ecce iubenti, Vt tua uerba sonant, cernis seruire paratam.' Nuntius abscedens uacuis se condidit auris. Illa dehinc rapidis Iudaeam passibus urbem Zachariaeque domum penetrat grauidamque salutat Elisabeth, clausae cum protinus anxia prolis Membra uteri gremio motu maiore resultant. Et simul exiluit mater concussa tremore, Diuinae uocis conpleta est flamine sancto Et magnum clamans: 'Felix o femina, salue, Felicem gestans uteri sinuamine fetum. Vnde meam tanto uoluit Deus aequus honore Inlustrare domum, quam mater numinis alti Viseret? Ecce meo gaudens in uiscere proles Exultat, Mariae cum prima adfamina sensit. Felix, qui credit finem mox adfore uerbis, Quae Deus ad famulos magnum dignando loquetur Illa trahens animum per gaudia mixta pudore Subpressae uocis pauitantia dicta uolutat: 'Magnificas laudes animus gratesque rependit Inmensi Domino mundi. Vix gaudia tanta Spiritus iste capit, quod me dignatus in altum Erigit ex humili celsam cunctisque beatam Gentibus et saeclis uoluit Deus aequus haberi. ### English translation (Claude) "This is the sixth month: so all things obey commands." Then the virgin: "See, as your words declare, the handmaid is ready now to serve the Lord who commands." The messenger departed and hid himself in the empty air. She then with swift steps entered the city of Judaea and the house of Zacharias and greeted Elisabeth, who was with child, and at once the limbs of the child shut in the womb leapt with a stronger movement in her lap. As soon as the mother started up, shaken with trembling, she was filled with the holy breath of the divine voice and cried aloud: "Happy woman, hail, who carry a happy child in the fold of your womb. Why has the just God willed to honour my house so greatly, that the mother of the high Godhead should visit it? See, the child in my womb leaps for joy, as soon as it heard Mary's first greeting. Happy is the one who believes that the words which God will deign to speak to his servants will soon be fulfilled." She, drawing breath through joy mixed with modesty, utters trembling words in a low voice: "My soul repays glorious praises and thanks to the Lord of the boundless world. This spirit can scarcely hold such joy, that he has deigned to raise me on high from lowliness, and the just God has willed me to be held blessed by all nations and ages. ### Scripture references - Luke 1:38: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:41: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:42: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:43: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:46: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:48: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 1:36–48. 'Mother of the high Godhead' (mater numinis alti) renders Luke's 'mother of my Lord'. 'Happy is the one who believes' is general in Juvencus ('qui'), where Luke has 'she who believed'. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.76 (CSEL 24:7lines 76–100–8; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-76). ## Book 1, lines 101–124 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-101 - Source: CSEL 24:8lines 101–124–9 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The end of Mary's song; John's birth and naming; Zacharias's song begins. ### Latin text Sustulit ecce thronum saeuis fregitque superbos, Largifluis humiles opibus ditauit egentes.' Tunc illic mansit trinos ex ordine menses, Ad propriamque domum repedat iam certa futuri. Iamque aderat tempus, quo iussum fundere partum Elisabeth uoluenda dies in luminis oras Cogeret. Ad partus famam collecta cucurrit Turba propinquorum, tum gaudia mira frequentes Concelebrant nomenque iubent genitoris habere. Abnuit hoc genetrix, sed Iohannes uocitetur Ingeminat. Placuit muti tunc iussa parentis Consulere, scriptoque rogant edicere nomen. Sed, pro mira fides, tabulis cum scribere temptat, Inplicitam soluit per uerba sonantia linguam. Mox etiam adsuetam penetrant spiracula mentem, Conpletusque canit uenturi conscia dicta: 'Concelebrent cuncti laudes gratesque frequentent Astrorum et terrae, pontique hominumque parenti, Visere quod uoluit propriamque absoluere plebem. En beat antiquam gentem cornuque salutis Erecto indulget Dauidis origine lumen. Hoc est, quod prisci cecinere ex ordine uates, Haec est illa salus, qua nos ex hostibus atris Eripit, ut iuste iusto seruire queamus. ### English translation (Claude) See, he has taken the throne from the cruel and broken the proud; the lowly and needy he has enriched with abundant wealth." Then she stayed there three months in order, and returned to her own home, now sure of what was to come. And now the time was at hand when the turning day would compel Elisabeth to bring forth into the shores of light the child she was commanded to bear. At the news of the birth the crowd of kinsfolk gathered and ran; in numbers they celebrated wonderful joys and bade that he have his father's name. The mother refused this, and repeated that he be called John. Then they decided to consult the wishes of the mute father, and asked him to declare the name in writing. But, oh wonderful faith, when he tried to write on the tablets, he loosed his entangled tongue in sounding words. Soon the breath of the Spirit also entered his familiar mind, and, filled, he sang words that knew the future: "Let all celebrate praises and give thanks to the Father of the stars and the earth, the sea and mankind, because he has willed to visit and set free his own people. See, he blesses the ancient nation and, raising up the horn of salvation, grants light from the line of David. This is what the prophets of old sang in order; this is that salvation by which he snatches us from dark enemies, so that we may serve the Just One justly. ### Scripture references - Luke 1:52: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:56: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:57: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:60: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:63: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:68: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:69: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:71: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 1:52–75. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.101 (CSEL 24:8lines 101–124–9; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-101). ## Book 1, lines 125–148 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-125 - Source: CSEL 24:9lines 125–148–10 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Zacharias's song ends; John grows up in the desert; Joseph is told in a dream to take Mary; the census of Augustus. ### Latin text At tu, parue puer, sanctus dignusque profeta Dicere et Dominum mox praegrediere uiando Illius et populum duces per lumen apertum: Errorem per te spernent mortisque tenebras Abrumpent omnes, tua qui praecepta sequentur.' Exhinc secretis in uallibus abdita semper Vita fuit puero, donec poscentibus annis Vatis ad officium pleno pubesceret aeuo. Interea Mariae sponso miracula mentem Sollicitant, manifesta uteri quod pondera uidit, Et secum uoluit, quanam ratione propinquae Dedecus obpressum celet thalamosque recuset. Talia tractanti torpescunt membra sopore Audiuitque Dei super horrida somnia uocem: 'Accipe coniugium nullo cum crimine pactae, Spiritus inpleuit sancto cui uiscera fetu. Hanc cecinit uates uenturam et uirgine prolem, NOBISCVM DEVS est nomen cui.' Protinus ille Haec praecepta sequens seruat sponsalia pacta. Sed tum forte nouo capitum discussio censu Caesaris Augusti iussis per plurima terrae Describebatur; Syriam tunc iure regebat Quirinus, proprios cui tota per oppida fines Edebant populi, uires nomenque genusque. ### English translation (Claude) "But you, little boy, will be called a holy and worthy prophet, and soon you will go before the Lord on his way and lead his people through open light: through you all who follow your teaching will scorn error and break through the darkness of death." From then on the boy's life was always hidden in secret valleys, until, as the years required, he grew to full age for the prophet's office. Meanwhile wonders troubled the mind of Mary's betrothed, because he saw the plain weight of her womb, and he turned over within himself by what means he might hide the disgrace of his kinswoman, keeping it quiet, and refuse the marriage. As he pondered this, his limbs grew heavy with sleep, and above his fearful dreams he heard the voice of God: "Take in marriage the one betrothed to you, who is without any guilt, whose womb the Spirit has filled with holy offspring. The prophet sang that she would come, and the virgin's child, whose name is GOD WITH US." At once he followed these commands and kept the agreed betrothal. But then, as it happened, by the orders of Caesar Augustus a count of heads was being made through most of the earth in a new census; Quirinus then ruled Syria by right, and to him the peoples throughout all the towns declared their own lands, their means, their names and families. ### Scripture references - Luke 1:76: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:80: allusion, high confidence - Matt 1:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 1:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 1:23: quotation, high confidence - Isa 7:14: quotation, high confidence - Matt 1:24: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:1: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:2: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 1:76–80; then Matthew's account of Joseph (Matt 1:18–25), set by Juvencus before Luke 2:1–2. Joseph's plan 'to refuse the marriage' is Matthew's 'to put her away quietly' (Matt 1:19). 'God with us': Isa 7:14 (Matt 1:23), printed in capitals in the edition. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.125 (CSEL 24:9lines 125–148–10; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-125). ## Book 1, lines 149–173 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-149 - Source: CSEL 24:10lines 149–173–12 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus is born at Bethlehem; the angels appear to the shepherds. ### Latin text Urbs est Iudaeae Bethleem, Dauida canorum Quae genuit, generis quae censum iure petebat. Edidit hic Mariam Dauidis origine Ioseph Desponsamque sibi scribens grauidamque professus. Hospitio amborum Bethleem sub moenibus urbis Angusti fuerant praeparua habitacula ruris. Illic uirgo nouo conpleta in tempore fetu Soluitur et puerum ueteri cunabula textu Inuoluunt durumque datur praesepe cubili. Circa sollicitae pecudum custodia noctis Pastores tenuit uigiles per pascua laeta. Ecce Dei monitu uisus discendere caelo Nuntius, at subitus terror tremefacta pauore Prostrauit uiridi pastorum corpora terrae. Talis et attonitis caelo uox missa cucurrit: 'Ponite terrorem mentis, mea sumite dicta, Pastores, quibus haec ingentia gaudia porto. Nam genitus puer est Dauidis origine clara, Qui populis lucem mox laetitiamque propaget. Hoc signum dicam, puerum quod cernere uobis Iam licet inplentem gracili praesepia uoce.' Talia dicenti iunguntur milia plebis Caelestis cunctique Deum laudantque rogantque, Talis et uniti uox agminis aera conplet: "Gloria supremum comitatur debita patrem; ### English translation (Claude) There is a city of Judaea, Bethleem, which bore tuneful David, and which by right required the census of his family. Here Joseph, of David's line, registered Mary, writing her down as betrothed to him and declaring her with child. As lodging for the two of them, beneath the walls of the city of Bethleem, there was a very small dwelling of a poor country place. There the virgin, her child complete at the time now come, is delivered; swaddling bands of old cloth wrap the boy, and a hard manger is given him for a bed. Round about, the anxious watch over the flocks by night kept the shepherds awake through the glad pastures. See, by God's command a messenger was seen to come down from heaven, and sudden terror threw the shepherds' bodies, trembling with fear, on the green earth. And such a voice, sent from heaven, ran to the astonished men: "Put away the terror of your minds, take my words, shepherds, to whom I bring this great joy. For a boy is born of the illustrious line of David, who will soon spread light and gladness to the peoples. I will tell you this sign: that you may now see the boy filling the manger with his thin voice." As he spoke, thousands of the heavenly host join him, and all praise God and entreat him, and such a voice of the united army fills the air: "Glory, as is due, attends the supreme Father; ### Scripture references - Luke 2:4: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:5: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:7: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:8: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:10: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:12: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:13: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:14: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 2:4–14. The sign of the boy's crying in the manger is Juvencus's addition. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.149 (CSEL 24:10lines 149–173–12; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-149). ## Book 1, lines 174–196 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-174 - Source: CSEL 24:12lines 174–196–13 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The shepherds visit; Jesus is circumcised and named and presented in the temple; Simeon is introduced. ### Latin text In terris iustos homines pax digna sequetur." Et simul his dictis caeli secreta reuisunt. Pastores propere ueniunt puerumque iacentem Praesepis gremio cernunt; post inde frequentes Dispergunt late celeris uaga semina famae. Mirantes laudant, laetantes constipuerunt, Omnia nocturnis monitis quod uera recurrant. Viderat octauam lucem puer, ecce recidi Ad morem legis nomenque aptare necesse est. Inpositumque illi est, monitis caelestibus olim Quod Mariae uox missa Deo praecepit, Iesus. Scripserat antiquae Moyses moderamina legis, Inter quae primos prisco de sanguine uatum Obseruare dedit fetus offerre sacrandos, Inplumesque simul ferre ad delubra columbas. Haec ubi per Mariam templo seruata feruntur, Ecce senex Simeon dignus conprendere sensu Caelestes uoces, cui quondam praescia rerum Virtus prodiderat, quod carcere corporis aegri Deposito mortem liber requiemque uideret, Cum primum caeli laudem terraeque salutem, Omnia quem uatum spondent oracula Christum, Vidisset templo sollemnes ferre palumbas. ### English translation (Claude) on earth a worthy peace will follow just men." And with these words they return to the secret places of heaven. The shepherds come quickly and see the boy lying in the lap of the manger; then in numbers they scatter far and wide the wandering seeds of swift report. Wondering, they praise; rejoicing, they were amazed that everything had turned out true to the night's warnings. The boy had seen the eighth day: see, it is necessary that he be circumcised according to the custom of the law and given a name. And the name given him was the one which the voice sent from God had once enjoined on Mary by heavenly warnings: Jesus. Moses had written the rules of the ancient law, among which he gave the command to offer the first offspring to be consecrated, from the ancient blood of the priests, and at the same time to bring unfledged doves to the shrine. When these rites were being kept by Mary in the temple, see, the old man Simeon, worthy to grasp heavenly voices in his mind, to whom a power that knew the future had once revealed that he would lay down the prison of his sick body and see death and rest as a free man, as soon as he had seen the praise of heaven and the salvation of the earth, Christ, whom all the oracles of the prophets promise, bringing the solemn doves to the temple. ### Scripture references - Luke 2:16: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:18: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:21: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:22: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:24: allusion, high confidence - Exod 13:2: allusion, medium confidence - Lev 12:8: allusion, medium confidence - Luke 2:25: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:26: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 2:14–27. The law of the firstborn: Exod 13:2; the offering of birds: Lev 12:8. 'From the ancient blood of the priests' (prisco de sanguine uatum) is obscure and translated literally. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.174 (CSEL 24:12lines 174–196–13; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-174). ## Book 1, lines 197–220 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-197 - Source: CSEL 24:13lines 197–220–14 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Simeon's song and prophecy to Mary; Anna the widow recognizes Christ. ### Latin text Isque ubi curuato defessus corpore templum Iam grauior penetrat, monuit quod spiritus auctor, Ecce simul paruum gremio genetricis Iesum Ad templum sensit uenisse, trementibus ulnis Accepit puerum laetusque haec dicta profatur: 'Nunc, nunc me famulum Dominus nunc liberat atris Corporis e uinclis finemque inponere uerbis Dignatur cum pace suis. En splendida nostros Lux oculos tua circumstat radiisque renidet, Quam cunctis hominum lustratis gentibus addit Istrahelitarum cumulatae gloria plebis. ' Quid tantum Mariae stupuerunt pectora matris? Hic puer ad casum populi datur, iste renasci Concedet populos; dictum in contraria signum Istius adueniet, percurrens debita leto Atque animam matris ferro fulgente machaera, Quo pateant tecti tenebrosa uolumina cordis.' Haec ait in Simeone Deus; mox ecce profetae Femineam sancto conplet spiramine mentem. Anna fuit natu grauior, quam in flore iuuentae Destituit uiduam mors inmatura mariti. Casta sed in templo semper pro coniuge uita Et cultus cessere Dei; quae numine iussa Cognouit Christum et simili sermone locuta est. ### English translation (Claude) And when he, weary, his body bent and now heavier with age, entered the temple, as the Spirit, the author, had prompted, see, at that moment he sensed that little Jesus had come to the temple in his mother's lap; with trembling arms he took the boy and joyfully spoke these words: "Now, now the Lord frees me, his servant, from the dark bonds of the body, and deigns to put an end to his words in peace. See, your splendid light surrounds our eyes and shines with its rays; having lit up all the nations of men, it adds glory to the thronging people of the Israelites. Why were the heart of mother Mary so amazed? This boy is given for the fall of the people; he will grant the peoples to be born again; a sign spoken against will come from him, and a sword gleaming with steel, running through what is owed to death, will pierce even his mother's soul, so that the dark folds of the hidden heart may be laid open." So God spoke in Simeon; soon, see, he fills a woman's mind with the holy breath of prophecy. Anna was advanced in age; in the flower of her youth the untimely death of her husband had left her a widow. But a chaste life in the temple and the worship of God had always taken the place of a husband; at the command of the Godhead she recognized Christ and spoke in like words. ### Scripture references - Luke 2:28: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:29: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:32: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:33: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:34: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:35: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:36: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:38: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 2:28–38. Juvencus puts the parents' amazement (Luke 2:33) inside Simeon's speech, as a question to Mary. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.197 (CSEL 24:13lines 197–220–14; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-197). ## Book 1, lines 221–245 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-221 - Source: CSEL 24:14lines 221–245–15 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The holy family returns home; the Magi come to Jerusalem and are led by the star to Bethlehem. ### Latin text Inde ubi sollemnem pueri pro nomine legem Conpleuit genetrix et Ioseph omnia mirans, Ad patriam laeti repedant puerumque reportant. Gens est ulterior surgenti conscia soli, Astrorum sollers ortusque obitusque notare; Huius primores nomen tenuere Magorum. Tunc hinc delecti Solymos per longa uiarum Deueniunt regemque adeunt orantque doceri, Quae regio imperio puerum Iudaea teneret Progenitum: sese stellae fulgentis ab ortu Admonitos uenisse uiam, quo supplice dextra Exortum terris uenerabile numen adorent. Territus Herodes Solymorum culmina uatum Quique profetarum ueterum praedicta recensent Imperio accitos iubet omnia quaerere legis, Quis pateat, quae sint genitalia moenia Christo, Omnia uenturum spondent quem oracula uatum. Tunc manifestatur, Bethleem quod moenibus illum Progigni maneat, cui sacram ducere plebem Istrahelitarum sancta uirtute necesse est. Hinc iubet Herodes Persas pertendere gressum Inuentumque sibi puerum monstrare colendum. Ecce iteris medio stellam praecurrere cernunt Sulcantem flammis auras, quae culmine summo Restitit et pueri lustrata habitacula monstrat. ### English translation (Claude) Then, when the mother, and Joseph, wondering at everything, had fulfilled the solemn law for the boy's name, they gladly returned to their homeland and carried the boy back. There is a nation further off, familiar with the rising sun, skilled at noting the risings and settings of the stars; its leading men bore the name of Magi. Then some chosen men from there came down over long roads to Solyma, approached the king, and begged to be told what region of Judaea held the boy born to royal rule: they had come, they said, warned on the way by a shining star from the east, so that with suppliant right hand they might worship the venerable Godhead risen upon the earth. Herod in terror summoned by command the chiefs of the priests of Solyma and those who study the predictions of the ancient prophets, and ordered them to search the whole law, to make plain which is the city of Christ's birth, whom all the oracles of the prophets promise will come. Then it is made plain that he is to be born within the walls of Bethleem, he who must lead the holy people of the Israelites by holy power. Then Herod bids the Persians press on their journey and show him the boy, when found, so that he may worship him. See, in the midst of their journey they see the star running before them, furrowing the air with flames; it stopped at its highest point and showed the dwelling of the boy, lighting it up. ### Scripture references - Luke 2:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:5: allusion, high confidence - Mic 5:2: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 2:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:9: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 2:39, then Matt 2:1–9. Juvencus calls the Magi Persians. The birthplace prophecy is Mic 5:2 (Matt 2:6), here only summarized. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.221 (CSEL 24:14lines 221–245–15; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-221). ## Book 1, lines 246–270 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-246 - Source: CSEL 24:15lines 246–270–17 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The Magi offer their gifts; the flight into Egypt; Herod's massacre of the infants. ### Latin text Gaudia magna Magi gaudent sidusque salutant, Et postquam puerum uidere sub ubere matris, Deiecti prono strauerunt corpore terram Submissique simul quaesunt; tum munera trina Tus, aurum, murram regique hominique Deoque Dona dabant. Totam mox horrida somnia noctem Sollicitant saeuumque iubent uitare tyrannum. Denique diuersis Herodis callibus aulam Diffugiunt patriamque Magi rediere latenter. Ipsum etiam puerum monitis caelestibus actus Aegyptum cum matre simul transportat Ioseph. At ferus Herodes sibimet succedere credit, Quem callens astris quaesisset cura Magorum. Quorum praecauto discessu sollicitatus Horribilem iussit Bethleem per compita caedem. Infantes cunctos teneramque sub ubere plebem Auellit ferro nullo sub crimine culpae. Haec etiam caedes olim praescripta manebat, Quam bonus Hieremias diuino numine iussus Conplorat, subolis misero pro funere matres Horrendis grauiter caelum pulsare querellis. Ast ubi sopitus furor est et saeua tyranni Infantum horribili feritas satiata cruore, Extinxisse putat cunctos, quos unus et alter Annus letiferi miseros obpresserat aeui. ### English translation (Claude) The Magi rejoice with great joy and greet the star, and after they saw the boy at his mother's breast, they threw themselves down and lay prostrate on the ground, and, bowed low, they made their prayer; then they gave three gifts, incense, gold and myrrh, to the King, the Man, and God. Soon fearful dreams troubled them all night long and bade them avoid the savage tyrant. So by other paths the Magi fled Herod's court and returned secretly to their homeland. Joseph too, moved by heavenly warnings, carried the boy himself, together with his mother, to Egypt. But fierce Herod believed that the one whom the Magi, skilled in the stars, had diligently sought was to succeed him. Troubled by their cautious departure, he ordered a horrible slaughter through the streets of Bethleem. All the infants, the tender people at the breast, he tore away with the sword, though charged with no guilt. This slaughter too had long been foretold, which good Hieremias, commanded by the divine power, laments: mothers, for the wretched death of their offspring, beating heaven heavily with dreadful cries. But when the fury was lulled and the savage cruelty of the tyrant was sated with the infants' horrible blood, he thinks he has destroyed all the poor children whom one or two years of mortal life had weighed upon. ### Scripture references - Matt 2:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:18: allusion, high confidence - Jer 31:15 (38:15 LXX): allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 2:10–18. 'To the King, the Man, and God' is Juvencus's interpretation of the three gifts. Jeremiah's lament: Jer 31:15 (Matt 2:18). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.246 (CSEL 24:15lines 246–270–17; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-246). ## Book 1, lines 271–295 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-271 - Source: CSEL 24:17lines 271–295–18 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The return from Egypt to Nazareth; Jesus grows; at twelve he stays behind in the temple. ### Latin text Mirandis rursus deuinctus membra sopore Urgetur monitis Mariam puerumque Ioseph Aegypto ad patriam uectare, ubi Nazara felix Olim praedictum puero dedit addere nomen. Dixit et alterius quondam praenuntia uatis Vox instincta Deo: Veniet, ueniet mea proles Aegypto ex alta terris lumenque salusque. Crescebat rapidis annorum gressibus infans, Praecurrens aeuum sapientia praeueniebat Gratiaque in uultu et uerbis ueneranda micabat. Et iam bissenos aeui conprenderat annos, Cum paschae ritum seruando ex more parentes Ad templum laetis puerum perducere festis Omnibus annorum uicibus de more solebant. Ergo aderant paschae pariter cunctisque diebus Festorum inpletis patriam remeare parabant, Cum puer in populo comitis uestigia matris Deseruit templique libens secreta petiuit. Illum per uicos urbis perque abdita tecta Perque iteris stratas per notos perque propinquos Quaerebat genetrix; sed lux ubi tertia uenit Ad templum propere remeat, uatumque choreis Inuenit insertum legumque obscura senili Tractantem coetu. Vix admiratio digna De pueri uerbis senibus fuit; at pia mater: ### English translation (Claude) Again, his limbs bound by a wondrous sleep, Joseph is urged by warnings to carry Mary and the boy from Egypt to the homeland, where happy Nazara gave the boy the name once foretold for him. And the voice of another prophet, inspired by God, once foretold: "My offspring will come, will come from deep Egypt, a light and salvation to the lands." The infant grew with swift steps of years; his wisdom, outrunning his age, went before it, and grace worthy of reverence shone in his face and words. And now he had reached twelve years of age, when his parents, keeping the rite of the Passover according to custom, were accustomed to bring the boy to the temple at the joyful feast every year. So they were there for the Passover, and when all the days of the festival were completed they were preparing to return to the homeland, when the boy, in the crowd, left the footsteps of his mother, his companion, and gladly sought the inner places of the temple. Through the streets of the city and through hidden houses, along the highways of the journey, among acquaintances and kinsfolk, his mother sought him; but when the third day came she returned quickly to the temple and found him set among the companies of the priests, discussing the obscurities of the laws with an assembly of old men. Hardly adequate was the old men's admiration at the boy's words; but his devoted mother said: ### Scripture references - Matt 2:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 2:23: allusion, high confidence - Hos 11:1: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:40: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:42: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:43: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:44: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:46: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:47: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 2:19–23; Luke 2:40–48. The 'other prophet' is Hos 11:1 (Matt 2:15); Juvencus's wording ('light and salvation to the lands') is his own expansion. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.271 (CSEL 24:17lines 271–295–18; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-271). ## Book 1, lines 296–322 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-296 - Source: CSEL 24:18lines 296–322–19 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus answers his mother and returns home obedient; John the Baptist preaches, fulfilling Isaiah. ### Latin text 'Nate, ait, amissum lacrimis te quaero profusis Anxia cum genitore gemens. Quae causa parentum Discernit gressu templique in sede retentat?' Ille autem: 'Quid me tantum, quid quaeritis? inquit. An nondum sentis, genetrix, quod iure paternis Sedibus et domibus natum inhabitare necesse est?' Haec ait et gressum sociat patriamque reuisit; Nec genetrix tanti persensit pondera uerbi, Ordine cuncta tamen cordis secreta reseruant. At puer obsequiis apte praedulcibus ambos Ad proprium semper cogens nectebat amorem. Interea ueteris scripti per debita currens Omnia saeclorum series promissa trahebat. Zachariae suboles desertis uallibus omnes Ad deponendas maculas clamore uocabat, Fluminis ut liquidi caperent miranda lauacra, Quis animae uirtus abluta sorde niteret; Esaias uates cecinit quod numine iussus: 'Vox late resonat desertis uallibus; amplas Instruite stratas, omnis sit recta uiarum Semita, quae Domini digne uestigia gestet. Subsident colles, uallis conplebitur omnis; Corriget anfractus iteris bona linea recti Corporeisque oculis lumen tractare serenum Omnibus indulget genitor Dominusque salutis.' Ergo aderant populi passimque hinc inde ruentes Conplebant ripas auidique lauacra petebant. ### English translation (Claude) "Son, I have been seeking you, lost to us, with flowing tears, anxious, grieving with your father. What cause has separated you from your parents' steps and keeps you in the temple?" But he said: "Why do you seek me so, why? Do you not yet perceive, mother, that it is right for the son to dwell in his father's seat and house?" He said this, joined them on the way, and returned to the homeland; nor did his mother grasp the weight of so great a saying, yet she kept everything in order in the secret places of her heart. But the boy, by most sweet obedience, fittingly bound them both always to love of him. Meanwhile the course of the ages, running through what the ancient scripture owed, was drawing on all the promises. The offspring of Zacharias in the desert valleys called everyone with his cry to put off their stains, that they might receive the wonderful washing of the clear river, by which the soul's virtue, its filth washed away, might shine; as the prophet Esaias, commanded by the Godhead, sang: "A voice resounds far and wide in the desert valleys: build broad roads, let every path of the ways be straight, to bear the footsteps of the Lord worthily. The hills will sink, every valley will be filled; the good line of a straight road will correct its windings, and the Father and Lord of salvation grants to all to look on the serene light with bodily eyes." So the peoples came and, rushing from every side, filled the banks and eagerly sought the washing. ### Scripture references - Luke 2:48: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:49: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:51: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:1: allusion, high confidence - Isa 40:3: quotation, high confidence - Isa 40:4: quotation, high confidence - Luke 3:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:5: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Luke 2:48–52; Matt 3:1–5. Isa 40:3–5 is given in the fuller form of Luke 3:4–6. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.296 (CSEL 24:18lines 296–322–19; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-296). ## Book 1, lines 323–347 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-323 - Source: CSEL 24:19lines 323–347–21 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: John's dress, food and preaching of repentance; he foretells the stronger one who will baptize with Spirit and fire. ### Latin text Texta camelorum fuerant uelamina saetis, Et zonae pellis medium cinxere profetam. Et tenuem uictum praebent siluestria mella. Isque ubi tot populos diuersis sedibus ortos Inruere ad fluuium cernit, sic incipit ore: 'Vipereae gentis suboles, quis debita uobis Supplicia urgentesque iras euadere monstrat? Sed facite, o miseri, fructum, si paenitet, aptum, Nec generis uestri tollat fiducia mentes. Nam facile e saxis etiam pro nomine plebes Succedet uestro, suboles quia degener errat. Proxima roboreis iamiam radicibus instat Cunctorum ante oculos acies leuata securis. Caedentur siluae steriles ignemque fouebunt. Nunc ego praeteritas maculas in flumine puro Abluere institui; ueniet sed fortior alter, Cuius uincla pedum non sum contingere dignus. Abluet ille hominis sancto spiramine mentem Flammarumque globis purgabit noxia corda. Illius et manibus ruralis pala tenetur Et propria ipsius purgabitur area frugum Horreaque inplebit secreti copia farris Aeternusque leues paleas populabitur ignis. Haec ait et properis per siluam passibus ipsum Cernit Iordanis ueneranda lauacra petentem. ### English translation (Claude) His garments were woven of camels' hair, a girdle of skin bound the prophet's waist, and wild honey supplied his slender fare. When he saw so many peoples, sprung from different places, rushing to the river, he began thus: "Offspring of a viperous race, who shows you how to escape the punishments you deserve and the wrath that presses on you? But, wretched men, if you repent, bear fitting fruit, and let no confidence in your descent puff up your minds. For easily, even from stones, a people will succeed to your name, since a degenerate offspring goes astray. Now, now, before the eyes of all, the raised edge of the axe presses close on the oaken roots. The barren woods will be cut down and will feed the fire. I have undertaken now to wash away past stains in the pure river; but another, stronger, will come, the thongs of whose feet I am not worthy to touch. He will wash the mind of man with the Holy Spirit and purge guilty hearts with balls of flame. In his hands the farmer's shovel is held; his own threshing floor of crops will be cleansed; the abundance of sifted grain will fill his barns, and eternal fire will devour the light chaff." So he spoke, and saw Jesus himself coming with swift steps through the wood to seek the venerable washing of the Jordan. ### Scripture references - Matt 3:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:13: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 3:4–13. Juvencus omits the locusts of John's diet. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.323 (CSEL 24:19lines 323–347–21; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-323). ## Book 1, lines 348–372 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-348 - Source: CSEL 24:21lines 348–372–22 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus is baptized; the Spirit descends and the Father speaks; Jesus fasts forty days in the wilderness. ### Latin text Sed uetat increpitans uates et talia fatur: 'Tune meis manibus dignaris mergier undis, Cum tua me melius possint mundare lauacra?' Dixit Iohannes, cui talia reddit Iesus: 'Nunc sine, nam decet hoc, sic sancta per omnia nobis Iustitiae consectandus conplebitur ordo.' Haec memorans uitreas penetrabat fluminis undas. Surgenti manifesta dei praesentia claret. Scinditur auricolor caeli septemplicis aethra Corporeamque gerens speciem discendit ab alto Spiritus aeriam simulans ex nube columbam Et sancto flatu corpus perfudit Iesu. Tunc uox missa Dei longum per inane cucurrit Ablutumque undis Christum flatuque perunctum Adloquitur: 'Te nate, hodie per gaudia testor Ex me progenitum, placet haec mihi gloria prolis.' Tum petit umbrosos montes et lustra ferarum Obsequiumque illi patris praebere ministri Certabant rapidi, mox liuor daemonis atram Cum terrore rapit mentem, nec defuit aegro Temptandi interea Christum uersutia fallax. Quadraginta illi fuerant ex ordine soles, Ex quo nulla cibi potusque alimenta dabantur, Sed contexta simul firmi ieiunia cordis Terrarum ad regnum mentis secreta tenebant. ### English translation (Claude) But the prophet forbade him, protesting, and spoke thus: "Do you deign to be plunged in the waters by my hands, when your washing could better cleanse me?" So spoke John, and Jesus answered him thus: "Allow it now, for this is fitting: so the holy order of righteousness that we must follow will be fulfilled in all things." Saying this, he went down into the glassy waters of the river. As he rose, the manifest presence of God shone out. The golden sky of the sevenfold heaven was split, and the Spirit, bearing a bodily form, came down from on high in the likeness of an airy dove from a cloud, and poured his holy breath over the body of Jesus. Then the voice of God, sent forth, ran through the long void and addressed Christ, washed in the waters and anointed with the breath: "You, my Son, I testify today with joy, are begotten of me; this glory of my offspring pleases me." Then he sought the shady mountains and the lairs of wild beasts, and the Father's ministers vied swiftly to offer him service; soon the demon's envy seized his dark mind with terror, and meanwhile the deceitful cunning of that sick one did not fail to tempt Christ. Forty suns had passed in order since any nourishment of food or drink had been given him; but the fasts of a firm heart, joined one to another, held the secret places of his mind on the kingdom over the earth. ### Scripture references - Matt 3:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:16: allusion, high confidence - Luke 3:22: quotation, high confidence - Ps 2:7: quotation, high confidence - Mark 1:13: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 4:2: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 3:14–4:2. The Father's words, 'today … begotten of me', follow the reading of Luke 3:22 found in Codex Bezae and the Old Latin, which quotes Ps 2:7, not the 'beloved Son' of Matthew. The angels' service (Matt 4:11; Mark 1:13) is placed before the temptation. The last line ('terrarum ad regnum mentis secreta tenebant') is obscure; translated literally. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.348 (CSEL 24:21lines 348–372–22; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-348). ## Book 1, lines 373–399 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-373 - Source: CSEL 24:22lines 373–399–23 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The first two temptations: stones into bread and the leap from the temple. ### Latin text Tunc epulas demum monuit conquirere corpus. Horrendi interea sceleris fallacia temptans: 'Si te pro certo genuit Deus, omnibus, inquit, His poteris saxis forti sermone iubere Usum triticei formamque capessere panis.' Christus ad haec fatur: 'Nil me iam talia terrent; Nam memini scriptum, quoniam non sola tenebit Vitam credentis facilis substantia panis, Sed sermone Dei conplet pia pectora uirtus.' Rursus at ille dolos uersutis artibus aptans Nectere temptator properat. Nam moenibus urbis Mox inferre pedem sensit, uis liuida Christum Culmine marmoreo fecit consistere templi. Tum sic adgreditur uocis fallente ueneno: "Si Deus est uere genitor tibi, culmine templi Aera per uacuum saltu iaculabere corpus. Testis erit scriptura tibi, quae spondet aperte Mandatum summi genitoris tale ministris, Ut lapsum studeant casu defendere corpus; Et famulis manibus current tua membra leuare, Ne lapidis laedat summas offensio plantas." Reddidit his Christus dictis contraria dicta: "Me meminisse magis scripti caelestis oportet, Ne uires Domini fidens audacia temptet." Rursus in abrupti montis consistere celsis Mox furibunda iugis sensit fallacia Christum, Ostendens illi fulgentia regna per orbem: ### English translation (Claude) Then at last the body warned him to seek food. Meanwhile the deceit of horrid wickedness tempted him: "If God has truly begotten you," he said, "you will be able with a strong word to command all these stones to take the use and form of wheaten bread." Christ answers this: "Such things do not frighten me now; for I remember that it is written that the easy substance of bread will not alone sustain the life of the believer, but power fills devout hearts by the word of God." But again the tempter hastened to weave his tricks, fitting them with crafty arts. For as soon as he perceived that Christ had set foot within the walls of the city, the livid power made him stand on the marble summit of the temple. Then he approached him thus, with the deceiving poison of his voice: "If God is truly your Father, from the summit of the temple you will hurl your body with a leap through the empty air. Scripture will be your witness, which openly promises that the supreme Father has given his ministers such a command, that they be eager to protect a body that falls by accident; and they will run to lift your limbs with servant hands, lest striking a stone hurt the soles of your feet." Christ returned contrary words to these: "I must rather remember the heavenly scripture, that confident boldness must not tempt the powers of the Lord." Again, soon the raging deceit perceived Christ standing on the lofty ridges of a steep mountain, and showed him the gleaming kingdoms through the world: ### Scripture references - Matt 4:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:4: allusion, high confidence - Deut 8:3: quotation, high confidence - Matt 4:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:6: allusion, high confidence - Ps 91:11 (90:11 Vulg.): quotation, high confidence - Ps 91:12 (90:12 Vulg.): quotation, high confidence - Deut 6:16: quotation, high confidence - Matt 4:8: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 4:2–8. Christ quotes Deut 8:3 and Deut 6:16; the devil quotes Ps 91:11–12 (Vulgate 90). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.373 (CSEL 24:22lines 373–399–23; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-373). ## Book 1, lines 400–424 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-400 - Source: CSEL 24:23lines 400–424–24 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The third temptation and the devil's flight; Jesus moves to Galilee, fulfilling Isaiah; he sees Simon and Andrew. ### Latin text 'Cernis, ait, quae sit tantarum gloria rerum? Cuncta tuo possum iamiam concedere regno, Talia donantem si me ueneratus adores.' Tunc sic instantem dictis, reiecit Iesus: 'Effuge pestiferi rabies uaesana ueneni, Haereat ut semper nobis inmobile iussum, Ut iustus caeli Dominum deuotus adoret Unius et famulans ueneretur nomen in aeuum.' Talibus excussus fugit per deuia daemon. Ille ubi Iohannem cognouit carceris umbris Inmersum, tristi conpressit corde dolorem, Finibus et statuit Zabulonum ponere sedes, Ut dictum Esaiae concurreret ordine longo: "Terra Zabulonum et regionis Neptala nomen, Et uia trans pelagus longe Galilaea per arua Trans et Iordanen gentes populique tenebris Inclusi magnum lumen subitumque uidebunt, In mortisque illis umbra residentibus alma Exoritur fidei resplendens luce uoluntas." Ergo instare Dei regnantis munera Christus Nuntiat increpitans praeconia larga salutis. Praeteriensque uidet ponti per litora fratres, Praesolidum Simonem, dignum cognomine Petri, Andreamque simul, sinuosa uolumina lini Piscibus insidias disponere marmoris undis. ### English translation (Claude) "Do you see," he said, "how great is the glory of such great things? I can grant all of it to your kingdom at once, if you worship and adore me who give such things." Then Jesus rejected him as he pressed thus with words: "Begone, mad rage of pestilent poison, so that the command may always cling to us unmoved, that the just man devoutly adore the Lord of heaven, and serve and venerate the name of the One for ever." Driven off by such words, the demon fled through pathless places. When he learned that John had been plunged into the shadows of prison, he pressed down the grief in his sad heart and decided to settle in the territory of the Zebulonites, so that the saying of Esaias might agree with the long course of events: "The land of the Zebulonites and the region named Naphtali, and the way beyond the sea, far through the fields of Galilee, and beyond the Jordan: the nations and peoples shut in darkness will see a great and sudden light, and for those who sit in the shadow of death a kindly will rises, shining with the light of faith." So Christ announced, calling out, that the gifts of God who reigns were at hand, the abundant proclamation of salvation. And passing by, he saw along the shores of the sea two brothers, Simon, very firm, worthy of the surname Peter, and Andrew with him, setting the winding folds of linen as snares for fish in the marble waters. ### Scripture references - Matt 4:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:10: allusion, high confidence - Deut 6:13: quotation, high confidence - Matt 4:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:13: allusion, high confidence - Isa 9:1: quotation, high confidence - Isa 9:2: quotation, high confidence - Matt 4:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:18: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 4:9–18. Christ answers with Deut 6:13. Isaiah: Isa 9:1–2 (Matt 4:15–16). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.400 (CSEL 24:23lines 400–424–24; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-400). ## Book 1, lines 425–447 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-425 - Source: CSEL 24:24lines 425–447–25 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The call of the first disciples; Jesus preaches and heals throughout Galilee. ### Latin text 'Nunc, inquit, pisces capitis maris aestibus altis, Sed me si libeat sectari, fortia uobis Prouenient hominum praepulchra indagine lucra.' Olli confestim firmato pectore certi Retibus abiectis pariter praecepta sequuntur. Post fratres Iacobum Iohannemque marinis Insidias gregibus maculoso innectere textu Ut uidit similemque dedit de litore uocem, illi Zebedeum genitorem in puppe relinquunt Ilico sectantes pulcherrima iussa salutis. Exhinc per terram Galilaeam sancta serebat Insinuans populis regni praeconia Christus Donabatque citam inualidis aegrisque medellam; Et mox crebra procul Syriam iam fama tenebat Mille sonans uerbis praesentia munera Christi. Denique certatim languoris tabe peresos Diuersisque malis nexos, quis longa dolore Absumpsit populans membrorum robora tabes, Monstrabant Christo; facili sed munere cunctos Reddebat propere miranda ad gaudia sanos. Iamque animae ipsius morbi saeuique furores Et lunae cursum comitata insania mentis Discessere graui sermonis pondere iussa. ### English translation (Claude) "Now," he said, "you catch fish in the high surges of the sea; but if you are willing to follow me, mighty gains will come to you from a most beautiful hunting of men." They at once, sure, with steadfast heart, threw aside their nets and together followed his precepts. After that, when he saw the brothers James and John weaving snares of spotted net for the flocks of the sea, and gave the same call from the shore, they left their father Zebedee in the stern, following at once the most beautiful commands of salvation. From there Christ went through the land of Galilee sowing the holy proclamation of the kingdom, instilling it into the peoples, and giving swift healing to the infirm and sick; and soon frequent report, spreading far, already filled Syria, telling in a thousand words of Christ's present gifts. Then in rivalry they brought to Christ those consumed by the wasting of sickness and bound by various ills, whose limbs' strength a long wasting had ravaged and consumed with pain; but with an easy gift he quickly restored them all, healthy, to wonderful joy. And now the diseases of the soul itself and savage frenzies, and the madness of mind that follows the moon's course, departed, ordered out by the heavy weight of his word. ### Scripture references - Matt 4:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 4:24: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 4:19–24. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.425 (CSEL 24:24lines 425–447–25; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-425). ## Book 1, lines 448–472 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-448 - Source: CSEL 24:25lines 448–472–26 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The crowds gather; the Beatitudes; the disciples are the salt of the earth. ### Latin text Illum stipantes miracula magna mouentem Mixtae sectantur turbae Solymique Syrique Et Iudaea frequens populis Galilaeaque plebes, Quos et Iordanes dirimit stagnante fluento. Hos populos cernens praecelsa rupe resedit Ac sic discipulis gremium cingentibus infit: 'Felices humiles, pauper quos spiritus ambit, Illos nam caeli regnum sublime receptat, His similes mites, quos mansuetudo coronat, Quorum debetur iuri pulcherrima tellus. Hoc modo lugentes solacia magna sequentur. Pabula iustitiae qui nunc potusque requirunt, Illos plena manet satiandos copia mensae. Felix, qui miseri doluit de pectore sortem, Illum nam Domini miseratio larga manebit. Felices, puro qui caelum corde tuentur, Visibilis Deus his per saecula cuncta patebit. Pacificos Deus in numerum sibi prolis adoptat. Felices nimium, quos insectatio frendens Propter iustitiam premit; his mox regia caeli Pandetur. Gaudete, operum quos iusta tenentes Urgebit praeceps stimulis iniuria saeuis; Plurima nam merces uobis seruatur in aethra, Namque profetarum fuit insectatio talis. Discite uos hac in terra salis esse saporem. ### English translation (Claude) Thronging round him as he worked great wonders, mixed crowds followed, men of Solyma and Syrians, Judaea crowded with peoples, the people of Galilee, and those whom the Jordan divides with its pooled stream. Seeing these peoples, he sat down on a very high rock and began thus to the disciples who encircled his lap: "Happy the humble, whom a poor spirit surrounds, for the sublime kingdom of heaven receives them. Like them are the meek, whom gentleness crowns: the most beautiful land is owed to their right. So too great consolations will follow those who mourn. Those who now seek the food and drink of righteousness, a full abundance of the table awaits, to satisfy them. Happy is he who has grieved from his heart at the lot of the wretched, for the ample mercy of the Lord will await him. Happy those who look on heaven with a pure heart: God, made visible, will be open to them through all ages. The peacemakers God adopts into the number of his offspring. Very happy those whom gnashing persecution presses for righteousness: for them the palace of heaven will soon be opened. Rejoice, you who hold to just works and whom headlong injury will drive with savage goads; for a very great reward is kept for you in heaven, for such was the persecution of the prophets. Learn that you are the savour of salt on this earth. ### Scripture references - Matt 4:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:13: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 4:25–5:13. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.448 (CSEL 24:25lines 448–472–26; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-448). ## Book 1, lines 473–496 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-473 - Source: CSEL 24:26lines 473–496–27 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Salt and light; Christ comes to fulfil, not abolish, the law and the prophets. ### Latin text Hic sapor amissa si iam uirtute senescit, Quae salis absumptos acuet substantia gustus? Nec quisquam uani post haec superest salis usus, Ni longe abiectum cuncta ut uestigia calcent. Vos estis mundi clarum (ne abscondite) lumen. Nam quis praecelsis inpostam rupibus urbem Occultare queat? Vestrum sic lumen ad omnes Perueniat rerumque decus sub luce serena Ponatur. Cunctis genitoris gloria uestri Laudetur, celsi thronus est cui regia caeli. Non ego nunc priscas leges dissoluere ueni Vertere nec, ueteres ponunt quae iussa profetae; Omnia nam uobis per me conplenda manebunt. Vera loquor, donec caeli terraeque marisque Interitus ueniat, legis nec littera saltem Aut apicis parui gracilis distinctio deerit, Omnia quin fiant digesto ex ordine saecli. Si quis enim minimam mandati soluere partem Ausus erit, pariterque homines audendo docebit, Hic minimi nomen caelesti in sede tenebit. At quicumque operis proprii moderamina seruans Inuiolata simul tradet praecepta priorum, Magnus erit magnique feret trans sidera nomen. Audistis ueteris iussum moderamine legis: ### English translation (Claude) If this savour loses its power and now grows stale, what substance of salt will sharpen the taste once it is spent? Nor does any use remain for worthless salt after that, except to be thrown far away and trampled by every foot. You are the bright light of the world (do not hide it). For who could hide a city set on lofty rocks? So let your light reach all, and let the glory of your deeds be set under the clear light. Let the glory of your Father be praised by all, whose royal throne is high heaven. I have not come now to dissolve the ancient laws, nor to overturn the commands that the old prophets laid down; for all things will remain to be fulfilled for you through me. I speak truly: until the destruction of heaven and earth and sea comes, not even a letter of the law, or the slender mark of a small stroke, will be lacking, but all things will come to pass in the appointed order of the age. For if anyone dares to loosen the least part of a commandment, and by his daring teaches men likewise, he will bear the name of least in the heavenly seat. But whoever keeps the rule of his own conduct and also hands on the precepts of the ancients inviolate, will be great and bear a great name beyond the stars. You have heard the command in the rule of the ancient law: ### Scripture references - Matt 5:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:21: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 5:13–21. The lamp under the bushel (Matt 5:15) is not rendered separately. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.473 (CSEL 24:26lines 473–496–27; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-473). ## Book 1, lines 497–521 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-497 - Source: CSEL 24:27lines 497–521–28 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Anger and insult are condemned; reconcile before offering a gift; the 'adversary' is the body to be tamed by chastity; adultery of the mind. ### Latin text Humano si quis macularit sanguine palmas, Ille reus ferro persoluet uindice poenas. Ast ego praecipiam, ne quis consurgere in iras Audeat atque odio fratris feruente moueri. Nam reus hic aequo poenas sub iudice pendet. Nec minor illorum conuicia flamma sequetur, Qui fatui miseriue cient sub nomine fratrem. Sin offerre uoles, uenerans altaria, munus Et tua tunc tacitae mentis penetralia tanget, Quod tibi sit cum fratre domi suscepta simultas, Munera cuncta illic aditis admota relinque Et prius ad pacem properans transcurre petendam. Fraterno demum iam conciliatus amori Offer grata Deo tranquillo pectore dona. Est tibi praeterea semper contraria uirtus Corporis; hoc casti celeri curetur amore, Dum rapidae tecum graditur per compita uitae. Accusabit enim polluti corporis usus. Et te sublimi statuet sub iudice uinctum. Damnatum rapient ad uincula saeua ministri Nec prius e tenebris solueris carceris atri, Ultima quam minimi reddatur portio nummi: Haut ignota, reor, uobis stat cautio legis Corpus adulterio prohibens, sed nunc mea iussa Occulta internae frenant molimina mentis: ### English translation (Claude) "If anyone has stained his hands with human blood, he as guilty will pay the penalty to the avenging sword." But I will command that no one dare to rise up in anger or be moved by burning hatred of a brother. For he, guilty, pays the penalty under a just judge. Nor will a lesser flame follow the insults of those who call a brother by the name of fool or wretch. But if, venerating the altars, you wish to offer a gift, and then it touches the inner places of your silent mind that you have taken up a quarrel with a brother at home, leave all the gifts you have brought there at the entrance, and first run quickly to seek peace. Then, when you are reconciled to brotherly love, offer welcome gifts to God with a tranquil heart. Moreover, there is always a power of the body opposed to you; let it be cured by a swift love of chastity, while it walks with you through the crossroads of swift life. For the use of a polluted body will accuse you and set you, bound, before the lofty judge. The ministers will drag you, condemned, to savage chains, and you will not be released from the darkness of the black prison until the last portion of the smallest coin is paid. Not unknown to you, I think, is the law's safeguard forbidding the body adultery; but now my commands curb the hidden schemings of the inner mind: ### Scripture references - Matt 5:21: allusion, high confidence - Exod 20:13: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 5:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:27: allusion, high confidence - Exod 20:14: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 5:21–28. Juvencus reads the adversary of Matt 5:25 as the body opposed to the soul, to be cured by chastity; this is his interpretation, not the Gospel's wording. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.497 (CSEL 24:27lines 497–521–28; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-497). ## Book 1, lines 522–545 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-522 - Source: CSEL 24:28lines 522–545–30 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lust of the eye and hand; only an adulterous wife may rightly be divorced, for a husband who divorces another exposes her; oaths are forbidden. ### Latin text Nec minus optati quam facti poena luenda est. Si te forte oculi dextri laqueauerit error, Auctorem miserae properans conuellito labis Et iaculare procul. Nam membrum perdere refert Exiguum, flammis quam totum dedere corpus Perpetuisque animam pariter conuoluere poenis. Et si dextra manus mentem per deuia ducit, Erroris causam praestat decidere ferro, Quam totum aeternis corpus concedere flammis. Praecipiunt ueteres, si quis conubia rumpit, Scribere discidium, iuris feralia uerba. Sola uiri recte discedet adultera tectis, Ast aliae maneant, nam casti iura pudoris Auctore amittet mulier deserta marito. Antiquae leges prohibent periuria linguis, Sed nostris cedat iurandi audacia iussis. Nec fas est homini caelum iurare per altum, Quod sedes Domini, nec quae uestigia gestat Terra Dei, Solymaeue urbis uenerabile nomen, Quod regis magni propria est, iurabitur umquam. Nec caput in proprium cuiquam iurare licebit, Namque potestatem minimi non esse capilli Cernitis, albumue aut nigrum mutare colorem. Est est sufficiat, quod non est dicite: non est. ### English translation (Claude) the penalty for what is desired must be paid no less than for what is done. If perhaps the straying of your right eye ensnares you, quickly tear out the author of the wretched fall and throw it far away. For it is better to lose a small member than to give the whole body to the flames and roll the soul with it into everlasting punishment. And if your right hand leads your mind astray, it is better to cut off the cause of error with the sword than to surrender the whole body to eternal flames. The ancients command that if anyone breaks off a marriage, he write a bill of divorce, the deadly words of the law. Only the adulteress will rightly leave her husband's house; but let the other wives remain, for a deserted wife will lose the rights of chaste modesty, and her husband will be the author of it. The ancient laws forbid tongues perjury, but let the boldness of swearing yield to our commands. It is not lawful for a man to swear by high heaven, which is the seat of the Lord; nor will anyone ever swear by the earth, which bears the footsteps of God, nor by the venerable name of the city of Solyma, which is the great king's own. Nor will anyone be allowed to swear by his own head, for you see that you have no power over the least hair, to change its colour to white or black. Let "it is, it is" suffice; what is not, say: "it is not." ### Scripture references - Matt 5:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:31: allusion, high confidence - Deut 24:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:37: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 5:28–37; the bill of divorce: Deut 24:1. Juvencus renders the exception of Matt 5:32 as 'only the adulteress will rightly leave her husband's house', and the clause 'makes her commit adultery' as 'a deserted wife will lose the rights of chaste modesty, and her husband will be the author of it'. He does not render the last clause of Matt 5:32 ('whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery'). Translated as written. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.522 (CSEL 24:28lines 522–545–30; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-522). ## Book 1, lines 546–570 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-546 - Source: CSEL 24:30lines 546–570–31 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Not retaliation but patience; give, lend, and love and pray for enemies, as the Father does good to all. ### Latin text Quod superest istis, totum fallaciter aegro Suggeret obreptans animo uis tetra ueneni. Peruulgata diu legis praecepta tenetis: Laedentem semper similis uindicta sequatur, Sed tranquilla malum melius patientia uincet; Ac si quis partem palma percusserit oris, Mox aliam uultus partem praebere memento. Auferet aut tunicam si quis ui iudicis instans, Cede libens pariterque ferat tua pallia secum. Si te forte aliquis passus per mille iubebit Ire uiam grauidique oneris perferre laborem, Mox perges aliudque iteris comitabere duplum. Si quis egens poscet uel si simulabit egentem, Ex animo miserans largire; aut mutua si quis Orabit, tribue, et mitem ne subtrahe uultum. Nec tibi sit placitum solis succurrere amicis Aut caecis odiis inimicos ducere dignos. Quin ego praecipiam semper blando esse per omnes Obsequio precibusque Deum mollire benignis Pro uita ipsorum, qui uos exscindere gaudent Aduersisque truces animis odiisque sequuntur. Nam genitor noster communia lumina solis Communesque dedit pluuias iustisque malisque.' Quod si coniunctos tantum ueneramur amicos, Quis locus hic iustae poterit mercedis haberi? ### English translation (Claude) Whatever goes beyond these, the foul power of poison creeps in and suggests it, wholly deceitfully, to the sick mind. You hold the precepts of the law, long made public: let like vengeance always follow the one who does harm; but tranquil patience will better conquer evil. And if anyone strikes one side of your face with his palm, remember at once to offer the other side. If anyone, pressing his claim by the power of a judge, will take away your tunic, yield willingly, and let him take your cloak with him too. If perhaps someone orders you to go a road of a thousand paces and bear the labour of a heavy load, go on at once and accompany him for twice as much again. If anyone in need asks, or pretends to be in need, give generously, pitying from the heart; and if anyone begs a loan, grant it, and do not withdraw a gentle face. Nor let it please you to help only your friends, or with blind hatred to count your enemies deserving of it. Rather, I will command you always to show mild compliance to all, and to soften God with kindly prayers for the life of those who rejoice to destroy you and pursue you fiercely with hostile minds and hatred. For our Father has given the common light of the sun and common rains to the just and to the wicked." But if we honour only the friends joined to us, what place can there be here for a just reward? ### Scripture references - Matt 5:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:38: allusion, high confidence - Exod 21:24: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 5:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:40: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:41: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:42: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:44: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:45: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:46: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 5:37–46; the law of retaliation: Exod 21:24. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.546 (CSEL 24:30lines 546–570–31; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-546). ## Book 1, lines 571–593 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-571 - Source: CSEL 24:31lines 571–593–32 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Be perfect like the Father; give and pray in secret; the Lord's Prayer begins. ### Latin text Seruit amicitiae tantum gens dedita lucris. Sed uos perfecto similes estote parenti. Sicubi iustitiae pandetur pulchra facultas, Deuitate oculos hominum; nam nulla manebit Merces, posterius quae factum tale sequatur. Adplaudet tantum sterilis laudatio uulgi. Sed quod dextra facit, faciat, nescire sinistram Conueniet; iustis meritis tum digna rependet Occulti solus scrutator praemia cordis. Sunt quos praetumidae tollit iactantia mentis, Et precibus propriis gaudent adsistere turbas Multifluisque diem uerbis ducendo fatigant; His uotis pompae fructus succedit inanis. Sed secreta domus precibus penetralia castis Claudantur paucisque Deum uenerabere uerbis. Scit pater ipse, tui quae sit trepidatio cordis. Nil absente Deo loquimur, nil abdita clausum Pectoris antra tegunt, praesens Deus omnia cernit. His igitur uotum placeat concludere uerbis: Sidereo genitor residens in uertice caeli, Nominis, oramus, ueneratio sanctificetur In nobis, pater alte, tui: tranquillaque mundo Adueniat regnumque tuum lux alma reclaudat. ### English translation (Claude) A race given to gain serves friendship only. But you, be like your perfect Parent. Wherever a fine occasion for righteousness opens, avoid the eyes of men; for no reward will remain to follow such a deed afterward: only the barren praise of the crowd will applaud. What the right hand does, let it do; it will be fitting that the left not know; then the only searcher of the hidden heart will repay worthy rewards for just merits. There are some whom the boasting of a swollen mind lifts up; they rejoice that crowds stand by at their prayers, and they weary the day, drawing it out with flowing words; to such vows the empty fruit of display is the reward. But let the secret inner rooms of the house be closed upon chaste prayers, and you will worship God in few words. The Father himself knows the trembling of your heart. We say nothing when God is absent; the hidden caves of the breast cover nothing shut away; God is present and sees all things. Let it please you, then, to sum up your prayer in these words: "Father, dwelling on the starry summit of heaven, may the reverence of your name, we pray, be hallowed in us, high Father; may your kingdom come in peace to the world, and may a kindly light disclose it. ### Scripture references - Matt 5:47: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:48: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:10: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 5:46–6:10. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.571 (CSEL 24:31lines 571–593–32; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-571). ## Book 1, lines 594–618 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/0-1/#p-1-594 - Source: CSEL 24:32lines 594–618–33 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The end of the Lord's Prayer; forgiveness; fasting in secret; treasure in heaven. ### Latin text Sic caelo ut terris fiat tua clara uoluntas, Vitalisque hodie sancti substantia panis Proueniat nobis; tua mox largitio soluat Innumera indulgens erroris debita praui; Et nos haut aliter concedere foenora nostris. Tetri saeua procul temptatio daemonis absit Eque malis tua nos in lucem dextera tollat. Sic etenim genitor populis delicta remittet, Si uestra alterni uobis peccata uelitis Cedere nec durum erratis intendere pectus. Sunt etiam praegrata Deo ieiunia plebis; Sed propriam multi faciem foedare laborant, Quo uanam captent hominum ieiunia famam. Tu uero et grato crinem nitefactus oliuo Laetantem puris de fontibus ablue uultum, Ut solus genitor deuoti pectoris altum Seruitium cernens laudet meritumque rependat. Vanum est defossis terra inuigilare talentis. Illic aerugo et tineae dominantur edaces, Cunctaque diripiunt fures egesta latebris. Condite thesauros uobis in uertice caeli; Non aerugo illos tineaeue aut horrida furum Factio diripiet. Vobis ubi condita res est, Illic corda etiam simili dicione tenentur. Corporis est lumen, quo publica lumina cernis; ### English translation (Claude) As in heaven, so on earth may your bright will be done; may the life-giving substance of holy bread come to us today; may your generosity soon release and forgive the countless debts of our depraved error; and grant that we no less forgive what is owed us by our own. Let the savage temptation of the foul demon be far away, and let your right hand lift us out of evils into the light." For so the Father will forgive the peoples their offences, if you are willing to forgive one another your sins and not to turn a hard heart against faults. The fasts of the people are also most pleasing to God; but many labour to disfigure their own faces, so that their fasts may catch the empty fame of men. But you, your hair shining with pleasant olive oil, wash your joyful face from pure springs, so that the Father alone, seeing the deep service of a devoted heart, may praise it and repay the merit. It is vain to watch over talents buried in the ground. There rust and devouring moths rule, and thieves carry off everything dug from its hiding place. Store up treasures for yourselves on the summit of heaven; neither rust nor moths nor the horrid band of thieves will carry them off. Where your wealth is stored, there your hearts too are held under the same rule. The light of the body is that by which you see the common light; ### Scripture references - Matt 6:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:22: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 6:10–22. 'The life-giving substance of holy bread' renders Matthew's 'daily' (or 'supersubstantial') bread. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.594 (CSEL 24:32lines 594–618–33; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-594). ## Book 1, lines 619–642 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-1-619 - Source: CSEL 24:33lines 619–642–34 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The sound eye; no one can serve God and riches; do not be anxious for food and clothing. ### Latin text Sed si pura acies oculis simplexque nitebit, Clare totius splendebunt corporis artus. Sin uero nequam fuerit paruumque uidebit, Obscurae incumbent super omnia membra tenebrae. In nigras lumen sed si conuertitur umbras, Ipsis horror erit quantus sine luce tenebris? Nemo potest dominis aeque seruire duobus, Unius aut odiis cedet uel cedet amori, Nec pariter dominum seruus patietur utrumque. Haut umquam poterit quis diuitiisque Deoque Inseruire simul; sed uos haec iussa tenete: Sollicitet proprio ne uos pro corpore uestis, Neu faciles uictus aegra disquirite cura. Nonne animam pluris facimus quam corporis escas? Aut dubitat corpus quisquam praeponere uesti? Aerias spectemus aues: num uomere presso Terga soli subigunt, iaciunt aut semina farris, Aut segetum culmos incurua falce recidunt? Proueniet tamen his satias potusque cibique. Nonne Deo magis est hominum curatio cordi? Nec dignum fuerat uestis suspendere curam Pectoribus nostris; non, si cubitalia possent Incrementa suis homines inponere membris. Cernite, per pingues agros ut lilia fulgent! ### English translation (Claude) but if the sight in the eyes shines pure and single, the limbs of the whole body will shine clearly. But if it is evil and sees little, dark shadows will lie over all the members. And if the light itself is turned into black shadow, how great will be the horror of darkness without any light? No one can serve two masters alike: he will give way either to hatred of one or to love of him, nor will a slave bear both masters equally. No one will ever be able to serve riches and God at once. But hold to these commands: let not clothing for your body trouble you, nor seek easy food with anxious care. Do we not value the soul more than food for the body? Or does anyone hesitate to put the body before clothing? Let us look at the birds of the air: do they press the ploughshare and break up the backs of the soil, or sow seeds of grain, or cut the stalks of the crops with the curved sickle? Yet they have plenty of drink and food. Is not the care of men closer to God's heart? Nor was it right to hang the care of clothing on our hearts; not even if men could add a cubit's growth to their limbs. See how the lilies shine through the rich fields! ### Scripture references - Matt 6:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:28: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 6:22–28. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.619 (CSEL 24:33lines 619–642–34; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619). ## Book 1, lines 643–667 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-1-643 - Source: CSEL 24:34lines 643–667–35 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God clothes the lilies; seek his kingdom first; do not judge; the speck and the beam; pearls before swine. ### Latin text Non ulli tamen his umquam incubuere labores, Nec Solomona illum, cum regni diuitis aula Aflueret, talis contexit gratia uestis. Quod si pratorum fruticumque uirentia laeta Ipse Deus uestit nostris obnoxia flammis, Cur uobis potior non est fiducia patris? Ergo cibum potum uestemque et inania cuncta Gentibus infidis terrenam linquite curam. Vos potius digne caelestia quaerite regna Iustitiamque Dei — spontanea cetera current —, Crastina nec uobis curetur copia rerum; Quisque dies sibimet satis est pro fraude diurna. Iudicium uestrum fugiat damnatio saeua; Nam Dominus uestri iuris documenta sequetur, Quae uos in terris statuetis tempore capti: Mensuram tibi, quam ponis, portare necesse est. Cernis adhaerentem fistucam in lumine fratris, Nec tamen in proprio tignum consistere sentis Atque oculum prius alterius purgare laboras; Deripe sed proprio fallax de lumine lignum, Tunc minimam alterius curabis demere aristam. Ne canibus sanctum dederitis neue uelitis Turpiter inmundis iactare monilia porcis. Namque illa in caeno pedibus subiecta iacebunt Conuersique sues uasto uos uulnere rumpent. ### English translation (Claude) Yet no labours have ever weighed on them, and not even Solomon, when the court of his rich kingdom overflowed, was clothed in such grace of garment. But if God himself clothes the glad green growth of the meadows and shrubs, which is subject to our fires, why do you not have greater confidence in the Father? Leave, then, food, drink, clothing, and every empty earthly care to the unbelieving nations. You rather seek worthily the heavenly kingdom and the righteousness of God — the rest will come running of its own accord — and do not be anxious for tomorrow's supply; each day is enough for itself, with the day's trouble. Let savage condemnation flee from your judging; for the Lord will follow the precedents of justice that you lay down on earth while held in time: you must bear the measure that you set. You see the speck clinging in your brother's eye, yet you do not perceive the beam standing in your own, and you labour first to cleanse another's eye; but tear the deceitful timber out of your own eye, then you will take care to remove the least husk from another's. Do not give what is holy to dogs, nor be willing shamefully to throw necklaces to unclean pigs. For these will lie trampled underfoot in the mud, and the pigs will turn and tear you with a great wound. ### Scripture references - Matt 6:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 6:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:6: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 6:28–7:6. 'While held in time' (tempore capti) is uncertain. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.643 (CSEL 24:34lines 643–667–35; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-643). ## Book 1, lines 668–691 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-1-668 - Source: CSEL 24:35lines 668–691–36 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Ask, seek, knock; the golden rule; the narrow gate and the broad way; beware false prophets. ### Latin text Poscenti dabitur, quaerens inuenta tenebit, Pulsantique aditus foribus pandetur apertis. Vos homines natis panem poscentibus omnes Non lapidem dabitis piscemue petentibus anguem; Vos, inquam, rigidi, quibus alte est insita cordis Durities, uestris dabitis semper bona natis. Indulgens hominum genitor bona mitia digne Quam praestare magis gaudet poscentibus aequis! Quae cupitis uobis hominum benefacta uenire, Haec eadem uestro cunctis praestate fauore. Haec legis summa est, hoc ius dixere profetae. Ite per angustam, iusti, super aethera portam. Quam lata et spatiosa uia est, quae limite laeuo Praeruptum conuoluit iter caligine mortis, Innumeraeque illam penetrant per prona cateruae! Vitalis uastis stipatur semita saxis, Celsaque uix paucos ducit per scrupea uirtus. At si quos nimium fallax inlexque malorum Planities suasit deformi lubrica lapsu, Adripit hos pronosque trahit uelut impetus amnis, Aut alacer sonipes ruptis effrenus habenis, Aut rectoris egens uentosa per aequora puppis. Obseruate illos, falso qui nomine uobis Insidias faciunt appellanturque profetae. ### English translation (Claude) To the one who asks it will be given; the one who seeks will hold what he finds; and for the one who knocks, the doors will open and entrance be given. All you men will not give a stone to sons who ask for bread, nor a snake to those who ask for a fish; you, I say, hard men, in whom hardness of heart is deeply rooted, will always give good things to your sons. How much more does the Father, indulgent to men, rejoice to grant gentle good things worthily to those who ask justly! The kindnesses you wish to come to you from men, do the same to all with your favour. This is the sum of the law; this is the right the prophets declared. Go, you just, through the narrow gate above the heavens. How broad and spacious is the way that, on the left-hand path, rolls its headlong road in the gloom of death, and countless troops enter it on the downward slope! The path of life is crowded with huge rocks, and lofty virtue scarcely leads a few through the rough places. But those whom the too deceitful and enticing plain of evils has persuaded, slippery with ugly falls, it seizes and drags headlong, like the rush of a river, or an eager steed run wild with its reins broken, or a ship without a helmsman on the windy seas. Watch out for those who lay snares for you under a false name and are called prophets. ### Scripture references - Matt 7:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:15: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 7:7–15. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.668 (CSEL 24:35lines 668–691–36; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-668). ## Book 1, lines 692–717 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-1-692 - Source: CSEL 24:36lines 692–717–38 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: False prophets known by their fruits; not all who say 'Lord' enter the kingdom; the house on the rock. ### Latin text Hos ouium species uestit, sed saeua luporum Pectora fraude tegunt, lacerantque incauta trahentes Agmina cedentum, saeuus quos decipit error. Fructibus e propriis noscuntur talia monstra; Quemque petat finem fallax doctrina uidendum est. Nam neque de tribulis ficus nec sentibus uuas Prouenisse umquam ruris per terga notastis. Utque arbor proprio uestitur germine pomi, Sic dolus illorum fructu monstrante patescit. Non ego palpantum uerbis et honore mouebor, Nec, me quod dominum praeblanda adolatio dicet, Praemia caelestis capient spontanea sedis. Illi sed merito gaudebunt munere regni, Qui facient nostri genitoris iussa uolentes. Adueniet mox summa dies, quae iure seuero Praemia iustitiae tribuet scelerique gehennam. Tunc mihi multorum clamabit talia fletus: Nonne tuo quondam magnae sub nomine nobis Virtutes sanctis domuerunt omnia iussis? Saepe etiam nostra est uox adnumerata profetis Seruiuitque tuo nobis sub nomine daemon. Tunc iurabo illis, quod talis cognita numquam Vita mihi est hominum, gestis quae sordet iniquis. Quisque meis monitis auresque et facta dicabit, Hunc aequabo uiro solidis fundamina saxis Ponenti, librata super cui moenia surgent. ### English translation (Claude) The appearance of sheep clothes them, but by fraud they hide the savage hearts of wolves, and they tear the unwary flocks they drag along, who yield to them, deceived by savage error. Such monsters are known by their own fruits; one must see what end their deceitful teaching seeks. For you have never noticed figs growing from thistles or grapes from thorns across the countryside. And as a tree is clothed with the bud of its own fruit, so their trickery is laid open when the fruit shows it. I will not be moved by the words and honours of flatterers, nor will they win the rewards of the heavenly seat as of right because smooth flattery calls me lord. But those will deservedly rejoice in the gift of the kingdom who willingly do the commands of our Father. Soon the last day will come, which by strict justice will grant rewards to righteousness and Gehenna to crime. Then the weeping of many will cry out to me: "Did not great powers once, under your name, subdue all things for us by holy commands? Often too our voice was counted among the prophets, and the demon served us under your name." Then I will swear to them that such a life of men, foul with wicked deeds, was never known to me. Whoever devotes both his ears and his deeds to my warnings, I will liken him to a man laying foundations on solid rocks, on which balanced walls will rise. ### Scripture references - Matt 7:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:24: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 7:15–24. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.692 (CSEL 24:36lines 692–717–38; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-692). ## Book 1, lines 718–742 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-1-718 - Source: CSEL 24:38lines 718–742–39 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The house on sand; the crowds amazed at Christ's authority; a leper healed; a centurion approaches. ### Latin text Illa domus pluuiis uentisque inlaesa manebit Torrentumque minas firmato robore uincet, Haerent inmotae quoniam fundamina petrae. Qui uero auditu tantum mea iussa tenebit Diuersisque procul factis per lubrica perget, Hunc similem faciam, uolucri qui fulcit harena Fundamenta domus; primo cui flamine uenti Et pluuia infusis coepit cum incumbere riuis, Omnis subuerso procumbit pondere moles Insequiturque graui tectorum strage ruina.' Talia dicentem fixa admiratio plebis Inmensum stupuit, quoniam transcenderat alte Doctrinam ueterum Christo concessa potestas. Denique linquentem celsi fastigia montis Stipabat gaudens populorum turba sequentum. Ecce sed horrenda confixus uiscera tabe, Quem toto obsessum foedarat corpore lepra, Procubuit uenerans iuuenis Christumque precatur: 'Ut caream tandem languoris pondere tanti, Sufficiet uoluisse tuum.' Tum dextera Christi Adtactu solo purgauit lurida membra. Incolumique dehinc: 'Celaris gaudia, iussit, Et legi parens offers tua munera templo. Inde recedenti supplex se protinus offert Centurio et precibus proiectus talibus orat: ### English translation (Claude) That house will remain unharmed by rains and winds, and with strong timber will overcome the threats of torrents, since its foundations cling to immovable rock. But whoever holds my commands only by hearing, and goes far off on slippery ways with contrary deeds, I will liken him to one who props the foundations of his house on shifting sand; at the first blast of wind, and when the rain began to bear down with pouring streams, the whole mass falls, its weight overturned, and ruin follows with the heavy wreck of the roof." As he said such things, the people stood fixed in boundless wonder, since the authority given to Christ had far surpassed the teaching of the ancients. Then, as he left the summit of the high mountain, the crowd of the peoples following thronged him rejoicing. But see, a young man, whose flesh was pierced by a horrid wasting, whose whole body leprosy had besieged and fouled, fell down in reverence and begged Christ: "For me to be free at last of the weight of so great a sickness, it will be enough that you have willed it." Then the right hand of Christ, by touch alone, cleansed the livid limbs. And he commanded the healed man: "Hide your joy, and, obeying the law, offer your gifts at the temple." As he went away from there, a centurion at once presented himself as a suppliant, and prostrate prayed with these words: ### Scripture references - Matt 7:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 7:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:5: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 7:25–8:5. Juvencus calls the leper a young man. The offering for cleansing: Lev 14. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.718 (CSEL 24:38lines 718–742–39; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-718). ## Book 1, lines 743–770 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-1-743 - Source: CSEL 24:39lines 743–770–40 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The centurion's faith and his servant healed; Peter's mother-in-law healed. ### Latin text 'Inpubis pueri cruciatur spiritus aeger, Cuius cuncta repens membrorum munia languor Dissoluit uitamque tenet iam poena superstes. Sed iussu miserere precor, nam tecta subire Crimina nostra uetant uitae lucisque parentem. Nunc uerbo satis est iubeas remeare salutem. 'Subiectos mihi saepe uiros sic nostra potestas Officiis uerbo iussis parere coegit.' Dixerat. Ille uiri motus precibusque fideque Talia conuersus populo dat dicta sequenti: 'Haut umquam talem memini me gentis auitae Inuenisse fidem; sed ueris discite dictis, Quod multos homines diuersis partibus orbis Progenitos caeli regnum sublime uocabit Cum patribus nostris uitali adcumbere mensae, Progenies quorum caecis demersa tenebris Dentibus horrendum stridens fletumque frequentans Perpetuis poenae cruciatibus acta subibit. At tibi iam, iuuenis, mentis uirtute fidelis, Ut credis, ueniet fructus cum luce salutis.' Dixerat et dicto citius cum uoce loquentis Ad puerum celeris transcurrunt munera uerbi, Ingressusque domum miles properante recursu Praeuenisse Dei laetatur dona medentis. Aedes inde Petri sanctus penetrabat Iesus, Cuius anhela socrus aestu febrique iacebat. Utque illi dextram tetigit saluator Iesus, Sana ministerium praebebat femina mensis. ### English translation (Claude) "The sick spirit of a young boy is tormented; a sudden weakness has undone all the functions of his limbs, and pain now holds his life, though he survives. But have mercy by a command, I pray, for our sins forbid the Parent of life and light to come under our roof. Now it is enough that you order health to return by a word. My authority has often compelled the men under me to obey in this way, by a word, the duties I command." He had spoken. Moved by the man's prayers and faith, Jesus turned and spoke these words to the people following: "Never do I remember finding such faith in my ancestral nation; but learn by true words that the sublime kingdom of heaven will call many men, born in different parts of the world, to recline at the life-giving table with our fathers, while their own offspring, plunged in blind darkness, gnashing their teeth horribly and weeping continually, will be driven into the everlasting torments of punishment. But to you now, young man, faithful in strength of mind, as you believe, the fruit will come with the light of health." He had spoken, and quicker than the word, with the voice of the speaker, the gifts of the swift word ran across to the boy; and the soldier, entering his house on a hurried return, rejoiced that the gifts of God the healer had arrived before him. Then holy Jesus entered the house of Peter, whose mother-in-law lay panting with heat and fever. As Jesus the Saviour touched her right hand, the woman, made well, served at the table. ### Scripture references - Matt 8:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:15: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 8:6–15. The centurion calls Christ 'the Parent of life and light', Juvencus's phrase. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 1.743 (CSEL 24:39lines 743–770–40; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-743). ## Book 2, lines 1–26 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-1 - Source: CSEL 24:41lines 1–26–42 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Evening healings; the would-be followers; Jesus and the disciples set sail. ### Latin text Iamque dies prono decedens lumine pontum Inciderat, furuamque super nox caerula pallam Sidereis pictam flammis per inane trahebat: Cum multos homines mentis languore ruentes Deuinctosque animam furibunda daemonis arte Certantes populi caeca iam nocte ferebant. Sed uerbum Christi tanto languore remoto Omnibus indulgens praebebat munera patris. Ecce sed exorta maior cum luce tumultus Gratantis populi cum turbis; anxius ille In mare ueliuolum celsam deducere iussit Discipulis puppim. Precibus tum scriba profusis Nauigio Sancti pariter poscebat abire. Olli Christus ait: 'Quo me tu, scriba, sequeris? Vulpibus in saltu rupes excisa latebras Praebet, et aeriis auibus dat silua quietem; Ast hominis nato nullis succedere tectis Est licitum: gentis sic sunt molimina uestrae.' Tunc e discipulis unus sic ore rogabat: Ultima defuncto debentur munera patri, Sed spatium tribuat tua nobis, Sancte, uoluntas, Ut liceat miseri genitoris condere corpus.' Christus ad haec: 'Itiner melius comitabere nostrum Et sine defunctis defunctos condere terrae.' Conscendunt nauem uentoque inflata tumescunt Vela suo, fluctuque uolat stridente carina. ### English translation (Claude) And now the day, departing with sinking light, had fallen into the sea, and the blue night was drawing through the void its dusky mantle, painted with starry flames, when the crowds, vying with one another, were bringing through the blind night many people who were collapsing with sickness of mind and whose souls were bound by the raging art of the demon. But the word of Christ removed so great a sickness and graciously granted all of them the Father's gifts. But see, as the light rose, a greater tumult came with crowds of grateful people; anxious, he ordered the disciples to launch the high ship onto the sail-strewn sea. Then a scribe, with outpoured prayers, asked to go away with the Holy One in the boat. Christ said to him: "Where will you follow me, scribe? For the foxes in the glade the hollowed rock offers lairs, and the wood gives rest to the birds of the air; but the Son of man is allowed to come under no roof: such are the schemes of your nation." Then one of the disciples asked thus: "The last offices are owed to a dead father; but let your will, Holy One, grant us time, so that I may bury the body of my poor father." Christ said to this: "You will do better to come with us on our journey, and leave the dead to bury the dead in the earth." They boarded the ship, the sails swelled with their own wind, and the keel flew over the hissing wave. ### Scripture references - Matt 8:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:23: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 8:16–23. 'Such are the schemes of your nation' is Juvencus's addition to the saying about the foxes; translated as written. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.1 (CSEL 24:41lines 1–26–42; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-1). ## Book 2, lines 27–50 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-27 - Source: CSEL 24:42lines 27–50–43 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus calms the storm; a demoniac meets him in the land of the Gerasenes. ### Latin text Postquam altum tenuit puppis, consurgere in iras Pontus et inmissis hinc inde tumescere uentis Instat et ad caelum rabidos sustollere montes; Et nunc mole ferit puppim nunc turbine proram, Inlisosque super laterum tabulata receptant Fluctus disiectoque aperitur terra profundo. Interea in puppi somnum carpebat Iesus. Illum discipuli pariter nautaeque pauentes Euigilare rogant pontique pericula monstrant. Ille dehinc: 'Quam nulla subest fiducia uobis! Infidos animos timor inruit!' Inde procellis Imperat et placidam sternit super aequora pacem. Illi inter sese timidis miracula miscent Conloquiis, quae tanta sibi et permissa potestas, Quodue sit imperium, cui sic freta concita uentis Erectaeque minis submittant colla procellae. Iam Gerasenorum steterat sub litore puppis; Ecce sed egresso iuuenis — mirabile dictu — Occurrit, miseram cui mentem spiritus ater Inmunda inplebat lacerans uirtute furoris. Illi grata domus tetris habitare sepulchris; Nec poterat rapidum quisquam retinere furorem, Fortia quin etiam rumpebat uincula ferri Scidebatque graues ut lanea fila catenas. ### English translation (Claude) When the ship had reached the deep, the sea began to rise in anger and to swell with winds let loose from either side and to lift raging mountains to the sky; now it struck the stern with its mass, now the prow with a whirlwind, the planking of the sides took in the waves dashed upon it, and the sea floor was laid bare as the deep was torn apart. Meanwhile Jesus was sleeping in the stern. The disciples and the sailors alike, in fear, begged him to wake and showed him the dangers of the sea. Then he said: "How little confidence you have! Fear rushes into faithless minds!" Then he commanded the storms and spread a calm peace over the waters. They mingled their wonder in fearful talk among themselves: how great a power had been granted him, or what command it was, to which the straits stirred by the winds and the storms upraised in threat bowed their necks. Now the ship had come to rest under the shore of the Gerasenes; but see, as he stepped out, a young man, wonderful to tell, met him, whose wretched mind a black spirit filled with unclean power, tearing him with frenzy. He was glad to dwell in the foul tombs; no one could restrain his violent frenzy; he even broke strong chains of iron and tore heavy fetters like woollen threads. ### Scripture references - Matt 8:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:28: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:1: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:3: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:4: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 8:23–28. Juvencus has one demoniac and the name Gerasenes, as Mark 5:1–4 and Luke 8:26–29, where Matthew has two men and Gadarenes; the chains are from Mark. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.27 (CSEL 24:42lines 27–50–43; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-27). ## Book 2, lines 51–75 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-51 - Source: CSEL 24:43lines 51–75–44 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The demons named Legion are sent into the pigs; the people ask Jesus to leave. ### Latin text Et iam conpedibus leuis insultare solutis Ludus erat saxisque ferum concidere pectus. Isque ubi pergentem Christum per litora uidit, Cum clamore ruit longeque adcurrit adorans: Regnantis semper Domini certissima proles, Oramus, ne nos solitae regionis ab oris Excutias longe tormentis excruciatos. Nam nomen Legio est nobis multosque sub uno Nomine consociat flatus uis sola nocendi. Cernis, ut inmundi subigant haec pascua porci? His saltem liceat rabiem satiare repulsam, Per patris altithroni nomen sublime rogamus.' Imperat his hominis mentem dimittere Christus Porcorumque sinit gregibus finire furores. Iamque hominis stupidum decusso daemone pectus Insperata suae ueneratur dona salutis. Et iam praecipites scopulorum margine porci In mare coniecti properant disperdere uitas. At uero e speculis miracula tanta pauentes Diffugiunt urbisque ruunt ad tecta subulci Et famam accendunt populosque ad litora cogunt. Insanum uero iuuenem postquam resipisse Credere cernentum populorum turba coacta est, Orabant pauidi, regionem linqueret illam. Inde domum repedat terrarum lumen Iesus. ### English translation (Claude) And now it was light sport for him to leap about with his fetters broken and to cut his wild breast with stones. When he saw Christ going along the shore, he rushed with a shout and ran up from far off, worshipping him: "Most sure offspring of the ever-reigning Lord, we pray that you do not drive us far from the borders of our accustomed region, tormenting us with torments. For our name is Legion, and the single power of doing harm joins many spirits under one name. Do you see how unclean pigs root up these pastures? At least let us sate our repulsed rage on them, we ask by the sublime name of the Father enthroned on high." Christ commanded them to leave the man's mind, and allowed them to end their frenzy in the herds of pigs. And now the man's dazed breast, the demon shaken out, venerated the unhoped-for gift of his health. And now the pigs, thrown headlong from the edge of the cliffs into the sea, hastened to destroy their lives. But the swineherds, frightened by such great wonders from their lookouts, fled and rushed to the houses of the city, spread the report and drove the people to the shore. And after the crowd of onlookers was compelled to believe that the mad young man had come to his senses, they begged him in fear to leave that region. Then Jesus, the light of the lands, returned home. ### Scripture references - Matt 8:29: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:5: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:7: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:9: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:33: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 8:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:1: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 8:29–34, with details from Mark 5:5–17 (the stones, the name Legion, the healed man). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.51 (CSEL 24:43lines 51–75–44; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-51). ## Book 2, lines 76–100 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-76 - Source: CSEL 24:44lines 76–100–45 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The paralytic forgiven and healed; Matthew and Philip called. ### Latin text Ecce reuertenti iuuenis torpentia membra, Officium quorum morbus dissoluerat aeger, Ante pedes Christi lecto posuere cubantem. Quem miserans animo uerbis conpellat Iesus: 'Adsit certa tuae, iuuenis, constantia menti, Nam tibi praeteritus uitae donabitur error.' Hoc dictum scribae mentis per operta malignae Carpebant, quod uerba Dei uirtute ferenda Protulerat. Christus sed pectora talia cernens, 'Hoc, inquit, uerbum scribarum dicta retractant. Quod quanto leuius fuerit dixisse sequentis Et dicti et facti pariter uirtute probabunt, Et mihi concessum peccata remittere cernent. Quapropter iuuenis, firmato corporis usu Surge uigens stratumque tuum sub tecta referto.' Surrexit lectumque umeris iam fortibus aptat, Per mediumque uigens populi mirantis abibat. Tunc timor et laudes Domini per pectora plebis Concelebrata simul miracula laeta frequentant. Progrediens tunc inde ad uectigalia uidit Consessu in medio Matthaeum; protinus ergo Discipulis haerere iubet. Nihil ille recusans Imperio Christi paret gaudetque secutus. Inde iter ingrediens simili sermone Philippum Hortatur comitemque suis adsciuit amicis. ### English translation (Claude) See, as he returned, they laid before Christ's feet a young man lying on a bed, his limbs numb, their function undone by a wasting disease. Pitying him in his heart, Jesus addressed him: "Let sure constancy be in your mind, young man, for the past error of your life will be forgiven you." The scribes, in the hidden places of a malignant mind, carped at this saying, because he had spoken words that only the power of God may utter. But Christ, seeing such hearts, said: "The words of the scribes go over this word again. How much lighter it would have been to say what follows, they will prove by the power of word and deed together, and they will see that it is granted to me to forgive sins. Therefore, young man, with the use of your body made firm, rise in strength and carry your bed back home." He rose, fitted the bed to shoulders now strong, and went away in strength through the midst of the wondering people. Then fear and the praises of the Lord filled the hearts of the people, together with the joyful wonders they celebrated. Going on from there, he saw Matthew sitting among the others at the tax office; at once he bade him join the disciples. Refusing nothing, he obeyed Christ's command and rejoiced to follow. Then, setting out on the way, with the same words he urged Philip and enrolled him as a companion among his friends. ### Scripture references - Matt 9:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:9: allusion, high confidence - John 1:43: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 9:1–9; the call of Philip: John 1:43. The sentence 'How much lighter … together' is obscure in the Latin and translated literally. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.76 (CSEL 24:44lines 76–100–45; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-76). ## Book 2, lines 101–123 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-101 - Source: CSEL 24:45lines 101–123–47 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Philip brings Nathanael, who confesses Jesus as Son of God and king. ### Latin text Ille ubi cognouit Christi uiresque uiamque, Ut primum iusto concurrit Nathanaheli, 'En nostris, inquit, concessum est surgere saeclis, Quem uoces ueterum et sancti cecinere profetae. Hunc genuit ueniens Dauidis origine Ioseph, Nazara cui felix patria est et nomen Iesus.' Ille refert: 'Genuit quicquam si Nazara, miror, Quod dignum tantis umquam uirtutibus esset.' Inde Philippus ait: 'Cernes, dubitare quiesce.' Illum ubi tendentem longe respexit Iesus: 'Vir uenit huc, inquit, cui pectora nescia falsi Virtutem puram seruant sine fraude maligna.' Ille sub haec: 'Ubinam uel quo me tempore nosti?' Cui Dominus dicta haec diuino pectore promit: 'Cum te diffusae tegerent umbracula ficus, Ante etiam quam te uocitarent uerba Philippi, Vidit et elegit comitem te spiritus auctor.' Talibus attoniti sequitur uox Nathanahelis: 'Progenies ueneranda Dei, rex inclite gentis, Tu populis manifesta salus uitaeque magister.' Christus ad haec: 'Facilis suasit tibi credere uirtus, Arborea quod te uidi recubare sub umbra; Sed maiora dehinc rerum miracula restant. ### English translation (Claude) When he had come to know Christ's power and way, as soon as he met just Nathanael he said: "See, it has been granted to our age that he should arise of whom the voices of the ancients and the holy prophets sang. Joseph, who comes of the line of David, begot him; happy Nazara is his homeland, and his name is Jesus." He replied: "I wonder whether Nazara ever begot anything worthy of such great powers." Then Philip said: "You will see; stop doubting." When Jesus looked and saw him coming from far off, he said: "Here comes a man whose heart, knowing no falsehood, keeps a pure virtue without malignant deceit." He answered: "Where, or when, did you know me?" The Lord brought forth these words from his divine heart: "When the shade of the spreading fig tree covered you, even before the words of Philip called you, the Spirit, the author, saw you and chose you as a companion." At such words came the voice of astonished Nathanael: "Venerable offspring of God, renowned king of the nation, you are manifest salvation to the peoples and the teacher of life." Christ said to this: "An easy power persuaded you to believe, because I saw you lying beneath the shade of a tree; but greater wonders still remain hereafter. ### Scripture references - John 1:45: allusion, high confidence - John 1:46: allusion, high confidence - John 1:47: allusion, high confidence - John 1:48: allusion, high confidence - John 1:49: allusion, high confidence - John 1:50: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 1:45–50. 'Joseph … begot him' is Philip's statement, rendering John 1:45 ('son of Joseph'). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.101 (CSEL 24:45lines 101–123–47; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-101). ## Book 2, lines 124–150 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-124 - Source: CSEL 24:47lines 124–150–48 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The promise of greater things; the water turned into wine at Cana. ### Latin text Cernetis pariter totum se scindere caelum Atque Dei celeres aethram penetrare ministros, Inde hominis nato claram deferre coronam.' Interea thalamis conubia festa parabant In regione Chanan, ubi clari mater Iesu Nato cum pariter conuiuia concelebrabat. Vina sed interea conuiuis deficiebant. Tum mater Christum per talia dicta precatur: 'Cernis, laetitiae iam defecisse liquorem? Adsint, nate, bonis ex te data munera mensis.' Olli respondit terrarum gloria Christus: 'Festinas, genetrix; nondum me talia cogit Ad uictus hominum tempus concedere dona.' Mensarum tunc inde uocat laetata ministros Mater et imperiis nati parere iubebat. Sex illic fuerant saxis praepulchra cauatis Vascula, quae ternis aperirent ilia metretris Haec iubet e fontis gremio conplere ministros. Praeceptis parent iuuenes undasque coronant Conpletis labiis lapidum; tum spuma per oras Conmixtas undis auras ad summa uolutat. Hinc iubet, ut summo tradant gustanda ministro. Ille ubi percepit uenerandi dona saporis Nescius, in uini gratum transisse liquorem Egestas nuper puris de fontibus undas, Increpat ignarum sponsum, quod pulchra reseruans Deteriora prius per mensas uina dedisset. ### English translation (Claude) You will see the whole heaven split open, and the swift ministers of God passing through the sky and bringing down a bright crown to the Son of man." Meanwhile a festive wedding was being prepared in the bridal chambers in the region of Chanan, where the mother of illustrious Jesus was celebrating the feast together with her son. But meanwhile the wine was running out for the guests. Then the mother entreated Christ in these words: "Do you see that the drink of gladness has already run out? Let gifts given by you, son, be present at these good tables." Christ, the glory of the lands, answered her: "You are in haste, mother; the time does not yet compel me to grant such gifts for men's food." Then the mother, gladdened, called the servants of the tables and bade them obey her son's commands. Six very beautiful vessels of hollowed stone were there, whose bellies held three measures each. He ordered the servants to fill them from the bosom of the spring. The young men obeyed his orders and crowned the vessels with water, filling their stone lips; then foam rolled the air mixed with the water up through the rims to the top. Then he ordered them to give it to the chief steward to taste. When he tasted the gift of venerable flavour, not knowing that the water lately drawn from pure springs had passed into the pleasing drink of wine, he rebuked the bridegroom, who knew nothing of it, because he had kept back the fine wine and given the worse first at the tables. ### Scripture references - John 1:51: allusion, high confidence - John 2:1: allusion, high confidence - John 2:3: allusion, high confidence - John 2:4: allusion, high confidence - John 2:5: allusion, high confidence - John 2:6: allusion, high confidence - John 2:7: allusion, high confidence - John 2:8: allusion, high confidence - John 2:9: allusion, high confidence - John 2:10: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 1:51–2:10. Juvencus renders the angels ascending and descending on the Son of man as bringing down a crown to him. John has two or three measures for each jar; Juvencus three. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.124 (CSEL 24:47lines 124–150–48; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-124). ## Book 2, lines 151–176 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-151 - Source: CSEL 24:48lines 151–176–49 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus cleanses the temple and speaks of the temple of his body. ### Latin text His signis digne credentum discipulorum Perpetuam stabili firmauit robore mentem. Inde ubi Iudaeis aderant sollemnia paschae, Ad Solymos direxit iter temploque subibat. Repperit hic populum uenalia multa locantem: Pars uendebat oues, pars corpora magna iuuencum, Pars inhians nummis arti numerare uacabat. Restibus hic Christus conectit uerbera flagri Et tales populos sancta proturbat ab aede, Et mensas uertens aeris profundit aceruos Et superincrepitans: 'Procul haec auferte profani, Ut meus hic genitor, non sordida lucra colantur.' Tum poscens signum plebes Iudaea fremebat, Quo fidens animos in talia facta leuaret. Ventura obscuris tunc Christus talia miscet: 'Soluite pollutis manibus uenerabile templum Hoc, ego restituam, cum tertia lumina solis, Incipient rutilam terris infundere lucem.' Illi inter sese tractantes murmure caeco: 'Hoc, aiunt, uix sex et quadraginta per annos Constructum ueteris regni molimine templum Tu poteris tribus in spatiis renouare dierum?' Hoc uerbum quondam post tempora debita digni Cognouere uiri, proprio de corpore Christum Delubrum dixisse Dei. Sed signa uidentes Tum multi cepere fidem Sanctumque secuti. ### English translation (Claude) By these signs he firmly strengthened, for ever, the minds of the disciples who rightly believed. Then, when the Passover feast of the Jews was at hand, he set out for Solyma and went up into the temple. Here he found people setting out many goods for sale: some sold sheep, some the great bodies of bullocks, some, gaping for coins, gave their time to the art of counting. Here Christ binds together the lashes of a whip from cords and drives such people out of the holy house, and, overturning the tables, pours out the heaps of bronze, and rebukes them: "Take these things far away, you profane men, so that here my Father, not sordid gain, may be worshipped." Then the people of Judaea roared, demanding a sign, on the strength of which he had so confidently raised his spirit to such deeds. Then Christ mingled things to come with obscure words: "Destroy this venerable temple with your polluted hands; I will restore it when the third light of the sun begins to pour its ruddy light upon the lands." They, debating among themselves with a dark murmur, said: "This temple, built in scarcely forty-six years by the labour of the old kingdom, will you be able to renew in the space of three days?" Worthy men later, after the appointed time, understood this word, that Christ had called his own body the shrine of God. But many, seeing the signs, then came to faith and followed the Holy One. ### Scripture references - John 2:11: allusion, high confidence - John 2:13: allusion, high confidence - John 2:14: allusion, high confidence - John 2:15: allusion, high confidence - John 2:16: allusion, high confidence - John 2:18: allusion, high confidence - John 2:19: allusion, high confidence - John 2:20: allusion, high confidence - John 2:21: allusion, high confidence - John 2:22: allusion, high confidence - John 2:23: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 2:11–23. 'With your polluted hands' is Juvencus's addition. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.151 (CSEL 24:48lines 151–176–49; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-151). ## Book 2, lines 177–201 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-177 - Source: CSEL 24:49lines 177–201–50 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Nicodemus comes by night; Jesus speaks of new birth from water and Spirit. ### Latin text Nocte sub obscura celso sublatus honore Primorum procerum Iudaei nominis unus Venit et ad Christum submissa uoce profatur: 'Haut dubium est, quod larga Dei te, Sancte, uoluntas Humanis lucem concessit surgere rebus; Nec quisquam tantis tribuet miracula signis, Ni comitata Dei iubeat splendescere uirtus. Christus ad haec: 'Iteris iusti si culmina quaeris, Nullus ad excelsum poterit conscendere regnum, Reddita ni penetret nascendi exordia rursus Atque nouam capiat diuino munere uitam.' Ille autem tantis stupefactus corda loquellis: 'Hoc, inquit, nostrae non est conprendere mentis. Quis poterit coeptae reuocare exordia uitae? An rursus senior matris conreptet in aluum Ut nouus in lucem ueniat uitamque reuoluat?' Ille sub haec: 'Liquido si quis de fonte renatus Et flatu sancto rudibus consistere membris Coeperit, aetheriam liber conscendet in aulam. Terrenum corpus terreno corpore natum est, Spiritus haut aliter similem generat sibi flatum. Spiritus hic Deus est, cui parent omnia mundi. Hic, ubi uult, quocumque uolat uocemque per auras Iactat, sed nescis, quae sint exordia uocis, Quamque petant eius currentia flamina partem. ### English translation (Claude) Under dark night, one of the foremost leaders of the Jewish name, raised to high honour, came and spoke to Christ in a low voice: "There is no doubt, Holy One, that the generous will of God has granted you to rise as a light for human affairs; nor would anyone grant wonders through such signs unless the power of God went with him and bade them shine." Christ said to this: "If you seek the heights of the just way, no one will be able to ascend to the lofty kingdom unless he enters again the beginnings of birth, given back to him, and receives a new life by divine gift." But he, his heart astonished at such words, said: "This is not for our mind to grasp. Who will be able to call back the beginnings of a life already begun? Or shall an old man crawl back into his mother's womb, to come new into the light and live his life again?" He answered: "If anyone is reborn from the clear spring and from the holy breath and begins to stand in new-made limbs, he will ascend free into the heavenly hall. An earthly body is born of an earthly body; just so the Spirit begets a breath like himself. This Spirit is God, whom all things in the world obey. He flies wherever he wills and casts his voice through the air, but you do not know what the beginnings of the voice are, nor what quarter his running blasts seek. ### Scripture references - John 3:1: allusion, high confidence - John 3:2: allusion, high confidence - John 3:3: allusion, high confidence - John 3:4: allusion, high confidence - John 3:5: allusion, high confidence - John 3:6: allusion, high confidence - John 4:24: echo, medium confidence - John 3:8: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 3:1–8. 'This Spirit is God' echoes John 4:24; it is Juvencus's addition here. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.177 (CSEL 24:49lines 177–201–50; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-177). ## Book 2, lines 202–226 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-202 - Source: CSEL 24:50lines 202–226–51 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Nicodemus fails to understand; the Son of man must be lifted up like the serpent; God so loved the world. ### Latin text Quisque igitur iustae repetit primordia uitae, Hunc similem sancti flatus reuirescere certum est.' Et Iudaeus ad haec: 'Nil horum cernere possum.' Talia tum Christus: 'Solymorum magne magister, Tune etiam mentem uitae de lumine raptam Demergis praeceps furuis, miserande, tenebris, Nec potes obtunso conprendere talia sensu? Ecce fides nulla est, tantum terrestria dixi! Quid, si caelestes uires conscendere sermo Coeperit et superas rerum conprendere formas? Quis uestrum duram poterit mihi pandere mentem ? Accipite ergo, nouis quae sit sententia rebus. Sidereum nullus poterit conscendere caelum, Ni solus, qui missus caeli uenit ab aula, Idem hominis natus, caeli qui in sede moratur. Ut serpens olim regionibus in desertis Moysei manibus summo sublatus honore est, Sic hominis natum tolli in sublime necesse est, Ut, quicumque fidem mentis penetralibus altis Illius ad nomen statuit, sub turbine saecli Proculcet pedibus letum et trans sidera surgens Sublimis capiat donum inuiolabile uitae. Namque Deus mundum tanto dilexit amore, Eius ut in terras discenderet unica proles Credentes Domino uitae iunctura perenni. ### English translation (Claude) Whoever, then, seeks again the first beginnings of a just life, it is certain that he grows green again in the likeness of the holy breath." And the Jew said to this: "I can perceive none of these things." Then Christ said: "Great teacher of Solyma, do you too, pitiable man, plunge your mind, snatched from the light of life, headlong into murky darkness, and can you not grasp such things with your dulled sense? See, there is no faith, and I have spoken only of earthly things! What if speech begins to ascend to the heavenly powers and to grasp the higher forms of things? Which of you will be able to open your hard mind to me? Receive, then, what the meaning is for these new things. No one will be able to ascend to the starry heaven except the one alone who comes, sent from the hall of heaven, the same Son of man, who abides in the seat of heaven. As the serpent was once lifted up with the highest honour by the hands of Moses in the desert regions, so the Son of man must be lifted up on high, so that whoever has set faith at his name in the deep inner places of the mind may, amid the whirlwind of the world, trample death underfoot and, rising beyond the stars, receive on high the inviolable gift of life. For God loved the world with so great a love that his only offspring came down to the lands, to join believers to the Lord in everlasting life. ### Scripture references - John 3:9: allusion, high confidence - John 3:10: allusion, high confidence - John 3:12: allusion, high confidence - John 3:13: allusion, high confidence - John 3:14: allusion, high confidence - Num 21:9: allusion, high confidence - John 3:15: allusion, high confidence - John 3:16: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 3:8–16; the bronze serpent: Num 21:9. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.202 (CSEL 24:50lines 202–226–51; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-202). ## Book 2, lines 227–251 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-227 - Source: CSEL 24:51lines 227–251–52 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God sent the Son to save, not condemn; those who do evil hate the light; Jesus rests at Jacob's well. ### Latin text Nec Deus hunc natum disquirere iure seuero Iudicioue truci terras expendere misit, Mitia sed populis ueniant ut munera uitae. Namque ubi certa fides fuerit conplexa salutem Non erit ulla illic anceps agitatio iuris. Ast ubi dona procul fuerint exclusa medellae, Iam propria ipsorum mentem damnatio torquet; Unica nam Domini fuit his incognita proles. Aduentum lucis miseri fugere superbi Et magis amplexi caecas tenuere tenebras. Sic quicumque malis mentem maculauerit actis, In tenebras pauidus refugit, ne lumine claro Sordida pollutae pateant contagia mentis. At quicumque piae tenuit uestigia uitae, Ad medium properat lucemque nitescere gaudet, Splendeat ut claris uirtutis gloria factis.' Inde Galilaeam repetit seruator Iesus. Praeteriens sed forte venit Samaritida Sichen. Illic fundus erat, Iacob de nomine pollens, Et puteus gelido demersus in abdita fonte. Sederat hic rapido saluator anhelus in aestu, Discipulique escas mercantes moenibus urbis Passim dispersi solum liquere magistrum. Moenibus egrediens Samaritis femina uenit Hauritura cauis putei penetralibus undas. ### English translation (Claude) Nor did God send this Son to examine the lands with strict justice or to weigh them in harsh judgment, but so that gentle gifts of life might come to the peoples. For where sure faith has embraced salvation, there will be no doubtful pleading of the law. But where the gifts of healing are shut far out, there their own condemnation already tortures the mind; for the only offspring of the Lord was unknown to them. The wretched and proud fled the coming of the light, and rather embraced and held fast blind darkness. So whoever has stained his mind with evil deeds flees in fear into darkness, lest in clear light the filthy contagion of a polluted mind be laid open. But whoever has kept to the footsteps of a devout life hastens into the open and rejoices to shine in the light, so that the glory of virtue may shine in bright deeds." From there Jesus the Saviour went back to Galilee. Passing through, he came by chance to Sichen in Samaria. There was a farm there, made famous by the name of Jacob, and a well sunk with a cold spring into the hidden depths. Here the Saviour had sat down, panting in the fierce heat, and the disciples, scattered here and there buying food within the city walls, had left their master alone. Coming out of the walls, a Samaritan woman came to draw water from the hollow depths of the well. ### Scripture references - John 3:17: allusion, high confidence - John 3:18: allusion, high confidence - John 3:19: allusion, high confidence - John 3:20: allusion, high confidence - John 3:21: allusion, high confidence - John 4:3: allusion, high confidence - John 4:5: allusion, high confidence - John 4:6: allusion, high confidence - John 4:8: allusion, high confidence - John 4:7: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 3:17–21; 4:3–7. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.227 (CSEL 24:51lines 227–251–52; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-227). ## Book 2, lines 252–275 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-252 - Source: CSEL 24:53lines 252–275–54 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus asks the Samaritan woman for water and offers living water; he asks for her husband. ### Latin text Olli Christus ait: 'Laticis da, femina, potum.' Respondens mulier: 'Mirum mihi praecipis, inquit, Ut tibi Iudaeo mulier Samaritica potum Dispernens ueterum Samaritum iussa ministrem.' Tum seruator ait: 'Domini si munera nosses, Et quis te sitiens putealia pocula poscat, Tu potius peteres, uiuam tibi traderet undam.' Illa sub haec: 'Puteus gremium sinuatur in altum, Urceus est nullus nec sunt tibi uincula funis; Unde igitur poteris undam mihi tradere uiuam? Num tu maior eris nostri uirtute parentis? Hunc Iacob etenim puteum cum prole bibebat, Et proprios huc saepe greges ad pocula duxit.' Olli respondit mundi regnator Iesus: 'Ex ista plene nullus satiabitur unda, Nam rursus sitiet; sed nostri dona liquoris Ardorem excludent aeterna in saecla bibendi. Dulcia prouenient nostri cui pocula fontis, Largior inde fluet uitalis gratia fluctus. Sed desiderium nostrae si te capit undae, Excitus ueniat tecum mox urbe maritus.' Coniugio sese mulier negat esse reuinctam. Tunc sic prosequitur mentis perspector Iesus: 'Femina, ueridicis loqueris de coniuge uerbis. ### English translation (Claude) Christ said to her: "Woman, give me a drink of water." The woman answered: "You command me a strange thing: that I, a Samaritan woman, should despise the commands of the Samaritans of old and serve a drink to you, a Jew." Then the Saviour said: "If you knew the gifts of the Lord, and who it is that, thirsting, asks you for a drink from the well, you would rather ask, and he would give you living water." She answered: "The well curves its bosom deep down, there is no pitcher, and you have no rope; from where, then, will you be able to give me living water? Will you be greater in power than our father? For Jacob drank from this well with his children, and often led his flocks here to drink." Jesus, ruler of the world, answered her: "No one will be fully satisfied by that water, for he will thirst again; but the gift of our drink will shut out the burning thirst for eternal ages. Whoever receives the sweet drink of our spring, from him the life-giving grace of the flood will flow more abundantly. But if desire for our water takes hold of you, call your husband and let him come soon with you from the city." The woman said that she was not bound in marriage. Then Jesus, who sees into the mind, went on: "Woman, you speak truthful words about a husband. ### Scripture references - John 4:7: allusion, high confidence - John 4:9: allusion, high confidence - John 4:10: allusion, high confidence - John 4:11: allusion, high confidence - John 4:12: allusion, high confidence - John 4:13: allusion, high confidence - John 4:14: allusion, high confidence - John 4:16: allusion, high confidence - John 4:17: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 4:7–17. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.252 (CSEL 24:53lines 252–275–54; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-252). ## Book 2, lines 276–300 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-276 - Source: CSEL 24:54lines 276–300–55 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus reveals the woman's five husbands; true worship in Spirit; he declares himself the Christ; she brings the townspeople. ### Latin text Nam tu conubiis nexa es iam quinque uirorum, Nunc aliena super thalamorum uincula tollis.' Tum mulier: 'Sanctum te certum est esse profetam. Sed nostri istius uenerandum montis in arce Praeceptum nobis quondam liquere parentes, At uos in Solymis orandum dicitis oris.' Talia dicenti mox talia reddit Iesus: 'En aderit tempus, montis cum uertice uestri Omnibus et Solymis aberit ueneratio longe. Sed nunc certa salus Iudaeis surget ab oris, Et nunc instantis cursus iam temporis urget, Cum ueri sanctum genitorem errore remoto Cultores iustis armati legibus orent. Spiritus his ac plena fides erit et pater altus Talia conquirit cultorum pectora terris.' Illa dehinc: 'Scimus, quod Christus nuntius orbi Aduentu proprio uitalia saecula pandet.' Et tum peccantis largus miserator Iesus Se lumen terris Christum uenisse fatetur. Et iam discipuli reduces stupuere magistrum, Quod secreta illis potiretur femina uerbis. At properans urnam mulier pro fonte reliquit Et populum totis eduxit moenibus urbis. Omnia nam memorat, sibimet sermone profetae Gesserat ipsa prius quaecumque, ex ordine dicta. ### English translation (Claude) For you have already been bound in marriage to five men, and now, besides, you take up the bonds of another's bridal chamber." Then the woman said: "It is certain that you are a holy prophet. But our ancestors once left us the precept that worship must be offered on the height of this mountain of ours, while you say that one must pray in the region of Solyma." As she said this, Jesus soon answered her: "See, the time will come when worship will be far from the summit of your mountain and from all Solyma. But now sure salvation will rise from the lands of the Jews, and now the course of the coming time presses on, when the true worshippers, error removed and armed with just laws, will pray to the holy Father. They will have the Spirit and full faith, and the high Father seeks such hearts of worshippers on earth." She then said: "We know that Christ, a messenger to the world, will by his coming open the ages of life." And then Jesus, generous in pity for the sinner, declared that he was the Christ who had come as a light to the lands. And now the disciples, returning, were amazed at their master, because a woman was sharing secret words with him. But the woman hurriedly left her jar at the spring and led the people out from the whole city. For she related everything she herself had done before, all told in order by the prophet's words. ### Scripture references - John 4:18: allusion, high confidence - John 4:19: allusion, high confidence - John 4:20: allusion, high confidence - John 4:21: allusion, high confidence - John 4:22: allusion, high confidence - John 4:23: allusion, high confidence - John 4:24: allusion, high confidence - John 4:25: allusion, high confidence - John 4:26: allusion, high confidence - John 4:27: allusion, high confidence - John 4:28: allusion, high confidence - John 4:29: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 4:18–30, 39. 'You take up the bonds of another's bridal chamber' renders 'the one you now have is not your husband' (John 4:18). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.276 (CSEL 24:54lines 276–300–55; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-276). ## Book 2, lines 301–324 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-301 - Source: CSEL 24:55lines 301–324–56 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus' food is to do the Father's will; the fields are white for harvest; the Samaritans ask him to stay. ### Latin text Tum propere Christum fusae petiere cateruae. Discipuli interea rogitabant, sumeret escas. Ille satis sibi pulchrorum superesse ciborum Respondit. Sed tum mirantum discipulorum Inter se occultis currebat sermo loquellis: 'Forte aliquis prior hic epulas dedit ante magistro, Nostras ut merito satiatus respuat escas.' Ille sed internae cernens molimina mentis: 'Hae mihi sunt epulae, pectus satiabitur istud, Si faciam magni genitoris iussa per orbem. Quattuor hinc menses laetae ad primordia messis Frugiferae aestati certe superesse putatis. Erigite ergo oculos, albentes cernite campos, Cunctaque maturam iam rura exposcere messem. Nunc quicumque metet, pulchri mercede laboris Vitalique dehinc gaudebit fruge redundans Et sator accipiet messorum gaudia laetus. Vos ego nunc misi grauidam succidere messem, Quae non est uestro sulcis inserta labore. Vos aliena bonae ditabunt munera frugis.' Talibus adloquiis comitum dum pectora conplet, Ecce Samaritum populi uenere rogantes Exorantque illic geminos expendere soles. Iamque fides multos plebis fundauerat alta; ### English translation (Claude) Then crowds poured out and quickly sought Christ. Meanwhile the disciples were asking him to take food. He answered that he had plenty of fine food. But then the wondering disciples talked among themselves in hidden whispers: "Perhaps someone here has already given our master food, so that, satisfied, he rightly refuses ours." But he, discerning the workings of their inner mind, said: "This is my food, this heart will be satisfied, if I do the commands of the great Father throughout the world. You surely think that four months still remain from now till the beginning of the glad harvest in fruitful summer. Lift up your eyes, then; see the whitening fields and all the countryside already calling for a ripe harvest. Now whoever reaps will rejoice in the reward of fine labour, and will then overflow with the crop of life, and the sower will gladly share the reapers' joy. I have now sent you to cut a heavy harvest that was not put into the furrows by your labour. Others' gifts of a good crop will enrich you." While he filled his companions' hearts with such words, see, the people of the Samaritans came asking and begged him to spend two days there. And now deep faith had been established in many of the people; ### Scripture references - John 4:30: allusion, high confidence - John 4:31: allusion, high confidence - John 4:32: allusion, high confidence - John 4:33: allusion, high confidence - John 4:34: allusion, high confidence - John 4:35: allusion, high confidence - John 4:36: allusion, high confidence - John 4:38: allusion, high confidence - John 4:40: allusion, high confidence - John 4:41: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 4:30–41. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.301 (CSEL 24:55lines 301–324–56; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-301). ## Book 2, lines 325–349 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-325 - Source: CSEL 24:56lines 325–349–57 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Many Samaritans believe; the royal official's son healed; tax collectors at a feast. ### Latin text Nec iam femineis tantum concredere uerbis Ipsos, sed coram uirtus manifesta docebat, Venisset saecli quod iam seruator Iesus. Iamque Galilaeam remeauerat in regionem, Quondam ubi fontanas uino mutauerat undas. Regius hic iuuenis, cui natum morbus anhelo Ardore extremis uitae torrebat in oris, Conperit ut Christum certo remeasse recursu, Aduolat et precibus subolis pro sorte profusis Orabat, celeris deposcens dona salutis, Ne prius ad letum natus traheretur acerbum. Christus ad haec: 'Signis nisi suadeat omnia uirtus, Non erit ulla fides; sed perge et sospite uita Aedibus in uestris dulcem conplectere natum.' His uerbis fructum mox perceptura salutis Pulchra fides animum laetanti in pectore firmat. Iamque iter ingresso properantibus obuia seruis Nuntia fama uenit pueroque in luminis oras Limine de mortis subitam remeasse salutem. Ille ubi cognouit certum concurrere tempus Sanantis Christi verbis, seseque domumque Mancipat amplexus fidei uenerabile donum. Forte dies epulis multos sociauerat unis, Publica conductis qui uectigalia lucris Professi rapiunt alieno nomine praedam. ### English translation (Claude) no longer did they believe only the woman's words, but manifest power taught them face to face that Jesus, the Saviour of the world, had now come. And now he had returned to the region of Galilee, where he had once changed spring water into wine. Here a young man of the king's court, whose son a disease was burning with panting fever at the farthest shore of life, learned that Christ had surely returned; he flew to him and, pouring out prayers for his son's fate, begged and demanded the gift of swift healing, before his son should be dragged off to bitter death. Christ said to this: "Unless power persuades all with signs, there will be no faith; but go, and embrace your sweet son in your house, his life safe." At these words, fine faith, which was soon to receive the fruit of health, strengthened his mind in his rejoicing heart. And when he had set out on the way, news came to meet him from slaves hurrying towards him, that health had suddenly returned to the boy from the threshold of death into the shores of light. When he learned that the time agreed exactly with the words of Christ who healed, he gave himself and his household over, embracing the venerable gift of faith. It happened one day that a single feast had brought together many of those who had contracted for the public taxes for profit and seize plunder under another's name. ### Scripture references - John 4:42: allusion, high confidence - John 4:46: allusion, high confidence - John 4:47: allusion, high confidence - John 4:48: allusion, high confidence - John 4:50: allusion, high confidence - John 4:51: allusion, high confidence - John 4:53: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:10: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 4:42–53; then Matt 9:10. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.325 (CSEL 24:56lines 325–349–57; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-325). ## Book 2, lines 350–374 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-350 - Source: CSEL 24:57lines 350–374–58 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus eats with tax collectors and sinners; the question about fasting; patches and wineskins. ### Latin text Hos cum discipulis simul accipiebat Iesus. Ecce Pharisaei occulto reprehendere risu, Quod legis doctor conuiuia talia iniret. Ille sed inspiciens, quid pectora clausa tenerent: 'Non, inquit, medicis opus est, ubi fortia membra Intemerata salus uegetat uirtutis honore. Aegris sed merito miseris adhibenda medella est. Discite nunc saltem, iubeant quid uerba profetae: Non ego sacra magis quam mitia pectora quaero. Haut etenim iustos ueni ad directa uiantes, Sed reuocare malos peccantum a limite gressus.' Ecce sed e numero mirantum munera Christi Unus Iohannis quaerebat discipulorum, Cur ipsi legis ieiunia crebra tenerent Nullaque sub Christo plebes ieiunia ferret. Christus ad haec contra placido sic ore profatur: 'Qui sponsi laetis comitantur uota choreis, Non praesente illo ieiunia tristia portant Iamque dies aderit, cum sponsus turbine saecli E medio comitum rapietur: tristibus illi Spondebunt animos lacrimis horrore ciborum. Quam stultum est, rudibus ueteres subtexere pannos Vestibus, ut turpis peius scissura patescat? Aut utribus calidum tritis conmittere mustum, Quis ruptis totum sequitur disperdere uiuum? ### English translation (Claude) Jesus received them together with his disciples. See, the Pharisees criticized him with hidden mockery, because a teacher of the law went to such banquets. But he, seeing what their closed hearts held, said: "There is no need of physicians where unharmed health invigorates strong limbs with the honour of strength. But healing must rightly be given to the wretched sick. Learn now at least what the words of the prophet command: I seek gentle hearts more than sacrifices. For I have not come to the just who walk on straight paths, but to call back the wicked from the path of sinners." But see, from among those who wondered at Christ's gifts, one of John's disciples asked why they kept the frequent fasts of the law, while the people under Christ kept no fasts. Christ answered calmly: "Those who attend the bridegroom's vows with joyful dances do not bear sad fasts while he is present. But the day will come when the bridegroom will be snatched from the midst of his companions by the whirlwind of the world: then they will give their minds to sad tears, loathing food. How foolish it is to sew old patches into new clothes, so that the ugly tear opens worse! Or to entrust hot new wine to worn-out wineskins, which burst and lose all the living wine! ### Scripture references - Matt 9:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:13: allusion, high confidence - Hos 6:6: quotation, high confidence - Matt 9:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:17: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 9:10–17; the prophet: Hos 6:6. Juvencus says 'old patches into new clothes', the reverse of Matthew's 'new patch on an old garment'; translated as written. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.350 (CSEL 24:57lines 350–374–58; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-350). ## Book 2, lines 375–399 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-375 - Source: CSEL 24:58lines 375–399–59 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: A ruler begs Jesus for his dead daughter; the woman with the flow of blood is healed. ### Latin text Sed rudibus rectum est utribus spumantia musta Condere: sic uiuum conseruant fortia uasa.' Talia tractanti percussus pectora luctu Ecce sacerdotum princeps procumbit adorans Et sibi defunctam — funus miserabile — natam Inplorat lacrimans, certamque uenire salutem Defunctis etiam poscebat munera Christi. Haut mora, consurgens graditur seruator Iesus. Progressi mulier sequitur uestigia seruans, Quam languore graui bis sex labentibus annis Carpebat fluxus macerans sine fine cruoris Viribus absumptis et toto corpore fessam. Pectoris haec tacitam uoluebat credula mentem Arcano secumque fide iam certa tenebat, Actutum fesso fugeret quod corpore tabes, Extremam Christi posset si tangere uestem. Haec ubi per populum summi pendentia pepli Fila manu trepida tractauit, protinus ille Et causas morbi et credentia pectora cernens Concessit celerem tali cum uoce salutem: 'Accipe, quod meruit fidei constantia, munus.' Et mox restricto uiguerunt sanguine uenae. Postquam peruentum est, ubi funera uirginis, ingens Plangentis populi fremitus clangorque tubarum Ultima supremae celebrabant munera pompae: ### English translation (Claude) But it is right to store foaming new wine in new skins: so strong vessels keep it living." As he was speaking of such things, see, a chief of the priests, his heart struck with grief, fell down worshipping and implored him with tears for his daughter, who had died, a pitiable death, and asked for the sure gift of Christ's healing to come even to the dead. Without delay Jesus the Saviour rose and went. As he went on, a woman followed in his footsteps, whom a flow of blood without end had been wasting with heavy sickness for twelve slipping years, her strength consumed and her whole body weary. Believing, she was turning a silent thought in the secret of her heart, and held it with sure faith that the wasting would flee at once from her weary body if she could touch the edge of Christ's garment. When, through the crowd, she touched with trembling hand the threads hanging from the hem of his robe, he at once, seeing both the cause of the disease and the believing heart, granted swift health with these words: "Receive the gift that the constancy of your faith has earned." And soon her veins grew strong, the blood stopped. When they arrived where the girl's funeral was, the huge noise of the lamenting people and the blare of trumpets were celebrating the last offices of the funeral procession: ### Scripture references - Matt 9:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:23: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 9:17–23. Juvencus makes the 'ruler' of Matt 9:18 a chief of the priests. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.375 (CSEL 24:58lines 375–399–59; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-375). ## Book 2, lines 400–424 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-400 - Source: CSEL 24:59lines 400–424–60 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The girl raised; two blind men healed; a mute demoniac healed; Jesus pities the crowds. ### Latin text Abscedant, inquit, tectis haec tristia uestris. Namque puella iacet placido demersa sopore, Defunctam retur flentum quam nescia plebes.' Talia dicentem ridentum turba reliquit, Quod morte abreptam dixit dormire puellam. Sed Christus, leti uictor uitaeque repertor, Frigentis dextram dignatus prendere dextra Surgere mox iussit miranda ad gaudia patris. Inde reuertenti clamor se protinus offert Caecorum pariter gressu labente duorum. Ollis Christus ait: 'Quid credunt pectora uestra? Num uirtute mea se reddet lumen ademptum?' Olli firmato se credere corde fatentur. Tum Christus fatur: 'Credentes cernite lucem Nec cuiquam nostrum post haec edicite nomen.' Dixit; sed propere per gaudia tanta uidentum Ardor inexpletus famam per cuncta serebat. Offerturque dehinc iuuenis, cui rapta sonorae Daemonis incursu fuerat substantia uocis. Ast ubi propulsus fugit de pectore daemon, Confestim sanae redierunt munera linguae. Talia mirantis populi stipante tumultu Vallatur; cernens sed milia tanta uirorum Ingemit ut ruris dominus, cui pascua laeta Innumerae tondent pecudes rectoris egentes. ### English translation (Claude) "Let these sad rites leave your house. For the girl lies sunk in calm sleep, though the weeping crowd, not knowing, thinks her dead." The crowd laughed at him and left him as he said this, because he said that a girl taken by death was sleeping. But Christ, the conqueror of death and the author of life, deigned to take the right hand of the cold girl in his right hand and soon ordered her to rise, to the wondrous joy of her father. As he returned from there, a cry at once met him, from two blind men stumbling along together. Christ said to them: "What do your hearts believe? Will the light taken from you return by my power?" They declared that they believed with a firm heart. Then Christ said: "You who believe, see the light, and after this tell our name to no one." He spoke; but quickly, in their great joy, the unquenchable ardour of those who saw spread the report everywhere. Then a young man was brought, whose power of speaking had been taken from him by the attack of a demon. But when the demon was driven out and fled from his breast, at once the gift of a sound tongue returned. He was hemmed in by the thronging tumult of the people wondering at such things; but seeing so many thousands of men, he groaned like the lord of an estate whose glad pastures are grazed by countless flocks without a shepherd. ### Scripture references - Matt 9:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:36: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 9:24–36. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.400 (CSEL 24:59lines 400–424–60; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-400). ## Book 2, lines 425–450 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-425 - Source: CSEL 24:60lines 425–450–62 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The harvest and the labourers; the Twelve chosen and sent out with instructions. ### Latin text Tunc ad discipulos depromit talia dicta: 'Quam laetae segetes ruris per terga patescunt! Sed rarus messor frugis superatur aceruo. Iam superest dominum segetis deposcere tantae, Ut sua rura uelit numero conplere colentum.' Haec fatus populo ex omni delecta seorsum Fortia conglomerat bisseno pectora coetu. Hos ubi delegit, praeceptis talibus inplet: 'Deuitate itiner, quod gentes perfidiosae Et Samaritarum fraudis uestigia calcant. Pergite, qua patrii pecoris custodia labat. Pergentes uero similem mihi sumite mentem, Ut uobis subigat uirtutes daemonis atri Sancta fides curamque piam languoribus aptet. Hae uires nulla uobis mercede dabuntur Et uos haut aliter gratuita inpendite dona. Non auri argentiue domet possessio mentem, Nec uos nummorum subigat scelerata cupido. Non geminas uestes nec plantis tegmina bina Virtutis nudae cupiat seruare minister. Ingressi muros urbis perquirite semper, Hospitio quorum par sit succedere iustis; Ingressique dehinc pacem sub tecta uocate. Si tranquilla domus fuerit, pax illa manebit, Sin erit indignis habitantum moribus horrens, Diffugiet uestrumque abitum pax uestra sequetur. ### English translation (Claude) Then he spoke these words to the disciples: "How glad the crops that lie open across the countryside! But the few reapers are overwhelmed by the heap of grain. It remains now to ask the lord of so great a crop to fill his fields with a number of labourers." Having said this, he gathered apart, chosen from all the people, strong hearts in a company of twelve. When he had chosen them, he filled them with these precepts: "Avoid the road trodden by the faithless nations and by the footsteps of the deceitful Samaritans. Go where the guarding of the ancestral flock is failing. And as you go, take a mind like mine, so that holy faith may subdue for you the powers of the black demon and apply loving care to sicknesses. These powers will be given you without payment, and you likewise must spend the gifts freely. Let not possession of gold or silver master your mind, nor wicked desire for coins subdue you. Let the minister of bare virtue not desire to keep two garments or two coverings for his feet. When you enter the walls of a city, always seek out those under whose hospitality it is fitting for the just to stay; and when you have entered, call peace upon the house. If the house is peaceful, that peace will remain; but if it bristles with the unworthy ways of its inhabitants, your peace will flee and follow you as you depart. ### Scripture references - Matt 9:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 9:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:13: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 9:37–10:13. 'The deceitful Samaritans' (Samaritarum fraudis) is Juvencus's wording for Matt 10:5; translated as written. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.425 (CSEL 24:60lines 425–450–62; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-425). ## Book 2, lines 451–474 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/1-619/#p-2-451 - Source: CSEL 24:62lines 451–474–63 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Instructions to the Twelve: shake off the dust, be wise and simple, expect persecution, flee from city to city. ### Latin text Excludet quicumque ferus uos limine tecti, Auribus aut duris spernet uitalia uerba, Excutite egressi domibus uestigia uestra, Haereat iniustae ne uobis portio uitae. Illos deterior Sodomorum poena manebit Suppliciis, ueniet mundo cum terminus omni. Pergite nunc ut oues, durorum praeda luporum; Sed uos arguto serpentum corde uigete, Simplicitate tamen dulces superate columbas. Nam saepe incumbet uobis iniuria praeceps Conciliisque hominum statuentur corpora uestra. Vos flagris uinclisque feris durisque tyrannis Frendens urgebit pro me uiolentia saecli. Cum uos prodiderint, uerborum linquite curam, Sponte fluens dabitur sermonis gratia uobis; Spiritus in uobis pro uobis digna loquetur. Prodet enim fratrem scelerata insania fratris, Ad letumque dabunt genitorum corpora nati. Vos odia urgebunt semper pro nomine nostro, Sed finem fidei comitatur gloria uitae. Profugite ex tectis, quae uos sectabitur, urbis; Inde aliam, mox inde aliam conquirite sedem. Nam uobis urbes semper superesse necesse est, Istrahelitarum quae dent sub nomine plebem. ### English translation (Claude) Whoever fiercely shuts you out from the threshold of his house, or with hard ears scorns the words of life, shake off your footprints as you leave the house, so that no share of an unjust life may cling to you. A worse punishment than that of Sodom will await them in torment, when the end comes for the whole world. Go now as sheep, the prey of hard wolves; but be strong with the shrewd heart of serpents, yet surpass the sweet doves in simplicity. For headlong injury will often press upon you, and your bodies will be set before the councils of men. The gnashing violence of the world will drive you with scourges and fierce chains and hard tyrants, for my sake. When they have handed you over, leave aside the care of words: the grace of speech will be given you, flowing of its own accord; the Spirit in you will speak worthy things for you. For the wicked madness of a brother will betray a brother, and sons will hand over the bodies of their parents to death. Hatred will always press upon you for our name, but the glory of life goes with faith kept to the end. Flee from the houses of a city that persecutes you; from there seek another place, and soon from there another. For cities must always remain for you which may give you a people under the name of the Israelites. ### Scripture references - Matt 10:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:23: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 10:14–23. The last lines render Matt 10:23 ('you will not finish the towns of Israel') in Juvencus's own way. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.451 (CSEL 24:62lines 451–474–63; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-451). ## Book 2, lines 475–500 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-475 - Source: CSEL 24:63lines 475–500–64 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The disciple is not above the master; fear God, not those who kill the body; confessing Christ; not peace but a sword. ### Latin text Discipulus numquam transcendat celsa magistri Culmina, nec dominum temptet praecellere seruus. Discipulo satis est uires aequare magistri Vel domini similem uirtutem prendere seruo. Pectoribus uestris semper timor omnis aberret; Nam nudata suis promuntur cuncta latebris. In tenebris tacite uobis quaecumque iubentur, Dicite praeclaro nitidi sub lumine solis. Auribus et uestris dicam quaecumque susurrans, Excelso in populos spargantur culmine tecti. Despicite illorum rabiem, qui corpora uestra Prosternent ferro: non est his ulla potestas Viuacem leto pariter dimittere mentem. Illum sed potius cordis secreta pauescant, Corporis est animique simul cui cuncta potestas. Passeribus pretium nummi uix portio parua Proueniet: non est tamen unum credere dignum Iniussu Domini laqueos incurrere nostros. Quis dubitet sapiens, Domini sub pectore multis Cedere pinnatis hominem pro milibus unum? Qui me confessus fuerit sub iudice terrae, Hunc ego non aliter coram genitore fatebor; Sic itidem coram genitore negabo negantem. Non ego nunc pacem terris inmittere ueni, Sed gladium, patrio dirimat qui pectore natum Et dulcem natam dirimat qui pectore matris. ### English translation (Claude) Let the disciple never rise above the lofty heights of his master, nor the slave try to excel his lord. It is enough for the disciple to equal the powers of his master, or for the slave to attain a virtue like his lord's. Let all fear always stay far from your hearts; for everything is brought out, laid bare, from its hiding places. Whatever is commanded you silently in darkness, speak under the bright light of the shining sun. And whatever I say, whispering in your ears, let it be scattered to the peoples from the high roof of the house. Despise the rage of those who will lay your bodies low with the sword: they have no power to send the living mind to death as well. But let the secret places of the heart rather fear him who has all power over body and soul together. Sparrows fetch scarcely a small part of a coin as their price; yet it is not right to believe that one falls into our snares without the Lord's command. What wise man would doubt that in the Lord's heart one man outweighs many thousands of winged creatures? Whoever confesses me before the judges of the earth, I will confess him in the same way before the Father; and likewise before the Father I will deny the one who denies me. I have not come now to send peace upon the lands, but a sword, to sever the son from his father's heart and to sever the sweet daughter from her mother's heart. ### Scripture references - Matt 10:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:35: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 10:24–35. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.475 (CSEL 24:63lines 475–500–64; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475). ## Book 2, lines 501–524 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-501 - Source: CSEL 24:64lines 501–524–65 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Love of Christ above family; receiving his messengers; John's question from prison and Christ's answer. ### Latin text Si quis amore meo genitorem pluris habebit, Vel matri suboliue meum postponet amorem, Sentiet horribilem nostra de sede repulsam. Contemnet quicumque animam pro nomine nostro, Inueniet laeta florentem fruge salutis. Qui uos suscipiet, me suscepisse benignis Obsequiis, idem me pro genitore supremo Suscepisse sibi gaudebit perpete uita. Talia discipulis bis sex cum iussa dedisset, Iustus Iohannes caeci de carceris umbris Sectantum e numero delectos talia dicta Ad Christum portare iubet uerumque referre: 'Tune piis animis requies, quam regia caeli Pollicita est terris, nostro sub tempore fulgens? An aliam superest post haec sperare salutem?' Talibus haec Christus dictis mandata remittit: 'Caecorum tenebrae mutantur lumine lucis Debiliumque uigent firmato robore membra; Lurida discutitur squamoso corpore lepra, Aeriae uocis penetrat surdas sonus aures. Redditur amissae leti post funera uitae Ad corpus remeans animae iam libera uirtus, Pauperibusque suis non dedignata patescit Fulgentis splendens aduentus gloria nostri. ### English translation (Claude) If anyone holds his father dearer than love of me, or puts love of me after his mother or his children, he will feel a terrible rejection from our seat. Whoever despises his life for our name will find it flourishing with the glad crop of salvation. Whoever receives you will rejoice that he has received me with kindly service, and likewise that in me he has received the supreme Father, with everlasting life." When he had given these commands to the twelve disciples, just John, from the shadows of his blind prison, ordered men chosen from among his followers to carry these words to Christ and bring back the truth: "Are you the rest for devout souls, which the palace of heaven promised to the lands, shining in our time? Or does it remain for us to hope after this for another salvation?" Christ sent back this message with these words: "The darkness of the blind is changed into the light of day, and the limbs of the weak grow strong with firm strength; livid leprosy is shaken off the scaly body; the sound of the airy voice enters deaf ears. The power of the soul, now free, returns to the body and is given back to life that was lost after the funeral of death; and the shining glory of our coming lies open to its poor, not disdaining them. ### Scripture references - Matt 10:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 10:40: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:5: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 10:37–11:5. The saying about taking up the cross (Matt 10:38) and the cup of cold water (10:42) are not rendered. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.501 (CSEL 24:64lines 501–524–65; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-501). ## Book 2, lines 525–547 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-525 - Source: CSEL 24:65lines 525–547–66 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus' testimony to John: more than a prophet, the messenger of Malachi, Elijah. ### Latin text Ille beatus erit, quem non deceperit error.' Talia discipuli referunt mandata magistro. Hoc super ad populum depromit talia Christus: 'Cur in deserto uoluistis uisere nuper Stramen harundineum uento uibrante moueri? Cur etiam molli uestitum ueste uidere? In domibus regum molli cum ueste tenentur. Ille profetarum solus transcendere uires Iudicio ueteris scripti promittitur olim. Hunc etenim memorat uenerandae lectio uocis: En ego mitto meum stratas aptare ministrum Ante tuos uultus; genuit nec femina quemquam, Maior Iohannis nostri qui uiribus esset. Sed minor hoc caeli fiet sublimior aula. Huius ab exortu uim caeli regia sentit, Et caeli regnum uiolentia diripit atrox. Lex omnis summam Baptistae ad tempora cepit Atque profetarum finis concluditur idem. Si uultis uolucris penetralia noscere saecli, Corpus Iohannis felix habitabile sumpsit Helias, quondam quem turbine missa corusco Flammipedum rapuit simulatio quadriiugorum. Audiat haec dictis pandens uitalibus aures. ### English translation (Claude) Blessed will he be whom error has not deceived." The disciples carried this message back to their master. On this Christ spoke these words to the people: "Why did you wish lately to go into the desert to see a reed stalk shaken by the quivering wind? Why, again, to see one dressed in soft clothing? Those with soft clothing are kept in the houses of kings. He alone was promised long ago, by the judgment of the ancient scripture, to surpass the powers of the prophets. For the reading of the venerable voice speaks of him: See, I send my minister to prepare the roads before your face; and no woman has borne anyone greater in power than our John. But one lesser than he will be higher in the hall of heaven. From his rising the palace of heaven feels force, and fierce violence plunders the kingdom of heaven. The whole law reached its sum at the time of the Baptist, and the end of the prophets is concluded there too. If you wish to know the inner secrets of the swift age, happy Helias took the body of John as his dwelling, Helias whom long ago the likeness of a four-horse chariot with feet of flame, sent in a flashing whirlwind, snatched away. Let him hear this who opens his ears to the words of life. ### Scripture references - Matt 11:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:10: allusion, high confidence - Mal 3:1: quotation, high confidence - Matt 11:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:14: allusion, high confidence - 2 Kgs 2:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:15: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 11:6–15; the scripture is Mal 3:1. Juvencus takes 'he is Elijah' (Matt 11:14) to mean that Elijah dwelt in John's body; his own interpretation. Elijah's chariot: 2 Kgs 2:11. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.525 (CSEL 24:65lines 525–547–66; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-525). ## Book 2, lines 548–574 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-548 - Source: CSEL 24:66lines 548–574–67 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus thanks the Father, invites the weary, and defends the disciples plucking grain on the sabbath by David's example. ### Latin text Nunc tibi confiteor, genitor, cui gloria seruit Fulgentis caeli et terrarum frugiferentum, Celasti nunc quod sapientibus ista superbis Paruulaque infantum uis haec conprendere corda. Iam mihi regnantis sunt omnia tradita patris, Nec quisquam Domini poterit cognoscere natum, Ni solus genitor; genitorem mente uidebit Filius, aut idem pandet cui talia natus. Huc omnes ueniant, oneris quos sarcina uasti Conprimit; his poterit uirtus mea munere patris Antiquas uires hilari reparare quiete. Sumite forte iugum, leuis est mea sarcina iustis, Namque humili dulcem largitur corde salutem.' Haec ubi dicta dedit, messis per culta grauatae Praeterit, et populus sectantum discipulorum Spicarum grauidam carpebat in ordine frugem. Ille dies ueteri poscebat lege quietem, Sabbata nam priscis repetebant otia iussis. Ecce Pharisaei coram reprendere Christum, Quod sanctae legis calcarent iussa metentes Discipuli. Legum sed tum conpletor Iesus Incipit his ueteris scripti monumenta retexens: 'Legistis certe, in templo Dauida canorum Cum populo quondam panes sumpsisse sacratos Et propriam comitumque famem sedasse; sed illos Inlicitum cuiquam fuerat contingere panes, Sumere quos solus poterat de lege sacerdos. ### English translation (Claude) "Now I give thanks to you, Father, whom the glory of the shining heaven and of the fruitful lands serves, that you have now hidden these things from the proud wise and will the little hearts of infants to grasp them. Now all things of the reigning Father have been handed over to me, and no one will be able to know the Son of the Lord except the Father alone; the Son will see the Father with his mind, or he to whom the same Son opens such things. Let all come here whom the burden of a vast load weighs down; for them my power, by the Father's gift, will be able to restore their former strength with glad rest. Take up the yoke bravely: my burden is light for the just, for it bestows sweet salvation on a humble heart." When he had said this, he passed through the cultivated fields of a heavy harvest, and the company of disciples following him was plucking, in order, the full grain of the ears. That day called for rest by the ancient law, for the sabbath renewed its leisure by the commands of old. See, the Pharisees openly rebuked Christ because the disciples, in reaping, trampled on the commands of the holy law. But then Jesus, the fulfiller of the laws, began to go back over the records of the ancient scripture to them: "Surely you have read that tuneful David once took the consecrated loaves in the temple with his people and relieved his own and his companions' hunger; yet it had been unlawful for anyone to touch those loaves, which only the priest might take by law. ### Scripture references - Matt 11:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 11:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:4: allusion, high confidence - 1 Sam 21:6: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 11:25–12:4; Juvencus passes over Matt 11:16–24. David and the bread: 1 Sam 21:1–6. 'Bravely' renders forte, which might also be read 'perhaps'. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.548 (CSEL 24:66lines 548–574–67; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-548). ## Book 2, lines 575–598 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-575 - Source: CSEL 24:67lines 575–598–68 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Priests break the sabbath in the temple; mercy over sacrifice; the Son of man rules the sabbath; the withered hand healed. ### Latin text Eiusdem scriptum est iusto moderamine legis: Sabbata profanent templo sine crimine uates. Nec minor est istic uestrae glomeratio turbae Quam templi uirtus. Caperent si pectora uestra, Quod non sacra Deus, sed malit mitia corda, Non iam saepe uiros damnasset factio sacros, Expertes culpae. Sed nunc ego sabbata cuncta Sponte mea dominans legis sub iure tenebo.' Tunc conuenticula ipsorum post talia dicta Ingreditur; mox hic iuuenem pro limine cernit, Siccatum ex umero cui pondus inutile palmae Pendebat. Sed tum dictis temptando dolosis, Aegris an liceat per sabbata ferre medellam, Quaerunt, calcatae ut legis uindicta maneret. Christus ad haec: 'Foueam si forte pecuscula uestra Inciderint, certe transibitis otia legis Et pecus abrupto tolletis uile profundo. Quanto igitur nobis hominum curatio maior Ad benefacta animos tollens accendere debet! Ergo age tu, iuuenis, rediuiuam tendito dextram.' Cum dicto palmas sanus porrexit utrasque. His tum pro signis, quae uix ueneratio posset Mirantis digno populi sustollere cultu, Conciliis trucibus conclamant decipiendum. ### English translation (Claude) It is written by the just rule of the same law that the priests profane the sabbath in the temple without guilt. Nor is the gathering of your company here less than the power of the temple. If your hearts grasped that God prefers not sacrifices but gentle hearts, your faction would not now so often have condemned holy men who are free of guilt. But now I, ruling of my own accord, will hold every sabbath under the law's authority." Then, after these words, he entered their assembly; soon he saw there at the threshold a young man from whose shoulder hung the useless weight of a withered hand. But then, testing him with deceitful words, they asked whether it is lawful to bring healing to the sick on the sabbath, so that punishment for breaking the law might await him. Christ answered: "If perhaps your little beasts fell into a pit, you would surely pass over the law's rest and lift the cheap beast from the steep depth. How much more, then, ought the care of men to kindle us, raising our minds to good deeds! So come, young man, stretch out your restored right hand." At the word, healed, he stretched out both hands. Then, for these signs, which the reverence of the wondering people could hardly honour with worthy worship, they cried out in fierce councils that he must be ensnared. ### Scripture references - Matt 12:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:7: allusion, high confidence - Hos 6:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:14: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 12:5–14; Hos 6:6. 'Nor is the gathering of your company here less than the power of the temple' renders Matt 12:6 ('something greater than the temple is here') in an unusual way; translated as written. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.575 (CSEL 24:67lines 575–598–68; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-575). ## Book 2, lines 599–622 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-599 - Source: CSEL 24:69lines 599–622–70 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus heals a blind and mute demoniac; the Pharisees accuse him of using the prince of demons; a divided kingdom cannot stand. ### Latin text Talia perspiciens procerum molimina Christus Discedit; uariis hominum languoribus aptat Concessam in populos patria uirtute medellam. Oblatus sibi mox, quem daemonis horrida uirtus Et lingua et uisu truncatum uiuere poenae Et propriis escam cruciatibus esse uolebat. Hunc ubi curatum uisuque et uoce uigentem Caeca Pharisaeae cognouit factio gentis, Daemonis auxilio, qui princeps daemoniorum Solus nequitiae uires dicione teneret, Haec illum fecisse ferunt. Sed talia Christus Veridicis aperit conuincens pectora uerbis: 'Si gemina regnum distractum parte dehiscat Et scissa aduersum sese diuulsio pugnet, Disruptis propere labentur cuncta medullis. Horridus et daemon si daemone pellitur atro, Aduersa sibimet scissus uirtute repugnat. Quis poterit praedam tectis auferre uirorum, Ni prius adgressor custodum brachia nodis Vinciat, ut facilis ueniat direptio praedae? Quisque meis aberit discretus miles ab armis, Hostis in aduersa consistet fronte duelli. Quisque meis gregibus cogendis liber aberrat, Dissicet ille mei pecoris per deuia pastus. ### English translation (Claude) Christ, seeing such schemes of the leaders, withdrew; he applied to the various sicknesses of men the healing granted to the peoples by the Father's power. Soon there was brought to him one whom the horrid power of a demon wished to live maimed in tongue and sight, for punishment, and to be food for his own torments. When the blind faction of the Pharisee nation learned that he was healed and strong in sight and voice, they said that Christ had done these things with the help of the demon who, as prince of demons, alone held the powers of wickedness under his rule. But Christ laid bare such hearts and convicted them with truthful words: "If a kingdom, torn apart, gapes in two parts, and its split halves fight against each other, everything will quickly fall, its marrow broken. And if a horrid demon is driven out by a black demon, he is split and fights against himself with hostile power. Who will be able to carry off plunder from men's houses unless the attacker first binds the arms of the guards with knots, so that the plunder may be easily seized? Whoever stands apart and is absent as a soldier from my army will stand as an enemy in the opposing front of battle. Whoever wanders free from gathering my flocks scatters the pastures of my herd along byways. ### Scripture references - Matt 12:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:30: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 12:15–30; the quotation of Isa 42:1–4 (Matt 12:17–21) is not rendered. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.599 (CSEL 24:69lines 599–622–70; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-599). ## Book 2, lines 623–647 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-623 - Source: CSEL 24:70lines 623–647–71 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Blasphemy against the Spirit is unforgivable; men are judged by their words; the Son does the Father's works and receives all judgment. ### Latin text Sed quicumque hominum fuerit super omnibus error, Dimitti poterit; tantum ne Spiritus umquam Vocibus insana laceretur mente profusis. Siue furens hominis nato conuicia quisquam Ingeret, haec etiam poterunt peccata remitti. Spiritus at sanctus tantum cuicumque profana Verborum rabie uiolabitur, inreuocatis Suppliciis nunc et semper torrebitur ignis. Quando ueneniferi serpentis saeua propago Sermonum dulci poterit mitescere fructu? Nam bona thesauris promuntur dulcia iustis Et mala letifero procedunt ore uenena. Verborum meritis ueniet sub iudice poena, Verborum meritis dabitur sub iudice uita. Quae genitor faciet, sectabitur omnia natus, Namque idem nato manifestat cuncta uidenda Et potiora dehinc tribuet miracula rerum. Sicut enim genitor demortua corpora reddet Ad claram uitae lucem, sic omnia natus, Quae uolet, ad lumen surgentia corpora ducet, Nec genitor quicquam uestri se iudice quaeret, Sed dedit haec nato quaerendi iura per orbem, Gloria quo maneat similis natoque patrique. Namque repulsus erit uestro si natus honore, Inprobitate pari genitorem despicietis. ### English translation (Claude) But whatever error of men there is, beyond all things it can be forgiven; only let the Spirit never be torn by words poured out from an insane mind. If anyone in rage heaps insults on the Son of man, these sins too can be forgiven. But whoever violates the Holy Spirit with the profane rage of words will be burned with fire in punishments that cannot be revoked, now and always. When will the savage brood of the venomous serpent be able to grow gentle with the sweet fruit of speech? For good and sweet things are brought out from just treasures, and evil poisons come out of a death-bearing mouth. By the merits of words punishment will come before the judge; by the merits of words life will be given before the judge. What the Father does, the Son will follow in all things, for the same Father shows the Son all things to be seen, and will then grant greater wonders. For as the Father will restore dead bodies to the bright light of life, so the Son will lead to the light, rising, all the bodies he wills. Nor will the Father, as your judge, inquire into anything; he has given the Son these rights of inquiry through the world, so that like glory may remain to the Son and the Father. For if the Son is refused your honour, with equal wickedness you will despise the Father. ### Scripture references - Matt 12:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:37: allusion, high confidence - John 5:19: allusion, high confidence - John 5:20: allusion, high confidence - John 5:21: allusion, high confidence - John 5:22: allusion, high confidence - John 5:23: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 12:31–37, then John 5:19–23. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.623 (CSEL 24:70lines 623–647–71; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-623). ## Book 2, lines 648–671 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-648 - Source: CSEL 24:71lines 648–671–72 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The believer passes from death to life; the dead will hear the Son's voice; the Father and the works bear witness to the Son. ### Latin text Sed cui nostra fidem sermonis gratia figet, Mox me mittentis genitoris dona patescent Aeternamque dabit praesens constantia uitam. Iudiciumque illi non est, sed migrat ab atra Morte procul lucisque uigens ad limina tendit. Adueniet tempus, cum mortua corpora uocem Accipient nostram et uitam cum uoce tenebunt. Nam sicut genitor uitam sibi possidet in se, Sic tribuit nato uitam et ius dicere iussit, In terras hominis quoniam cum corpore uenit. Nec uobis mirum uideatur, corpora cuncta Vocis ad auditum propriis exsurgere bustis, Iustorumque animas rediuiuo corpore necti, Iudicioque graui miseros exsurgere prauos. Nec mihi iudicium tribuit mea sola potestas, Arbitrio quoniam genitoris cuncta iubentur, Qui me iustitiam terris disquirere iussit. Namque ego si proprio testis pro nomine surgam, Falsa loquar; aliusque itidem quia testis habetur Pro nobis, semper mihi talia temnere fas est. Nam ueris operum signis manifestior omni Luce nitet praesens nostris testatio factis. Talia concedens genitor mihi testis adhaeret, Qui me dimisit terris sua ponere iussa. ### English translation (Claude) But in whomever the grace of our word fixes faith, soon the gifts of the Father who sent me will lie open to him, and his present constancy will give him eternal life. There is no judgment for him, but he passes far from black death and, full of strength, makes for the threshold of light. The time will come when dead bodies will receive our voice and with the voice will hold life. For as the Father possesses life in himself, so he has given life to the Son and has bidden him to judge, since he came to the lands in the body of man. Nor let it seem wonderful to you that all bodies, at the hearing of the voice, rise from their own tombs, that the souls of the just are joined to a body brought back to life, and that the wretched wicked rise to heavy judgment. Nor does my power alone give me judgment, since all things are commanded by the decision of the Father, who bade me search out justice on the earth. For if I rise as witness for my own name, I shall speak falsely; and since another is held as witness for us, it is always right for me to set such testimony aside. For by the true signs of my works the testimony present in our deeds shines plainer than any light. Granting such things, the Father stays by me as witness, he who sent me to the earth to lay down his commands. ### Scripture references - John 5:24: allusion, high confidence - John 5:25: allusion, high confidence - John 5:26: allusion, high confidence - John 5:27: allusion, high confidence - John 5:28: allusion, high confidence - John 5:29: allusion, high confidence - John 5:30: allusion, high confidence - John 5:31: allusion, high confidence - John 5:32: allusion, high confidence - John 5:36: allusion, high confidence - John 5:37: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 5:24–37. 'It is always right for me to set such testimony aside' (semper mihi talia temnere fas est) is uncertain; it renders John 5:31–34. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.648 (CSEL 24:71lines 648–671–72; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-648). ## Book 2, lines 672–699 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-672 - Source: CSEL 24:72lines 672–699–73 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The Scriptures and Moses bear witness to Christ; the scribes ask for a sign and are given the sign of Jonah. ### Latin text Huius enim uocem numquam conprendere quistis Nec speciem propriam concessit uisere uobis. Nec sermo ipsius poterit per uestra sedere Pectora, credendi quoniam substantia nulla est. Quaeratur ueterum scriptorum lectio uobis, Perpetuam cunctis uitam quam ferre putatis. Haec etiam nostrum testatur lectio donum. Nec tamen audetis propius consistere nobis, Ne uerae uobis contingat gratia uitae. Non mihi captatur terrenae gloria laudis. Namque ego quod summi genitoris nomine ueni, Respuitur uobis, ueniet sed decolor alter, Nomine quem fultum proprio gens uestra sequetur. Alternae in uobis captatur gloria famae, Unius et solam fugitis disquirere laudem. Nec uos arguerim coram genitore, sed illic Accusator erit, quem spes modo uestra celebrat, Moyses, quem fidei nullo seruastis honore. Eius enim scriptis uester si crederet error, Crederet et nobis, Moysi quem scripta frequentant.' Talia tum contra scribarum uerba sequuntur: 'Vocibus indubitata fides comitabitur istis, Si uirtus certis firmet miracula signis.' Ille dehinc: 'Polluta malis generatio quaerit Signa sibi; rebus stabunt sed signa futuris. Namque profeta cauo quantum sub pectore ceti Temporis absumpsit, terrae in penetralibus altis Progenies hominis tantum demersa manebit. ### English translation (Claude) For you have never been able to grasp his voice, nor has he granted you to see his own form. Nor can his word settle in your hearts, since there is no substance of belief in you. Search the reading of the ancient writings, which you think brings everlasting life to all. This reading too bears witness to our gift. Yet you do not dare to come closer to us, lest the grace of true life should reach you. I do not seek the glory of earthly praise. For that I have come in the name of the supreme Father, you reject; but another will come, of a different colour, upheld by his own name, and your nation will follow him. You seek among yourselves the glory of each other's fame, and you avoid seeking the praise of the One alone. Nor would I accuse you before the Father; but there will be an accuser there, whom your hope now celebrates, Moses, whom you have honoured with no faith. For if your error believed his writings, it would believe us too, of whom the writings of Moses speak often." Then these words of the scribes followed in reply: "Undoubted faith will go with these words, if power confirms the wonders with sure signs." Then he said: "A generation polluted with evils seeks signs for itself; but the signs will stand in things to come. For as much time as the prophet spent under the hollow breast of the whale, so long will the offspring of man remain sunk in the deep places of the earth. ### Scripture references - John 5:37: allusion, high confidence - John 5:38: allusion, high confidence - John 5:39: allusion, high confidence - John 5:40: allusion, high confidence - John 5:41: allusion, high confidence - John 5:43: allusion, high confidence - John 5:44: allusion, high confidence - John 5:45: allusion, high confidence - John 5:46: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:40: allusion, high confidence - Jonah 1:17: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 5:37–47, then Matt 12:38–40; Jonah: Jonah 1:17. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.672 (CSEL 24:72lines 672–699–73; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-672). ## Book 2, lines 700–722 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-700 - Source: CSEL 24:73lines 700–722–74 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Nineveh and the queen of the South will condemn this generation; the unclean spirit returns with seven others. ### Latin text Adueniet tempus, cum surget reddita uitae Gens hominum propriis in fletum dedita gestis. Haec istam digno damnabit crimine gentem, Quod maris e fundo surgentis uoce profetae Conmonita in lacrimas Dominum proiecta reflexit. Hic et Ionaeis monitis potiora iubentur, Contemnitque feris animis gens impia lucem. Et regina Noti uitales surget in oras. Illius ad specimen damnabitur effera plebes, Finibus extremis Libyae quod uenerit illa, Ut Solomona pium, praeceptis dedita iussis, Audiret; potior nunc est Solomone potestas Et tamen obtunsae caecantur pectora plebis. Expulsus si quando fugit de pectore daemon, Quem turbat sanctus purgato corpore flatus, Ille uenenatis conlustrat passibus oras, Qua nulla excurrit fontani gurgitis unda, Nec requiem placidae sedis sibi repperit ardens. Tunc repetit suetae sitiens habitacula mentis. At si forte suis obnoxia corda uenenis Ornatuque leui ridentia limina cernit, Adsociat septem similes glomerando furores Vis inimica homini penetratque in uiscera serpens. ### English translation (Claude) The time will come when the race of men, given to weeping over its own deeds, will rise, restored to life. It will condemn this nation with a just charge, because, warned by the voice of the prophet who rose from the bottom of the sea, it fell down in tears and turned the Lord back. Here too things greater than Jonah's warnings are commanded, and the impious nation scorns the light with fierce minds. And the queen of the South will rise to the shores of life. By her example the savage people will be condemned, because she came from the farthest bounds of Libya to hear pious Solomon, devoted to his commanded precepts; now a power greater than Solomon is here, and yet the hearts of the dulled people are blinded. If ever a demon is driven out and flees from a breast, troubled by the holy breath when the body has been cleansed, he roams with poisoned steps through regions where no wave of a spring flows, and, burning, finds no rest in a calm dwelling. Then, thirsting, he seeks again the familiar dwelling of the mind. And if perhaps he sees a heart open to his poisons and a threshold smiling with light adornment, the hostile force gathers seven frenzies like himself, and the serpent enters into the man's insides. ### Scripture references - Matt 12:41: allusion, high confidence - Jonah 3:5: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 12:42: allusion, high confidence - 1 Kgs 10:1: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 12:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:44: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:45: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 12:41–45. Juvencus places the queen of the South in Libya; the visit: 1 Kgs 10:1–10. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.700 (CSEL 24:73lines 700–722–74; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-700). ## Book 2, lines 723–747 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-723 - Source: CSEL 24:74lines 723–747–75 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus' true family are those who do the Father's will; the parable of the sower begins. ### Latin text Sic genus hoc uero mentis cum degenerarit, Vincula perpetuis deflebit subdita poenis.' Atque ea dum populis uitalia dicta frequentat, Pro foribus mater cum fratribus adstitit illi Et miscere foris sermonem comminus orat. Talia tum matris mandatis dicta remittit: 'Hic mecum genetrix, mecum germana residunt Corpora. Nam patria inpletur cuicumque uoluntas, Ille meo proprium conectit sanguine corpus, Et matris generisque mei sub nomine habetur.' Progreditur templo terrarum lumen Iesus Et maris extrema terraeque resedit in ora, Innumeraeque illuc plebis fluxere cateruae. Ille sed excelsam scandens, quae proxima, puppim Litora conplenti depromit talia plebi: 'Ecce sator proprio conmendat semina ruri; Illa cadunt diuersa solo sortemque locorum Pro uirtute ferunt. Nam sicubi trita uiarum Sub pedibus solido densetur limite tellus, Aeriis auibus dant nudam semina praedam. Ast ubi pertenui uelantur puluere saxa, Farra quidem uiridem depromunt germinis ortum; Sed quia nulla subest suci substantia glebis, Inserto arescunt radicum fila calore, Cunctaque mox apicum labuntur acumina leto. ### English translation (Claude) So when this race has fallen away from the true mind, it will lament, bound in chains under everlasting punishments." And while he was giving these words of life to the peoples, his mother with his brothers stood before the doors and asked to speak with him close by, outside. Then he sent back these words in answer to his mother's message: "Here with me sits my mother, with me sit those of my kin. For whoever fulfils the Father's will joins his own body to my blood and is counted under the name of my mother and my family." Jesus, the light of the lands, went out from the temple and sat down on the very edge of sea and land, and countless crowds of people flowed there. But he climbed into a high ship that lay nearest and spoke these words to the people who filled the shore: "See, a sower entrusts seeds to his own field; they fall in different places on the soil and bear the lot of each place according to its strength. For where the trodden part of the road is packed hard underfoot into a solid path, the seeds give bare plunder to the birds of the air. But where rocks are covered with very thin soil, the grain sends up a green shoot; but since there is no moisture in the clods beneath, the threads of the roots dry up as the heat gets in, and soon all the tips of the blades sink to death. ### Scripture references - Matt 12:45: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:46: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:49: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:50: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:6: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 12:45–13:6. Juvencus says Jesus went out from the temple, where Matt 13:1 has 'the house'. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.723 (CSEL 24:74lines 723–747–75; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-723). ## Book 2, lines 748–772 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-748 - Source: CSEL 24:75lines 748–772–76 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The end of the sower; why Jesus speaks in parables; Isaiah's prophecy of closed eyes and ears. ### Latin text Seminibusque aliis contingunt aspera rura; Sentibus hic spinisque feris uelocius exit Roboris augmentum frugemque internecat angens. Uberibus uero dantur quae semina glebis, Illa ferunt pulchram segetem, cui laeta frequentat Incrementa sui centeno copia fetu. Audiat haec, aures mentis qui gestat apertas.' Talia discipuli mirantes dicta requirunt, Inplicitis populo cur clauderet omnia uerbis, Ille sed amota credentum plebe profatur: 'Vobis, qui firmo robustam pectore mentem Ad capienda Dei penetralia constabilistis, Concessum est aditis penitus consistere regni; Illis pro merito clauduntur lumina mentis. Si quis habet dignus, capiet potiora redundans; Qui uero expertes caelestis muneris errant, Amittent etiam, proprium quodcumque retentant. Idcirco obscuris coopertum ambagibus illum Perstringit populum sermonis gratia nostri, Ut dictum Esaiae merita de plebe recurrat: En populi mentes uelantur ad omnia crassis Obicibus, sensu ne tangant munera uitae. Auribus adsistunt clausis oculisque grauatis, Ne conuersa bono sanetur noxia plebes. Quam uestrae nunc sunt aures oculique beati! ### English translation (Claude) And other seeds meet rough ground; here the strong growth of briars and fierce thorns comes up faster and chokes and kills the crop. But the seeds given to fertile clods bear a fine harvest, whose glad abundance multiplies its growth a hundredfold. Let him hear this who has the ears of his mind open." The disciples, wondering at such words, asked why he closed everything to the people in tangled words. But he, when the people had been sent away, spoke to the believers: "To you, who with firm heart have made your minds strong to grasp the inner things of God, it is granted to stand deep within the entrance of the kingdom; for them, as they deserve, the eyes of the mind are closed. If anyone worthy has, he will receive greater things and overflow; but those who wander without the heavenly gift will lose even whatever they keep as their own. Therefore the grace of our speech touches that people only lightly, covered in obscure windings, so that the saying of Esaias about the people who deserve it may come true: See, the minds of the people are veiled to all things with thick barriers, so that they may not touch the gifts of life with understanding. They stand with closed ears and heavy eyes, lest the guilty people turn and be healed by the good. How blessed now are your ears and eyes! ### Scripture references - Matt 13:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:14: allusion, high confidence - Isa 6:10: quotation, high confidence - Matt 13:16: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 13:7–16; Isa 6:9–10. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.748 (CSEL 24:75lines 748–772–76; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-748). ## Book 2, lines 773–798 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-773 - Source: CSEL 24:76lines 773–798–77 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The sower explained; the parable of the wheat and the darnel begins. ### Latin text Nam multi ueteres iusti sanctique profetae, Quae uobis clarent, orarunt cernere dona. Accipite ergo animis, qui sit de semine sensus: .... Quisque meum uerbum summas dimittit in aures, Nec sensus recipit stabili praecepta uigore, Eripit illius totum de pectore daemon. Hic agro est similis duro, qui germina farris Exponit rapidis auibus sine fruge rapinam. Sunt alii, laeto qui pectore nostra receptant, Sed breuis est illis perceptae gratia frugis. Nam si dura premat mentem strictura coercens, Continuo trepidi produnt sibi credita leto. His saxosus ager simili leuitate uirescit. At spinosus ager curarum mole grauatis Respondet, pressant quos pondera diuitiarum. Semina sic nostri sermonis pressa grauantur, Nec fructus sequitur spinarum horrore necatus. Pinguia sic itidem paribus stant uiribus arua Illis, qui clarae capiunt praecepta salutis, Quae penetrant animum sensu tractante tenaci Centiplicemque ferunt uirtutis robore frugem.' Haec tum discipulis plebique haec insuper addit: 'Agricolae simile est regnum sublime Tonantis. Ille iacit proprio mandans bona semina ruri, Sed post subripiens hominum insidiando sopori Trux inimicus adit loliumque inspergit amarum. ### English translation (Claude) For many just men of old and holy prophets prayed to see the gifts that shine out for you. Receive then in your minds what the meaning of the seed is: whoever lets my word fall only on the surface of his ears, and his understanding does not receive the precepts with steady vigour, the demon snatches it all from his breast. He is like the hard ground that lays out the shoots of grain as plunder for the swift birds, without fruit. There are others who receive our words with a glad heart, but the grace of the crop they have received is short-lived for them. For if hard constraint presses and confines the mind, at once in fear they betray to death what was entrusted to them. For these the rocky ground grows green with the same shallowness. But the thorny ground answers to those weighed down by a mass of cares, whom the weight of riches presses. So the seeds of our word, pressed down, are burdened, and no fruit follows, killed by the bristling thorns. And likewise the rich fields stand, with equal strength, for those who take in the precepts of bright salvation, which enter the mind as a retentive understanding handles them, and bear a hundredfold crop by the strength of virtue." This he said to the disciples, and to the people he added this as well: "The sublime kingdom of the Thunderer is like a farmer. He sows good seed, entrusting it to his own field; but afterwards a fierce enemy comes stealthily, lying in wait for men's sleep, and sprinkles bitter darnel over it. ### Scripture references - Matt 13:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:25: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 13:17–25. 'The Thunderer' (Tonans) is a classical poetic title, used here of God. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.773 (CSEL 24:76lines 773–798–77; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-773). ## Book 2, lines 799–829 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-2-799 - Source: CSEL 24:77lines 799–829–78 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The darnel left until harvest; the mustard seed and the leaven; parables fulfil the prophet. ### Latin text Ecce sed ad fructum culmis cum spiceus horror Processit, lolio messis maculata redundat. Tum domino famuli mirantes talia fantur: Nonne bonum terrae semen per terga dedisti? Unde igitur lolio turpi tua rura grauantur? Sed iam, si iubeas, messem purgabimus omnem, Triticeusque nitor selecta sorde resistet. Tum dominus miti contra sermone profatur: Hic dolus est, inimice, tuus, sed farra sinamus Crescere cum lolio. Pleno nam tempore messis Secretum lolium conexo fasce iubebo Ignibus exuri; at nostro de semine messor Horrea nostra dehinc purgata fruge replebit. Haut aliter simile est, cordis si panditis aures, Praeparui grano regnum caeleste sinapis, Quod proprio insinuans disponit cultor agello. Seminibusque illud minus omnibus esse uirentum Creditur; at iusti mox incrementa uiroris Sumpserit, erecto transcendit uertice cunctas Agrorum fruges, ramis ut plumea turba Conludat possitque umbras habitare uirentes. Fermento par est munus caeleste salubri, Quod magna condit mulier sub mole farinae. Illa dehinc modico fermenti mixta calore Conducto, unius coalescit corpore massae.' Talia tum populo perplexis condita uerbis Promebat, ueteris quo possent dicta profetae Ordine saeclorum iussis concurrere rebus: Os aperire meum dignabor, condita mundi Conuoluet ructans uarii sermonis imago. Inde domum repetit serus turbasque reliquit. ### English translation (Claude) But see, when the bristling ear came out on the stalks to bear fruit, the harvest overflowed, stained with darnel. Then the servants, wondering, said to their master: "Did you not sow good seed across the land? Where, then, does the foul darnel come from that burdens your fields? But now, if you order it, we will clean the whole harvest, and the bright wheat will remain when the filth has been picked out." Then the master answered with gentle words: "This is your trick, enemy; but let us allow the grain to grow with the darnel. For at the full time of harvest I will order the darnel to be separated, bound in bundles, and burned with fire; but the reaper will then fill our barns with clean grain from our seed." In the same way, if you open the ears of your heart, the heavenly kingdom is like a very small grain of mustard, which the farmer sows and sets in his own little field. It is believed to be smaller than all the seeds of green plants; but when it has soon grown to its proper greenness, it lifts its top above all the crops of the fields, so that the feathered throng may play in its branches and dwell in its green shade. The heavenly gift is like wholesome leaven, which a woman hides in a great mass of flour. Then the flour, mixed with the moderate warmth of the leaven worked into it, grows together into the body of a single mass." Such things, hidden in perplexing words, he then set before the people, so that the sayings of the prophet of old might agree with the things commanded in the order of the ages: I will deign to open my mouth; the image of varied speech will pour forth and unroll the things hidden since the world began. Then, late, he went home and left the crowds. ### Scripture references - Matt 13:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:35: allusion, high confidence - Ps 78:2 (77:2 Vulg.): quotation, high confidence - Matt 13:36: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 13:26–36. Juvencus has the master address the enemy ('This is your trick, enemy'); Matthew has 'An enemy has done this'. The prophet: Ps 78:2 (Vulgate 77:2). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 2.799 (CSEL 24:77lines 799–829–78; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-799). ## Book 3, lines 1–25 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-1 - Source: CSEL 24:79lines 1–25–80 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The parable of the darnel explained: the harvest is the end of the world; Jesus is rejected in his home town. ### Latin text Fuderat in terras roseum iubar ignicomus sol. Discipuli rogitant, lolii quid quaestio uellet Et segetis; clarus quibus haec depromit Iesus: 'Optima qui farris conmendat semina glebis, Filius est hominis; mundum sub nomine ruris Accipite, atque homines puro pro semine iustos. At lolium infelix cooperti daemonis arte Sunt homines; inimicus erit, uis horrida, daemon; Extremus mundi finis pro tempore messis. Messores patrii uenient per rura ministri, Quos hominis natus proprii de corpore regni Colligere erroris laqueos labemque iubebit Collectosque simul rapidis exurere flammis. Dentibus his stridor semper fletusque perennis, Secretisque piis ueniet lux aurea uitae, Sedibus ut caeli uibrantur lumina solis.' Haec docuit patriamque redit seruator in urbem. Illic expediens populis — mirabile dictu — Iustitiae leges uitaeque salubria iussa, Virtutes patrias simul insinuando docebat. Tunc liuore graui plebes conmota suorum Praesentisque simul doni miracula uoluens Et generis noti reputans ex ordine gentem, Haec inter sese mussanti uoce uolutant: 'Nonne hic est fabri suboles, cui nomen Ioseph? ### English translation (Claude) The fire-haired sun had poured its rosy radiance over the lands. The disciples asked what the riddle of the darnel and the crop meant; bright Jesus explained it to them: "He who entrusts the best seeds of grain to the soil is the Son of man; take the world under the name of the field, and just men for the pure seed. But the unhappy darnel are men made so by the art of the hidden demon; the enemy will be the demon, a horrid power; the last end of the world stands for the time of harvest. The Father's ministers will come through the fields as reapers, whom the Son of man will order to gather out of the body of his own kingdom the snares and stains of error, and when they are gathered, to burn them together with swift flames. For them there will be gnashing of teeth always and endless weeping; and to the devout, set apart, the golden light of life will come, as the lights of the sun shimmer in the dwellings of heaven." This he taught, and the Saviour returned to his home town. There, setting out to the people, wonderful to say, the laws of righteousness and the healthful commands of life, he taught them, at the same time making known the Father's powers. Then the people of his own town, stirred by heavy envy, pondering the wonders of the gift before them and reckoning over the family of a household they knew, muttered among themselves: "Is not this the son of the craftsman whose name is Joseph? ### Scripture references - Matt 13:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:41: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:42: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:54: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:55: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 13:36–43, 53–55. The parables of the treasure, the pearl and the net (Matt 13:44–52) are not rendered. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.1 (CSEL 24:79lines 1–25–80; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-1). ## Book 3, lines 26–51 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-26 - Source: CSEL 24:80lines 26–51–81 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus without honour at Nazareth; Herod thinks John risen; Herod's unlawful marriage to his brother's wife and John's imprisonment. ### Latin text Non Maria est genetrix, non fratrum nota propago? Unde igitur legis doctor tantaeque minister Virtutis, cedit cui labes uicta malorum? Nazara sic plebes; cui talia reddit Iesus: 'Temnuntur propriis miracula semper in oris Et sine honore manent patria sub sede profetae.' Talibus indignans pressit sua munera Christus. Interea ad regem uolitabat fama superbum, Quod mala cuncta illi uirtus diuina domaret. Sed putat Herodes, leti quod lege remissus Tanta ut Iohannes uirtutis dona teneret. Nam quondam cernens liuenti pectore daemon, Erroris labem puris quod solueret undis Iustus Iohannes, damnis accensa malorum Tunc petit Herodem pestis saeuissima regem Et facile iniusti penetrans habitacula cordis Adcumulare feris subigit scelera impia gestis. Arserat inlicito Herodes accensus amore In thalamos fratris, casto quod iure uetabat Doctus Iohannes. Feritas sed nescia recti Subiecit leges pedibus fruiturque nefandis Conubiis ipsumque super, qui praua uetabat, Carceris inmersum tenebris uinclisque grauauit. Sanguine nam iusti primo conpressa timore Abstinuit sitiens feritas, quia magna profetam Plebis Iohannem ueneratio suscipiebat. ### English translation (Claude) Is not Mary his mother, and is not the line of his brothers known? Where, then, does he come from, a teacher of the law and minister of such great power, to whom the stain of evils yields, conquered?" So said the people of Nazara; and Jesus answered them: "Wonders are always scorned in their own country, and prophets remain without honour in their native place." Indignant at such things, Christ held back his gifts. Meanwhile report flew to the proud king that a divine power in him was mastering every evil. But Herod thought that John, released from the law of death, now held such great gifts of power. For once the demon, seeing with envious heart that just John was washing away the stain of error in pure waters, and inflamed by the losses of evil, that most savage pest went to King Herod and, easily entering the dwelling of an unjust heart, drove him to heap up impious crimes with fierce deeds. Herod had burned, inflamed with unlawful love, for his brother's marriage bed, which learned John forbade by the law of chastity. But his savagery, knowing nothing of right, put the laws under its feet and enjoyed the abominable marriage, and moreover loaded with chains the very man who forbade the wrong, plunged into the darkness of prison. For the thirsting savagery at first held back from the blood of the just man, restrained by fear, because the great veneration of the people received John as a prophet. ### Scripture references - Matt 13:55: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:56: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:57: allusion, high confidence - Matt 13:58: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:4: allusion, high confidence - Mark 6:18: allusion, high confidence - Lev 18:16: echo, medium confidence - Matt 14:5: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 13:55–14:5; Herod's marriage: Mark 6:17–18; Lev 18:16. That the demon drove Herod to the crime is Juvencus's addition. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.26 (CSEL 24:80lines 26–51–81; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-26). ## Book 3, lines 52–76 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-52 - Source: CSEL 24:81lines 52–76–82 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Herodias's daughter dances; John is beheaded; Jesus withdraws and heals the crowds. ### Latin text Natali sed forte die cum laeta tyrannus Herodes celsis strueret conuiuia mensis, Luxuriae quoniam coniuncta superbia gaudet, In medio iuuenum reginae filia uirgo, Alternos laterum celerans sinuamine motus, Conpositas cantu iungit modulante choreas. Ipse sed in primis mirata uirginis arte Attonitus stupuit; tunc praemia cuncta patere Iuratus spondet, quaecumque puella petisset. Illa sed horrendae seruans scelera impia matris Urget Iohannis caput a ceruice reuelli Et lance inferri praesentia munera poscens. Praesentum Herodes procerum sub pondere tristis, Iurandique memor iuris tamen imperat aegre, Insontis caput inferri tradique puellae. Illa — nefas — matri scelerata ad gaudia portat. Corporis at lacerum flentes sine nomine truncum Discipuli condunt terrae Christumque sequuntur. Ille ubi cognouit iusti miserabile letum, Deserit insonti pollutam sanguine terram Frondosaque latet secretae uallis in umbra. Sed populi inmensae uirtutis dona sequuntur. Ille ubi credentum turbas in ualle remota Conuenisse uidet, morborum tabe repulsa Corpora subiecit miseratus multa medellae. ### English translation (Claude) But it happened that on his birthday, when the tyrant Herod was laying out a glad banquet on high tables, since pride delights in being joined to luxury, in the midst of the young men the virgin daughter of the queen, quickening the alternating movements of her sides as she swayed, joined measured dances to her modulated song. Herod himself above all was astonished, struck with wonder at the girl's art; then he swore and promised that every reward lay open to her, whatever the girl should ask. But she, holding to the impious crimes of her horrible mother, pressed for John's head to be torn from his neck and brought on a dish, demanding it as a present gift. Herod, sad, under the weight of the leading men present, yet mindful of the force of his oath, reluctantly ordered the innocent man's head to be brought and given to the girl. She, wicked one (the horror of it!), carried it to her mother for her joy. But the disciples, weeping, buried in the earth the mangled trunk of the body, without a name, and followed Christ. When he learned of the just man's pitiable death, he left the land polluted with innocent blood and hid in the leafy shade of a secluded valley. But the peoples followed the gifts of his immense power. When he saw that crowds of believers had gathered in the remote valley, he took pity on them, drove off the wasting of diseases, and brought many bodies to healing. ### Scripture references - Matt 14:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:14: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 14:6–14. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.52 (CSEL 24:81lines 52–76–82; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-52). ## Book 3, lines 77–99 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-77 - Source: CSEL 24:82lines 77–99–83 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The feeding of the five thousand; Jesus prays alone while the disciples' boat is tossed by the wind. ### Latin text Iamque sub extremo labentis lumine solis Discipuli Christo suadent dimittere turbas, Ut sibi quisque paret quaerens per compita uictum. Ille iubet cunctis ibidem conuiuia poni. Discipuli ostendunt, nil amplius esse ciborum Ni pisces geminos et farris fragmina quinque. 'Hoc, inquit, satis est.' Tum mox discumbere plebem Gramineisque toris iussit conponere membra. Suspiciensque dehinc caelum genitore precato Ipse duos pisces et quinque ex ordine panes Diuidit et dapibus mensas onerauit opimis. Iamque expleta iacet - dictu mirabile — plebes, Reliquiasque dehinc mensis legere ministri Bissenosque sinus cophinorum fragminis inplent. Cenantum numerus tum milia quinque uirorum, Praeterea populus matrum fuit et puerorum. Discipulis tunc inde iubet conscendere nauem Et transire fretum, donec dimitteret omnes, In sua quemque, uiros. Tum montis celsa petiuit Secretusque dehinc genitoris nomen adorat. Iamque soporata torpebant omnia nocte, Cum puppis medio sulcabat in aequore fluctus Iactata aduerso surgentis flamine uenti. ### English translation (Claude) And now, in the last light of the setting sun, the disciples urged Christ to send the crowds away, so that each might look for food for himself through the villages. He ordered a meal to be set out for all of them there. The disciples showed him that there was no more food than two fish and five pieces of bread. "This," he said, "is enough." Then at once he ordered the people to recline and to settle their limbs on couches of grass. And looking up to heaven, after praying to the Father, he himself divided the two fish and the five loaves in order and loaded the tables with rich food. And now the people lay satisfied (wonderful to say), and then the servants gathered the leftovers from the tables and filled the folds of twelve baskets with fragments. The number of those who ate was five thousand men, and besides them there was a crowd of mothers and children. Then he ordered the disciples to board the ship and cross the strait while he sent all the men away, each to his home. Then he went up to the heights of the mountain and there, alone, adored the name of the Father. And now all things lay numb in the sleeping night, while the ship furrowed the waves in the middle of the sea, tossed by the opposing blast of a rising wind. ### Scripture references - Matt 14:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:24: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 14:15–24. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.77 (CSEL 24:82lines 77–99–83; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-77). ## Book 3, lines 100–124 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-100 - Source: CSEL 24:83lines 100–124–84 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus walks on the water; Peter walks, doubts, sinks and is rescued. ### Latin text Ast ubi iam uigilum quarta statione premebat Noctis iter rapidos attollens lucifer ortus, Fluctibus in liquidis sicco uestigia gressu Suspensus carpebat iter — mirabile uisu —! Iamque propinquabat puppi, sed nescia nautae Attoniti tremulo uibrabant corda pauore Clamoremque simul confusa mente dederunt. Tum pauidis Christus loquitur: 'Timor omnis abesto, Credentumque regat uegetans constantia mentem. En ego sum, uestrae doctorem noscite lucis.' Olli confidens respondit talia Petrus: 'Si tua nos uere dignatur uisere uirtus, Me pariter permitte tuo super aequora iussu Fluctibus in liquidis inmersos figere gressus.' Adnuit his Dominus; nauem mox linquere Petrus Audet et innixus figit uestigia ponto. Verum ubi tantarum mentem miracula rerum Terrificant uentique minas crebrescere cernit, Paulatim cedunt dubio liquefacta timore Quae ualidum fidei gestabant aequora robur. Iamque Simon medio submersus corpore clamat: 'Fluctibus horrendis pereuntem diripe, Christe!' Dextera confestim protenditur obuia Petro, Et dubitata fides uerbis mulcatur amaris Ascensaeque rati contraria flamina cedunt. ### English translation (Claude) But when, in the fourth watch of the night, the morning star was pressing on the night's course and lifting up its swift rising, he made his way, upheld, over the liquid waves with dry steps (wonderful to see!). And now he was drawing near the ship; but the sailors, astonished and not knowing him, felt their hearts quiver with trembling fear and cried out with confused minds. Then Christ spoke to them in their fear: "Let all fear be gone, and let a living constancy rule the minds of those who believe. See, it is I; know the teacher of your light." Peter, confident, answered him: "If your power truly deigns to visit us, allow me too, at your command, to plant my steps on the liquid waves above the sea." The Lord agreed; soon Peter dared to leave the ship and, leaning on the sea, planted his footsteps on it. But when the wonder of such great things terrified his mind and he saw the threats of the winds growing stronger, little by little the waters that had borne the strong power of faith gave way, melted by doubtful fear. And now Simon, sunk to the middle of his body, cried out: "Snatch me from the dreadful waves, Christ, I am perishing!" At once a right hand was stretched out to meet Peter; his doubting faith was punished with bitter words, and when they had climbed aboard the boat, the contrary winds gave way. ### Scripture references - Matt 14:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:32: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 14:25–32. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.100 (CSEL 24:83lines 100–124–84; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-100). ## Book 3, lines 125–149 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-125 - Source: CSEL 24:84lines 125–149–85 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The disciples worship; healings at Gennesaret; the dispute about washing hands and the tradition of the elders. ### Latin text Praesentemque Dei subolem stupuere rogantes Cuncti, nauigio socios quos casus habebat. Transierat tandem sulcans freta feruida puppis Optatumque grauis conprenderat ancora portum. Conueniunt populi rapido per litora cursu Portantes aegros uestisque attingere fila Extrema exoptant — mirumque — hoc munere cuncti Credentes referunt plenam per membra salutem. Ecce Pharisaei scribaeque hinc inde dolosi Captantes Christum promunt fallacia dicta: 'Cur tua discipulos patitur doctrina labare Praeceptis ueterum? manibus nam cura lauandis Praeteriit, sumuntque simul cum sordibus escas.' Ille sub haec fatur: 'Magis hoc est quaerere dignum, Transgressi praecepta Dei quod proditis omnes. Namque Deus mortem defixa lege minatur, Si genitor cuiquam uerbo laedatur amaro. Vel genetrix nati dictis pulsetur acerbis. Inrita uos istaec facitis peruersa docendo. Quam manifesta uigent de uobis dicta profetae: Me populus summis labiis sublimat honore, Sed diuersa procul cordis secreta pererrant. Accipite ergo omnes auresque aduertite cordis: Non inlata homini fuerint quaecumque, pudendis Sordibus aspergent uitaeue animoue sedebunt. ### English translation (Claude) All whom chance had made companions on the boat were amazed and entreated him as the offspring of God present among them. At last the ship had crossed, furrowing the boiling straits, and the heavy anchor had taken hold of the longed-for harbour. The peoples gathered along the shore at a run, carrying the sick, and longed to touch the outermost threads of his garment; and, wonderful to say, by this gift all who believed carried back full health through their limbs. See, Pharisees and deceitful scribes from here and there, trying to catch Christ, brought out deceitful words: "Why does your teaching allow your disciples to fall away from the precepts of the ancients? For they neglect the care of washing their hands and take their food with dirt." He answered: "It is more fitting to ask this: why you all transgress and betray the precepts of God. For God threatens death by a fixed law if anyone hurts his father with a bitter word or strikes his mother with harsh words. You make these void by teaching perverse things. How plainly the prophet's words about you hold good: This people raises me in honour with the tips of its lips, but the secret places of the heart wander far in another direction. Hear, then, all of you, and turn the ears of your heart: whatever is brought into a man will not sprinkle him with shameful filth nor settle in his life or mind. ### Scripture references - Matt 14:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:4: allusion, high confidence - Exod 21:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:8: allusion, high confidence - Isa 29:13: quotation, high confidence - Matt 15:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:11: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 14:33–15:11; the law: Exod 21:17; the prophet: Isa 29:13. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.125 (CSEL 24:84lines 125–149–85; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-125). ## Book 3, lines 150–173 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-150 - Source: CSEL 24:85lines 150–173–86 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Plants not planted by the Father; blind guides; what comes from the heart defiles. ### Latin text Erumpunt hominum sed quae penetralibus oris, Internam misere maculabunt edita mentem.' Discipuli Christo memorant, quod uerba loquentis Occulto traherent scribarum pectora risu. Ille dehinc: 'Genitor plantarum semina noster Quae non ipse sui conseuit in aequore ruris, Abiciet penitus radicibus eruta longe. Caecum forte ducem caecus si nactus oberret, Decidet in foueam pariter dimersus uterque.' Tunc petit absolui Petrus, quid quaestio uellet, Ipse Pharisaeis quam mox scribisque dedisset. Tum sator aeternae respondit talia uitae: 'Vos etiam duro discluditis omnia corde Iussa nec admittit mentis dubitatio lucem. Nam quaecumque hominum ueniunt extrinsecus ori, In uentrem cedunt animoque incognita currunt. Quae uero interno concepta e pectore promunt Ora hominum, mentem possunt aspergine labis Polluere inmundoque hominem maculare piaclo. Secreto cordis promuntur noxia uitae Consilia et caedes et furta nefanda tororum Et fraudes fallaxque hominum pro testibus error Et rapidae caelum pulsans uaesania uocis. Haec sunt quae maculant hominem, quae sordibus inplent. ### English translation (Claude) But what bursts out from the inner places of men's mouths, once uttered, will wretchedly stain the inner mind." The disciples told Christ that the scribes had received his words with hidden laughter in their hearts. He said: "Our Father will throw far away, torn up by the roots, the seeds of plants that he himself did not sow in the plain of his field. If a blind man wanders, having by chance found a blind guide, both will fall together, plunged into the pit." Then Peter asked to have explained what the riddle meant that he had just given to the Pharisees and scribes. Then the sower of eternal life answered: "You too shut out all commands with a hard heart, and the doubt of your mind does not let in the light. For whatever comes into men's mouths from outside passes into the belly and runs on without the mind's knowledge. But what men's mouths bring out, conceived in the inner heart, can pollute the mind with a sprinkling of stain and defile the man with unclean guilt. From the secret of the heart come out harmful counsels of life, murders, the abominable thefts of the marriage bed, frauds, the deceitful error of men as witnesses, and the madness of a rash voice beating against heaven. These are what stain a man, what fill him with filth. ### Scripture references - Matt 15:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:20: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 15:11–20. 'The abominable thefts of the marriage bed' renders adulteries (Matt 15:19). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.150 (CSEL 24:85lines 150–173–86; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-150). ## Book 3, lines 174–198 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-174 - Source: CSEL 24:86lines 174–198–87 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The Canaanite woman's faith and her daughter's healing; Jesus returns to Galilee. ### Latin text Inlotis autem manibus non polluit umquam Corporis arbitrio terrenum sumere uictum.' Haec ubi dicta dedit, pulcherrima rura Syrorum Sidonemque Tyrumque petit: cum femina fusis Crinibus et precibus natam causata iacentem Voluitur et tacitum non desinit anxia Christum Orare, ut mentem uexatam daemone saeuo Redderet et miserae tandem resipire liceret. Tunc etiam precibus sectantum discipulorum Respondit, proprias genitoris malle bidentes Cogere, quas uanus late disperserat error. Crebrius instanti tum talia fatur Iesus: 'Natis quisque suis panem non detrahet umquam Et canibus iaciet.' Tum talia femina fatur: 'Micarum saltem canibus sua portio mensae Decidit et nihilo dominorum cena grauatur.' Tum Dominus loquitur: 'Veniant tibi digna salutis Praemia, quae fidei meruerunt robora tantae.' Talia saluator uerbis caelestibus edit Virginis et mentem discusso daemone uirtus Conplexam inpleuit donis fecunda salutis. Inde Galilaeas repedat seruator in oras Praecelsique procul montis consedit in arce. Haut mora, conueniunt populi secumque trahebant Pars captos oculis et crurum debile uulgus. ### English translation (Claude) But to take earthly food as the body pleases, with unwashed hands, never pollutes." When he had said this, he went to the most beautiful lands of the Syrians, to Sidon and Tyre; and a woman with loosened hair, pleading with prayers for her daughter who lay sick, threw herself down and in her anxiety did not stop begging Christ, who kept silent, to restore the mind vexed by a savage demon and to let the poor girl at last come to her senses. Then, in answer to the prayers of the disciples following him, he said that he preferred to gather the Father's own sheep, which vain error had scattered far and wide. Then, as she pressed him more often, Jesus said: "No one will ever take bread from his own children and throw it to dogs." Then the woman said: "At least a share of crumbs from the table falls to the dogs, and the masters' dinner is in no way burdened." Then the Lord said: "Let the worthy rewards of salvation come to you, which the strength of such great faith has earned." So the Saviour spoke with heavenly words, and the fruitful power, striking out the demon, filled the girl's mind, which it embraced, with the gifts of health. From there the Saviour returned to the region of Galilee and sat down far off on the height of a lofty mountain. Without delay the peoples came together, bringing with them some deprived of their eyes, and a crowd weak in their legs, ### Scripture references - Matt 15:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:30: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 15:20–30. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.174 (CSEL 24:86lines 174–198–87; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-174). ## Book 3, lines 199–223 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-199 - Source: CSEL 24:87lines 199–223–88 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Many healed; the feeding of the four thousand; Pharisees and Sadducees ask for a sign. ### Latin text Elinguesque alios morbique uocabula mille. Omnibus ille tamen languores dempsit amaros, Viribus et ualidis uenerando munere donat. Tum populi pariter miracula tanta frequentant Aeternoque patri laudes gratesque celebrant. Discipulos Christus cogens in uertice montis Secreto adloquitur: 'Plebis miseratio multa est, Tertia nam terris remeant iam lumina solis, Ex quo nulla sibi sumunt alimenta ciborum; Ieiunam nolim tantam dimittere plebem, Ne labor adficiat populos per longa uiantes.' Discipuli Christo ostendunt septem sibi panes Esse et pisciculos alimenta ad proxima paucos. Tum populum iussit terrae per terga cubare, Quodque fuit totum propriis discerpere palmis; Et cunctae curat mensatim dedere plebi. Discipuli ponunt epulas populusque repletur Ad satiem dapibus; relegunt mox fragmina panis Et sportas referunt cumulato pondere septem. Quattuor ex omni fuerant tum milia plebe Nec numero quisquam matres puerosque notauit. Inde Magedarum naui transcurrit in oras. Ecce Pharisaei Sadducaeique dolosi Poscere temptantes instant caelestia signa. Sed Christus cernens fallacia pectora fatur: ### English translation (Claude) and others without speech, and diseases of a thousand names. Yet he took away the bitter sicknesses of all, and gave them strong health as a venerable gift. Then the peoples together thronged to such great wonders and celebrated praise and thanks to the eternal Father. Christ gathered the disciples on the top of the mountain and spoke to them in private: "Great is my pity for the people, for the third light of the sun is already returning to the lands since they have taken any food; I would not wish to send so great a people away fasting, lest weariness overcome them as they travel long roads." The disciples showed Christ that they had seven loaves and a few small fish as food at hand. Then he ordered the people to lie down on the ground, and broke all there was with his own hands, and had it given to all the people, table by table. The disciples set out the food, and the people were filled to satiety; soon they gathered the fragments of bread and brought back seven baskets heaped full. There were then four thousand of all the people, and no one counted the mothers and children. From there he crossed by ship to the region of the Magedae. See, the Pharisees and the deceitful Sadducees pressed him, testing him, to demand signs from heaven. But Christ, seeing their deceitful hearts, said: ### Scripture references - Matt 15:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 15:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:1: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 15:30–16:1. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.199 (CSEL 24:87lines 199–223–88; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-199). ## Book 3, lines 224–244 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-224 - Source: CSEL 24:88lines 224–244–89 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The signs of the sky and the sign of Jonah; beware the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. ### Latin text 'Conuexum quotiens claudit nox humida caelum, Si ruber astrifero procedit uesper Olympo, Dicitis: Adueniet uentura luce serenum. Iamque sub exortu solis ubi tristia rubro Nubila miscentur confusa luce colori, Dicitis, agricolis nautisque uenire fragosam Ventorum rabiem tempestatumque furores. Fallaces, nostis faciem discernere caeli, Saeclorum uero nescitis tempora signis Explorare suis? Sed uobis signa dabuntur, Quae maris inmenso quondam uenere profundo, Belua cum tenuit uentris sub carcere uatem.' Haec ait et propere puppis retinacula soluens Trans freta contendit rapido conprendere cursu Arua Philipporum sociisque haec talia fatur: 'Sollicite uobis uitentur noxia farra Fermentumque ferox!: uestris auertite mensis. Illa Pharisaei Sadducaeique dolosi Admiscent escis falluntque in nomine panis. Cur uobis tacitas uoluit cunctatio mentes? Pro! quam parua fides sensu torpente fatiscit! ### English translation (Claude) "Whenever the moist night closes the vaulted sky, if a red evening comes forth from starry Olympus, you say: Fair weather will come with the coming day. And when at the rising of the sun the gloomy clouds are mixed with red in a confused light, you say that a crashing rage of winds and fury of storms is coming upon farmers and sailors. Deceivers, you know how to discern the face of the sky, but do you not know how to search out the times of the ages by their signs? But signs will be given you, those that came once from the immense depth of the sea, when the beast held the prophet in the prison of its belly." He said this, and quickly loosing the ship's moorings, he hastened across the straits to reach the lands of Philippi on a swift course, and said to his companions: "Take care to avoid harmful grain and fierce leaven: turn them away from your tables. The Pharisees and deceitful Sadducees mix it into food and deceive under the name of bread. Why has hesitation set your silent minds turning? Ah, how small a faith grows faint with dulled understanding! ### Scripture references - Matt 16:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:4: allusion, high confidence - Jonah 1:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:8: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 16:2–8; Jonah: Jonah 1:17. 'Olympus' is the sky. Juvencus already names the lands of (Caesarea) Philippi here. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.224 (CSEL 24:88lines 224–244–89; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-224). ## Book 3, lines 245–268 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-245 - Source: CSEL 24:89lines 245–268–90 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The disciples understand the leaven as teaching; at Caesarea Philippi Jesus asks who people say he is. ### Latin text Dicitis auersi, naui quod tollere panes Non fuerit uobis uacuum farrisque cauendas Insidias iubeam; meminisse et scire putabam, Quod panes quinque plebis mihi milia quinque Inplerint dapibus cophinisque superflua tantis Fragmenta ad cumulum fuerint collecta ciborum, Quattuor et rursum cenantum milia panes Quod facile inplerint septem sportasque referri Vidistis rursus conpletas reliquiarum. Sed moneo istorum semper fermenta cauere.' Discipuli tandem uitalia uerba secuti Doctrinam cernunt fermenti nomine dictam. Inde ubi peruentum liquidi per terga profundi Clara, Philippaeo quae pollent nomine, rura, Cogit concilium sectantum discipulorum. Et quaerit, quem se populorum fama putaret. Respondent multas plebis tunc esse loquellas: Crebrius audisse et multos firmare, quod esset Iustus Iohannes, populos qui flumine lauit. Pars memorat uolucris famae sibi cognita uerba Heliam uenisse iterum, quem praepete curru Turbine caelesti quondam simulata quadrigis Astris inseruit rapidae uis feruida flammae. Hieremiam dixere alii paruisse profetam. ### English translation (Claude) Turned aside, you say that you had no room to take loaves on the ship, and that I am ordering you to beware of the snares of grain. I thought you remembered and knew that five loaves filled five thousand of the people for me, and that from so many baskets the superfluous fragments were collected into a heap of food; and again that seven loaves easily filled four thousand who ate, and that you saw seven baskets brought back, again full of leftovers. But I warn you always to beware of the leaven of these men." The disciples, at last following the words of life, saw that it was their teaching that was meant by the name of leaven. Then, when they had arrived over the liquid deep at the famous lands that bear the name of Philip, he called together the council of his disciples and asked who the report of the peoples thought he was. They answered that there was much talk among the people: they had often heard, and many affirmed, that he was just John, who washed the peoples in the river. Some told of words of swift report they had heard, that Helias had come again, whom long ago the fervent power of a swift flame, in the likeness of a four-horse chariot, set among the stars in a heavenly whirlwind. Others said that the prophet Hieremias had appeared. ### Scripture references - Matt 16:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:14: allusion, high confidence - 2 Kgs 2:11: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 16:7–14. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.245 (CSEL 24:89lines 245–268–90; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-245). ## Book 3, lines 269–292 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/2-475/#p-3-269 - Source: CSEL 24:90lines 269–292–91 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ; the rock, the church and the keys; the first prediction of the passion. ### Latin text Tunc Christus cunctis arridens pectore blando Conquirit, quae sit sententia discipulorum. Sed stabilis Petrus: 'Tu Sancti filius, inquit, Christus, magnifico terras qui lumine conples.' Tum Dominus forti respondit talia Petro: 'Petre beatus eris, nam talia pandere certe Humanus sanguis uel terrae portio corpus Haut umquam poterit. Genitoris munera sola Possunt tam ualidum fidei concedere robur. Tu nomen Petri digna uirtute tueris. Hac in mole mihi saxique in robore ponam Semper mansuras aeternis moenibus aedes. Infernis domus haec non exsuperabile portis Claustrum perpetuo munitum robore habebit; Caelestisque tibi claues permittere regni Est animus; terrisque tuo quae nexa relinques Arbitrio, caelo pariter nodata manebunt; Soluerit et rursus tua quae sententia terris, Haut aliter uenient caeli sub sede soluta. Sed uos discipuli Christum me dicere cunctis Parcite, quo soli cognoscant talia digni. Iam lux adueniet properis mihi cursibus instans, Moenibusque in Solymis rabies cum prona furore Eximios uatum saturabit sanguine nostro. ### English translation (Claude) Then Christ, smiling on them all with a kindly heart, asked what the disciples' opinion was. But steadfast Peter said: "You are the Son of the Holy One, the Christ, who fill the lands with glorious light." Then the Lord answered strong Peter thus: "Peter, you will be blessed, for human blood or the body, a portion of earth, could surely never reveal such things. Only the gifts of the Father can grant so strong a power of faith. You keep the name of Peter with worthy virtue. On this mass, on the strength of this rock, I will set a house that will remain for ever with eternal walls. This house will have a bar that the gates of the underworld cannot overcome, fortified with everlasting strength; and it is my purpose to entrust to you the keys of the heavenly kingdom; and what you leave bound on earth by your decision will remain bound likewise in heaven; and again what your sentence has loosed on earth will be loosed in the same way beneath the seat of heaven. But you, my disciples, refrain from telling everyone that I am the Christ, so that only the worthy may know such things. Now the day will come, pressing on me with swift course, when within the walls of Solyma a headlong madness will in its fury glut the eminent priests with our blood. ### Scripture references - Matt 16:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:21: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 16:15–21. 'The eminent priests' renders eximios uatum. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.269 (CSEL 24:90lines 269–292–91; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-269). ## Book 3, lines 293–319 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-293 - Source: CSEL 24:91lines 293–319–92 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Peter rebuked; taking up the cross; the Son of man will come; Jesus takes three disciples up a mountain. ### Latin text Ast ubi lucifluum reddet sol tertius ortum, Consurget radiis pariter redimita salutis Vita mihi cunctisque dabit sua munera terris.' Tum Petrus magno percussus corda dolore: 'Absint, Christe, tuis, inquit, tam tristia sanctis Monstra procul membris; nec fas est credere tantum, Nec tibi tam durus poterit contingere casus.' Christus ad haec: 'Procul hinc, inquit, procul effuge, daemon. Non diuina tibi mentem prudentia tangit, Sed terrena sapis mollique timore tremiscis. Sed si quis uestrum uestigia nostra sequetur, Abneget ipse sibi corpusque animamque recusans Atque crucem propriam comitatibus addere nostris Gaudeat, amissam redimet cui gloria uitam; Nam seruata perit terris possessio lucis. Sed quid proficient saecli mortalia lucra, Si damnum subeant lucis uitaeque perennis? Vel quae digna queunt animae conmercia poni? Filius huc hominis ueniet sub nomine patris, Caelestesque illum fremitu comitante ministri Stipabunt, reddetque hominum sua debita uitae. Vera loquor: certos istic sub limine lucis Inueniam, caeli fulgens cum regna capessam.' Haec ubi dicta dedit, passus bis terna dierum Lumina conuerso terras transcurrere caelo, Tum secum iubet abruptum conscendere montem Petrum Zebedeique duos per deuia natos. ### English translation (Claude) But when the third sun gives back its light-flowing rising, my life will rise, crowned with the rays of salvation, and will give its gifts to all the lands." Then Peter, his heart struck with great grief, said: "Far be such sad portents, Christ, from your holy limbs; it is not right to believe so much, nor can so hard a fate befall you." Christ answered: "Away from here, away, flee, demon. Divine wisdom does not touch your mind, but you think earthly things and tremble with soft fear. But if any of you will follow our footsteps, let him deny himself, refusing body and soul, and rejoice to add his own cross to our company; glory will redeem for him the life he has lost; for the possession of light kept safe on earth perishes. What will the mortal gains of the world profit, if they bring the loss of light and everlasting life? Or what worthy exchange can be offered for the soul? The Son of man will come here in the name of the Father, and the heavenly ministers will throng about him with roaring accompaniment, and he will repay men's lives what is due. I speak truly: some here I shall find at the threshold of light, when I take up, shining, the kingdom of heaven." When he had said this, he let six days' light pass over the lands as the sky turned, and then ordered Peter and the two sons of Zebedee to climb a steep mountain with him by pathless ways. ### Scripture references - Matt 16:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 16:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:1: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 16:21–17:1. Peter is rebuked as 'demon' (Satan). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.293 (CSEL 24:91lines 293–319–92; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293). ## Book 3, lines 320–346 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-320 - Source: CSEL 24:92lines 320–346–93 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The Transfiguration; the Father's voice; the question about Elijah. ### Latin text Inde ubi peruentum secreti montis in arcem, Continuo Christus faciem fulgore corusco Mutatur, uestemque niuis candore nitescit. Respiciunt comites mediumque adsistere sanctis Heliae Moysique uident. Tum talia Petrus: 'Respice, num nobis potius discedere longe, An istic tantae spectacula cernere molis Conueniat; trino tamen hic tentoria uobis, Si iubeas, frondis faciam diuersa paratu, Singula sub noctem quae uos aulaea receptent.' Talia dum loquitur, caelo praefulgida nubes Circumiecta oculis uestibat lumine montem, Et uox e medio lucis manifesta cucurrit: 'Unicus hic meus est natus, mea summa uoluntas; Huius iustitiam iusto conprendite corde.' Discipuli pauido presserunt corpore terram, Nec prius e prono uultus sustollere casu Audebant, sancto Christi nisi dextera tactu Demulcens blandis firmasset pectora uerbis: 'Surgite et abiectum fortes calcate timorem, Nec cuiquam praesens pandatur uisio uerbis, Ni prius huc hominis suboles speciosa reportet In lucem referens mortis de sede tropaea.' Consurgunt solumque uident et uoce requirunt, Cur scriptis ueterum scribarum factio certet, Heliam primum caeli de sede reuerti In terras Christique dehinc consurgere lucem. ### English translation (Claude) When they reached the summit of the secluded mountain, at once Christ was changed in face with flashing brightness, and his garment shone with the whiteness of snow. His companions looked and saw Helias and Moses standing in the midst with the holy one. Then Peter said: "Consider whether it is better for us to go far away, or to stay here and see the sight of so great a thing; yet, if you command, I will make three tents here for you, each prepared with leaves, as curtains to receive you, each one, at night." While he spoke, a very bright cloud from heaven, cast about their eyes, clothed the mountain with light, and a clear voice ran out from the midst of the light: "This is my only Son, my highest will; grasp his righteousness with a just heart." The disciples pressed the earth with fearful bodies and did not dare to lift their faces from where they had fallen, until the right hand of Christ, soothing them with holy touch, strengthened their hearts with kind words: "Rise, and bravely trample down the fear you have cast off; and let the present vision be told to no one, until the beautiful offspring of man first brings back here into the light trophies from the seat of death." They rose and saw him alone, and asked aloud why the faction of the scribes contends, from the writings of the ancients, that Helias first returns from the seat of heaven to the lands, and then the light of Christ rises. ### Scripture references - Matt 17:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:10: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 17:2–10. Peter's alternative of going away is Juvencus's addition. 'My highest will' renders 'in whom I am well pleased'. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.320 (CSEL 24:92lines 320–346–93; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-320). ## Book 3, lines 347–370 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-347 - Source: CSEL 24:93lines 347–370–94 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Elijah has come in John; the epileptic boy healed after the disciples failed. ### Latin text Christus ad haec: 'Veniet certo sub tempore iussus Helias reddens mox omnia debita saeclo. Sed si quis credit, iam uenerat ante renascens, Ignotum ueluti rabies quem caeca furoris Demersit leto; mox saeuior altera caedes En hominis nato trucibus laniatibus instat.' Haec ait et populum repetit montemque relinquit. Ecce sed inflexis genibus fletuque solutus Vir senior precibus Christum ueneratus adorat: 'Dauidis suboles, hominum lumenque salusque, Te precor, horribilem nati de corpore morbum Proturbes, reddasque seni solacia uitae. Nam cursus lunae natum mihi daemonis arte Torquet et in liquidas deiectum proicit undas, Aut miserum medio proiectum uoluit in igni. Nam tua discipuli sectantes iussa frequenter Conisi nulla in solidum mihi dona dederunt.' Tum Christus magno conmotus corda dolore: O gens nullius fidei, gens effera semper, En etiam patiar uobiscum me fore terris?' Sic ait et puerum mandat perferre parenti Ante suos uultus. Tum uocis pondere multo Incubuit mentisque simul conuulsa uenena Daemonis horrendi purgato corde fugauit. ### English translation (Claude) Christ answered: "Helias, at the bidding, will come at a set time, soon restoring to the world all that is owed. But, if anyone believes it, he had already come before, born again, whom, as one unknown, the blind rage of fury plunged into death; soon another, more savage slaughter, see, presses upon the Son of man with fierce tearing." He said this, went back to the people, and left the mountain. But see, an older man, on bended knees and dissolved in tears, worshipped Christ with prayers and adored him: "Offspring of David, light and salvation of men, I pray you, drive the horrible disease out of my son's body and give an old man back the comforts of life. For the course of the moon, by a demon's art, tortures my son and throws him down into the liquid waters, or rolls the poor boy, thrown into the midst of the fire. Your disciples, following your commands, often tried but gave me no lasting help." Then Christ, his heart moved with great grief, said: "O nation without any faith, nation ever savage, see, shall I endure to be with you on earth still?" So he spoke, and commanded the boy to be brought by his father before his face. Then he bore down on him with great weight of voice, and, cleansing his heart, drove off the convulsing poisons of the horrible demon from his mind. ### Scripture references - Matt 17:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:13: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 17:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:18: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 17:11–18. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.347 (CSEL 24:93lines 347–370–94; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-347). ## Book 3, lines 371–394 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-371 - Source: CSEL 24:94lines 371–394–95 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Faith like a mustard seed; prayer and fasting; the temple tax and the coin in the fish. ### Latin text Discipuli rogitant, cur non successerit illis Eiusdem pueri totiens temptata medella. Respondit Dominus: 'Labat quia pectore uestro Instabilis fidei nutans per lubrica gressus. Nam si certa foret credendi portio uobis, Instar quae minimi possit praestare sinapis, Istius hinc montis possetis uellere uerbo Inque alias sedes cunctam transuoluere molem. Nam genus hoc morbi precibus sine fine fidesque Multaque robusti ieiunia pectoris arcent.' Inde Cafarnaum gradiens peruenit ad oras. Conuenere Petrum, quibus instat cura tributi, Soluere poscentes solitum pro nomine Christi. Ille sed ad Petrum conuersus talia fatur: 'Dic, inquit, reges quorum dependere natos Externos propriosne sibi iussere tributa?' Respondit Petrus: 'Alienos soluere certum est. 'Cernis, ait Christus, natum non soluere regis; Sed ne quem laedam, praeceptum suscipe nostrum: En maris undisoni rupes quae prodit in altum Scandatur tibi summa, Simon, hamusque profundo Stamine saetarum conexus praecipitetur. Haeserit et curuo qui primus acumine piscis, Huius pandantur scissi penetralia uentris; ### English translation (Claude) The disciples asked why the healing of the same boy, attempted so often, had not succeeded for them. The Lord answered: "Because in your heart the wavering step of unstable faith slips on slippery ground. For if you had a sure share of belief, even one that could equal the smallest mustard seed, you could by a word pluck up the mass of this mountain from here and roll it all over to another place. For this kind of disease is kept off by unceasing prayers, by faith, and by the many fasts of a strong heart." From there he went on and came to the region of Capharnaum. Those charged with collecting the tribute met Peter and demanded that he pay the customary sum on behalf of Christ. But Christ turned to Peter and said: "Tell me, from whom have kings ordered tribute to be paid them: from foreign sons or from their own?" Peter answered: "It is certain that foreigners pay." "You see," said Christ, "that the king's son does not pay; but so that I may offend no one, take our command: see, climb, Simon, the highest rock of the wave-sounding sea that juts out into the deep, and throw down into the deep a hook tied to a line of bristles. And the first fish that clings to the curved point, cut open its belly and open its inner parts; ### Scripture references - Matt 17:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 17:27: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 17:19–27. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.371 (CSEL 24:94lines 371–394–95; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-371). ## Book 3, lines 395–420 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-395 - Source: CSEL 24:95lines 395–420–96 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Greatness like a child's; woe to those who cause the little ones to stumble; the lost sheep; correcting a brother. ### Latin text Illic inuentum duplex dissolue tributum.' Discipuli post inde rogant, quis maximus alto In caeli regno meritis pro qualibus esset. Tum Christus medio puerum consistere coetu Praecipit et placido doctor sermone profatur: 'Quisque cupit celsam caeli conscendere sedem, Istius en pueri similem se moribus aptet. Erroris laqueos saeclis increscere certum est, Sed tamen infelix, per quem generabitur error. Qui uero e paruis istis deceperit ullum, Si sapiat, nectat saxo sua colla molari Praecipitemque maris sese iaculetur in undas. Nec quisquam fastu paruos contempserit istos. Horum custodes caelesti in sede tuentur Altithroni uultum genitoris sidera supra. Sed si quis pastor, cui pascua credita tondent Centum balantes, unam cum forte seorsum Nescius error habet, quaesitor deserit omnes Unius et totis lustrat uestigia siluis, Illam si magno possit reperire labore; Laetitia inuentae maior tum nascitur agnae, Quam pro cunctarum numero, quod nulla resedit. Ex istis paruis genitor sic perdere quemquam Non patitur gaudetque suis increscere regnis.' 'Si fratrem proprium delicto conmaculatum Cernis, secretum mox dictis corripe solus. ### English translation (Claude) pay the double tribute you find there." After that the disciples asked who was greatest in the high kingdom of heaven, and for what merits. Then Christ ordered a boy to stand in the middle of the company and, as teacher, spoke calmly: "Whoever desires to climb to the high seat of heaven, see, let him shape his ways to be like this boy. It is certain that the snares of error grow in the world, but unhappy is he through whom error is brought about. Whoever deceives any of these little ones, if he is wise, let him tie a millstone to his neck and hurl himself headlong into the waves of the sea. Let no one despise these little ones in his pride. Their guardians in the heavenly seat look upon the face of the high-throned Father above the stars. If any shepherd, whose hundred bleating sheep crop the pastures entrusted to him, finds that one has wandered off, unknowing, he leaves them all and seeks it, tracing the footsteps of the one through all the woods, if with great labour he can find it; then greater joy arises over the lamb that is found than over the whole number of those that did not stray. So the Father does not allow any of these little ones to perish, and rejoices that they grow in his kingdom. If you see your own brother stained with a fault, soon rebuke him in words, in private, alone. ### Scripture references - Matt 17:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:15: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 17:27–18:15. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.395 (CSEL 24:95lines 395–420–96; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-395). ## Book 3, lines 421–444 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-421 - Source: CSEL 24:96lines 421–444–97 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Church discipline in stages; Christ present where two or three gather; forgiving without limit; the unforgiving servant begins. ### Latin text Si tua uerborum patiens moderamina laudat, Labentis mentem frater lucrabere fratris. Sin tua solius contemnit uerba relinquens, Tunc alios pariter monitor pia iussa frequentet. Sed si discutiet doctorum frena duorum, Tunc ad concilium referantur crimina plenum, Ut populi saltem sanetur pondere uictus. Sin et multorum contempserit efferus ora, Sit tibi diuersae multatus nomine gentis. Namque in concilium semper praesentia nostra Adueniet mediumque duum me stare necesse est, Siue trium fuerit coetus sub nomine nostro.' Tum Petrus quaerit, quot fratri errata remittat, Vel septem lapsus hominum si forte liceret. Christus prosequitur: 'Non septem crimina tantum, Sed decuplata super donentur uulnera fratri.' 'Nam caeli regnum domini praediuitis aulae Consimile est, nummi rationem qui sibi poni Iusserit et seruum debentem multa talenta Praecipit abreptum cum coniuge progenieque Atque opibus cunctis uenali nomine sisti. Tum seruus dominum prostrato corpore adorat Et spondet, spatii sibi si foret ulla facultas, Omnem nummorum domino dissoluere summam. ### English translation (Claude) If he accepts your words of guidance patiently and approves them, you will win, brother, the mind of your falling brother. But if he leaves and despises your words when you are alone, then let the admonisher repeat the devout commands together with others. But if he shakes off the reins of two teachers, then let his faults be brought before the full assembly, so that, overcome at least by the weight of the people, he may be healed. But if in his savagery he despises the voices of many as well, let him be to you as one punished under the name of a foreign nation. For our presence will always come into the assembly, and I must stand in the midst of two, or of a company of three, gathered in our name." Then Peter asked how many faults he should forgive his brother, whether perhaps he might forgive the lapses of men seven times. Christ went on: "Not seven faults only, but let his brother's wounds be forgiven ten times more besides. For the kingdom of heaven is like the court of a very rich lord, who ordered an account of his money to be drawn up, and commanded a slave who owed many talents to be seized and set out for sale with his wife and children and all his property. Then the slave threw himself down and adored his lord, and promised, if he had any time allowed, to pay the whole sum of money to his lord. ### Scripture references - Matt 18:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:26: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 18:15–26. 'Ten times more besides' renders 'seventy times seven' (or 'seventy-seven times'). 'Assembly' renders concilium (the church of Matt 18:17). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.421 (CSEL 24:96lines 421–444–97; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-421). ## Book 3, lines 445–470 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-445 - Source: CSEL 24:97lines 445–470–98 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The end of the unforgiving servant; Jesus goes to Judaea; the Pharisees ask whether a man may divorce his wife for any cause; the creation of male and female. ### Latin text Conmouit dominum famuli miseratio flentis Cunctaque trans meritum concessit debita seruo. Ille sed egrediens conseruum limine in ipso Nactus constringit; tum debita fortior urget Persolui precibusque locum truculentus abegit, Carceris et mersum tenebris poenisque premebat. Quae postquam dominus famulorum noscere uerbis Incipit, adducto ingessit iustissima seruo Dicta dolens iramque mouet iussisque seueris In tormenta ferum detrusit cuncta reuoluens Debita, dum dignis lueret per uincula poenis. Sic uobis faciet genitor, qui culmina caeli Possidet, inmites saeuo si pectore fratrum Peccata orantum dure punire uoletis.' Talia dicta dedit; Galilaeaeque arua reliquit Iudaeamque petit, qua pinguia rura silenter Agmine Iordanes uiridis perrumpit amoeno. Nec minus in stratis aegros donare salute, Sublimisque patris concedere munera praestat. Ecce Pharisaei temptantes quaerere pergunt, Coniugis an liceat reiectum scindere uinclum, Quicquid erit, laesi tangit quod corda mariti. Haec ubi percepit, depromit talia Christus: 'Principio Deus in terris par dispare sexu Constituit iussitque uno de corpore necti Amborumque animas iunctis inolescere membris. ### English translation (Claude) Pity for the weeping servant moved the lord, and beyond his desert he forgave the slave all his debts. But he went out, found a fellow slave on the very threshold, and seized him; then, being stronger, he pressed him to pay his debts, truculently refused any place to prayers, and kept him plunged in the darkness of prison and punishment. When the lord began to learn of this from the words of his servants, he had the slave brought and, grieving, heaped most just words on him; he was moved to anger and with severe commands thrust the savage man into torments, reviving all his debts, until he should pay them in chains with deserved punishment. So the Father, who possesses the heights of heaven, will do to you, if with savage and unmerciful hearts you choose to punish harshly the sins of brothers who entreat you." He said these words, left the fields of Galilee and went to Judaea, where the green Jordan silently breaks through the rich lands in its pleasant course. There too he excelled no less in giving health to the sick along the roads and in granting the gifts of the lofty Father. See, the Pharisees went on to question him, testing him, whether it is lawful to cut the bond of a rejected wife for whatever it may be that touches the heart of an offended husband. When he understood this, Christ answered: "In the beginning God set on earth a pair of unlike sex, and ordered them to be joined from one body, and the souls of both to grow together into joined limbs. ### Scripture references - Matt 18:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 18:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:5: allusion, high confidence - Gen 1:27: allusion, high confidence - Gen 2:24: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 18:27–19:5; Gen 1:27; 2:24. 'For whatever it may be that touches the heart of an offended husband' renders 'for any cause' (Matt 19:3). 'Along the roads' renders in stratis, which might also mean 'on their beds'. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.445 (CSEL 24:97lines 445–470–98; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-445). ## Book 3, lines 471–497 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-471 - Source: CSEL 24:98lines 471–497–99 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: What God joined, man must not separate; Moses permitted divorce for hardness of heart; whoever dissolves a marriage and takes another wife commits adultery; the disciples' objection; eunuchs for the kingdom; Jesus blesses the children. ### Latin text Quod Deus ergo iubet proprio concrescere uerbo, Inlicitum est hominum foedo secernere luxu. Moyses praecepit, quod pectora dura uideret, Scribere discidium, quo saxea corda reuinci Per proprios apices possent sub iudice flamma. Nam temere exsoluet casti qui iura cubilis Alteraque illius thalamis sociabitur uxor, Crimen adulterii populo sub teste subibit.' Discipuli referunt: 'Urget lex ista uirorum Seruitiique premit non aequo pondere partem, Ut melius fuerit thalamis caruisse perosis.' Respondit Dominus: 'Non omnes pondere tanto Subicient umeros, lectae sunt talia dona Virtutis. Trino truncantur corpora more, Quae nulla gaudent genitali lege tororum. Namque alios tales progigni in luminis oras Conperimus; plerosque hominum uis ferrea sexu Exuit; atque alios ipsos sibi demere constat Pro caeli regnis pronum de pectore amorem. Quisque capax fuerit, celsa uirtute capessat, Quod paucis lectisque Deus uult pandere munus.' Haec ait et pueros, quos gaudens cura parentum Cum precibus laetis certatim hinc inde ferebat, Suscipit et plebem sectantum, quod prohiberet, Increpat ac tales adfirmat regna mereri Aulae caelestis. Sanctas his ordine palmas Inponit redditque ulnis portare parentum. ### English translation (Claude) What God, then, commands by his own word to grow together, it is unlawful to separate through the foul self-indulgence of men. Moses commanded, because he saw hard hearts, that a bill of divorce be written, so that stony hearts might be convicted by their own letters before the flame of the Judge. For whoever rashly dissolves the rights of the chaste bed, and another wife is joined to his bridal chamber, will incur the charge of adultery, with the people as witness." The disciples answered: "This law bears hard on men and presses one side with an unequal weight of servitude, so that it would be better to have done without the hated bridal chamber." The Lord answered: "Not all will put their shoulders under so great a weight; such gifts belong to a chosen virtue. Bodies are cut off in three ways from enjoying the law of generation in marriage. For we know that some are born such into the shores of light; iron force strips many men of their sex; and it is clear that others take away from themselves, for the kingdom of heaven, the downward love from their heart. Whoever is able, let him take it up with lofty virtue, a gift which God wills to open to a few, the chosen." So he spoke; and the children, whom the glad care of their parents was bringing from every side, eagerly and with glad prayers, he received, and rebuked the following crowd for forbidding them, and declared that such deserve the kingdom of the heavenly hall. In order he laid his holy hands on them and gave them back to be carried in their parents' arms. ### Scripture references - Matt 19:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:8: allusion, high confidence - Deut 24:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:15: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 19:6–15. Juvencus's rendering of Matt 19:9 has no exception clause: in place of 'except for sexual immorality' it says 'rashly' (temere); whether 'rashly' is meant to stand for the exception is uncertain. The judgment of hard hearts 'by their own letters before the flame of the Judge' is his interpretation of the bill of divorce (Deut 24:1). His third kind of eunuchs remove 'the downward love from their heart', not a bodily mutilation. Translated as written. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.471 (CSEL 24:98lines 471–497–99; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-471). ## Book 3, lines 498–521 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-498 - Source: CSEL 24:99lines 498–521–100 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The rich young man asks about eternal life, is told the commandments and to sell all and follow, and goes away sad. ### Latin text Ecce sed e populo iuuenis, cui rura domusque Et gaza exstabat, rerum possessio fulgens, Accedit Christumque palam submissus adorat: 'O bone praeceptor, dic nunc, quae facta sequamur, Ut mihi perpetuam liceat conprendere uitam?' His auctor uitae tum talia reddit Iesus: 'Nunc demum quaeris, ueteri quae lege tenentur? Non hominis perimes uitam, non furta tororum Inuades, quaestumue alienis noxia rebus Mens aut dextra leget, non testis falsa loqueris. Sit genitor genetrixque tuo sublimis honore, Proximus et frater pro te tibi cedat amore.' Ille dehinc: 'Istaec semper mihi perpete cura Obseruata reor, sed ne quid forte relictum Desit, praesenti liceat me uoce moneri.' Tum Christus fatur: 'Nunc si perfecta requiris Prendere praecelsis meritis fastigia uitae, Omnia, quae proprio retines solus dominatu, Distrahe et ad miseros confer securus egentes. Tum thesaurus erit caeli tibi conditus arce Virtutisque tenax uestigia nostra sequeris. Haec adolescentis ueniunt ubi dicta per aures, Deiecit uultum tristisque in tecta refugit. Tum sic discipulis uitae spes unica fatur: ### English translation (Claude) But see, from the crowd came a young man who had fields and a house and treasure, a shining wealth of possessions; he approached and, bowing low, openly worshipped Christ: "O good teacher, tell me now what deeds I should follow, so that I may lay hold of everlasting life." To this Jesus, the author of life, replied: "Do you only now ask what is held in the ancient law? You will not destroy a man's life; you will not invade the marriage bed by theft; your mind or your right hand will not gather gain from harm to others' goods; you will not speak as a false witness. Let your father and mother be high in your honour, and let your neighbour and brother receive your love as you love yourself." He then said: "These I believe I have always kept with constant care; but lest anything perhaps left undone be lacking, let me be advised by your voice now." Then Christ said: "Now, if you seek to reach the perfect heights of life by lofty merits, sell everything you hold under your own sole ownership, and give it without care to the wretched poor. Then you will have treasure stored in the citadel of heaven, and holding fast to virtue you will follow our footsteps." When these words came to the young man's ears, he cast down his face and fled sadly home. Then the only hope of life spoke thus to his disciples: ### Scripture references - Matt 19:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:19: allusion, high confidence - Exod 20:13: allusion, medium confidence - Lev 19:18: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 19:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:23: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 19:16–23; the commandments: Exod 20:12–16; Lev 19:18. Juvencus omits the question 'Why do you call me good?' (Matt 19:17). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.498 (CSEL 24:99lines 498–521–100; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-498). ## Book 3, lines 522–547 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-522 - Source: CSEL 24:100lines 522–547–101 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The camel and the needle; with God salvation is possible; the apostles will sit on twelve thrones; a hundredfold reward. ### Latin text 'Difficile est terris adfixos diuite gaza Auelli caelique leues in regna uenire. Nam citius tenuis per acus transire foramen Deformis poterunt inmania membra cameli, Quam queat ut diues caelestia regna uidere.' Talibus attoniti comites stupidique silebant, Voluentes quae tanta foret sub pectore uirtus Humano, talem possit quae prendere uitam. Respicit aeternae iustorum gloria uitae Atque ait: Haec homini forsan uideantur acerba, Sed Deus electis facilem praepandit in aethra Possibilemque uiam, uirtus quam celsa capessat.' Tum Petrus fidei munitus moenibus infit: 'Omnia nostrorum proiecta reliquimus olim, Et tua iussa sequi nobis spes unica restat. Quid nostris animis superest? Dic, Christe, precamur.' Talibus ad Petrum uerbis respondit Iesus: 'Vos quicumque meum mentis penetralibus altis Credentes seruatis iter, cum sederit alte Progenies hominis, celso quem cinget honore Maiestas, bis sex illic pulcherrima uirtus Constituet uobis sublimi in uertice sedes, Iudiciumque hominum pariter tractare licebit. Hic quicumque sui linquet generisque domusque Gazas adfectusque omnes pro nomine nostro, Centiplicata dehinc capiet uitamque perennem. ### English translation (Claude) "It is hard for those fastened to the earth by rich treasure to be torn away and come, lightened, into the kingdom of heaven. For the huge limbs of the ugly camel could pass through the slender eye of a needle sooner than a rich man could see the heavenly kingdom." At such words his companions, astonished and dumbfounded, were silent, wondering what power could be in a human heart great enough to lay hold of such a life. The glory of the eternal life of the just looked at them and said: "These things may perhaps seem harsh to man; but God opens to the chosen an easy and possible way into heaven, which lofty virtue may take." Then Peter, fortified by the walls of faith, began: "Long ago we threw away and left all that was ours, and the only hope left to us is to follow your commands. What remains for our souls? Tell us, Christ, we pray." Jesus answered Peter with these words: "All you who, believing in the deep inner places of the mind, keep to my way: when the offspring of man sits on high, girded by majesty with lofty honour, there a most beautiful power will set up for you twelve seats on the sublime summit, and you will be allowed likewise to deal out the judgment of men. And whoever here leaves the treasures and all the loved ones of his family and house for our name will receive a hundredfold thereafter, and everlasting life. ### Scripture references - Matt 19:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 19:29: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 19:23–29. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.522 (CSEL 24:100lines 522–547–101; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-522). ## Book 3, lines 548–571 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-548 - Source: CSEL 24:101lines 548–571–102 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The first will be last; the parable of the labourers in the vineyard. ### Latin text Primorum meritum postremi transgredientur, Ultima praeteriti capient uix praemia primi.' 'Sedulus ut ruris dominus, cui dulcia fundum Pinguibus in campis late uineta coronant; Hic ubi progressus primo cum lumine solis, Conduxit iuuenum fortissima robora pactus Unius in lucis certa mercede laborem, Et sua tum iussit cultu uineta polire. Ipse sed egrediens, ubi tertia uenerat hora, Inuenit ecce alios operique adcrescere iussit, Pro meritis operis promittens praemia digna; Illi non aliter laeti praecepta sequuntur. Ast ubi sexta dehinc lucis transfluxerat hora, Haut secus hinc alios iuuenes conducere pergit. Horaque nona dehinc ubi solis cursibus acta est, Tunc alios pariter conductos iussit adire. Ultima labentis restabat portio lucis: Egressus cernit iuuenes causasque requirit, Cur pigris manibus torperent otia lenta. Aiunt, conductoris quod praecepta fuissent Nulla sibi. Dominus mox hos insistere ruri Tunc etiam iussit. Sed uespere protinus orto Praecipit, ut cuncti caperent mercedis honorem Aequalique omnes portarent praemia nummo. ### English translation (Claude) The last will pass beyond the merit of the first, and the first, passed by, will scarcely receive the last rewards. As a diligent lord of an estate, whose farm is crowned far and wide with sweet vineyards in rich fields, went out at the first light of the sun and hired the strongest young men, agreeing on a fixed wage for one day's labour, and then ordered them to dress his vineyards; but going out himself when the third hour had come, see, he found others and ordered them to join the work, promising worthy rewards for the merits of the work; and they gladly followed his orders in the same way. And when the sixth hour of the day had flowed by, he went on likewise to hire other young men. And when the ninth hour had then been driven on by the sun's course, he ordered others, hired in the same way, to go in. The last portion of the slipping day remained: he went out, saw young men, and asked why they grew numb in slow leisure with idle hands. They said that no hirer had given them any orders. Then the lord soon ordered these too to set to work in the field. But as soon as evening came, he commanded that all should receive the honour of the wage and all carry away the reward of an equal coin. ### Scripture references - Matt 19:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:9: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 19:30–20:10. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.548 (CSEL 24:101lines 548–571–102; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-548). ## Book 3, lines 572–595 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-572 - Source: CSEL 24:102lines 572–595–103 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The grumbling labourers; many called, few chosen; the third prediction of the passion; the request of Zebedee's wife. ### Latin text Tunc manus illa uirum, prima quae luce laborem Sustulerat factisque diem tolerauerat aequum, Indignans secum tali cum murmure fatur: Iniustum est, istis similem nos quaerere nummum, Ultima quos operis sero coniunxerat hora. Tum dominus ruris sedato pectore fatur: Inlibata tibi mercedis portio saluae Redditur et pacti seruantur iura fidelis. Istis de nostro liceat concedere tantum, Extima quos operis glomerauit portio ruri. Nam multos homines dignatio sancta uocauit, E quis perminimam dignum est secernere partem.' Haec ait et Solymos repetit comitesque seorsum Adloquitur solisque iteris regionibus infit: 'Ingredimur gnari truculentaque moenia adimus. Filius hic hominis prodetur ad ultima mortis, Scribarum procerumque ferens ludibria membris, Adfixusque cruci post tertia lumina surget.' Hic tum Zebedei coniux submissa rogabat, Ut Christo medio caeli sublimis in arce Felices nati dextra laeuaque sederent. Tum quaerit Christus, calicem si sumere possent, Quem sibi praeceptis instaret sumere patris. Respondent se posse simul. Tum talia Christus: ### English translation (Claude) Then that band of men who had taken up their labour at first light and borne a full day of work, indignant, said among themselves with this murmur: "It is unjust that we should get the same coin as these, whom the last hour joined to the work so late." Then the lord of the estate said, with a calm heart: "Your portion of the wage is paid you whole and untouched, and the terms of a faithful agreement are kept. Let me be allowed to grant as much from what is mine to these, whom the last portion of the working day gathered to the field. For holy favour has called many men, of whom it is fitting to set apart a very small part." He said this and set out again for Solyma, and spoke to his companions apart, and began to them alone on the road: "We go in knowing it, and approach the truculent walls. Here the Son of man will be betrayed to the uttermost of death, bearing in his limbs the mockery of the scribes and leaders, and fastened to the cross he will rise after the third day." Then the wife of Zebedee humbly asked that her happy sons might sit at the right and left, with Christ in the midst, on the lofty height of heaven. Then Christ asked whether they could drink the cup which, by the Father's commands, he must soon drink. They answered together that they could. Then Christ said: ### Scripture references - Matt 20:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:22: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 20:11–22. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.572 (CSEL 24:102lines 572–595–103; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-572). ## Book 3, lines 596–618 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-596 - Source: CSEL 24:103lines 596–618–105 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The places of honour belong to the Father to give; greatness is service; the Son of man redeems many; do not take the highest seat at a feast. ### Latin text 'Vos nostrum calicem fas est potare, sed altis Sedibus aequali mecum considere honore Non hoc nostra dabit cuiquam pro munere uirtus. Haec certis genitor sublimia dona reseruat.' Exin discipulos dictis pro talibus omnes Conmotos tali sermonis mulcet honore: 'Gentibus infidis celsa dicione potestas Inponit quoscumque super dominantur eorum Exercentque trucem subiectis urbibus iram. Vos inter longe tranquillior aequora uitae Concordi sternit mitis moderatio pace Magnus et obsequiis crescit super alta minister. Nec primus quisquam, nisi cunctis seruiat, unus Esse potest. Hominis natus sic uestra minister Obsequio solus proprio pia munera gestat, Et multos redimens pretioso sanguine seruat. At uos ex minimis opibus transcendere uultis Et sic e summis lapsi conprenditis imos.' 'Si uos quisque uocat cenae conuiuia ponens, Cornibus in summis deuitet ponere membra Quisque sapit. Veniet forsan si nobilis alter, Turpiter eximio cogetur cedere cornu, Quem tumor inflati cordis per summa locarat. ### English translation (Claude) "It is right for you to drink our cup; but to sit with me in equal honour on the high seats, our power will not give this to anyone as a gift. The Father keeps these sublime gifts for those appointed." Then all the disciples were stirred by these words, and he soothed them with this gracious speech: "Among the faithless nations, power with lofty rule sets over them those who lord it over them and practise fierce anger on subject cities. Among you, gentle moderation spreads the sea of life far calmer with harmonious peace, and the minister grows great above the heights by his services. Nor can anyone be the one first, unless he serves all. So the Son of man alone, as minister, performs devout offices for you by his own service, and, redeeming many, saves them with his precious blood. But you wish to rise from the least means, and so, falling from the highest, you take the lowest. If anyone invites you, setting out a dinner party, whoever is wise will avoid placing himself on the highest couches. If perhaps another, a noble, comes, he will be shamefully compelled to give up the place of honour, the man whom the swelling of a puffed-up heart had set at the top. ### Scripture references - Matt 20:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 20:28: allusion, high confidence - Luke 14:8: allusion, medium confidence - Luke 14:9: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 20:23–28. The last lines follow the addition after Matt 20:28 found in Codex Bezae and the Old Latin ('You seek to grow from small, and from greater to be less …'), which resembles Luke 14:8–10. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.596 (CSEL 24:103lines 596–618–105; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-596). ## Book 3, lines 619–643 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-619 - Source: CSEL 24:105lines 619–643–106 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The triumphal entry into Jerusalem on the ass and foal, fulfilling the prophet; healings at the temple. ### Latin text Sin contentus erit mediocria prendere cenae, Inferiorque dehinc si mox conuiua subibit, Ad potiora pudens transibit strata tororum.' Proxima tum Solymis conscendit culmina montis, Ordinibus lucent quae glaucicomantis oliuae. Hinc lectis iussit sectantum discipulorum, Obuia castelli monstrans habitacula, Christus Inde asinam pariter fetu comitante repertam Ducere; uel si quis causam disquirere uellet, Cur sua tam subito quoquam iumenta trahantur, Dicere tunc, operam dominum sibi sumere uelle. Discipuli celeri conplent praecepta paratu. Adducunt mollique super uelamine uestis Insternunt pullum placidum praebentque sedendum. Hinc ueteris quondam fluxit uox nuntia uatis: 'Ecce uenit placidus tibi rex, quem terga sedentem Praemitis gestant asinae pullique sequentis.' Tunc populi stratas praetexunt uestibus omnes, Quaque iter est Christo, subnexa fronde coronant. Proxima tunc alii spoliant palmeta uirore Conclamantque omnes: 'Dauidis origine creto Osanna excelsis sit gloria laeta tropaeis!' Sic adeo ingreditur Solymorum moenia Christus. Ingresso occurrit primo sub limine templi Cruribus atque oculis certatim debile uulgus. ### English translation (Claude) But if he is content to take the middling places at the dinner, and then soon a lower guest comes in, he will modestly move up to the better couches." Then he climbed the nearest heights of the mountain near Solyma, which shine with rows of grey-leaved olives. From there Christ ordered chosen disciples among his followers, pointing out the dwellings of a village opposite, to bring from there a she-ass they would find together with her foal; and if anyone wished to ask why his beasts were being led off so suddenly, they should say that the Lord wished to take their service for himself. The disciples carried out his commands with quick preparation. They brought them, spread the soft covering of their garments over the calm foal, and offered it to him to sit on. Of this the voice of the prophet of old had once flowed forth in announcement: "See, your king comes to you, calm, carried as he sits by the backs of the very gentle she-ass and the following foal." Then all the people covered the roads with their garments, and wherever Christ's way went they crowned it with woven foliage. Others then stripped the nearest palm groves of greenery, and all shouted: "To him born of the line of David, Hosanna in the highest; let glad glory be with his trophies!" So at last Christ entered the walls of Solyma. As he entered, at the first threshold of the temple, a crowd weak in their legs and eyes came eagerly to meet him. ### Scripture references - Matt 21:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:5: quotation, high confidence - Zech 9:9: quotation, high confidence - Matt 21:8: allusion, high confidence - John 12:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:14: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 21:1–14; the prophet: Zech 9:9 (Matt 21:5); the palms: John 12:13. The cleansing of the temple (Matt 21:12–13) has already been told from John (Juvencus 2.151). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.619 (CSEL 24:105lines 619–643–106; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-619). ## Book 3, lines 644–668 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-644 - Source: CSEL 24:106lines 644–668–107 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The children's hosannas in the temple; the barren fig tree withers; the power of faith. ### Latin text Quos ubi tam subito gressu uisuque uigentes Cuncta sacerdotum cognouit factio mirans Et pueros templi conplentes tecta clamore: Osanna egregia Dauidis stirpe creato, Ipsum percontant cuncti, quae causa clamoris Inpubem tantum tollat per gaudia plebem. Christus ad haec: 'Legis sanctae uos scripta tenere Creditur, infantum quae dicit ab ore uenire Lactantum et linguis iusti consurgere laudem.' Haec ait ingratam linquens cum ciuibus urbem Bethaniamque petit, rediensque in margine cernit Stratae tendentem diffusa umbracula ficum. Illic forte cibi pertemptans corda uoluntas Arboris adtrectat ramos, sed nulla facultas Pomorum sterili frondis concreuerat umbrae. Olli Christus ait: 'Non sit tibi fructibus umquam Copia promendis.' Tum protinus aruit arbor. Discipuli celerem mirantur in arbore mortem. Sed Christus stupidis adsistens talia fatur: 'Nunc ligni istius nostro stupuistis honore, Desisse ad uires terrenos ducere sucos. Sed ueris uerbis iterumque iterumque monebo: Namque fides si certa animi consistet in arce Nec dubiis nutans uitiis tremebunda iacebit, Arboris istius nobis substantia cedet. ### English translation (Claude) When the whole faction of the priests learned with wonder that these were so suddenly strong in step and sight, and saw the boys filling the roofs of the temple with the shout, "Hosanna to him born of the excellent stock of David," they all questioned him about what cause of shouting lifted up such a youthful crowd in joy. Christ answered: "You are believed to hold the writings of the holy law, which say that just praise comes from the mouth of infants and rises from the tongues of sucklings." He said this, left the ungrateful city with its citizens, and went to Bethany; and on his return he saw at the edge of the road a fig tree spreading wide its shade. There, as it happened, the desire for food tested his heart; he took hold of the branches of the tree, but no store of fruit had grown in the barren shade of its leaves. Christ said to it: "May you never have plenty to bring forth fruit." Then at once the tree withered. The disciples wondered at the tree's swift death. But Christ stood by them in their astonishment and said: "Now you are astonished at the honour shown us by this tree, that it has ceased to draw earthly sap for its strength. But with true words I will warn you again and again: if sure faith stands firm in the citadel of the mind and does not lie trembling, wavering with doubtful faults, the substance of this tree will yield to us. ### Scripture references - Matt 21:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:16: allusion, high confidence - Ps 8:2 (8:3 LXX): quotation, high confidence - Matt 21:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:21: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 21:15–21; Ps 8:2 (LXX and Vulgate 8:3). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.644 (CSEL 24:106lines 644–668–107; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-644). ## Book 3, lines 669–695 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-669 - Source: CSEL 24:107lines 669–695–108 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Faith can move mountains; the leaders question Jesus' authority and he asks them about John's baptism; the parable of the two sons begins. ### Latin text Nec tantum istius, sed montis celsa reuelli Credentum uerbo poterunt undisque profundi Cum siluis pariter saxisque ferisque recondi. Et quaecumque fides robusto pectore poscet, Credentum semper digna uirtute tenebit.' Haec ubi dicta dedit, templi se moenibus infert. Confestim proceres populi miracula rerum Collecti inquirunt, uirtus quae tanta dedisset. Ollis Christus ait: 'Quaerentibus omnia uobis Dicere iam facile est, si nobis uestra uicissim Percontata prius paucis sententia soluat. Nuper Iohannes, puro qui gurgite lauit Sordentis populi maculas, diuina potestas An hominis potius uobis fallacia uisa est?' Haec ait ancipiti uerborum pondere claudens Captantum procerum mentem; nam magna profetam Plebis Iohannem ueneratio suscipiebat, Nec poterant eius fallacem dicere uitam. Rursum sublimem dixissent esse profetam, Occidisse illum traheret confessio culpam. Se nescire tamen respondit factio fallax. Tum Christus: 'Non est iniustum claudere uocem, Cum mihi claudantur procerum responsa superba.' 'Nam geminae prolis genitor maioris in aures Talia dicta dedit: Vitis mihi portio maior Semiputata iacet. Sed perge et robore forti Nunc scrobibus nunc falce premens uineta retunde. ### English translation (Claude) And not only this tree; the heights of a mountain too could be torn up by the word of believers and buried in the waves of the deep, with its woods and rocks and wild beasts. And whatever faith asks with a strong heart, it will always obtain through the worthy power of believers." When he had said this, he went within the walls of the temple. At once the leaders of the people gathered and asked about the wonders, what great power had given them. Christ said to them: "It is easy now to tell you all you ask, if first your opinion, in turn, briefly answers what we ask. Lately John, who in the pure stream washed away the stains of the filthy people: did he seem to you a divine power, or rather the deceit of a man?" So he spoke, shutting in the minds of the leaders who were trying to catch him with the double-edged weight of his words; for the great veneration of the people received John as a prophet, and they could not call his life deceitful. On the other hand, had they said he was a lofty prophet, the admission that they had killed him would bring guilt upon them. Yet the deceitful faction answered that they did not know. Then Christ said: "It is not unjust for me to shut my mouth, when the proud answers of the leaders are shut to me. For the father of two sons spoke these words in the ears of the elder: The greater part of my vineyard lies half-pruned. Go, then, and with strong strength, now with trenches, now pressing with the sickle, cut back the vines. ### Scripture references - Matt 21:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:28: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 21:21–28. 'The admission that they had killed him' is Juvencus's addition: in Matthew they fear the people because John is held a prophet. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.669 (CSEL 24:107lines 669–695–108; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-669). ## Book 3, lines 696–719 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-696 - Source: CSEL 24:108lines 696–719–109 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The two sons; tax collectors and harlots go before the leaders; the parable of the wicked tenants begins. ### Latin text Tum iuuenis sese tam sordida dicta laboris Nolle pati memorat. Post omnia iussa parentis Exsequitur damnansque sibi responsa coercet. Post alium natum simili sermone iubebat Ad uineta sui dependere iussa laboris. Adnuit his iuuenis nec dictis facta repensat. Dicite, quis potius genitoris iussa sequatur?' Olli conlaudant responsum posterioris. Prosequitur Christus: 'Nunc uera aduertite dicta. Iam magis hinc caeli sedem conprendere possunt Corporis e uitiis quaerentes sordida lucra, Quam uestrum quisquam. Vobis nam uenerat ante Iustus Iohannes, sed non est credere uestrum. Namque fidem potius meretricum pectora certam Hauserunt sordesque animi posuere pudendas. At uos tantorum scelerum nil paenitet umquam.' 'Sic quidam diues, cui iugera multa nitentis Vineti saepes circum densata coercet, In medio turrem prelumque et dolia fecit Cultoresque dedit fructusque locauit habendos, Inpositam statuens mercedis soluere legem. Tum longinqua petit, sed fructus tempore certo Actores famulos mittit, quis portio salua Cultorum certa ruris mercede daretur. ### English translation (Claude) Then the young man said that he would not put up with such mean words of labour. Afterwards he carried out all his father's commands and, condemning himself, held back his own answer. Afterwards the father ordered the other son in the same words to give the vineyard the labour commanded. The young man agreed to this, but did not repay his words with deeds. Tell me, which of them rather followed his father's commands?" They praised the answer of the latter. Christ went on: "Now attend to true words. Those who seek sordid gain from the vices of the body can now reach the seat of heaven sooner than any of you. For just John had come to you before, but it is not your way to believe. The hearts of harlots rather drank in sure faith and laid aside the shameful filth of the mind. But you never repent at all of such great crimes. So a certain rich man, whose many acres of shining vineyard a thick hedge enclosed, built in the middle a tower, a press and jars, and gave it to cultivators and let out the fruits to be held by them, setting a fixed law of rent to be paid. Then he went to distant lands; but at the set time of fruit he sent slaves as his agents, to whom a safe share should be given by the cultivators, at the fixed rent of the estate. ### Scripture references - Matt 21:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:34: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 21:29–34. The leaders' answer, 'the latter', is the wrong son in Juvencus's order; it agrees with the answer 'the last' read in Codex Bezae and some Old Latin witnesses. Translated as written. 'Those who seek sordid gain from the vices of the body' renders Matthew's tax collectors and harlots. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.696 (CSEL 24:108lines 696–719–109; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-696). ## Book 3, lines 720–744 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-720 - Source: CSEL 24:109lines 720–744–110 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The tenants kill the son; the kingdom is given to another nation; the parable of the wedding feast begins. ### Latin text Ecce colonorum rabies hos uerbere saeuo, Ast alios lapidum proterrent undique telis; Denique letali prosternunt uulnere multos. Tum dominus ruris plures incedere seruos Praecipit et rursum mercedis pacta reposcit; Maior at in plures audax iniuria surgit. Ultima iam domino natum dimittere mens est, Quod subolem partemque sui uis digna pudoris Cultorum cordi uenerandam posceret esse. Sed contra illorum iam mens maculata cruore Progenie extincta domini sibi post dominatum Cedere credentum, crudeli uulnere fixum Obtruncant iaciuntque foras trans saepta cadauer. Post haec iam dominus ueniet poenasque reposcet Tantorum scelerum. Sed uobis tradita quondam Fulgentis regni sedes translata feretur Ad placidam gentem, possit quae reddere fructus.' 'Ut rex, qui nato thalamorum uincula nectens Praecipit, ut proceres conuiuia laeta frequentent, Accitos famulis uoti regalis honorem Concelebrare simul; cuncti sed adire recusant Regales thalamos, regalis pocula mensae. Post alios mittit, sese largissima cuncta Magnificasque dapes, conuiuia laeta parasse. Illi neglectis opibus diuersa petebant. ### English translation (Claude) See, the madness of the tenants drove off some with savage scourging, others with volleys of stones from every side; at last they laid many low with deadly wounds. Then the lord of the estate ordered more slaves to go and again demanded the agreed rent; but a greater and bolder injury rose against the greater number. Lastly the lord decided to send his son, because the worthy force of respect would require that his offspring, part of himself, be revered in the tenants' hearts. But against this, their mind already stained with blood, believing that once the lord's offspring was destroyed the lordship would pass to them, they cut him down, pierced with a cruel wound, and threw the corpse outside beyond the hedge. After this the lord will come and demand punishment for such great crimes. But the seat of the shining kingdom, once handed over to you, will be transferred and given to a gentle nation that can render fruits. As a king who, binding the marriage bond for his son, ordered the leading men to attend a glad banquet, summoned by servants to celebrate together the honour of the king's wish; but all refused to come to the royal wedding, to the cups of the royal table. Afterwards he sent others to say that he had prepared everything most lavishly, magnificent food and a glad banquet. They, neglecting the riches, went off to other things. ### Scripture references - Matt 21:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:40: allusion, high confidence - Matt 21:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:5: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 21:35–22:5. The quotation of Ps 118:22 (Matt 21:42) is not rendered. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.720 (CSEL 24:109lines 720–744–110; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-720). ## Book 3, lines 745–773 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-3-745 - Source: CSEL 24:110lines 745–773–111 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The invited guests refuse and are punished; strangers fill the hall; the man without a wedding garment is cast out. ### Latin text Hic aedes proprias, hic ruris tecta propinqui, Ast alius merces potius ac lucra reuisit. Multi praeterea missos, qui ad laeta uocarent, Insontes famulos rapiunt et corpora ferro In mortem cruciant. Tum rex ubi conperit acta, Milibus armatis ciues cum moenibus ipsis Subruit, effusi famulorum sanguinis ultor. Tunc seruis fatur: Nunc festa iugalia cenae, Praelargis opibus quaecumque instruximus illi, Contempsere meis proceres contingere mensis. Ite igitur propere per publica saepta uiarum, Et quoscumque illic casus glomerauerit, omnes Huc laetis nati thalamis adhibete uocantes. Progressi famuli per compita cuncta uiarum Inuentos duxere simul. Iam denique cunctae Conplentur mensae mixtae sine nomine plebis. Hic iusti iniustique simul cubuere uocati. At rex ingressus conuiuia laeta reuisit. Hic uidet indutum pollutae uestis amictu, Laetitiis thalami fuerat cui dissona lingua. Isque ubi regalis sermonis pondere causas Reddere pro uestis maculis et labe iubetur, Oppresso tacuit non puri pectoris ore. Et tum conuersus famulis rex praecipit illum Conexis manibus pedibusque et corpore toto In tenebras raptum mox praecipitare profundas. Illic stridor erit uasti sine fine doloris, Et semper fletus. Multis nam saepe uocatis Paucorum felix hominum selectio fiet.' ### English translation (Claude) One went back to his own house, one to the buildings of a nearby farm, and another rather to his wares and his profits. Many besides seized the innocent servants who had been sent to call them to the celebration and tortured their bodies to death with the sword. Then the king, when he learned what had been done, overthrew the citizens with their very walls by thousands of armed men, avenging the blood of his servants that had been shed. Then he said to the servants: "The festive wedding dinner, all that we prepared with most lavish riches, those leading men have scorned to touch at my tables. Go, then, quickly through the public enclosures of the roads, and whoever chance has gathered there, call them all and bring them here to my son's glad wedding." The servants went out through all the crossroads and brought together those they found. Now at last all the tables were filled with a mixed crowd without names. Here the just and the unjust reclined together, invited. But the king came in and looked over the glad banquet. Here he saw one wearing the covering of a polluted garment, whose tongue had been out of tune with the joys of the wedding. And when he was ordered by the weight of the king's word to give the reasons for the stains and blemish of his garment, he was silent, his impure heart's mouth pressed shut. Then the king turned to the servants and ordered that he be bound hand and foot and in his whole body, seized, and soon thrown headlong into deep darkness. "There will be gnashing of vast pain without end, and weeping always. For of the many who are often called, a happy few men will be chosen." ### Scripture references - Matt 22:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:14: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 22:5–14. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 3.745 (CSEL 24:110lines 745–773–111; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-745). ## Book 4, lines 1–25 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-4-1 - Source: CSEL 24:112lines 1–25–113 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The question of tribute to Caesar; the Sadducees' case of the woman married to seven brothers. ### Latin text Talia dicentem confestim factio frendens Temptare adgreditur uerbis cum fraude malignis: 'Certum est, ueridicum te nunc uenisse magistrum, Nec quemquam metuens Domini uestigia seruas. Dic ergo, an liceat nostrae dissoluere genti Caesaris urgentis semper sub lege tributum?' Ille sed inspiciens saeui penetralia cordis: 'Cur temptatis, ait, nunc me concludere uerbis, Fallaces? mentis prodit fallacia fructum. Inspicite in nummum sculptique nomismatis aera, Caesaris expressum facile est ubi cernere uultum. Soluite nunc illi propria sub lege tributum, Atque Deo proprium legis seruemus honorem.' Post Sadducaei hinc inde latratibus urgent: 'Moysea, qui legum posuit praecepta, iubere, Si quis conubium properata morte relinquet, Pignoribus mediis nondum de germine cretis, Huius germano rursus sociabile uinclum Deberi, generis pereat ne portio lapsi. Finibus in nostris septem germana fuerunt Corpora; sed maior primus mox uincula nuptae Sumpsit, praeceleri cecidit sub acumine mortis Post alius frater thalamis sine fructibus isdem Concidit et cuncti iacuere ex ordine fratres. Unius et cunctos fletus gemuere maritae; ### English translation (Claude) As he said such things, the gnashing faction at once set about testing him with malignant and deceitful words: "It is certain that you have now come as a truthful teacher, and that you fear no one but keep to the footsteps of the Lord. Tell us, then, is it lawful for our nation to pay the tribute under the law of Caesar, who always presses us?" But he, looking into the inner places of their savage heart, said: "Why do you now try to shut me in with words, deceivers? The deceit of the mind betrays its fruit. Look at the coin, at the bronze of the stamped money, where it is easy to see Caesar's face portrayed. Pay him now the tribute under his own law, and let us keep for God the honour of the law that is his." After that the Sadducees pressed him from every side with their barking: "Moses, who laid down the precepts of the laws, commands that if anyone leaves his marriage by an early death, with no children yet sprung from his seed between them, a bond of union is owed again to his brother, so that no portion of the fallen family may perish. In our land there were seven brothers; the eldest first took the bonds of a bride and soon fell under the very swift point of death; afterwards another brother died in the same marriage bed without fruit, and all the brothers in order lay dead. And the tears of a single wife mourned them all; ### Scripture references - Matt 22:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:23: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:24: allusion, high confidence - Deut 25:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:26: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 22:15–28; the levirate law: Deut 25:5–6. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.1 (CSEL 24:112lines 1–25–113; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-1). ## Book 4, lines 26–50 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-4-26 - Source: CSEL 24:113lines 26–50–114 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: In the resurrection there is no marriage; God is God of the living; the two great commandments; David's son and Lord. ### Latin text Post ipsam rapuit gelidae inclementia mortis. Si uenient igitur cuncti sub limina uitae, Cuius conubiis mulier reddenda resurget?' Ollis Christus ait: 'Errori obnoxia prauo Legibus et iussis Domini mens dura resistit. Namque secunda dehinc laetae reparatio uitae Non thalamos nouit, non terrae gaudia uana, Sed similes leuibus genitoris iuxta ministris Constituet regni uirtus sublimis in aula. Nec Deus illorum dominum se ponere mauult, Qui tetram proni meruerunt sumere mortem, Sed potius uitae possunt qui prendere lucem.' Ecce alii rogitant, quae sint firmissima legis. Ille indefessus nulli responsa negabat: 'Sublimem caeli Dominum deuotio cordis Diligat; est istaec uirtus firmissima legis. Consimile est isti: Magno teneantur amore Ad ius fraternum iustae penetralia mentis; His etenim geminis dependent omnia iussis. Sed uobis cuius suboles uentura uidetur Christus, quem cuncti spondent in saecla profetae?' Respondent, illum Dauidis germine nasci. Prosequitur Christus: 'Cur illum dicere Dauid Diuino flatu scriptum est Dominumque Deumque, Quod proprium patrem non aequum est dicere nato ? ### English translation (Claude) after that the harshness of cold death carried her off too. If, then, all will come to the threshold of life, to whose marriage will the woman rise again, to be given back?" Christ said to them: "A hard mind, subject to depraved error, resists the laws and commands of the Lord. For the second restoration of glad life that follows knows no marriage beds and no vain joys of the earth; the sublime power of the kingdom will set them, in the hall, like the light ministers who stand beside the Father. Nor does God choose to make himself lord of those who have sunk down and deserved to receive foul death, but rather of those who can lay hold of the light of life." See, others asked which are the firmest commands of the law. He, unwearied, denied his answers to no one: "Let the devotion of the heart love the sublime Lord of heaven; this is the firmest power of the law. Like it is this: let the inner places of a just mind be held by great love to the rights of brothers; for on these two commands all things depend. But whose offspring do you think the Christ will be, who is to come, whom all the prophets promise for the ages?" They answered that he is born of David's seed. Christ went on: "Why, then, is it written that David, by the divine breath, calls him Lord and God, which it is not fitting for a father to say to his own son?" ### Scripture references - Matt 22:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:37: allusion, high confidence - Deut 6:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:39: allusion, high confidence - Lev 19:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:40: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:42: allusion, high confidence - Matt 22:43: allusion, high confidence - Ps 110:1 (109:1 Vulg.): allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 22:28–45. Juvencus does not quote Exod 3:6 but paraphrases its point. He has David call the Christ 'Lord and God' (Ps 110:1, Vulgate 109:1, has 'Lord'). The commandments: Deut 6:5; Lev 19:18. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.26 (CSEL 24:113lines 26–50–114; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-26). ## Book 4, lines 51–75 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-4-51 - Source: CSEL 24:114lines 51–75–115 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus warns against the scribes and Pharisees: do what they teach, not what they do; one teacher and one Father; woes. ### Latin text Talia saluator; cuncti obstipuere silentes. Ille sed accita credentum plebe profatur: 'Adspicite scribas sublimi sede superbos. Hi quaecumque docent, iustum est conprendere cordis Obsequio, maculas ipsorum temnite uitae. Abrupta inponunt umeris nam pondera uestris, Ipsi quae digito saltem contingere nolunt. Adcubito primo cenae fastuque superbo Atque salutantum uano tolluntur honore, Et nomen sublime uolunt gestare magistri. Sed uos noluerim praecelsi nominis arcem Adfectare, tamen uobis est una magistri Inposita aeternum caeli de lege potestas, Vos eadem fratrum parili coniunxit amore. Unus item pater est, caeli qui in culmine regnat. In uobis si quis sublimia colla leuabit, Decidet et barathri mergetur ad ultima caeno; Ast humilis claram conscendet liber in aethram. Deflendi semper scribae et lacrimabilis aeui Caeca Pharisaeae cunctis fallacia plebis. Nam uobis itiner clausum quia iure negatur, Non sinitis quemquam penetrare per ardua lucis Et cunctos trahitis saeuae ad consortia flammae. Vos similes dicam tectis splendore sepulchris, Quis facies nitida est, internaque turpia bustis. ### English translation (Claude) So spoke the Saviour; all were struck dumb and silent. But he called together the crowd of believers and said: "Look at the scribes, proud in their lofty seat. Whatever they teach, it is right to take up with an obedient heart; but despise the stains of their life. For they lay steep burdens on your shoulders which they themselves will not touch even with a finger. They are lifted up by the first place at dinner, by proud haughtiness and the empty honour of greetings, and they wish to bear the lofty name of teacher. But I would not have you aim at the citadel of a very lofty name; you have one power of teacher, set over you for ever by the law of heaven, and it has joined you in the equal love of brothers. Likewise there is one Father, who reigns on the summit of heaven. If anyone among you lifts his neck high, he will fall and be plunged into the mud at the bottom of the abyss; but the humble will ascend, free, into the bright heaven. Always to be lamented are the scribes, and for all to mourn is the blind deceit of the Pharisee people of a lamentable age. Because the way is shut and rightly denied to you, you allow no one to pass through the steep heights of light, and you drag all into the company of the savage flame. I will call you like tombs with splendid roofs, whose face is shining but whose inside is foul with the dead. ### Scripture references - Matt 22:46: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:27: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 22:46–23:27, the woes much compressed. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.51 (CSEL 24:114lines 51–75–115; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-51). ## Book 4, lines 76–99 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-4-76 - Source: CSEL 24:115lines 76–99–116 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The lament over Jerusalem; the temple's destruction foretold; the disciples ask about the end; warnings against deceivers and wars. ### Latin text Sic uox uelatur iustae sub imagine uitae Atque aditis mentis celantur sordida corda.' O Solymi, Solymi, ferro qui saepe profetas Ad uestram missos uitam sine fine necastis, Quam uolui uestram gentem populumque tueri, Ales uti dulces solita est sub corpore pullos Obice pinnarum circumconplexa fouere! Sed uobis semper caelestia munera sordent. Deseritur iam nunc domus haec uastanda ruinis, Nec nostrum uobis fas ultra est cernere uultum.' Egreditur templo, cuius praecelsa notantes Moenia discipulos tali sermone docebat: 'Haec operum uobis miracula digna uidentur Obtutu stupido; ueris sed discite dictis, Quod mox cuncta solo passim disiecta iacebunt.' Haec ad Oliueti dicens peruenerat arcem. Discipuli solum postquam uidere, rogabant, Ut sibi uenturi tempus distingueret aeui, Promissa ipsius quem poscant prendere finem, Eius et aduentus terrae consumeret orbem. Quaerentum uerbis respondit talia Christus: 'Obseruate dolum, falso ne nomine capta Credulitas laqueis errantum praecipitetur. Discurrent cunctis bellorum incendia terris; ### English translation (Claude) So the voice is veiled under the image of a just life, and filthy hearts are hidden in the inner places of the mind. O Solymi, Solymi, you who have without end killed with the sword the prophets often sent for your life, how I wished to protect your nation and people, as a bird is wont to cherish her sweet chicks under her body, embracing them round with the barrier of her wings! But heavenly gifts are always worthless to you. Now this house is already deserted, to be laid waste in ruins, and it is not right for you to see our face any longer." He went out of the temple, and, as the disciples were noting its very lofty walls, he taught them with these words: "These marvels of work seem worthy to you as you gaze in astonishment; but learn from true words that soon all will lie scattered everywhere on the ground." Saying this, he came to the height of Olivet. When the disciples saw him alone, they asked him to mark out for them the time of the age to come, what end they should look for to receive his promises, and when his coming would consume the globe of the earth. Christ answered their questions thus: "Watch out for deceit, lest your credulity, caught by a false name, be thrown headlong into the snares of those who stray. The fires of wars will run through all lands; ### Scripture references - Matt 23:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 23:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:6: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 23:28–24:6. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.76 (CSEL 24:115lines 76–99–116; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-76). ## Book 4, lines 100–123 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-4-100 - Source: CSEL 24:116lines 100–123–117 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The beginning of birth pains; persecution, false prophets, endurance to the end, the gospel to all nations, and Daniel's prophecy. ### Latin text Sed uos praeualido consistite robore cordis, Ne mens accepto iaceat turbata tumultu, Non etenim prima inponent mox proelia finem, Gentibus et gentes et regibus obuia reges Signa ferent, nec morbi tunc corrumpere tractum Aeris aut pestes prosternere corpora parcent. Fixa etiam solido per inania pondere tellus Per diuersa loci motu quassante tremiscet. Haec in primitiis temptamina parua manebunt. Prodentur multi uestrum letoque dabuntur, Proque meo uobis incumbere nomine gentes Tormentis poenisque feris odiisque necesse est. Liuor erit terris, erroribus omnia plena Et falsi surgent populorum labe profetae. Haec inter si quis protectum a uulnere pectus Ad finem seruare queat, sublimia lucis Aeternis uitae sertis redimitus adibit. Regnorum caeli celebratio peruolitabit In cunctas terrae metas; gens omnis habebit Testem lucifluo sancti sermone salutis. Et tunc finis erit currentia saecula soluens. Adueniet iam tum tristis defletio terris, Quae Danihelis habet iussam uerissima uocem; Haec dignus tantum poterit cognoscere lector. ### English translation (Claude) but you, stand firm with very strong strength of heart, lest your mind lie troubled at the tumult you hear; for the first battles will not soon bring the end; nation will bear standards against nation and king against king, nor will diseases then spare to corrupt the expanse of the air, or plagues to lay bodies low. The earth too, fixed with solid weight in the void, will tremble in different places with shaking motion. These will remain small trials at the beginning. Many of you will be betrayed and put to death, and the nations must press upon you for my name with torments, fierce punishments and hatred. There will be envy on earth, all things full of error, and false prophets will rise to the ruin of the peoples. Amid all this, whoever can keep his breast protected from wounds to the end will come, crowned with the eternal garlands of life, to the sublime places of light. The proclamation of the kingdom of heaven will fly to all the bounds of the earth; every nation will have its witness in the light-flowing word of holy salvation. And then will come the end that dissolves the running ages. Then already the sad lamentation will come upon the lands, which the most true voice of Daniel was bidden to tell; only the worthy reader will be able to understand these things. ### Scripture references - Matt 24:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:15: allusion, high confidence - Dan 9:27: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 24:6–15. 'The sad lamentation' renders the abomination of desolation (Dan 9:27; 11:31; 12:11). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.100 (CSEL 24:116lines 100–123–117; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-100). ## Book 4, lines 124–148 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/3-293/#p-4-124 - Source: CSEL 24:117lines 124–148–118 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Flight from Judaea; the great tribulation shortened for the elect; false Christs; the coming like lightning. ### Latin text Iudaei longe fugient montesque capessent, Nec quisquam domibus repetat sustollere secum, Quae fuga consociet uestemue aut mobile quicquam. Deflendae iam sunt uteri cum pondere matres Et miseros fetus dulci quae lacte rigabunt. Poscite iam precibus, tristis ne frigore brumae Adueniat fuga uestra tamen, neu sabbata festa Anceps praecipiti turbet trepidatio cursu; Nam cunctis uenient saeuissima pondera terris. Tale malum non saecla prius nec postera norunt. Et ni sublimis genitor decerpere tempus Et numerum miserans uellet breuiare dierum, Nulla dehinc trepidae superarent corpora uitae. Sed propter lectos ueniet miseratio iustos. Nomine fallentes Christi falsique profetae Exsurgent terris et monstra potentia fingent, Quae forsan lectos capient miracula iustos. En praedicta patent instantia saecula uobis. Desertis si quis Christum peragrare loquetur Occultisue procul penetralibus esse repostum, Longe credulitas absit uanissima uobis. Sicut enim fulgur caelum transcurrit apertum Et cerni facile est cunctis orientis ab oris Usque sub occiduum caeli uergentis in orbem, Sic rapido aduentu clarebunt lumina Christi. ### English translation (Claude) Those of Judaea will flee far away and take to the mountains, and let no one go back to his house to take with him whatever might go with him in flight, clothing or anything movable. Then mothers will be pitied who carry the weight of the womb, and those who will feed their wretched infants with sweet milk. Ask now in your prayers that your flight may not come in the cold of sad winter, nor anxious trembling disturb the festive sabbath with headlong running; for the most savage burdens will come upon all lands. Such evil no ages before have known, nor will any after. And unless the sublime Father, in pity, chose to cut short the time and shorten the number of days, no bodies would survive of trembling life. But for the sake of the chosen just, mercy will come. Deceivers in the name of Christ and false prophets will rise on earth and fashion mighty portents, wonders that might perhaps capture even the chosen just. See, the coming ages lie open to you, foretold. If anyone says that Christ is wandering in the deserts, or is hidden far away in secret inner rooms, let the emptiest credulity be far from you. For as lightning runs across the open sky and is easily seen by all from the shores of the east to the western circle of the declining sky, so the lights of Christ will shine at his swift coming. ### Scripture references - Matt 24:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:27: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 24:16–27. 'Those of Judaea' renders Iudaei (Matthew: 'those in Judaea'). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.124 (CSEL 24:117lines 124–148–118; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-124). ## Book 4, lines 149–173 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-149 - Source: CSEL 24:118lines 149–173–119 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Signs in heaven; the Son of man comes with the clouds and gathers the elect; heaven and earth pass but his words remain; the day is unknown; as in the flood. ### Latin text Abscondet furuis rutilos umbris radios sol, Amittet cursum lunaris gratia lucis Ignicomaeque ruent stellae caelumque relinquent. Omnis item uirtus caeli conmota superni Signa dabit, proles hominis quis uertice caeli Clareat; omnigenasque tribus defletio iugis Urgebit, ueniet cum nubibus ignicoloris Maiestate potens hominis per sidera natus. Tum tuba terrifico stridens clangore uocatos Iustos quadrifido mundi glomerabit ab axe. Praeteriet neque enim praesens generatio saecli, Donec cuncta sequens claudat sibi debita finis. Haec tellus caelumque super soluentur in ignes, Sed mea non umquam soluentur ab ordine dicta. Quis fuat ille dies nescire est omnibus aequum, Ni soli rerum Domino, qui sidera torquet. Ut quondam terras undae inuoluere furentes Et diuersa sibi tractantes munia cunctos Diluuii rapuit subito uiolentia tractu, Sic subitus flammas uoluens descendet ab aethra Aduentus noster; nec cunctos ille sub una Condicione premet. Nam tunc ubi iugera laeta Infindent duo depresso sub uomere sulcis, Unus correpto tolletur corpore arator, Ignarusque alius uasto linquetur in agro. ### English translation (Claude) The sun will hide its ruddy rays in murky shadows, the grace of the moon's light will lose its course, and the fire-haired stars will rush down and leave the sky. Every power of the heaven above, shaken, will give signs by which the offspring of man may shine on the summit of heaven; and unceasing lamentation will press upon the tribes of every kind, when the Son of man comes through the stars with fire-coloured clouds, mighty in majesty. Then the trumpet, shrilling with a terrifying blare, will gather the just who are called from the four quarters of the world. For the present generation of the world will not pass away until the end comes after and closes all that is owed. This earth and the heaven above will be dissolved into fire, but my words will never be dissolved from their order. What that day will be, it is right that all should not know, except the Lord of all things alone, who turns the stars. As once the raging waters covered the lands, and the violence of the flood with a sudden sweep carried off all as they went about their different tasks, so our coming will suddenly come down from the sky, rolling flames; nor will it press all under one condition. For then, when two are cleaving the glad acres into furrows with the ploughshare pressed down, one ploughman will be taken, his body seized, and the other, unknowing, will be left in the vast field. ### Scripture references - Matt 24:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:38: allusion, high confidence - Gen 7:21: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 24:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:40: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 24:29–40. 'Except the Lord of all things alone' renders Matt 24:36 without 'nor the Son', which is also absent from many Latin manuscripts. The flood: Gen 7. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.149 (CSEL 24:118lines 149–173–119; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149). ## Book 4, lines 174–199 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-174 - Source: CSEL 24:119lines 174–199–120 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Two in one bed, one taken; keep watch like the householder; the faithful and the wicked servant; the ten maidens begin. ### Latin text Uno quin etiam recubantes stramine lecti Dispar iudicium diuersa sorte subibunt. Unus enim socium quaeret per strata relictus. Idcirco famuli uigilent, quia nescius illis Aduentus Domini subita discendet in hora. Si sciret certum furis insistere tempus Quisque domus custos, uigilaret et obuia ferret Arma procul, ruptas ne quis penetraret in aedes. Sed uos intentis animis adsistite semper, Namque repentinus uobis subitusque recurret Filius huc hominis iustis sua praemia seruans. Ille fidelis erit seruus, cui credere cuncta Aedes et famulos uoluit per longa profectus Vir pater ipse domus: sapiens nimiumque beatus, Quem ueniens Dominus seruantem iussa uidebit. Illum maiori famulum redimibit honore. Ast ille infelix, qui sordida luxuriatus Tardantem contempnet herum, famulosque fatigans Verberibus segnique indulgens ebrietati Luxuriosorum conuiuia concelebrarit; Adueniet dominus seruumque incauta furentem Praecipitem dignis poenarum cladibus abdet. Illum perpetuus fletus stridorque manebit.' 'Conferri possunt caelestia regna puellis Bis quinis, pars est quarum sapientior una, Altera praestupido pars est stolidissima corde. ### English translation (Claude) Even those lying on the one coverlet of a bed will meet different judgment by different lot: one, left behind, will look for his companion among the covers. Therefore let the servants keep watch, because the Lord's coming, unknown to them, will come down at a sudden hour. If the keeper of a house knew the sure time when the thief would come, he would keep watch and carry his weapons far out to meet him, so that no one might break into the house. But you, always stand by with attentive minds, for the Son of man will return here to you suddenly and unexpectedly, keeping his rewards for the just. That servant will be faithful to whom the man who is himself father of the house, setting out on a long journey, chose to entrust the whole house and the servants: wise and very blessed is he whom the Lord, when he comes, will see keeping his commands. He will crown that servant with greater honour. But that unhappy servant who, indulging in sordid luxury, despises his master's delay, wearies his fellow servants with beatings, gives himself to sluggish drunkenness and keeps company at the banquets of the luxurious: his lord will come and will throw the servant, raging heedlessly, headlong into the punishment he deserves. Everlasting weeping and gnashing will await him. The heavenly kingdom can be compared to ten maidens, of whom one part was wiser, the other part most foolish, with very dull hearts. ### Scripture references - Luke 17:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:42: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:44: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:45: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:46: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:47: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:48: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:49: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:50: allusion, high confidence - Matt 24:51: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:2: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 24:40–25:2. Juvencus replaces the two women grinding (Matt 24:41) with two in one bed, as Luke 17:34. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.174 (CSEL 24:119lines 174–199–120; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-174). ## Book 4, lines 200–223 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-200 - Source: CSEL 24:120lines 200–223–121 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The parable of the ten maidens: the wise have oil and enter with the bridegroom; the foolish are shut out. ### Latin text Occurrere illae uotis sponsalibus omnes Ornatu adcinctae taedarum flammicomantum. Sed sapiens pars illa, sibi quo lumina flammae Susciperet, portare simul curabat oliuum. Stultarum uero non est prudentia talis. Cumque moraretur sponsus, tum membra sopore Soluuntur cunctae per compita lata uiarum. Iam noctis medio clamor crebrescere magnus Exoritur, laetoque dehinc occurrere uoto Admonuit taedisque uias ornare coruscis. Surgere uirginibus properatum, et lumina taedis Instruere et flammas pingui conponere oliuo. Tum stolidae rogitant olei sibi cedere partem, Prudentes secum quod tunc gestare uidebant. Sed quoniam sapiens pauitat chorus, omnibus aeque. Ne desint clarae nutrimina pinguia flammae, Ex paruo aequalis si detur portio cunctis, Tum pergunt stultae, ut liquidum mercentur oliuum. Dum pergunt, laetae transcurrunt omnia pompae Et sponso tantum comitatur factio prudens. Adueniunt brutae sero post tempore segnes Et sponsi pulsare fores et limina clausa Nequiquam ingeminant precibusque ingrata frequentant, Ut liceat miseris penetrare in limina laeta. ### English translation (Claude) They all ran to meet the wedding procession, girded with the adornment of flame-haired torches. But the wise part took care to carry oil with them, so that their lamps might take up the flame. Such prudence the foolish did not have. And when the bridegroom was delayed, they all fell asleep along the broad streets. Now in the middle of the night a great shout arose and grew, and warned them to run to meet the glad procession and adorn the roads with flashing torches. The maidens hurried to rise, to trim the lights on their torches and to feed the flames with rich oil. Then the foolish asked to be given a share of the oil which they now saw the prudent carrying with them. But the wise company feared that if an equal portion were given to all out of so little, the rich nourishment of the bright flame would fail them all alike; so the foolish went off to buy liquid oil. While they were gone, the whole glad procession passed by, and only the prudent band went along with the bridegroom. The dull ones arrived later, too slow, and in vain knocked again and again at the bridegroom's doors and closed threshold, plying unwelcome prayers that they, poor things, might be allowed to enter the glad threshold. ### Scripture references - Matt 25:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:11: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 25:1–11. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.200 (CSEL 24:120lines 200–223–121; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-200). ## Book 4, lines 224–247 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-224 - Source: CSEL 24:121lines 224–247–122 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Watch, for the hour is unknown; the parable of the talents. ### Latin text Illas non comitum sponsi cognoscere quisquam Non ipse sponsus uoluit. Vigilate timentes, Aduentus uobis quia non est certior hora. 'Sicut enim, longas cui contigit ire profecto In terras, credens seruis tractanda talenta Uni quinque dedit, duo cepit et alter habenda, Tertius unius curam tractare talenti Suscepit, uires quoniam diuersa merentur. Sed maior quis est concredita portio nummi, Certatim duplis auxerunt incrementis. Ille sed, unius cui credita cura talenti, Telluri infodiens seruat sine fructibus aera. Iamque aderat praesens dominus: tum primus et alter Se geminasse illi pariter concredita monstrant. Illos laudat herus potioraque credere tantae Promittit fidei. Sed tertius ille refodit Et domino reddit tali cum uoce talentum: Quod scirem domino memet seruire seuero, Qui meteres segetes alieno semine cretas, Extimui, argentumque tuum concredere terrae Malui, quod saluum semper tibi reddere possem. Tum dominus famulo respondens talibus infit: Si nescire meos auderes dicere mores, Nequitiae tantae ueniam concedere possem. ### English translation (Claude) None of the bridegroom's companions, nor the bridegroom himself, would know them. Keep watch, then, in fear, because the hour of the coming is not certain to you. For as a man whose lot it was to set out into distant lands, entrusting talents to his slaves to be managed, gave five to one; another received two to keep; a third undertook the care of managing one talent, since different strengths merit different charges. Those to whom the larger portion of money was entrusted increased it, vying with each other, with double gains. But he to whom the care of one talent was entrusted dug into the earth and kept the money without fruit. And now the lord was present again: then the first and the second showed him that they had doubled what was entrusted to them. The master praised them and promised to entrust greater things to such faithfulness. But the third dug up the talent and gave it back to his lord with these words: Because I knew that I served a severe lord, who reaps crops grown from another's seed, I was afraid, and preferred to entrust your silver to the earth, so that I could always give it back to you safe. Then the lord answered the servant thus: If you dared to say that you did not know my ways, I could grant pardon for such great wickedness. ### Scripture references - Matt 25:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:26: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 25:12–26. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.224 (CSEL 24:121lines 224–247–122; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-224). ## Book 4, lines 248–271 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-248 - Source: CSEL 24:122lines 248–271–123 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The lazy servant punished; the Son of man comes to judge and separates the sheep from the goats; the righteous are welcomed. ### Latin text Hoc etiam gnarum potius praestare decebat, Ut fructum nobis tractata pecunia ferret. Quapropter segni tollatur portio nostri Prudentique dehinc detur possessio maior, Quem duplis cumulasse lucris mea quinque talenta Inueni. Namque est certum, potiora mereri, Quis res uberior cumulatae sortis abundat. At cui parua subest segni substantia corde, Id minimum penitus iuste tolletur ab illo, Ut nequam seruus tenebras dimersus ad imas Perpetuos fletus poenae stridore frequentet. 'En hominis natus ueniet patrisque ministris Stipatus celsa iudex in sede sedebit. Tum gentes cunctae diuersis partibus orbis Conuenient iustosque omnes de labe malorum Secernet dextraque libens in parte locabit, At prauos laeua despectos parte relinquet; Ut pastor pecoris discernit pascua mixti, Lanigeris dextri permittens mollia prati At laeuos hirtis dumos tondere capellis. Sed rex ad dextros conuersus talia dicet: Huc ueniant sancti, iamdudum debita sumant Dona patris, mundi quae sunt aequaeua nitentis Et iustis primo promissa parantur ab ortu. ### English translation (Claude) But knowing this, you should rather have seen to it that the money you managed brought us fruit. Therefore let our portion be taken from the lazy one, and let a greater possession then be given to the prudent one, whom I found to have heaped up my five talents with double gains. For it is certain that those deserve greater things whose fuller estate abounds with a heaped-up store. But he who has small means and a lazy heart, that little will justly be taken from him altogether, so that the worthless slave, plunged into the lowest darkness, may ply everlasting weeping with the gnashing of punishment. See, the Son of man will come, and, thronged by the Father's ministers, will sit as judge on the lofty seat. Then all nations will come together from the different parts of the world, and he will separate all the just from the stain of the wicked and gladly set them on the right side, but will leave the depraved, despised, on the left; as a shepherd separates the pastures of a mixed flock, giving the woolly sheep the soft grass of the meadow on the right, and leaving the thickets on the left for the shaggy goats to crop. Then the king will turn to those on the right and say: Let the holy come here; let them receive the gifts of the Father long owed them, which are as old as the shining world and have been prepared and promised to the just from the first beginning. ### Scripture references - Matt 25:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:34: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 25:26–34. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.248 (CSEL 24:122lines 248–271–123; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-248). ## Book 4, lines 272–294 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-272 - Source: CSEL 24:123lines 272–294–124 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The judge tells the righteous they served him in the needy, and condemns the unrighteous to the fire prepared for the devil. ### Latin text Namque fame fessum quondam me grata refecit Haec plebes potuque sitim mihi saepe remouit, Hospitiumque domus patuit mihi saepe uocato Et nudus uestis blandissima tegmina sumpsi Carceris et poenis horum solacia cepi. Tum Domino tali respondent uoce beati: Non meminit nostrum quisquam te uisere nudum Nec famis oppressum dura dicione notauit, Carceris aut poenis meminit uidisse reuinctum. Respondens illis dicet tum talia iudex: Fratribus ista meis humiles miserando labores Qui fecit, certum est dulcem mihi ponere fructum. At uos, iniusti, iustis succedite flammis Et poenis semper mentem torrete malignam, Quas pater horrendis barathri per stagna profundis Daemonis horrendi sociis ipsique parauit. Namque sitim passo quondam mihi pocula nulla Nec famis in poena parui miseramina panis, Aut peregrina mihi tecti uestisue parumper Tegmina de magnis gracili pro parte dabantur, Carceris aut saepto claustris morbisue iacenti Umquam uisendi solacia uestra fuerunt. His damnata dehinc respondet factio uerbis: ### English translation (Claude) For this grateful people once refreshed me when I was weary with hunger, often took away my thirst with drink, often opened the hospitality of their house to me when I came, and when I was naked I received the kindest coverings of clothing, and in the punishments of prison I found comfort from them. Then the blessed will answer the Lord: None of us remembers seeing you naked, nor did anyone see you oppressed by the hard rule of hunger, nor remembers seeing you bound in the punishments of prison. Then the judge will answer them: Whoever in pity has done these humble labours for my brothers, it is certain that he sets sweet fruit before me. But you, unjust, go into the just flames and burn your malignant minds for ever in punishments, which the Father has prepared in the horrible depths, through the pools of the abyss, for the horrible demon himself and his allies. For once, when I suffered thirst, you gave me no cups; when I was punished with hunger, not the mercy of a little bread; when I was a stranger, no cover of roof or clothing even for a little while, a small portion out of great wealth; nor, when I lay shut in behind prison bars or in sickness, was the comfort of your visiting ever mine. To these words the condemned faction will then answer: ### Scripture references - Matt 25:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:40: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:41: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:42: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:44: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 25:35–44. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.272 (CSEL 24:123lines 272–294–124; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-272). ## Book 4, lines 295–315 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-295 - Source: CSEL 24:124lines 295–315–125 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The end of the judgment scene; the sisters of Lazarus send word that he is dying. ### Latin text Haut umquam nostrum meminit te uisere quisquam Aut sitis aut saeuae famis aegrum agitare laborem, Hospita uel fessis errare per oppida rebus, Carceris aut mersum poenis morboue grauatum, Ut tibi sollicito fieret miseratio iusta. His rerum dicet Dominus: Cum uestra superbo Angustis rebus feritas sub corde tumebat Calcauitque humiles minimos, me spreuit in illis. Haec ubi dicta dabit, meritis sua praemia reddet. Aeternum miseri poena fodientur iniqui, Aeternumque salus iustis concessa manebit.' Talia dum loquitur, scissos lacerata capillos Pro fratris morbo iustis soror anxia curis Hortatur iuuenem rapido percurrere gressu, Casibus ut tantis Christus seruaret amicum. Nam fuerat mulier meritis accepta benignis, Obsequio cuius fratremque domumque merentem Amplexus pleno Christus retinebat amore. Nuntius adueniens perfert, extrema iacere Dilectum Christo iuuenem per tristia morbi Et leti et uitae confinia summa tenentem. ### English translation (Claude) None of us ever remembers seeing you, either suffering the sickly labour of thirst or of savage hunger, or wandering as a stranger through the towns in weary want, or plunged into the punishments of prison or weighed down by sickness, so that just pity might be shown you in your distress. To them the Lord will say: When your savagery swelled in a proud heart against those in narrow circumstances and trampled on the humble and least, it spurned me in them. When he has said these words, he will repay each according to merit. The wretched unjust will be pierced with punishment for ever, and the salvation granted to the just will remain for ever." While he was saying such things, a sister, tearing her hair in her grief, anxious with just care over her brother's sickness, urged a young man to run quickly, so that Christ might save his friend from such great misfortune. For the woman had been accepted for her kindly merits, and for her service Christ embraced her deserving brother and household with full love and held them dear. The messenger came and reported that the young man whom Christ loved lay at the end, through the sorrows of sickness, holding the very border between death and life. ### Scripture references - Matt 25:44: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:45: allusion, high confidence - Matt 25:46: allusion, high confidence - John 11:1: allusion, high confidence - John 11:3: allusion, high confidence - John 11:5: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 25:44–46; then John 11:1–3. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.295 (CSEL 24:124lines 295–315–125; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-295). ## Book 4, lines 316–341 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-316 - Source: CSEL 24:125lines 316–341–126 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus says Lazarus's sickness is for God's glory, tells the disciples he has died, and comes to Bethany; Martha meets him. ### Latin text Lazarus hic habuit nomen, sed Christus amaris Percussus uerbis: 'Non est, si creditis, inquit, Ad letum ducens istaec uiolentia morbi, Sed Deus ut digno iustis celebretur honore Et suboles hominis sancta uirtute nitescat.' Tunc ad discipulos: 'Dormit iam Lazarus, inquit, Sed carum iuuenem faciam consurgere rursus.' Aiunt discipuli: 'Somno succedere plena Et remeare salus poterit;' nec mente sequuntur, Quod mortem somni dixit sub nomine Christus. Errorem quorum tali sermone remouit: 'Lazarus in letum cecidit, sed gaudia menti Hinc ueniunt uestramque fidem mihi fortius armant, Cernitis absentem longe quod cuncta uidere. Sed properemus,' ait. Didymus tum talia fatur: 'Pergamus pariterque omnes procumbere leto Cogamur, totiens quod gens Iudaea minatur.' Iamque aderat Christus, fuerat sed forte sepulto Quarta dies, mersasque atris de morte tenebris Germanas luctus lacrimosaque tecta tenebant. Conuenere illuc solacia debita dantes Iudaeae gentis proceres carique propinqui. Sed Martha, audito Christum uenisse, cucurrit Obuia deseruitque domum maestamque sororem, Et procul: 'O utinam praesens uirtus tua nobis Adforet et morti fratrem rapuisset acerbae. ### English translation (Claude) His name was Lazarus; but Christ, struck by the bitter words, said: "This violent sickness, if you believe it, does not lead to death, but is so that God may be celebrated with worthy honour by the just and the offspring of man may shine with holy power." Then he said to the disciples: "Lazarus is sleeping now, but I will make the dear young man rise again." The disciples said: "Full health can follow sleep and return"; they did not grasp that Christ spoke of death under the name of sleep. He removed their error with these words: "Lazarus has fallen into death; but joy comes to my mind from this, and it arms your faith more strongly in me, that you see that I, far away, see all things. But let us hurry," he said. Then Didymus said: "Let us go, and let us all be forced to fall in death together, as the Jewish nation has so often threatened." And now Christ arrived; but it happened to be the fourth day since he was buried, and grief and tearful houses held the sisters, sunk in the black darkness of death. The leaders of the Jewish nation and dear kinsfolk had gathered there, giving due comfort. But Martha, hearing that Christ had come, ran to meet him and left the house and her grieving sister, and called from far off: "O, if only your power had been with us and had snatched our brother from bitter death! ### Scripture references - John 11:4: allusion, high confidence - John 11:11: allusion, high confidence - John 11:12: allusion, high confidence - John 11:13: allusion, high confidence - John 11:14: allusion, high confidence - John 11:15: allusion, high confidence - John 11:16: allusion, high confidence - John 11:17: allusion, high confidence - John 11:19: allusion, high confidence - John 11:20: allusion, high confidence - John 11:21: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 11:4–21. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.316 (CSEL 24:125lines 316–341–126; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-316). ## Book 4, lines 342–366 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-342 - Source: CSEL 24:126lines 342–366–127 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus is the resurrection and the life; Martha confesses him as Christ, the Son of God; Mary comes. ### Latin text Nam quicquid poscis, certum est tibi posse uenire.' Quam Dominus tali solatur uoce gementem: 'Robustam mentem, mulier, uirtute resume. Lazarus haec uitae recidiua in lumina surget.' Et mulier: 'Certe surgent in munera uitae Mortales cuncti, ueniet cum terminus orbi.' Christus item sancto depromit pectore uocem: 'En ego sum clarae uobis reparatio uitae. In me qui credit, mortem deponere sumptam Et uitam poterit iugi conponere saeclo. At quicumque fidem uiuo sub pectore sumet, Horrida non umquam continget limina mortis; Istaec si credis puro de pectore, Martha?' Illa dehinc: 'Haec una fides mea corda tenebit, Sublimis ueneranda Dei quod uenerit in te Caelestis suboles celso sub nomine Christi.' Haec ait et Mariam cursu motura sororem Interiora petit; sanctum uenisse magistrum Et pariter luctu oppressam uocitare sororem Admonuit tacito designans omnia nutu. Prosilit illa foras audito nomine Christi; Prosequiturque simul Solymorum turba gementem Credentum, tumulo fletus inferre sorores. Illa salutiferum postquam conspexit Iesum, Procidit ante pedes rumpitque hanc pectore uocem: ### English translation (Claude) For whatever you ask, it is certain that it can come to you." The Lord comforted her in her groaning with these words: "Take up again, woman, a strong mind with courage. Lazarus will rise again into the light of life." And the woman said: "Surely all mortals will rise to the gifts of life when the end comes to the world." Christ likewise brought forth this word from his holy heart: "See, I am the restoration of bright life for you. Whoever believes in me will be able to lay down the death he has taken on and join his life to an unending age. And whoever takes faith into a living heart will never touch the horrid threshold of death. Do you believe this from a pure heart, Martha?" She then said: "This one faith will hold my heart: that in you the sublime and venerable heavenly offspring of God has come under the lofty name of Christ." She said this and went into the house to make her sister Mary hurry; she told her sister, overwhelmed with grief, that the holy teacher had come and was calling her too, signalling everything with a silent nod. Mary leapt out at the name of Christ; and the crowd of believers from Solyma followed her as she groaned, thinking that the sisters were bringing their weeping to the tomb. When she saw Jesus, the bringer of salvation, she fell at his feet and burst out with this cry from her heart: ### Scripture references - John 11:22: allusion, high confidence - John 11:23: allusion, high confidence - John 11:24: allusion, high confidence - John 11:25: allusion, high confidence - John 11:26: allusion, high confidence - John 11:27: allusion, high confidence - John 11:28: allusion, high confidence - John 11:29: allusion, high confidence - John 11:31: allusion, high confidence - John 11:32: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 11:22–32. 'The crowd of believers' renders John's 'the Jews who were with her'. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.342 (CSEL 24:126lines 342–366–127; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-342). ## Book 4, lines 367–391 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-367 - Source: CSEL 24:127lines 367–391–128 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus weeps, comes to the tomb, has the stone removed, and prays to the Father. ### Latin text 'Si mihi germanum potuisses uisere uiuum, Lazarus haut poterat durae succumbere morti.' Fletibus his Christus socians de corde dolorem Inquirit tumuli sedem, quo condita nuper Membra forent animae uolucris spoliata calore. Haut mora demonstrant flenti maestoque sepulchrum Rupe sub excisa; lapidis quod pondere clausum Ut uidit Sanctus, multo mox uecte moueri Praecipit; at Marthae talis uox uerberat auras: 'Quattuor en luces totidemque ex ordine noctes Praetereunt, quo membra solo conposta quiescunt. Crediderim, corpus motu fugiente caloris Fetorem miserum liquefactis reddere membris.' His dictis contra depromit talia Christus: 'Iam totiens dictum est, magnis consistere rebus Credentum uirtute fidem; sed gloria summi Iam genitoris adest, fidei si robur habetis.' Haec ubi dicta dedit saxumque inmane reuulsis Obicibus patuit, uirtus mox conscia caelum Suscipit et tali genitorem uoce precatur: 'Eximias grates, genitor, tibi, sancte, fatemur; Me placidus semper uenerandis auribus audis, Sed populus praesens me missum credere discat.' Haec ubi dicta dedit, tumuli mox limine in ipso Restitit aduerso conplens caua saxa clamore: ### English translation (Claude) "If you could have seen my brother alive, Lazarus could not have yielded to hard death." Christ, joining the grief of his heart to these tears, asked where the tomb was in which the limbs, robbed of the warmth of the winged soul, had lately been laid. Without delay they showed him, weeping and sad, the tomb under a hewn rock; when the Holy One saw it closed with a weighty stone, he ordered it soon to be moved with many levers; but Martha's voice struck the air: "See, four days and as many nights in order have passed since the limbs were laid in the ground and rest there. I would think that the body, as its warmth has fled, gives off a wretched stench from its dissolving limbs." Christ answered these words thus: "It has been said so often already that faith stands firm in great things by the power of believers; but the glory of the supreme Father is now present, if you have the strength of faith." When he had said this, and the huge stone lay open, its barriers torn away, his power, knowing itself, soon lifted its eyes to heaven and prayed to the Father with these words: "Outstanding thanks, holy Father, we give you; you always hear me calmly with venerable ears; but let the people present learn to believe that I am sent." When he had said this, he stood at once on the very threshold of the tomb, filling the hollow rock with a shout directed into it: ### Scripture references - John 11:32: allusion, high confidence - John 11:33: allusion, high confidence - John 11:34: allusion, high confidence - John 11:35: allusion, medium confidence - John 11:38: allusion, high confidence - John 11:39: allusion, high confidence - John 11:40: allusion, high confidence - John 11:41: allusion, high confidence - John 11:42: allusion, high confidence - John 11:43: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 11:32–43. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.367 (CSEL 24:127lines 367–391–128; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-367). ## Book 4, lines 392–416 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-392 - Source: CSEL 24:128lines 392–416–129 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lazarus raised; some believe, others inform the Pharisees; the council plots Jesus' death; he is anointed at Bethany. ### Latin text 'Lazare, sopitis redeuntem suscipe membris En animam tuque ipse foras te prome sepulchro.' Nec mora conexis manibus pedibusque repente Procedit tumulo, uultum cui linea texta Et totum gracilis conectit fascia corpus. Tum solui iussit laetumque ad tecta remittit. Iudaei postquam factum uenerabile cernunt, Qui tanti Mariam fuerant Marthamque secuti, Pars credens sequitur tantae uirtutis honorem; Ast alii repetunt urbem procerumque superbis Cuncta Pharisaeis rerum miracula narrant. Ergo ad concilium scribae, plebisque uocatur Iam grauior numerus, qua uatum principis alte Pulchra Caiphaeae conlucent atria sedis. Illic conplacuit Christum prosternere leto, Sed uitare dies paschae, ne plebe frequenti Discordes populi raperent in bella furorem. Ille Simonis erat tectis, quem lurida lepra Virtute ipsius diffugerat. Ecce iacenti Accedit mulier propius, sanctumque alabastro, Quo pretiosa inerant late fraglantis oliui Unguenta, ab summo perfundit uertice Christum. Discipuli increpitant fantes, potuisse iuuari De pretio unguenti miserorum corpora egentum. Has Dominus prohibet uoces factumque probauit: ### English translation (Claude) "Lazarus, receive, see, your soul returning to your sleeping limbs, and bring yourself out of the tomb." Without delay, his hands and feet bound, he suddenly came out of the tomb, his face wrapped in woven linen and his whole body bound with a slender bandage. Then Jesus ordered him to be loosed and sent him home rejoicing. When the Jews who had followed Mary and Martha saw the venerable deed of so great a one, some believed and followed the honour of such power; but others went back to the city and told all the wonders to the proud Pharisees among the leaders. So a council of the scribes, and now a larger number of the people, was called, where the beautiful halls of Caiaphas's house, the chief of the priests, shine on high. There they resolved to lay Christ low in death, but to avoid the days of the Passover, lest, with the crowds of people present, the discordant peoples should turn their fury to war. He was in the house of Simon, from whom livid leprosy had fled by his power. See, as he reclined, a woman came near and, from an alabaster jar holding precious ointment of widely fragrant oil, poured it over holy Christ from the top of his head. The disciples protested, saying that the bodies of the wretched poor could have been helped with the price of the ointment. The Lord stopped these words and approved the deed: ### Scripture references - John 11:43: allusion, high confidence - John 11:44: allusion, high confidence - John 11:45: allusion, high confidence - John 11:46: allusion, high confidence - John 11:47: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:9: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - John 11:43–53; Matt 26:3–9. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.392 (CSEL 24:128lines 392–416–129; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-392). ## Book 4, lines 417–438 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-417 - Source: CSEL 24:129lines 417–438–130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus defends the woman who anointed him; Judas agrees to betray him for thirty pieces of silver; the Passover supper and the prediction of the betrayal. ### Latin text 'Desinite obsequio iustam prohibere puellam. Pauperibus semper dabitur succurrere tempus, Sed me non semper tribuetur uisere uobis. Funeris ista mei multum laudanda ministrat Officio mundumque inplebunt talia facta.' Tunc e discipulis unus se subtrahit amens Iudas et ad proceres tali cum uoce cucurrit: 'Quod pretium sperare datur, si prodere uobis Quaesitumque diu possim monstrare magistrum?' Illi continuo statuunt ter dena argenti Pondera; his Iudas sceleri se subdidit alto. Iamque dies paschae primo processerat ortu: Discipuli quaerunt, ubi cenam sumere paschae Vellet; at ille sibi quendam sine nomine quaeri, Ultima qui domini caperet mandata, iubebat. Vespere mox primo bis sex recubantibus una Discipulis, tali diuinat uoce magister: 'En urget tempus, Christum cum prodere morti E uobis unus scelerato corde uolutat.' Continuo cuncti quaerunt, quis talibus ausis Insano tantum cepisset corde uenenum. Ille dehinc: 'Epulis mecum nunc uescitur, inquit. ### English translation (Claude) "Stop hindering this just woman's service. There will always be time given you to help the poor, but you will not always be granted to see me. She performs this, greatly to be praised, as an office for my burial, and such deeds will fill the world." Then one of the disciples, Judas, madly withdrew and ran to the leaders with these words: "What price may I hope for, if I can betray to you and show you the master you have long sought?" They at once fixed thirty weights of silver; for these Judas gave himself over to deep crime. And now the day of the Passover had come forth at first dawn. The disciples asked where he wished to eat the Passover supper; he ordered that a certain man, unnamed, be sought out for him, who would receive the last commands of the master. Soon, at the beginning of evening, as the twelve disciples reclined together, the master foretold in these words: "See, the time presses when one of you is turning over in his wicked heart how to betray Christ to death." At once they all asked who, with such daring, had taken so much poison into an insane heart. He then said: "He is eating with me at the meal now. ### Scripture references - Matt 26:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:18: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:23: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 26:10–23. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.417 (CSEL 24:129lines 417–438–130; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-417). ## Book 4, lines 439–463 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-439 - Source: CSEL 24:130lines 439–463–131 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Woe to the betrayer; Judas is named; the institution of the Eucharist; the walk to the Mount of Olives and the prophecy of the scattered sheep. ### Latin text Sed suboles hominis quondam praescripta subibit Supplicia ad tempus. Miserabilis ille per aeuum, Qui iustum dedet; quanto felicior esset, Si numquam terris tetigisset lumina uitae!' Et Iudas grauiter tum conscia pectora pressus, 'Numquid, ait, Iudam talis suspicio tangit?' Respondit Dominus: 'Te talia dicere cerno.' Haec ubi dicta dedit, palmis sibi frangere panem, Diuisumque dehinc tradit sancteque precatus Discipulos docuit, proprium sic edere corpus. Hinc calicem sumit Dominus uinoque repletum Gratis sanctificat uerbis potumque ministrat, Edocuitque, suum se diuisisse cruorem, Atque ait: 'Hic sanguis populi delicta redemit; Hoc potate meum. Nam ueris credite dictis, Post haec non umquam uitis gustabo liquorem, Donec regna patris melioris munere uitae In noua me rursus concedent surgere uina.' Exin cantato sanctis concentibus hymno Montis Oliueti conscendunt culmina cuncti. Talia tum Christus depromit pectore uerba: 'Omnes praesenti noctis uos tempore longe Disperget misere deserto principe terror. Sic etenim scriptum est: Pastoris casibus omnes In diuersa fugam capient per rura bidentes. ### English translation (Claude) But the offspring of man will undergo, in its time, the punishment long foretold. Wretched through all ages is he who will give up the Just One; how much happier he would be if he had never touched the light of life on earth!" And Judas, heavily pressed in his guilty heart, said: "Does such suspicion touch Judas?" The Lord answered: "I see that you say such things." When he had said this, he broke bread with his hands, then gave it out, divided, and, having prayed in holiness, taught the disciples that they were thus eating his own body. Then the Lord took a cup and, when it was filled with wine, sanctified it with words of thanks and gave them to drink, and taught them that he had divided his own blood, and said: "This blood has redeemed the offences of the people; drink this, which is mine. For believe true words: after this I will never taste the drink of the vine, until the kingdom of the Father, by the gift of a better life, grants me to rise again to new wine." Then, having sung a hymn in holy harmonies, they all climbed the heights of the Mount of Olives. Then Christ brought forth these words from his heart: "At this present time of night, terror will scatter you all far and wretchedly, your prince deserted. For so it is written: At the fall of the shepherd all the sheep will take flight in different directions through the countryside. ### Scripture references - Matt 26:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:31: allusion, high confidence - Zech 13:7: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 26:24–31; the shepherd: Zech 13:7. 'This blood has redeemed the offences of the people' is Juvencus's rendering of Matt 26:28; translated as written. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.439 (CSEL 24:130lines 439–463–131; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-439). ## Book 4, lines 464–489 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-464 - Source: CSEL 24:131lines 464–489–132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus foretells Peter's denial; Peter protests; in Gethsemane Jesus takes three disciples apart and is in anguish. ### Latin text Post ubi uita nouos caeli mihi reddet honores, Praeueniam uestrosque choros genitalibus aruis Grata Galilaeae uolitans per rura docebo.' Respondit Petrus: 'Cunctos, si credere fas est, Quod tua labanter possint praecepta negare, Sed mea non umquam mutabit pectora casus.' Ille dehinc: Nox haec, quae lucida sidera terris Inducit lucemque premens nunc incubat undas, Audiet, ut trinis pauidus mendacia uerbis Dices et Christum, fortissime Petre, negabis, Et prius, alitibus resonent quam tecta domorum.' At Petrus: 'Duram mortem mihi sumere malim, Vox oblita suum quam deneget ista magistrum.' Has uires cordis perstant promittere cuncti. Nominis Hebraei sunt Gessamaneia rura. Illo progreditur lucis uitaeque repertor, Circa discipuli Iuda fugiente sequuntur. Atque illic reliquos iussit residere ministros. Ipse sed adsumpto longe procedere Petro Zebedeique simul natis per deuia tendit. Tunc angore graui maestus sic uoce profatur: 'Tristia nunc uoluens animus mihi pectora turbat Morte tenus, sed nunc uos segnem excludite somnum, Sollicitamque simul uigilando ducite noctem.' Haec ait et paulum procedens corpore terram Deprimit et tali proiectus uoce precatur: ### English translation (Claude) Afterwards, when life gives me back new honours of heaven, I will go ahead of you, and flying through the pleasant countryside of Galilee I will teach your companies in their native fields." Peter answered: "All others, if one may believe it, may waver and deny your precepts, but no chance will ever change my heart." Then he said: "This night, which brings the bright stars over the lands and now, pressing down the light, broods over the waves, will hear you in fear tell lies three times and deny Christ, most valiant Peter, even before the roofs of houses ring with the birds." But Peter said: "I would rather suffer hard death than that this voice should forget and deny its master." They all persisted in promising this strength of heart. There are fields with a Hebrew name, Gessamane. There the author of light and life went forth, and the disciples followed around him, Judas having fled. And there he ordered the rest of his ministers to sit down. But he himself took Peter and the sons of Zebedee and went on far through pathless places. Then, sad with heavy anguish, he said: "Now my mind, turning over sad things, troubles my heart even to death; but now shut out lazy sleep, and spend this anxious night with me in watching." He said this, went forward a little, pressed his body to the earth, and lying prostrate prayed in these words: ### Scripture references - Matt 26:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:34: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:36: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:39: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 26:32–39. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.464 (CSEL 24:131lines 464–489–132; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-464). ## Book 4, lines 490–514 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-490 - Source: CSEL 24:132lines 490–514–133 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus prays that the cup may pass but submits to the Father's will; the disciples sleep; Judas arrives with an armed crowd. ### Latin text 'Si fas est, genitor, calicis me transeat huius Incumbens ualido nobis uiolentia tractu. Sed tua iam ueniat potius, quam nostra uoluntas, Quae tibi decreta est tantis sententia rebus.' Tunc ad discipulos repedat, sed somnus anhelis Prostratos terrae membris dissoluerat omnes. Tunc ait ad Petrum: 'Non est mihi ponere uirtus Unam peruigilem tantis sub casibus horam? Sed uigilate, precor, ne uos temptatio raptos Horrida praecipitet saeuae per lubrica mortis. Spiritus iste uiget, sed corpus debile labat.' Secessit rursus secreti montis in arcem Orabatque patrem: 'Rerum mitissime rector, Hunc quoniam calicem non est transire potestas, Iam tua proueniat nostra de sorte uoluntas.' Rursus discipulos somni sub pondere pressos Inuenit et rursus idem genitore precato Adloquitur fesso nexos languore quietis: 'Iam dormire licet sociosque reuisere uestros, Nam uenit ecce, meum qui dedat in omnia corpus, Quae maculata meis inponet factio membris.' Cum dicto Iudas numero stipante cateruae Aduenit procerum iussu populique ferocis. Pars strictis gladiis pars fidens pondere clauae Signa sequebatur Iudae promissa furentis. ### English translation (Claude) "If it is right, Father, let the violence of this cup, pressing on us with its strong draught, pass from me. But let your will come rather than ours, the sentence you have decreed for such great things." Then he returned to the disciples, but sleep had undone them all, lying on the ground with panting limbs. Then he said to Peter: "Have you no strength to give me one wakeful hour in such great misfortunes? But watch, I pray, lest horrid temptation seize you and throw you headlong down the slippery slopes of savage death. This spirit is strong, but the body is weak and totters." He withdrew again to the height of the secluded mountain and prayed to the Father: "Most gentle ruler of all things, since this cup cannot pass, let your will now come forth in our lot." Again he found the disciples weighed down by sleep, and again, having prayed the same to the Father, he addressed them as they lay bound in the weary languor of rest: "Now you may sleep and go back to your companions; for see, he is coming who will give up my body to all that the stained faction will lay upon my limbs." As he spoke, Judas arrived with a crowded band, at the command of the leaders and the fierce people. Some with drawn swords, some trusting in the weight of their clubs, followed the signal promised by raging Judas. ### Scripture references - Matt 26:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:40: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:41: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:42: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:44: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:45: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:46: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:47: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 26:39–47. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.490 (CSEL 24:132lines 490–514–133; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-490). ## Book 4, lines 515–538 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-515 - Source: CSEL 24:133lines 515–538–134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The betrayal with a kiss; Jesus is seized; the ear struck off and the rebuke of the sword; the disciples flee; Jesus before Caiaphas. ### Latin text Oscula nam pepigit sese contingere Christi, Quo facile ignotum caperet miserabile uulgus. Ille ubi dissimulans blanda cum uoce salutat, Attigit et labiis iusti uenerabilis ora, Continuo Christus: 'Totum conplere licebit, Huc uenisse tuo quaecumque est causa paratu.' Iniecere manum turbae Christumque prehendunt. Tunc e discipulis unus fulgente machaera Occurrit uatis famulo sublatus in iram Tempore et excussam rapuit ui uulneris aurem. Olli Christus ait: 'Gladium tu ponito, noster; Nam quicumque ferox confidet uindice ferro, Hunc iusti similis ferri uindicta manebit. An ego non possem caelestia castra uocare Et patris innumeras in proelia ducere turmas? Sed scriptura meis conplenda est debita rebus. Vos autem stricto qui me conprendere ferro Fustibus et gladiis concurritis, en ego uobis Occurram, templi media qui semper in arce Vobiscum residens docui, nec talia quisquam In solum tantis circumlatrantibus ausus.' Discipuli passim Christo fugere relicto. Iamque Caiphaea steterat saluator in aula, Cum uenere omnes scribae proceresque uocati. ### English translation (Claude) For he had agreed that he would touch Christ with a kiss, so that the wretched crowd could easily seize him whom they did not know. When he, dissembling, greeted him with a soft voice and touched the venerable mouth of the Just One with his lips, at once Christ said: "You may fulfil it all, whatever the cause for which you have come here so prepared." The crowds laid hands on Christ and seized him. Then one of the disciples, raised up in anger, rushed with a gleaming sword at the priest's servant and by the force of the blow snatched off his ear, struck from his temple. Christ said to him: "Put down your sword, my friend; for whoever fiercely trusts in the avenging sword, the same vengeance of the sword will justly await him. Or could I not call the camps of heaven and lead the Father's countless squadrons into battle? But the scripture must be fulfilled, as is due, in what befalls me. But you who run together with drawn swords and clubs to seize me: see, I come to meet you, I who always sat with you in the midst of the temple's height and taught, and no one dared such things against one man alone, though so many bark around me." The disciples fled in every direction, leaving Christ. And now the Saviour stood in the hall of Caiaphas, when all the scribes and leaders who had been summoned came. ### Scripture references - Matt 26:48: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:49: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:50: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:51: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:52: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:53: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:54: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:55: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:56: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:57: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 26:48–57. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.515 (CSEL 24:133lines 515–538–134; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-515). ## Book 4, lines 539–565 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-539 - Source: CSEL 24:134lines 539–565–135 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: False witnesses at the trial before Caiaphas; Jesus' answer about the Son of man; the high priest tears his garment and all condemn him. ### Latin text At Petrus longe seruans uestigia solus Occulte maestus sedit cum plebe ministra Extremum opperiens tanto sub turbine finem. Ecce sacerdotes falsos conquirere testes Incumbunt fictasque uolunt contexere causas, Quis mortem insonti possent inponere Christo. Sed nullus tanto uisus satis esse furori. Ultima prosiliunt testes, qui dicere Iesum Audissent, templum quod solus uertere posset Et uersum trinis iterum instaurare diebus. Ipse sacerdotum princeps urgere tacentem Insistit frendens furiis ac talia fatur: 'Cur nihil ad tantas nunc respondere querellas Conuictus ueris procerum sub testibus audes? Adiurabo tamen summi per regna Tonantis, Ut fateare palam, si fas te credere Christum.' Ille dehinc tali conpellat uoce superbum: 'Istaec sola tibi procedunt pectore uerba Vera tuo; ueniet uobis uisenda per auras Maiestas prolis hominis, cum dextera sanctae Virtuti adsidet sub nubibus ignicoloris.' Talibus auditis scindit de pectore uestem Exsultans furiis et caeco corde sacerdos Atque ait: 'Audistis pugnantis foeda profani Verba Deo; polluta magis consurgat in iras Religio et uestram cuncti iam pandite mentem.' Conclamant omnes mortique addicere certant. ### English translation (Claude) But Peter, following at a distance alone, sat secretly and sadly with the servants, awaiting the final end in so great a storm. See, the priests pressed on to seek false witnesses and wished to weave together invented charges by which they might lay death upon innocent Christ. But no one seemed enough for such great fury. At last witnesses leapt forward who had heard Jesus say that he alone could overturn the temple and, once it was overturned, restore it again in three days. The chief of the priests himself, gnashing in his fury, pressed him as he kept silent, and said: "Why do you dare to answer nothing now to such great charges, convicted as you are by true witnesses among the leaders? I will adjure you, then, by the kingdom of the supreme Thunderer, to confess openly whether it is right to believe you the Christ." Then he answered the proud man thus: "These words alone come forth true from your heart; you will see the majesty of the offspring of man coming through the air, when he sits at the right hand of holy power beneath fire-coloured clouds." Hearing this, the priest tore his garment from his breast, exulting in fury and with a blind heart, and said: "You have heard the foul words of a profane man fighting against God; let polluted religion rather rise up in anger, and all of you now declare your mind." All cried out and vied to condemn him to death. ### Scripture references - Matt 26:58: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:59: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:60: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:61: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:62: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:63: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:64: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:65: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:66: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 26:58–66. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.539 (CSEL 24:134lines 539–565–135; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-539). ## Book 4, lines 566–589 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-566 - Source: CSEL 24:135lines 566–589–137 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus mocked; Peter's three denials and the cock-crow; Jesus led to the governor at dawn. ### Latin text Tum sanctam Christi faciem sputa inproba conplent Et palmae in malis colaphique in uertice crebri Insultant uerbisque omnes inludere certant: 'Christe, profetabis, cuius tibi palma sonarit!' At Petrum mulier tristem quod uiderat intus, 'Tune etiam, iuuenis, fueras comes additus, inquit, Isti, quem ludens procerum sententia damnat?' Ille negat tectisque feris se promere temptat. Ecce sed egressum primo sub limine cernens Altera consimili prodebat uoce ministris. Rursus ait iurans, illum se nosse negabat. Tum percontatum multi accessere sequentes Eque sono uocis sese cognoscere dicunt, Cuncta Galilaeam streperent quod uerba loquellam. Et Petrus iurans deuotis omnia uerbis Nescire adfirmat, quisquis foret ille, negando. Hanc uocem, plausum quatiens sub culmine tecti, Ales prosequitur cantu, mentemque Simonis Circumstant tristem uerbis praesagia Christi; Egressusque dehinc ploratus habebat amaros. Sidera iam luci concedunt et rapidus sol Progreditur radiis terras trepidantibus inplens. Iamque e concilio Christum post terga reuinctum Praesidis ad gremium magno clamore trahebant. ### English translation (Claude) Then shameless spittle filled the holy face of Christ, and slaps on his cheeks and frequent blows on his head insulted him, and all vied to mock him with words: "Christ, prophesy whose palm has struck you!" But a woman, because she had seen Peter sad inside, said: "Were you too, young man, added as a companion to this man, whom the leaders' sentence mockingly condemns?" He denied it and tried to get himself out of the fierce house. But see, another, seeing him as he went out at the first threshold, betrayed him to the servants in the same words. Again he swore and denied that he knew him. Then many of those following came up to question him, and said they recognized him by the sound of his voice, because all his words rang with the speech of Galilee. And Peter, swearing in words of cursing, affirmed in denial that he did not know him, whoever he was. This word the bird followed with its song, shaking its flapping wings beneath the roof, and Christ's prophecies surrounded Simon's sad mind; and going out from there he wept bitterly. Now the stars gave way to the light, and the swift sun came forth, filling the trembling lands with its rays. And now they were dragging Christ, his hands bound behind his back, from the council to the governor's presence, with great shouting. ### Scripture references - Matt 26:67: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:68: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:69: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:70: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:71: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:72: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:73: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:74: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:75: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:2: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 26:67–27:2. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.566 (CSEL 24:135lines 566–589–137; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-566). ## Book 4, lines 590–613 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-590 - Source: CSEL 24:137lines 590–613–138 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus before Pilate is silent; the custom of the feast; Pilate's wife's dream; the crowd asks for the robber. ### Latin text Interea celsum Dominus stans ante tribunal Talia Pilati uerbis excepit Iesus: 'Tu rex Iudaeae gentis, quod dicitur, adstas?' Respondit Christus: 'Vestris haec audio uerbis.' Exhinc terribilis iusti accusatio surgens Infremit et sanctum scelerata facundia pressat. Respondere nihil trucibus dignatur Iesus. Pilatus quaerit, quae tum sit causa tacendi. Ille magis perstans miranda silentia seruat. Sollemni sed forte die concedere leges Unum damnati capitis de more iubebant; Et fuit in uinclis famoso nomine latro, Quem Christo infensus populus dimittere uitae Ardebat: trucibus somno sed territa uisis Pilati coniux, iusti discedere poena, Mandatis precibusque uirum suspensa rogabat. Tum iudex iterum procerum disquirere mentem Temptat, et instanti cuperent quem soluere poenae, Plebis ad arbitrium mitti de lege requirit. Sed proceres populum fusa ambitione rogabant, Latronem legi peterent Christumque negarent. At postquam procerum incendit sententia uulgum, Latronisque petit potius sibi cedere uitam, Consuluit praeses populum, quid uellet Iesum. ### English translation (Claude) Meanwhile the Lord Jesus, standing before the lofty tribunal, received these words from Pilate: "Do you stand here as king of the Judaean nation, as is said?" Christ answered: "I hear this in your words." Then a terrible accusation of the Just One rose up and roared, and wicked eloquence pressed hard on the Holy One. Jesus did not deign to answer the fierce men at all. Pilate asked what the reason for his silence was. He, persisting all the more, kept a wondrous silence. It happened that on the solemn day the laws, by custom, required that one man condemned to death be granted release; and there was in chains a robber of notorious name, whom the people, hostile to Christ, burned to set free to life. But Pilate's wife, terrified in sleep by fierce visions, anxiously begged her husband by messages and prayers to keep away from punishing the Just One. Then the judge tried again to search out the minds of the leaders, and asked that the one they wished to free from the punishment at hand be released under the law at the people's choice. But the leaders, with lavish canvassing, urged the people to ask for the robber under the law and to refuse Christ. And after the leaders' opinion had inflamed the crowd and it asked rather that the robber's life be granted to it, the governor consulted the people as to what they wanted done with Jesus. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:14: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:15: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:21: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:22: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 27:11–22. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.590 (CSEL 24:137lines 590–613–138; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-590). ## Book 4, lines 614–638 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-614 - Source: CSEL 24:138lines 614–638–139 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The crowd demands crucifixion; Pilate washes his hands and the people take the blood upon themselves; Barabbas released; Judas returns the silver and hangs himself; the field of blood. ### Latin text Plebs incensa malo saeuos miscere tumultus, Et crucis ad poenas iterumque iterumque petebant, Qui regis nomen cuperet, qui Caesaris hostem Confessus sese proprio damnauerit ore. Denique ui uictus detestatusque cruentum Officium increpitans se libera sanguinis huius Corda tenere sibi, coramque a crimine palmas Abluit, ut genti tantum macula illa maneret. Hoc magis inclamant: 'Nos, nos cruor iste sequatur, Et genus in nostrum scelus hoc et culpa redundet.' Pilatus donat plebi legique Barabban Et crucis ad poenam uictus concedit Iesum. Proditor at Iudas, postquam se talia cernit Accepto sceleris pretio signasse furentem, Infelix ueris damnans sua gesta querellis Proiecit templo tunc detestans argentum. Exorsusque suas laqueo sibi sumere poenas Informem rapuit ficus de uertice mortem. Inde sacerdotes, pretium quod sanguinis esset, Inlicitum fantes aditis concedere templi, Quod dare tum licitum, cum sanguis distraheretur, Credebant, agrum mercati nomine uero Sanguinis, horrendo signant scelera impia facto. Haec quondam cooperta canens uox uera profetae Euentum rerum patefecit in ordine saecli: ### English translation (Claude) The people, inflamed with evil, stirred up savage tumults, and again and again demanded the punishment of the cross for him who, they said, desired the name of king, and who, having confessed himself an enemy of Caesar, had condemned himself with his own mouth. At last, overcome by force and detesting the bloody office, Pilate protested that he kept his heart free of this blood, and washed his hands of the crime before them, so that the stain might remain on the nation alone. At this they cried out all the more: "Let this blood follow us, us, and let this crime and guilt overflow upon our race." Pilate granted Barabbas to the people and the law, and, overcome, gave up Jesus to the punishment of the cross. But Judas the traitor, after he saw that, having taken the price of crime, he had marked him out for the raging crowd, unhappy man, condemned his own deeds with true complaints and threw the silver into the temple, detesting it. And beginning to take his own punishment by the noose, he seized a shapeless death from the top of a fig tree. Then the priests, saying that it was unlawful to give to the temple treasury what was the price of blood, though they had believed it lawful to give it when the blood was being sold, bought a field under the true name of blood, and so marked their impious crimes with a horrid deed. This the true voice of the prophet, singing in veiled words long ago, had revealed, the outcome of things in the order of the ages: ### Scripture references - Matt 27:22: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:23: allusion, high confidence - John 19:12: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 27:24: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:6: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:9: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 27:22–9. The people's words are Matt 27:25, translated exactly as Juvencus gives them. That Judas hanged himself from a fig tree is not in Matthew; it is a later tradition. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.614 (CSEL 24:138lines 614–638–139; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-614). ## Book 4, lines 639–664 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-639 - Source: CSEL 24:139lines 639–664–140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The prophecy of the thirty pieces; the soldiers mock Jesus; Simon of Cyrene carries the cross; the gall; the crucifixion; the seamless tunic. ### Latin text Argenti triginta minas posuere profani Hoc pretium pretiosi corporis instituentes, Quod mox ad figuli rursus transfertur agellum. (Traditus est trucibus iustus scelerisque ministris Militibus: scelerata ludibria corpore praebet. Purpureamque illi tunicam clamidemque rubentem Inducunt spinisque caput cinxere cruentis, Inque uicem sceptri dextram comitatur harundo. Tum genibus nixi regem dominumque salutant Iudaeae gentis faciemque lauere saliuis Vertice et in sancto plagis lusere nefandis. Haec ubi transegit miles ludibria demens, Indutum propriae ducebat tegmina uestis Et crucis ad poenam sanctum iustumque trahebat. Ecce sed egressi quendam cepere Simonem Cyrena genitum lignumque adferre iubebant, Quo dominum lucis iussis suffigere saeuis Instans urgebat saecli inmutabilis ordo. At postquam uentum est, ubi ruris Golgatha nomen, Permixtum felli uinum dant pocula Christo. Ille sed in summo gustu tractata recusat; Ut satis antiquis fieret per talia dictis, Nec tamen insultans hominum furor omnia poscit. Iamque cruci fixum pendebat in arbore corpus, Intactaeque dedit tunicae sub sorte per omnes Militis unius seruans possessio textum. ### English translation (Claude) "The profane set down thirty minas of silver, fixing this as the price of the precious body, which is soon passed on again for the potter's little field." The Just One was handed over to the fierce soldiers, ministers of crime: he offered his body to wicked mockery. They put on him a purple tunic and a red cloak, bound his head with bloody thorns, and a reed went with his right hand in place of a sceptre. Then, kneeling, they hailed him king and lord of the Judaean nation, washed his face with spittle, and mocked him with wicked blows on his holy head. When the mad soldiers had carried out this mockery, they clothed him in the covering of his own garment and dragged the holy and just one to the punishment of the cross. But see, as they went out they seized a certain Simon, born in Cyrene, and ordered him to carry the wood on which the unchangeable order of the world, pressing on, drove them by savage commands to fasten the Lord of light. And when they came to the place whose name is Golgatha, they gave Christ a cup of wine mixed with gall. But when he had touched it with the tip of his taste, he refused it, so that the ancient sayings might be fulfilled by such things; and yet the insulting fury of men did not demand everything. And now the body hung fastened to the cross on the tree, and the possession of a single soldier, keeping the weave untouched, received the seamless tunic by lot among them all. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:9: quotation, high confidence - Zech 11:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:27: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:28: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:30: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:31: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:32: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:33: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:34: allusion, high confidence - Ps 69:21 (68:22 LXX): allusion, medium confidence - Matt 27:35: allusion, high confidence - John 19:23: allusion, high confidence - John 19:24: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 27:9–35; the prophecy is Zech 11:12–13 (Matthew names Jeremiah); the gall: Ps 69:21 (LXX 68:22); the tunic: John 19:23–24. The digital text opens a round bracket before 'The Just One was handed over' and closes it at 4.714; its purpose is unclear, and it is ignored. 'And yet the insulting fury of men did not demand everything' is obscure and translated literally. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.639 (CSEL 24:139lines 639–664–140; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-639). ## Book 4, lines 665–689 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-665 - Source: CSEL 24:140lines 665–689–141 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The title on the cross; the mockery by passers-by, leaders and robbers; darkness at noon. ### Latin text Et scriptum causae titulum meritique locarunt, Quod rex Iudaeae plebis gentisque fuisset. Accidit, ut pariter poenae consortia ferrent Latrones hinc inde duo; sed caeca furentis Insultat plebis fixo uaesania Christo: 'Hic est, qui templum poterat dissoluere solus, Hic est, qui trino lucis reparare meatu. Sed nunc discendat suboles ueneranda Tonantis Et crucis e poena corpusque animamque resoluat.' Haec uulgi proceres uaecordis dicta sequuntur; Atque Pharisaei scribaeque et factio demens Inludunt motuque caput linguasque loquellis Insanis quatiunt aeternae ad uincula poenae: 'Nonne alios quondam trucibus seruare solebat Morborum uinclis? sese cur soluere poenis Non ualet? En regem nostrae quem credere gentis Debuimus: soluat ligni de robore corpus! Tunc sanctis digne poterimus credere signis. Confidit genitore Deo: dimittere poena Cur propriam non uult subolem ueneranda potestas? Nec minus increpitant dextra laeuaque gementes Adfixi crucibus scelerum pro sorte latrones. Iam medium cursus lucis conscenderat orbem, Cum subito ex oculis fugit furuisque tenebris Induitur trepidumque diem sol nocte recondit. ### English translation (Claude) And they set up a written title of the charge and his desert, that he had been king of the Judaean people and nation. It happened that two robbers, one on either side, shared the punishment with him; but the blind madness of the raging people insulted Christ as he hung there: "This is he who alone could destroy the temple; this is he who could restore it in the course of three days. But now let the venerable offspring of the Thunderer come down and release body and soul from the punishment of the cross." The leaders of the mad crowd followed with these words; and the Pharisees and scribes and the mad faction mocked him, shaking their heads and wagging their tongues in insane speech, to their own bonds of eternal punishment: "Did he not once save others from the fierce bonds of disease? Why can he not release himself from punishment? See the king of our nation whom we were to believe: let him free his body from the strong wood! Then we shall be able to believe his holy signs as they deserve. He trusts in God the Father: why does the venerable power not wish to free his own offspring from punishment?" No less did the robbers, groaning on the right and the left, fastened to crosses for the lot of their crimes, revile him. Now the course of the light had climbed to the middle of the sky, when suddenly the sun fled from their eyes, clothed itself in murky darkness, and hid the trembling day in night. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:37: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:38: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:39: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:40: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:41: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:42: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:43: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:44: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:45: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 27:37–45. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.665 (CSEL 24:140lines 665–689–141; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-665). ## Book 4, lines 690–713 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-690 - Source: CSEL 24:141lines 690–713–142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Jesus' cry to the Father; the sour wine; his death; the veil torn, the earthquake, the saints raised; the soldiers confess him Son of God. ### Latin text Ast ubi turbatus nonam transegerat horam Consternata suo redierunt lumina mundo. Et Christus magna genitorem uoce uocabat Hebraeae in morem linguae; sed nescia plebes Heliam uocitare putat. Tum concitus unus Cogebat spongo turpi calamoque reuincto Inpressum labiis acidum potare saporem. Cetera turba furens tali cum uoce cachinnat: 'Spectemus pariter, caelo ne forte remissus Helias ueniat, celsa qui sede quiescit, Liberet et misero confixum stipite regem.' Tum clamor Domini magno conamine missus Aetheriis animam comitem conmiscuit auris. Scinduntur pariter sancti uelamina templi Carbasaque in geminas partes disrupta dehiscunt Et tremebunda omni concussa est pondere tellus, Dissiliuntque suo ruptae de corpore cautes. Tum ueterum monumenta uirum patuere repulsis Obicibus iustaeque animae per membra reuersae Et uisi passim populi per moenia late Errauere urbis: sic terrent omnia mundum, Militibus primis quatiuntur corda pauore, Dedita qui saeuae seruabant corpora poenae, Et subolem dixere Dei Christumque fatentur. ### English translation (Claude) But when the troubled sun had passed the ninth hour, the dismayed light returned to its world. And Christ called on the Father with a loud voice in the manner of the Hebrew tongue; but the people, not understanding, thought he was calling Helias. Then one man, roused, pressed a foul sponge bound to a reed against his lips and made him drink a sour taste. The rest of the raging crowd cackled, saying: "Let us watch together whether Helias, who rests in his lofty seat, may perhaps be sent back from heaven and come to free the wretched king fastened to the stake." Then the Lord's cry, sent forth with great effort, mingled his soul, its companion, with the airs of heaven. At once the veil of the holy temple was torn, and the linen, burst into two parts, gaped open; the trembling earth was shaken with all its weight, and the broken rocks leapt apart from their mass. Then the tombs of men of old lay open, their barriers thrust back, and just souls returned through their limbs and were seen wandering here and there by the people, far and wide through the city walls: so all things terrified the world. The hearts of the soldiers were the first to be shaken with fear, those who were guarding the bodies given over to savage punishment, and they called him the offspring of God and confessed him the Christ. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:45: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:46: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:47: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:48: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:49: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:50: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:51: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:52: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:53: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:54: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 27:45–54. Juvencus does not give the words of Jesus' cry (Ps 22:1). The digital text reads 'nisi passim' for 'uisi passim' ('were seen'); corrected. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.690 (CSEL 24:141lines 690–713–142; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-690). ## Book 4, lines 714–735 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-714 - Source: CSEL 24:142lines 714–735–143 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The women watch; Joseph of Arimathea buries Jesus in a new tomb; the leaders go to Pilate. ### Latin text E speculis matres miracula tanta tuentur Omnes, obsequium Christo quae ferre solebant) Iam decedenti uesper succedere soli Coeperat, et procerum solus cum iustior audet Corpus ad extremum munus deposcere Christi. Hic ab Arimathia nomen gestabat Ioseph, Qui quondam uerbis aures praebebat Iesu. Pilatum tunc iste rogat, sibi cedere membra, Quis nuper tulerat uitam uis horrida poenae. Concessit praeses et corpus fulgida lino Texta tegunt saxique nouo conponitur antro. Limen concludunt inmensa uolumina petrae; E speculis seruant matres et cuncta tuentur. Iamque dies rutilo conplebat lumine terras, Otia qui semper prisca de lege iubebat, Nulla sed inmitis procerum furor otia seruat. Conueniunt onerantque simul sic iudicis aures: 'Erroris laqueos iustissima poena resoluit. Nunc meminisse decet; quoniam planus ille solebat Vulgari semper iactans promittere plebi, E mortis sese tenebris ad lumina uitae Cum trino solis pariter remeare recursu. ### English translation (Claude) From a lookout all the women who used to serve Christ watched such great wonders. Now evening had begun to follow the departing sun, and one of the leaders, more just than the rest, alone dared to ask for the body of Christ for the last offices. He bore the name of Joseph from Arimathea, and had once lent his ears to the words of Jesus. He asked Pilate to grant him the limbs from which the horrid power of punishment had lately taken life. The governor granted it; shining woven linen covered the body, and it was laid in a new cave in the rock. Immense rolling stones closed the threshold; from a lookout the women kept watch and saw everything. And now the day was filling the lands with ruddy light which by the ancient law always commanded rest; but the unmerciful fury of the leaders kept no rest. They gathered and burdened the judge's ears with these words: "A most just punishment has undone the snares of error. Now it is fitting to remember that that deceiver used always to boast to the common people and promise that he would return from the darkness of death to the light of life with the sun's third return. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:55: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:57: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:58: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:59: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:60: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:61: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:62: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:63: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 27:55–63. 'The women' renders matres (literally 'mothers', 'matrons'). ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.714 (CSEL 24:142lines 714–735–143; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-714). ## Book 4, lines 736–759 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-736 - Source: CSEL 24:143lines 736–759–144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The guard and the sealed tomb; at dawn an earthquake and the angel; the guards stricken; the angel announces the resurrection. ### Latin text Hoc petimus, custos miles noua funera seruet, Ne fera discipulis furandi audacia corpus Consurgat turbetque recens insania plebem.' Et Pilatus ad haec: 'Miles permittitur, inquit, Seruare, ut uultis, corpus tellure sepultum.' Conueniunt saxique ingentia pondera uoluunt, Et limen signis et saxum milite seruant. Sidera iam noctis uenturo cedere soli Incipiunt, tumuli matres tum uisere saeptum Concurrunt, motus sed terram protinus omnem Concutit et caelo lapsus discendit aperto Nuntius et saxum tumuli de limine uoluit. Illius et facies splendet ceu fulguris ignis, Et niuis ad speciem lucent uelamina uestis. Militibus terror sensum discluserat omnem Et iacuere simul ceu fusa cadauera leto. Ille sed ad matres tali cum uoce profatur: 'Vestra pauor nullus quatiens nunc corda fatiget; Nam manifesta fides, sanctum uos quaerere corpus, Quod crucis in ligno scelerata insania fixit. Surrexit Christus aeternaque lumina uitae. Corpore cum sancto deuicta morte recepit. Visere iam uobis licitum est, quod sede sepulchri Nulla istic iaceant, fuerant quae condita membra. ### English translation (Claude) We ask this: that a guard of soldiers watch the new grave, lest a fierce boldness arise in the disciples to steal the body, and a fresh madness disturb the people." And Pilate answered: "A soldier is granted to guard, as you wish, the body buried in the earth." They came together and rolled the huge weight of the rock, and guarded the threshold with seals and the stone with soldiers. Now the stars of the night began to yield to the coming sun; then the women ran together to visit the tomb's enclosure; but at once an earthquake shook all the earth, and a messenger, gliding from the opened heaven, came down and rolled the stone from the threshold of the tomb. His face shone like the fire of lightning, and the covering of his garment gleamed like snow. Terror had shut out all sense from the soldiers, and they lay together like corpses laid low in death. But he spoke to the women thus: "Let no fear shake and weary your hearts now; for it is plain that you seek the holy body, which wicked madness fastened to the wood of the cross. Christ has risen, and with his holy body, death defeated, he has received the eternal light of life. Now you may see that the limbs that were buried lie here no longer in the seat of the tomb. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:64: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:65: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:66: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:1: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:3: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:6: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 27:64–28:6. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.736 (CSEL 24:143lines 736–759–144; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-736). ## Book 4, lines 760–783 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-149/#p-4-760 - Source: CSEL 24:144lines 760–783–145 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The women run to tell the disciples and meet the risen Jesus; the guards are bribed to say the body was stolen. ### Latin text Dicite praeterea celeri properoque recursu Discipulis, Christum remeasse in luminis oras, Inque Galilaeam laetum praecedere terram.' His dictis uisisque animos perfuderat ardens Laetitia attonitis stupor ancipitique pauore. Denique praecipiti celebrantes gaudia cursu Talia discipulis referunt tumulumque relinquunt. Ecce iteris medio clarus se ostendit Iesus Et fidas matres blandus saluere iubebat. Occurrunt illae et genibus plantisque prehensis Victorem leti pauidae uenerantur Iesum. Talibus ille dehinc praeceptis pectora firmat: 'Mentibus absistat fidei pauor omnis et ista Fratribus en nostris propere mandata referte. Nostri conspectus si cura est, ite uolentes Inque Galilaeam propere transcurrite terram.' Interea tumulo custodum exterrita corda; Mittunt e numero partem, quae tanta referret Iudaeis rerum miracula. Sed manus amens Iam semel insano penitus deuota furori Praemia militibus certatim magna rependit Et famam argento redimit, quod limine rupto Furtim sustulerit corpus defensa tenebris. Occulte rapiens audacia discipulorum. ### English translation (Claude) And tell the disciples besides, returning quickly and in haste, that Christ has come back to the shores of light and goes before them, rejoicing, into the land of Galilee." At these words and sights burning joy flooded their astonished minds, with amazement and wavering fear. Then, celebrating their joy as they ran headlong, they left the tomb and reported this to the disciples. See, in the middle of the way bright Jesus showed himself and kindly bade the faithful women greet him. They ran to meet him, took hold of his knees and feet, and in fear venerated Jesus, the conqueror of death. Then he strengthened their hearts with these words: "Let all fear leave your minds; and see, carry these commands quickly to our brothers: if you care to see us, go gladly and cross quickly into the land of Galilee." Meanwhile the hearts of the guards at the tomb were terrified; they sent a part of their number to report such great wonders to the Jews. But the mad band, already once wholly given over to insane fury, eagerly paid the soldiers great rewards and bought a report with silver: that the boldness of the disciples, protected by darkness, had broken the threshold and secretly stolen and carried off the body. ### Scripture references - Matt 28:7: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:9: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:11: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:12: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:13: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 28:7–15. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.760 (CSEL 24:144lines 760–783–145; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-760). ## Book 4, lines 784–812 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-784/#p-4-784 - Source: CSEL 24:145lines 784–812–146 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The risen Christ sends the disciples to baptize all nations in the name of the Father, the Son and the Spirit; Juvencus's closing thanks for the peace under Constantine. ### Latin text Iamque Galilaeos conscenderat anxia montes Mandatis Christi concurrens turba suorum: Cernitur ecce suis proles ueneranda Tonantis. Illum procumbens sancte chorus omnis adorat; Nec tamen in cunctis pariter fundata manebat Pectoribus uirtus, nam pars dubitabat eorum. Tunc sic discipulos clarus conpellat Iesus: 'In caelo et terris genitor mihi cuncta subegit, Me pater est uobis dignatus mittere lucem. Gentibus haut aliter nunc uos ego mittere cunctis Institui, uestrum est cunctas mihi iungere gentes. Pergite et ablutos homines purgantibus undis Nomine sub sancto patris natique lauate, Viuifici pariter currant spiramina flatus. Ablutisque dehinc nostra insinuate docentes Praecepta, ut uitam possint agitare perennem; Nec uobis umquam nostri praesentia deerit, Donec consumens dissoluat saecula finis. Has mea mens fidei uires sanctique timoris Cepit et in tantum lucet mihi gratia Christi, Versibus ut nostris diuinae gloria legis Ornamenta libens caperet terrestria linguae. Haec mihi pax Christi tribuit, pax haec mihi saecli, Quam fouet indulgens terrae regnator apertae Constantinus, adest cui gratia digna merenti, Qui solus regnum sacri sibi nominis horret Inponi pondus, quo iustis dignior actis Aeternam capiat diuina in saecula uitam Per dominum lucis Christum, qui in saecula regnat. ### English translation (Claude) And now the anxious company of his own, gathering at Christ's commands, had climbed the mountains of Galilee: see, the venerable offspring of the Thunderer is seen by his own. The whole company fell down and worshipped him in holiness; yet strength did not remain equally founded in all hearts, for some of them doubted. Then bright Jesus addressed the disciples thus: "In heaven and on earth the Father has subjected all things to me; the Father has deigned to send me to you as light. In the same way I have now resolved to send you to all the nations; it is your task to join all nations to me. Go, and wash men, cleansing them in purifying waters in the holy name of the Father and the Son, and let the breathings of the life-giving Spirit flow with them. Then, to those who have been washed, make known our precepts by teaching, so that they may lead an everlasting life; and our presence will never be lacking to you, until the end consumes and dissolves the ages." This strength of faith and holy fear my mind has received, and the grace of Christ shines on me so greatly that the glory of the divine law has gladly taken on in our verses the earthly ornaments of language. This the peace of Christ has granted me, this the peace of the age, which Constantine fosters, the indulgent ruler of the wide earth, on whom deserved grace rests as he merits, who alone of rulers shrinks from having the weight of a sacred name laid upon himself, so that, worthier by his just deeds, he may receive eternal life in the divine ages, through Christ, the Lord of light, who reigns for ever. ### Scripture references - Matt 28:16: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:17: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:18: allusion, high confidence - John 20:21: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 28:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:20: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Matt 28:16–20, then Juvencus's epilogue. The baptismal formula names the Father and the Son in the 'holy name' and adds 'the breathings of the life-giving Spirit'. The emperor 'shrinks from having the weight of a sacred name laid upon himself' probably means that Constantine declined divine titles; uncertain. ### Citation (SBL) Juvencus, Evang. 4.784 (CSEL 24:145lines 784–812–146; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/juvencus-evangeliorum-libri/4-784).