# On the Deaths of the Persecutors - Author: [Lactantius](https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/authors/lactantius/) - Latin title: *De mortibus persecutorum* - Date: ca. 314–315 (probable) - Source: Samuel Brandt and Georg Laubmann, eds., L. Caeli Firmiani Lactanti Opera omnia, Pars 2, fasc. 2, CSEL 27.2 (Vienna: Tempsky; Leipzig: Freytag, 1897), 171–238 (Latin text: S. Brandt and G. Laubmann (CSEL 27.2, 1897), 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 - Editions and translations: J. L. Creed, ed., Lactantius: De mortibus persecutorum, OECT (Oxford: Clarendon, 1984); Jacques Moreau, ed., Lactance: De la mort des persécuteurs, SC 39 (Paris: Cerf, 1954) - Work page: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/ - Passages: 365 ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 1.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:171 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lactantius addresses Donatus, a confessor, and says God has heard the prayers of the persecuted. ### Latin text Audiuit dominus orationes tuas, Donate carissime, quas in conspectu eius per omnes horas < cotidie fundebas, ceterorumque> fratrum nostrorum, qui gloriosa confessione sempiternam sibi coronam pro fidei meritis quaesierunt. ### English translation (Claude) The Lord has heard your prayers, dearest Donatus, which you poured out in his sight every hour, day after day, and the prayers of the rest of our brothers, who by a glorious confession have won for themselves an everlasting crown as the reward of their faith. ### Translation notes - The work is a polemical history: it presents the deaths of persecuting emperors as God's punishment. Its account is an important source for the Great Persecution (303–313) but is written from a partisan standpoint, and some details are not confirmed by other sources. Words in angle brackets in the edition are the editor's supplements where the single manuscript is damaged; they are translated. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 1.1 (CSEL 27.2:171; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 1.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:171–172 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: With the persecutors destroyed, the church is being rebuilt in greater glory. ### Latin text ecce, deletis omnibus aduersariis, restituta per orbem tranquillitate, profligata nuper ecclesia rursum exurgit et maiore gloria templum dei, quod ab impiis fuerat euersum, misericordia domini fabricatur. ### English translation (Claude) See: all the adversaries have been destroyed, peace has been restored throughout the world, and the church, lately struck down, rises again, and the temple of God, which the ungodly had overthrown, is being built up with greater glory by the Lord's mercy. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 1.2 (CSEL 27.2:171–172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 1.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:172 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God raised up rulers who cancelled the tyrants' decrees and brought peace. ### Latin text excitauit enim deus principes qui tyrannorum nefaria et cruenta imperia resciderunt humano generi prouiderunt, ut iam quasi discusso tristissimi temporis nubilo mentes omnium pax iucunda et serena laetificet. ### English translation (Claude) For God has raised up rulers who have rescinded the wicked and bloody commands of the tyrants and have provided for the human race, so that now, as if the cloud of a most grievous time had been scattered, a pleasant and serene peace gladdens the minds of all. ### Translation notes - The rulers meant are Constantine and Licinius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 1.3 (CSEL 27.2:172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 1.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:172 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: After the storm God has answered his servants' prayers and wiped away the tears of the mourners. ### Latin text nunc post atrae tempestatis uiolentos turbines placidus aer et optata lux refulsit, nunc placatus seruorum suorum deus iacentes et afflictos caelesti auxilio subleuauit, nunc maerentium lacrimas extincta impiorum conspiratione detersit. ### English translation (Claude) Now, after the violent whirlwinds of a black storm, a calm sky and the longed-for light have shone again; now God, appeased by the prayers of his servants, has lifted up with heavenly help those who lay prostrate and afflicted; now, the conspiracy of the ungodly being extinguished, he has wiped away the tears of those who mourned. ### Scripture references - Rev 21:4: echo, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 1.4 (CSEL 27.2:172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 1.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:172 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The persecutors have fallen and died under God's blows. ### Latin text qui insultauerant deo, iacent, qui templum sanctum euerterant, ruina maiore ceciderunt, qui iustos excarnificauerant, caelestibus plagis et cruciatibus meritis nocentes animas profuderunt. ### English translation (Claude) Those who had insulted God lie low; those who had overthrown the holy temple have fallen with a greater ruin; those who had butchered the righteous have poured out their guilty souls under heavenly blows and deserved torments. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 1.5 (CSEL 27.2:172; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 1.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:172–173 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God delayed their punishment to make them lasting examples that he is the one God and judge. ### Latin text sero id quidem, sed grauiter ac digne. distulerat enim poenas eorum deus, ut ederet in eos magna et mirabilia exempla, quibus posteri discerent et deum esse unum et eundem iudicem digna uid supplicia impiis ac persecutoribus inrogare. ### English translation (Claude) Late indeed, but heavily and fittingly. For God had put off their punishment in order to display in them great and wonderful examples, from which those who come after might learn both that God is one and that he, the same God, as judge inflicts fitting punishments on the ungodly and the persecutors. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 1.6 (CSEL 27.2:172–173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 1.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:173 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lactantius announces his aim: to record how God destroyed the persecutors, starting from the church's beginnings. ### Latin text de quo exitu tificari placuit, ut omnes qui procul remoti fuerunt uel qui pturi sunt, scirent, quatenus uirtutem ac maiestatem suam in ex et quibus poenis in eos caelestis iudicis seueritas uindicauerit, exponam. ### English translation (Claude) It has seemed good to me to bear witness to their end, so that all who were far away, or who will live hereafter, may know how the most high God has shown his power and majesty in extinguishing and destroying the enemies of his name. Yet it is not out of place if I set out from the beginning, from the time the church was founded, who were its persecutors and with what punishments the severity of the heavenly judge took vengeance on them. ### Translation notes - The damaged text of this sentence is supplemented by the editor (words in angle brackets). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 1.7 (CSEL 27.2:173; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-1-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:173–174 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Christ was crucified late in Tiberius's reign, in the consulship of the two Gemini. ### Latin text Extremis temporibus Tiberii Caesaris, ut scriptum legimus, dominus noster Iesus Christus a Iudaeis cruciatus est post diem decimum Kalendas Apriles duobus Geminis consulibus. ### English translation (Claude) In the last times of Tiberius Caesar, as we read in writing, our Lord Jesus Christ was crucified by the Jews, after the tenth day before the Kalends of April, when the two Gemini were consuls. ### Scripture references - Luke 3:1: echo, low confidence ### Translation notes - The consuls C. Fufius Geminus and L. Rubellius Geminus held office in AD 29; the tenth day before the Kalends of April is 23 March. This dating is traditional in Latin writers and is not the date favoured by most modern historians (AD 30 or 33). The phrase “by the Jews” is the author's. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.1 (CSEL 27.2:173–174; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:174 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The risen Christ spent forty days with his disciples, opened the Scriptures to them, and commissioned them to preach. ### Latin text cum resurrexisset die tertio, congregauit discipulos, quos metus comprehensionis eius in fugam uerterat, et diebus XL cum his commoratus aperuit corda eorum et scripturas interpretatus est, quae usque ad id tempus obscurae atque inuolutae fuerant, ordinauitque eos et instruxit ad praedicationem dogmatis ac doctrinae suae disponens testamenti noui sollemnem disciplinam. ### English translation (Claude) When he had risen on the third day, he gathered his disciples, whom fear at his arrest had put to flight, and remaining with them forty days he opened their hearts and interpreted the Scriptures, which until that time had been obscure and wrapped in mystery; and he ordained and instructed them for the preaching of his teaching and doctrine, setting in order the solemn discipline of the new covenant. ### Scripture references - Acts 1:3: allusion, high confidence - Luke 24:45: allusion, high confidence - Mark 14:50: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.2 (CSEL 27.2:174; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:174 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Christ was taken up into heaven in a cloud. ### Latin text quo officio repleto circumuoluit eum procella nubis et subtractum oculis hominum rapuit in caelum. ### English translation (Claude) When this task was fulfilled, a storm-cloud wrapped him about, and, withdrawn from human sight, it carried him up into heaven. ### Scripture references - Acts 1:9: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.3 (CSEL 27.2:174; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:174 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The apostles, joined by Matthias and Paul, spread through the world and founded churches for twenty-five years. ### Latin text et inde discipuli, qui tunc erant undecim, adsumptis in locum Iudae proditoris Mathia < et> Paulo dispersi sunt per omnem terram ad euangelium praedicandum, sicut illis magister dominus imperauerat, et per annos XXV usque ad principium Neroniani imperii per omnes prouincias et ciuitates ecclesiae fundamenta miserunt. ### English translation (Claude) And from there the disciples, who were then eleven, having taken Matthias and Paul in place of Judas the traitor, were scattered through all the earth to preach the gospel, as their Master the Lord had commanded them, and for twenty-five years, until the beginning of Nero's reign, they laid the foundations of the church through all the provinces and cities. ### Scripture references - Acts 1:26: allusion, high confidence - Matt 28:19: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “and” before Paul is the editor's supplement. The twenty-five years are the author's reckoning (Nero began to reign in AD 54). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.4 (CSEL 27.2:174; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:174 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Peter came to Rome under Nero, worked miracles, and founded a faithful church there. ### Latin text cumque iam Nero imperaret, Petrus Romam aduenit et editis quibusdam miraculis, quae uirtute ipsius dei data sibi ab eo potestate faciebat. conuertit multos ad iustitiam deoque templum fidele ac stabile conlocauit. ### English translation (Claude) And when Nero was already reigning, Peter came to Rome, and by performing certain miracles, which he did by the power of God himself, a power given him by God, he converted many to righteousness and set up for God a faithful and stable temple. ### Translation notes - Peter's coming to Rome is an early tradition; the time of his arrival is not recorded in the New Testament. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.5 (CSEL 27.2:174; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:174–175 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Nero, the first persecutor, crucified Peter and killed Paul, but did not escape punishment. ### Latin text qua re ad Neronem delata cum animaduerteret non modo Romae, sed ubique cotidie magnam multitudinem deficere a cultu idolorum et ad religionem nouam damnata uetusta transire, ut erat execrabilis ac nocens tyrannus, prosiliuit ad excidendum caeleste templum delendamque iustitiam et primus omnium persecutus dei seruos Petrum cruci adfixit, Paulum interfecit. nec tamen habuit inpune. ### English translation (Claude) When this was reported to Nero, and he noticed that not only at Rome but everywhere a great multitude was daily falling away from the worship of idols and, condemning the old, going over to the new religion, then, being the accursed and harmful tyrant he was, he sprang forward to cut down the heavenly temple and to destroy righteousness, and, first of all men to persecute the servants of God, he fastened Peter to a cross and killed Paul. Yet he did not go unpunished. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.6 (CSEL 27.2:174–175; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:175 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God saw his people's affliction; Nero fell from power and vanished without a known grave. ### Latin text respexit enim deus uexationem populi sui. deiectus itaque fastigio imperii ac deuolutus a summo tyrannus impotens nusquam repente comparuit, ut ne sepulturae quidem locus in terra tam malae bestiae appareret. ### English translation (Claude) For God looked upon the affliction of his people. And so the tyrant, powerless, cast down from the height of empire and tumbled from the summit, suddenly vanished, so that not even a place of burial for so evil a beast was to be seen on earth. ### Scripture references - Exod 3:7: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Nero died by suicide in AD 68 and was in fact buried in the family tomb of the Domitii, according to Suetonius; the author's claim reflects the rumours of his disappearance. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.7 (CSEL 27.2:175; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 2.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:175–176 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lactantius rejects the belief, drawn from the Sibyl, that Nero lives on and will return before Antichrist. ### Latin text unde illum quidam deliri credunt esse translatum ac uiuum reseruatum, Sibylla dicente matricidam profugum a finibus esse uenturum, ut quia primus persecutus est, idem etiam nouissimus persequatur et antichristi praecedat aduentum — < quod n >efas est credere —, sicut duos prophetas uiuos esse translatos in ultima ante imperium Christi sanctum ac sempiternum, cum descendere coeperit, < quidam sanctor >um pronuntient: eodem modo etiam Neronem uenturum putant, < ut praecu>rsor diaboli ac praeuius sit uenientis ad uastationem terrae et humaneris euersionem. ### English translation (Claude) Hence some crazed people believe that he was carried away and kept alive, since the Sibyl says that a fugitive matricide will come from the ends of the earth, so that, because he was the first to persecute, he may also be the last to persecute and may precede the coming of Antichrist; but it is wrong to believe this. Just as certain holy men declare that two prophets were carried away alive to the last times, before the holy and everlasting reign of Christ, when he begins to descend, so in the same way they think that Nero too will come, to be the forerunner of the devil and go before him as he comes to lay waste the earth and overthrow the human race. ### Scripture references - Rev 11:3: allusion, medium confidence - Gen 5:24: allusion, medium confidence - 2 Kgs 2:11: allusion, medium confidence ### Extrabiblical texts - Sib. Or. 4.119–124 (Sibylline Oracles): allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - On the Nero legend see Sib. Or. 4.119–124 and 5.137–154, 361–370. The two prophets are Enoch and Elijah, taken up alive (Gen 5:24; 2 Kgs 2:11), often identified with the two witnesses of Rev 11:3. Several words are the editor's supplements. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 2.8 (CSEL 27.2:175–176; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-2-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 3.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:176–177 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Domitian ruled long and safely until he turned against the Lord. ### Latin text ortus est. cum exerceret inuisam dominationem, subiectorum tamen ceruicibus incubauit quam diutissime tutusque regnauit, donec impias manus aduersus dominum tenderet. ### English translation (Claude) After him, when some years had passed, another tyrant no less than he arose, Domitian. Although he exercised a hated domination, he still lay heavy on the necks of his subjects for a very long time and reigned in safety, until he stretched out his impious hands against the Lord. ### Translation notes - “Domitian” and “who” are the editor's supplements. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 3.1 (CSEL 27.2:176–177; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 3.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:177 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Once Domitian persecuted, he was murdered in his palace and his memory was erased. ### Latin text postquam uero ad persequendum iustum populum instinctu daemonum incitatus est, tunc traditus in manus inimicorum luit poenas. nec satis ad ultionem fuit quod est interfectus domi: etiam memoria nominis eius erasa est. ### English translation (Claude) But after he was stirred up by the prompting of demons to persecute the righteous people, then he was handed over into the hands of his enemies and paid the penalty. Nor was it enough for vengeance that he was killed in his own palace: even the memory of his name was erased. ### Translation notes - Domitian was assassinated in AD 96; the senate condemned his memory. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 3.2 (CSEL 27.2:177; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 3.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:177 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The senate destroyed Domitian's statues and inscriptions to disgrace him forever. ### Latin text nam cum multa mirabilia opera fabricasset, cum Capitolium aliaque nobilia monumenta fecisset, senatus ita nomen eius persecutus est, ut neque imaginum neque titulorum eius relinqueret ulla uestigia, grauissime decretis etiam mortuo notam inureret ad ignominiam sempiternam. ### English translation (Claude) For although he had built many wonderful works, although he had made the Capitol and other famous monuments, the senate so persecuted his name that it left no trace of his statues or his inscriptions, and by the gravest decrees branded him even after death for his everlasting disgrace. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 3.3 (CSEL 27.2:177; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 3.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:177–178 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: After Domitian the church enjoyed a long peace and spread to the ends of the earth, until that peace was broken. ### Latin text rescissis igitur actis tyranni non modo in statum pristinum ecclesia restituta est, sed etiam multo clarius ac floridius enituit, secutisque temporibus, quibus multi ac boni principes Romani imperii clauum regimenque tenuerunt, nullos inimicorum impetus passa manus suas in orientem occidentemque porrexit, ut iam nullus esset terrarum angulus tam remotus quo non religio dei penetrasset, nulla denique [dei] natio tam feris moribus uiuens, ut non suscepto dei cultu ad iustitiae opera mitesceret. sed enim postea longa pax rupta est. ### English translation (Claude) And so, the acts of the tyrant having been rescinded, the church was not only restored to its former state but shone out far more brightly and flourishingly; and in the following times, when many good emperors held the helm and government of the Roman empire, suffering no assaults from enemies, it stretched out its hands to the east and the west, so that there was now no corner of the earth so remote that the religion of God had not reached it, and no nation, finally, living with manners so savage that it did not grow gentle for the works of righteousness by receiving the worship of God. But afterwards the long peace was broken. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets the word “of God” after “no” (nulla [dei] natio) as spurious; it is left out. The author's picture of an unbroken peace from Domitian to Decius passes over the local persecutions of the second and third centuries. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 3.4 (CSEL 27.2:177–178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-3-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 4.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-4-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:178 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: After many years Decius arose to persecute the church. ### Latin text Extitit enim post annos plurimos execrabile animal Decius, qui uexaret ecclesiam: quis enim iustitiam nisi malus persequatur? ### English translation (Claude) For after very many years there arose an accursed animal, Decius, to harass the church: for who persecutes righteousness but an evil man? ### Translation notes - Decius reigned AD 249–251. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 4.1 (CSEL 27.2:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-4-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 4.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-4-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:178 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Decius began raging against God at once, and fell at once. ### Latin text et quasi huius rei gratia prouectus esset ad illud principale fastigium, furere protinus contra deum coepit, ut protinus caderet. ### English translation (Claude) And as if he had been raised to that imperial height for this very purpose, he at once began to rage against God, so that he at once fell. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 4.2 (CSEL 27.2:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-4-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 4.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-4-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:178 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Decius was killed by barbarians with much of his army and lay unburied. ### Latin text nam profectus aduersum Carpos, qui tum Daciam Moesiamque occupauerant, statimque circumuentus a barbaris et cum magna exercitus parte deletus ne sepultura quidem potuit honorari, sed exutus ac nudus, ut hostem dei oportebat, pabulum feris ac uolucribus iacuit. ### English translation (Claude) For having set out against the Carpi, who had then occupied Dacia and Moesia, he was at once surrounded by the barbarians and destroyed with a great part of his army, and could not even be honoured with burial, but, stripped and naked, as befitted an enemy of God, he lay as food for wild beasts and birds. ### Translation notes - Decius fell in 251 at Abritus fighting the Goths; the author names the Carpi, who had earlier invaded Dacia. Other sources do not confirm that his body was left unburied (it was reportedly never found). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 4.3 (CSEL 27.2:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-4-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 5.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:178 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Valerian persecuted and was punished in a singular way as a lesson to later generations. ### Latin text Non multo post Valerianus quoque non dissimili furore correptus impias manus in deum intentauit et multum quamuis breui tempore iusti sanguinis fudit. at illum deus nouo ac singulari poenae genere adfecit, ut esset posteris documentum aduersarios dei semper dignam scelere suo recipere mercedem. ### English translation (Claude) Not long after, Valerian also, seized by a like frenzy, aimed his impious hands against God and shed much righteous blood, though in a short time. But God struck him with a new and singular kind of punishment, so that he might be a lesson to posterity that the adversaries of God always receive the wages their crime deserves. ### Translation notes - Valerian reigned 253–260; his persecution began in 257. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 5.1 (CSEL 27.2:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 5.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:178 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Captured by the Persians, Valerian lived in shameful slavery. ### Latin text hic captus a Persis non modo imperium, quo fuerat insolenter usus, sed etiam libertatem, quam ceteris ademerat, perdidit uixitque in seruitute turpissime. ### English translation (Claude) Captured by the Persians, he lost not only the imperial power he had used insolently but also the liberty he had taken from others, and he lived most shamefully in slavery. ### Translation notes - Valerian was captured by Shapur I in 260. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 5.2 (CSEL 27.2:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 5.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:178 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Shapur used the captive Valerian as a footstool when mounting, mocking Roman pictures of victory. ### Latin text nam rex Persarum Sapor, is qui eum ceperat, si quando libuerat aut uehiculum ascendere aut equum, inclinare sibi Romanum iubebat ac terga praebere et imposito pede super dorsum eius illud esse uerum dicebat exprobrans ei cum risu. non quod in tabulis aut parietibus Romani pingerent. ### English translation (Claude) For the king of the Persians, Sapor, the one who had captured him, whenever he wished to mount his carriage or his horse, used to order the Roman to bend down and offer his back, and, setting his foot on his back, would say with a laugh, taunting him, that this was the truth, not what the Romans painted on tablets or walls. ### Translation notes - The footstool story is also told by later writers; its historicity is uncertain. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 5.3 (CSEL 27.2:178; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 5.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:178–179 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Valerian lived on for some time as a humiliation of the Roman name. ### Latin text ita ille dignissime triumphatus aliquamdiu uixit, ut diu barbaris Romanum nomen ludibrio ac derisui esset. ### English translation (Claude) So, most deservedly triumphed over, he lived for some time, so that for a long time the Roman name was a mockery and a laughing-stock to the barbarians. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 5.4 (CSEL 27.2:178–179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 5.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:179 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His son, the emperor Gallienus, never avenged him or sought his release. ### Latin text etiam hoc ei accessit ad poenam, quod cum filium haberet imperatorem, captiuitatis suae tamen ac seruitutis extremae non inuenit ultorem nec omnino repetitus est. ### English translation (Claude) This too was added to his punishment: though he had a son who was emperor, he found no avenger of his captivity and utter slavery, nor was he ever demanded back. ### Translation notes - The son is Gallienus (sole emperor 260–268). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 5.5 (CSEL 27.2:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 5.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:179 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: After his death Valerian's skin was flayed, dyed red, and displayed in a Persian temple. ### Latin text postea uero quam pudendam uitam in illo dedecore finiuit, derepta est ei cutis et exuta uisceribus pellis infecta rubro colore, ut in templo barbarorum deorum ad memoriam clarissimi triumphi poneretur legatisque nostris semper esset ostentui, ne nimium Romani uiribus suis fiderent, cum exuuias capti principis apud deos suos cernerent. ### English translation (Claude) But after he had ended his shameful life in that disgrace, his skin was stripped off, and the hide, torn from his flesh, was dyed with red colour, so that it might be placed in the temple of the barbarian gods as a memorial of a most glorious triumph and always be shown to our ambassadors, so that the Romans might not trust too much in their own strength when they saw the spoils of a captured emperor among the Persians' gods. ### Translation notes - The flaying is reported only by Christian and later writers; it is not confirmed by Persian sources. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 5.6 (CSEL 27.2:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 5.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:179 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: After such punishments it is astonishing that anyone dared to oppose God again. ### Latin text cum igitur tales poenas de sacrilegis deus exegerit, nonne mirabile est ausum esse quemquam postea non modo facere, sed etiam cogitare aduersus maiestatem singularis dei regentis et continentis uniuersa? ### English translation (Claude) Since God, then, exacted such punishments from the sacrilegious, is it not astonishing that anyone afterwards dared not only to act but even to plan against the majesty of the one God, who rules and holds together all things? ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 5.7 (CSEL 27.2:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-5-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 6.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-6-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:179 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Aurelian planned to persecute but was killed before he could carry it out. ### Latin text Aurelianus, qui esset natura uesanus et praeceps, quamuis captiuitatem Valeriani meminisset, tamen oblitus sceleris eius et poenae iram dei crudelibus factis lacessiuit. uerum illi ne perficere quidem quae cogitauerat licuit, sed protinus inter initia sui furoris extinctus est. ### English translation (Claude) Aurelian, who was by nature mad and headlong, though he remembered Valerian's captivity, nevertheless forgot his crime and its punishment and provoked the wrath of God by cruel deeds. But he was not even allowed to accomplish what he had planned; he was cut off at once, at the very beginning of his frenzy. ### Translation notes - Aurelian reigned 270–275. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 6.1 (CSEL 27.2:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-6-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 6.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-6-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:179 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Aurelian was murdered by his own officers in Thrace before his edicts took effect. ### Latin text nondum ad prouincias ulteriores cruenta eius scripta peruenerant, et iam Caenofrurio, qui locus est Thraciae, cruentus ipse humi iacebat falsa quadam suspicione ab amicis suis interemptus. ### English translation (Claude) His bloody edicts had not yet reached the more distant provinces, and already he himself lay bloodied on the ground at Caenophrurium, a place in Thrace, killed by his friends on some false suspicion. ### Translation notes - Aurelian was killed near Caenophrurium in 275. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 6.2 (CSEL 27.2:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-6-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 6.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-6-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:179 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Later tyrants ignored these examples and opposed God more boldly. ### Latin text talibus et tot exemplis coerceri posteriores tyrannos oportebat: at hi non modo territi non sunt, sed audacius etiam contra deum confidentiusque fecerunt. ### English translation (Claude) By such and so many examples the later tyrants ought to have been restrained; yet they were not only not frightened but acted against God even more boldly and confidently. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 6.3 (CSEL 27.2:179; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-6-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:179–180 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian, author of many evils, finally turned against God. ### Latin text Diocletianus. qui scelerum inuentor et malorum machinator fuit, cum disperderet omnia, ne a deo quidem manus potuit abstinere. ### English translation (Claude) Diocletian, who was the inventor of crimes and the contriver of evils, while he was ruining everything, could not keep his hands even from God. ### Translation notes - Diocletian reigned 284–305. The portrait that follows is hostile and rhetorical; many of his administrative reforms are judged differently by modern historians. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.1 (CSEL 27.2:179–180; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:180 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian divided the empire among four rulers and multiplied the armies. ### Latin text hic orbem terrae simul et auaritia et timiditate subuertit. tres enim participes regni sui fecit in quattuor partes orbe diuiso et multiplicatis exercitibus, cum singuli eorum longe maiorem numerum militum habere contenderent, quam priores principes habuerant, cum soli rem publicam gererent. ### English translation (Claude) He overturned the world both by avarice and by timidity. For he made three men sharers of his rule, the world being divided into four parts, and armies were multiplied, since each of them strove to have a far greater number of soldiers than former emperors had had when they governed the state alone. ### Translation notes - The Tetrarchy: Diocletian and Maximian as Augusti, Constantius and Galerius as Caesars. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.2 (CSEL 27.2:180; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:180 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Heavy taxes to pay the armies ruined farmers and fields were abandoned. ### Latin text adeo maior esse coeperat numerus accipientium quam dantium. ut enormitate indictionum consumptis uiribus colonorum desererentur agri et culturae uerterentur in siluam. ### English translation (Claude) The number of those receiving began to be so much greater than the number of those giving that, the resources of the farmers being exhausted by the enormity of the levies, the fields were deserted and cultivated land turned into forest. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.3 (CSEL 27.2:180; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:180 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The provinces were split up and filled with officials who condemned, confiscated, and extorted. ### Latin text et ut omnia terrore conplerentur, prouinciae quoque in frusta concisae: multi praesides et plura officia singulis regionibus ac paene iam ciuitatibus incubare, item rationales multi et magistri et uicarii praefectorum, quibus omnibus ciuiles actus admodum rari, sed condemnationes tantum et proscriptiones frequentes, exactiones rerum innumerabilium non dicam crebrae, sed perpetuae, et in exactionibus iniuriae non ferendae. ### English translation (Claude) And so that everything might be filled with terror, the provinces too were chopped into pieces: many governors and more offices weighed on each region and almost on each city, likewise many finance officers and masters and deputies of the prefects, among all of whom civil business was very rare, but condemnations and confiscations were frequent, exactions of countless things, I will not say frequent, but continual, and in the exactions injuries not to be borne. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.4 (CSEL 27.2:180; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:180 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian's avarice made him hoard his treasury while imposing levies. ### Latin text haec quoque tolerari quaecumque sint fabricandis operibus necessaria. ### English translation (Claude) To this was added a certain boundless passion for building, and no less an exaction from the provinces in supplying workmen and craftsmen and wagons and everything needed for constructing the works. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.8 (CSEL 27.2:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:181 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He built endlessly at Nicomedia, displacing its inhabitants. ### Latin text hic basilicae, hic circus, hic moneta, hic armorum fabrica, hic uxori domus, hic filiae. repente magna pars ciuitatis exciditur. migrabant omnes cum coniugibus ac liberis quasi urbe ab hostibus capta. ### English translation (Claude) Here basilicas, here a circus, here a mint, here an arms factory, here a house for his wife, here one for his daughter. Suddenly a great part of the city is cut away. Everyone moved out with wives and children, as if the city had been taken by enemies. ### Translation notes - His wife was Prisca; his daughter Valeria. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.9 (CSEL 27.2:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:181 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He had buildings torn down and rebuilt, trying to make Nicomedia rival Rome. ### Latin text et cum perfecta haec fuerant cum interitu prouinciarum, non recte facta sunt aiebat, alio modo fiant. rursus dirui ac mutari necesse erat iterum fortasse casura. ita semper dementabat Nicomediam studens urbi Romae coaequare. ### English translation (Claude) And when these had been completed with the ruin of the provinces, “They have not been done right,” he would say; “let them be done another way.” They had to be pulled down again and changed, perhaps to fall once more. So he was forever raving, striving to make Nicomedia equal to the city of Rome. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.10 (CSEL 27.2:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:181 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Many were killed for their property. ### Latin text iam illud praetereo, quam multi perierint possessionum aut opum gratia. hoc enim usitatum et fere licitum consuetudine malorum. ### English translation (Claude) I pass over how many perished for the sake of their estates or wealth; for this was usual and, by the custom of evil men, almost lawful. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.11 (CSEL 27.2:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 7.12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-12 - Source: CSEL 27.2:181 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Owners of fine estates were falsely accused and executed so he could seize them. ### Latin text sed in hoc illud fuit praecipuum, quod ubicumque cultiorem agrum uiderat aut ornatius aedificium, iam parata domino calumnia et poena capitalis, quasi non posset rapere aliena sine sanguine. ### English translation (Claude) But in this his special trait was that wherever he had seen a better-cultivated field or a more ornate building, at once a false charge and capital punishment were prepared for the owner, as if he could not seize another's property without blood. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 7.12 (CSEL 27.2:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-7-12). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 8.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:181 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian Herculius was like Diocletian in mind and will. ### Latin text Quid frater eius Maximianus, qui est dictus Herculius? non dissimilis ab eo: nec enim possent in amicitiam tam fidelem cohaerere, nisi esset in utroque mens una, eadem cogitatio, par uoluntas, aequa sententia. ### English translation (Claude) What of his brother Maximian, who was called Herculius? He was not unlike him; for they could not have held together in so faithful a friendship unless there had been in both one mind, the same thinking, an equal will, a like judgement. ### Translation notes - “Brother” is a title of the partnership, not kinship. Maximian was Augustus 286–305. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 8.1 (CSEL 27.2:181; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 8.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:181–182 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian was more greedy and timid, Maximian bolder in evil. ### Latin text hoc solum differebant, quod auaritia maior in altero fuit, sed plus timiditatis, in altero uero minor auaritia, sed plus animi, non ad bene faciendum, sed ad male. ### English translation (Claude) They differed only in this: in the one there was greater avarice but more timidity, in the other less avarice but more spirit, not for doing good, but for doing evil. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 8.2 (CSEL 27.2:181–182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 8.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:182 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Controlling Italy, Africa and Spain, Maximian was less careful to hoard wealth. ### Latin text nam cum ipsam imperii sedem teneret Italiam subiacerentque opulentissimae prouinciae, uel Africa uel Hispania, non erat in custodiendis opibus tam diligens, quarum illi copia suppetebat. ### English translation (Claude) For since he held Italy, the very seat of empire, and the wealthiest provinces, Africa and Spain, lay under him, he was not so careful in guarding wealth, of which he had an abundant supply. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 8.3 (CSEL 27.2:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 8.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:182 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Rich senators were falsely accused of treason and killed. ### Latin text et cum opus esset, non deerant locupletissimi senatores qui subornatis indiciis affectasse imperium dicerentur, ita ut effoderentur assidue lumina senatus. ### English translation (Claude) And whenever there was need, there was no lack of very wealthy senators who could be said, by suborned informations, to have aimed at the throne, so that the lights of the senate were continually being put out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 8.4 (CSEL 27.2:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 8.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:182 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian enriched himself by bloodshed and indulged his lusts with boys and noblemen's daughters. ### Latin text cruentissimus fiscus mala partis opibus affluebat. iam libido in homine pestifero non modo ad corrumpendos mares, quod est odiosum ac detestabile, uerum etiam ad uiolandas primorum filias. nam quacumque iter fecerat, auulsae a complexu parentum uirgines statim praesto. ### English translation (Claude) A most bloodstained treasury overflowed with ill-gotten wealth. Moreover, the lust in that pestilent man went not only to the corrupting of males, which is hateful and detestable, but also to the violating of the daughters of leading men. For wherever he had travelled, maidens torn from their parents' arms were at once at his disposal. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 8.5 (CSEL 27.2:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 8.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:182 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He thought his happiness lay in denying his lusts nothing. ### Latin text his rebus beatum se iudicabat, his constare felicitatem imperii sui putabat, si libidini et cupiditati malae nihil denegaret. ### English translation (Claude) In these things he judged himself happy; in these he thought the prosperity of his reign consisted, if he denied nothing to his lust and evil desire. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 8.6 (CSEL 27.2:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 8.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:182 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantius, unlike the others, was worthy to rule alone. ### Latin text Constantium praetereo, quoniam dissimilis ceterorum fuit dignusque qui solus orbem teneret. ### English translation (Claude) I pass over Constantius, since he was unlike the others and worthy to hold the world alone. ### Translation notes - Constantius I, father of Constantine. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 8.7 (CSEL 27.2:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-8-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:182 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The other Maximian, Diocletian's son-in-law, was the worst of all. ### Latin text Alter uero Maximianus, quem sibi generum Diocletianus asciuerat, non his duobus tantum quos tempora nostra senserunt, sed omnibus qui fuerunt malis peior. ### English translation (Claude) But the other Maximian, whom Diocletian had taken as his son-in-law, was worse not only than these two whom our own times have felt, but than all the evil men who ever lived. ### Translation notes - The author calls Galerius (Caesar 293, Augustus 305–311) by his name Maximianus; he married Diocletian's daughter Valeria. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.1 (CSEL 27.2:182; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:182–183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius had a barbarian savagery from his mother, a refugee from beyond the Danube. ### Latin text inerat huic bestiae naturalis barbaries, efferitas a Romano sanguine aliena non mirum, cum mater eius Transdanuuiana infestantibus Carpis in Daciam nouam transiecto amne confugerat. ### English translation (Claude) There was in this beast a native barbarism, a savagery foreign to Roman blood; no wonder, since his mother, a woman from beyond the Danube, had fled into New Dacia across the river when the Carpi were raiding. ### Translation notes - His mother was Romula. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.2 (CSEL 27.2:182–183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His huge body matched his character. ### Latin text erat etiam corpus moribus congruens, status celsus, caro ingens et in horrendam magnitudinem diffusa et inflata. ### English translation (Claude) His body too matched his character: tall of stature, a huge mass of flesh spread out and swollen to a horrible size. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.3 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Everyone feared him, even Diocletian, for the following reason. ### Latin text denique et uerbis et actibus et aspectu terrori omnibus ac formidini fuit. socer quoque eum metuebat acerrime: cuius timoris haec fuit causa. ### English translation (Claude) In short, by his words, his deeds, and his look he was a terror and a dread to all. Even his father-in-law feared him very sharply; and the cause of this fear was this. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.4 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Narses of Persia, following his grandfather Shapur, sought to seize the East. ### Latin text Narseus rex Persarum concitatus domesticis exemplis aui sui Saporis ad occupandum Orientem cum magnis copiis inhiabat. ### English translation (Claude) Narses, king of the Persians, spurred on by the example of his own house, his grandfather Sapor, was eagerly aiming with great forces to seize the East. ### Translation notes - Narseh reigned 293–302; he was Shapur I's son, not grandson, by most accounts. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.5 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian, afraid, sent Galerius against the Persians and waited. ### Latin text tunc Diocletianus, ut erat in omni tumultu meticulosus animique deiectus, simul et exemplum Valeriani timens, non ausus est obuiam tendere, sed hunc per Armeniam misit ipse in Oriente subsistens et aucupans exitus rerum. ### English translation (Claude) Then Diocletian, fearful in every disturbance as he was, and low in spirit, fearing at the same time the example of Valerian, did not dare go to meet him, but sent this man through Armenia, himself staying in the East and waiting to catch the outcome. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.6 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius routed Narses and returned proud, which alarmed Diocletian. ### Latin text ille insidiis usus barbaros, quibus mos est cum omnibus suis ad bellum pergere, multitudine impeditos et sarcinis occupatos non difficiliter oppressit fugatoque Narseo rege reuersus cum praeda et manubiis ingentibus sibi attulit superbiam, Diocletiano timorem. ### English translation (Claude) He, using an ambush, overwhelmed without difficulty the barbarians, whose custom is to go to war with all their households, hampered by their numbers and encumbered with baggage; and having put King Narses to flight, he returned with booty and enormous spoils, bringing pride to himself and fear to Diocletian. ### Translation notes - The victory of 298. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.7 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Swollen with pride, Galerius resented the title Caesar. ### Latin text in tantos namque fastus post hanc uictoriam elenatus est, ut iam detrectaret Caesaris nomen. quod cum in litteris ad se datis audisset, truci uultu ac uoce terribili exclamabat quousque Caesar? ### English translation (Claude) For after this victory he was raised to such arrogance that he now scorned the name of Caesar; and when he heard it in letters addressed to him, he would exclaim with a savage face and a terrible voice, “How long Caesar?” ### Translation notes - The digital text reads “elenatus”, probably for elatus or eleuatus (“raised”). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.8 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He claimed to be a son of Mars, slandering his own mother to seem divine. ### Latin text exinde insolentissime agere coepit, ut ex Marte se procreatum et uideri et dici uellet tamquam alterum Romulum maluitque Romulam matrem stupro infamare, ut ipse diis oriundus uideretur. ### English translation (Claude) From then on he began to behave most insolently, wishing to seem and be called begotten of Mars, as a second Romulus, and he preferred to defame his mother Romula with adultery so that he himself might appear sprung from gods. ### Translation notes - The Latin is stuprum, illicit intercourse. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.9 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His worst deeds came after he became Augustus. ### Latin text sed differo de factis eius dicere, ne confundam tempora. postea enim quam nomen imperatoris accepit, exuto socero, tum demum furere coepit et contemnere omnia. ### English translation (Claude) But I put off speaking of his deeds so as not to confuse the times. For after he received the title of emperor, his father-in-law having been stripped of it, then at last he began to rage and to despise everything. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.10 (CSEL 27.2:183; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:183–184 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian prospered as long as he did not shed the blood of the righteous. ### Latin text Diocles — enim ante imperium uocabatur — cum rem publicam talibus consiliis et talibus sociis euerteret, cum pro sceleribus suis nihil non mereretur, tamdiu tamen summa felicitate regnauit, quamdiu manus suas iustorum sanguine non inquinaret. ### English translation (Claude) Diocles (for so he was called before his reign), while he was overturning the state with such counsels and such partners, and though for his crimes there was nothing he did not deserve, nevertheless reigned with the highest good fortune so long as he did not defile his hands with the blood of the righteous. ### Translation notes - “so” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.11 (CSEL 27.2:183–184; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 9.12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-12 - Source: CSEL 27.2:184 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lactantius turns to the cause of the persecution. ### Latin text quam uero causam persequendi habuerit exponam. ### English translation (Claude) But what cause he had for persecuting, I will set out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 9.12 (CSEL 27.2:184; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-9-12). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 10.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:184 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian, anxious about the future, consulted the entrails of sacrificed animals. ### Latin text Cum ageret in partibus Orientis, ut erat pro timore scrutator rerum futurarum. immolabat pecudes et in iecoribus earum uentura quaerebat. ### English translation (Claude) While he was staying in the regions of the East, since from fear he was a searcher into the future, he was sacrificing cattle and seeking what was to come in their livers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 10.1 (CSEL 27.2:184; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 10.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:184 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Christian attendants made the sign of the cross, and the diviners could not read the entrails. ### Latin text tum quidam ministrorum scientes dominum cum adsisterent immolanti, imposuerunt frontibus suis inmortale signum: quo facto fugatis daemonibus sacra turbata sunt. trepidabant aruspices nec solitas in extis notas uidebant et quasi non litassent, saepius immolabant. ### English translation (Claude) Then certain of his attendants who knew the Lord, as they stood by him while he sacrificed, set the immortal sign on their foreheads; and when this was done the demons were put to flight and the rites were thrown into confusion. The haruspices were alarmed; they did not see the usual marks in the entrails, and as if the sacrifice had not been accepted, they sacrificed again and again. ### Translation notes - The “immortal sign” is the sign of the cross traced on the forehead. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 10.2 (CSEL 27.2:184; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 10.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:184 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The chief diviner blamed the failure on the presence of profane men. ### Latin text uerum identidem mactatae hostiae nihil ostendebant, donec magister ille aruspicum Tagis seu suspicione seu uisu ait idcirco non respondere sacra, quod rebus diuinis profani homines interessent. ### English translation (Claude) But the victims slain time after time showed nothing, until that master of the haruspices, Tagis, whether from suspicion or from something he saw, said that the rites were not answering because profane men were present at the divine ceremonies. ### Translation notes - Tagis may be a title taken from Tages, the legendary founder of Etruscan divination, rather than a personal name. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 10.3 (CSEL 27.2:184; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 10.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:184 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian ordered his whole court and the army to sacrifice on pain of flogging or discharge. ### Latin text tunc ira furens sacrificare non eos tantum qui sacris ministrabant, sed uniuersos qui erant in palatio iussit et in eos, si detrectassent, uerberibus animaduerti, datisque ad praepositos litteris, etiam milites cogi ad nefanda sacrificia praecepit, ut qui non paruissent, militia soluerentur. ### English translation (Claude) Then, raging with anger, he ordered not only those who served at the rites but all who were in the palace to sacrifice, and, if they refused, to be punished with scourging; and sending letters to the commanders he directed that the soldiers too be compelled to the wicked sacrifices, so that those who had not obeyed should be discharged from the army. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 10.4 (CSEL 27.2:184; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 10.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:184 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: For the time being he went no further. ### Latin text hactenus furor eius et ira processit nec amplius quicquam contra legem aut religionem dei fecit. ### English translation (Claude) So far his fury and anger went, and he did nothing further against the law or religion of God. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 10.5 (CSEL 27.2:184; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 10.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:184–185 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius joined Diocletian in Bithynia to urge him to persecute. ### Latin text deinde interiecto aliquanto tempore in Bithyniam uenit hiematum eodemque tum Maximianus quoque Caesar inflammatus scelere aduenit, ut ad persequendos Christianos instigaret senem uanum, qui iam principium fecerat. cuius furoris hanc causam fuisse cognoui. ### English translation (Claude) Then, after some time had passed, he came into Bithynia to spend the winter, and at that same time Maximian the Caesar also arrived, inflamed with wickedness, to urge the foolish old man, who had already made a beginning, to persecute the Christians. I have learned that the cause of his fury was this. ### Translation notes - Maximian the Caesar is Galerius; the winter is that of 302–303 at Nicomedia. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 10.6 (CSEL 27.2:184–185; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-10-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:185 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius's mother, a zealous pagan, gave sacrificial feasts which the Christians refused to share. ### Latin text Erat mater eius deorum montium cultrix. quae cum esset mulier admodum superstitiosa, dapibus sacrificabat paene cotidie ac uicanis suis epulas exhibebat. Christiani abstinebant, et illa cum gentibus epulante ieiuniis hi et orationibus insistebant. ### English translation (Claude) His mother was a worshipper of the mountain gods. Being an exceedingly superstitious woman, she offered sacrificial feasts almost daily and gave banquets to her villagers. The Christians abstained, and while she feasted with the heathen, they persevered in fasting and prayers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.1 (CSEL 27.2:185; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:185 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: She came to hate the Christians and urged her son to destroy them. ### Latin text hinc concepit odium aduersus eos ac filium suum non minus superstitiosum querelis muliebribus ad tollendos homines incitauit. ### English translation (Claude) From this she conceived hatred against them, and with womanly complaints she stirred up her son, no less superstitious, to do away with these people. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.2 (CSEL 27.2:185; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:185 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian long argued against a general persecution, but could not dissuade Galerius. ### Latin text ergo habito inter se per totam hiemem consilio cum nemo admitteretur et omnes de summo statu rei publicae tractari arbitrarentur, diu senex furori eius repugnauit - ostendens quam perniciosum esset inquietari orbem terrae, fundi sanguinem multorum; illos libenter mori solere; satis esse si palatinos tantum ac milites ab ea religione prohiberet. nec tamen deflectere potuit praecipitis hominis insaniam. ### English translation (Claude) So they held counsel together through the whole winter, no one being admitted, and everyone thought that the highest affairs of state were being discussed. For a long time the old man resisted his fury, pointing out how ruinous it would be to disturb the world and shed the blood of many; that those people were accustomed to die gladly; that it was enough if he forbade only the palace staff and the soldiers from that religion. Yet he could not turn aside the madness of the headstrong man. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.3 (CSEL 27.2:185; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:185 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: They agreed to consult advisers. ### Latin text placuit ergo amicorum sententiam experiri. ### English translation (Claude) It was decided, therefore, to try the opinion of his friends. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.4 (CSEL 27.2:185; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:185 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian consulted others only for evil deeds, so as to share the blame. ### Latin text nam erat huius malitiae: cum bonum quid facere decreuisset, sine consilio faciebat, ut ipse laudaretur, cum autem malum, quoniam id reprehendendum sciebat, in consilium multos aduocabat, ut aliorum culpae adscriberetur quicquid ipse deliquerat. ### English translation (Claude) For this was his malice: when he had decided to do something good, he did it without counsel, so that he himself might be praised; but when something evil, since he knew it would be blamed, he called many into counsel, so that whatever he himself had done wrong might be ascribed to the fault of others. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.5 (CSEL 27.2:185; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:185–186 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The advisers, from hatred, fear, or flattery, all voted for persecution. ### Latin text admissi ergo iudices pauci et pauci militares, ut dignitate antecedebant, interrogabantur. quidam proprio aduersus Christianos odio inimicos deorum et hostes religionum publicarum tollendos esse censuerunt, et qui aliter sentiebant, intellecta hominis uoluntate uel timentes uel gratificari uolentes in eandem sententiam congruerunt. ### English translation (Claude) A few magistrates, then, and a few military men were admitted and questioned in order of rank. Some, from their own hatred of the Christians, gave their opinion that the enemies of the gods and foes of the public religions should be done away with; and those who thought otherwise, having understood the man's wishes, either from fear or wishing to please, agreed in the same opinion. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.6 (CSEL 27.2:185–186; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:186 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian consulted Apollo's oracle at Miletus, which answered against the Christians. ### Latin text nec sic quidem flexus est imperator, ut accommodaret assensum, sed deos potissimum consulere statuit misitque aruspicem ad Apollinem Milesium. respondit ille ut diuinae religionis inimicus. ### English translation (Claude) Not even so was the emperor moved to give his assent, but he decided above all to consult the gods, and sent a haruspex to Milesian Apollo. He answered as an enemy of the divine religion. ### Translation notes - The oracle of Apollo at Didyma near Miletus. Eusebius (Vit. Const. 2.50–51) reports a similar oracle. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.7 (CSEL 27.2:186; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 11.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:186 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian yielded but ordered the persecution to be bloodless, while Galerius wanted resisters burned. ### Latin text traductus est itaque a proposito et quoniam nec amicis nec Caesari nec Apollini poterat reluctari, hanc moderationem tenere conatus est, ut eam rem sine sanguine transigi iuberet, cum Caesar uiuos cremari uellet qui sacrificio repugnassent. ### English translation (Claude) So he was drawn away from his purpose, and since he could resist neither his friends nor the Caesar nor Apollo, he tried to keep to this moderation: he ordered that the business be carried out without bloodshed, whereas the Caesar wanted those who refused to sacrifice to be burned alive. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 11.8 (CSEL 27.2:186; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-11-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 12.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:186 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The feast of Terminus, 23 February, was chosen to begin the persecution, as if to put an end to Christianity. ### Latin text Inquiritur peragendae rei dies aptus et felix ac potissimum Terminalia deliguntur, quae sunt a. d. septimum Kalendas Martias, ut quasi terminus imponeretur huic religioni. ille dies primus leti primusque malorum causa fuit: quae et ipsis et orbi terrarum acciderunt. ### English translation (Claude) A suitable and lucky day was sought for carrying out the business, and the Terminalia was chosen above all, which falls on the seventh day before the Kalends of March, so that a terminus, as it were, might be put to this religion. “That day was the first cause of death, the first of evils,” which befell both them and the whole world. ### Extrabiblical texts - Virgil, Aen. 4.169–170 (Virgil): quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - 23 February 303. The quoted words adapt Virgil, Aen. 4.169–170. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 12.1 (CSEL 27.2:186; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 12.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:186 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: At dawn officials broke into the church at Nicomedia, burned the Scriptures, and looted it. ### Latin text qui dies cum illuxisset agentibus consulatum senibus ambobus octauum et septimum, repente adhuc dubia luce ad ecclesiam praefectus cum ducibus et tribunis et rationalibus uenit et reuulsis foribus simulacrum dei quaeritur: scripturae repertae incenduntur, datur omnibus praeda, rapitur, trepidatur, discurritur. ### English translation (Claude) When that day dawned, the two old men holding the consulship, the one for the eighth and the other for the seventh time, suddenly, while the light was still dim, the prefect came to the church with commanders, tribunes and treasury officials; the doors were torn off and the image of the god was searched for; the Scriptures that were found were burned; plunder was given to all; there was seizing, panic, running about. ### Translation notes - Diocletian was consul for the eighth time and Maximian for the seventh in 303. The search for an “image of the god” shows the officials' expectation of a cult statue. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 12.2 (CSEL 27.2:186; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 12.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:186 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The emperors, watching from the palace, debated burning the church. ### Latin text ipsi uero in speculis — in alto enim constituta ecclesia ex palatio uidebatur — diu inter se concertabant, utrum ignem potius supponi oporteret. ### English translation (Claude) But they themselves, from a lookout (for the church, set on high ground, could be seen from the palace), argued long between themselves whether it ought rather to be set on fire. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 12.3 (CSEL 27.2:186; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 12.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:186 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian refused to burn it for fear the fire would spread. ### Latin text uicit sententia Diocletianus cauens, ne magno incendio facto pars aliqua ciuitatis arderet. nam multae ac magnae domus ab omni parte cingebant. ### English translation (Claude) Diocletian's view prevailed, as he was wary lest, if a great fire were made, some part of the city should burn; for many large houses surrounded it on every side. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 12.4 (CSEL 27.2:186; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 12.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:186–187 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The praetorian guard demolished the church in a few hours. ### Latin text ueniebant igitur praetoriani acie structa cum securibus et aliis ferramentis et immissi undique fanum illud editissimum paucis horis solo adaequarunt. ### English translation (Claude) So the praetorian guards came in battle order with axes and other iron tools, and, let loose on every side, within a few hours they levelled that lofty shrine to the ground. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 12.5 (CSEL 27.2:186–187; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-12-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 13.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-13-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:187 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: An edict stripped Christians of rank and legal protection and made them liable to torture. ### Latin text Postridie propositum est edictum quo cauebatur, ut religionis illius homines carerent omni honore ac dignitate, tormentis subiecti essent, ex quocumque ordine aut gradu uenirent, aduersus eos omnis actio ualeret, ipsi non de iniuria, non de adulterio, non de rebus ablatis agere possent, libertatem denique ac uocem non haberent. ### English translation (Claude) The next day an edict was posted providing that people of that religion should be deprived of every honour and rank; that they should be subject to torture, from whatever order or grade they came; that every action at law should be valid against them, while they themselves could not bring an action for injury, for adultery, or for property taken; in short, that they should have neither liberty nor voice. ### Translation notes - The first edict of persecution, 24 February 303. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 13.1 (CSEL 27.2:187; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-13-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 13.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-13-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:187 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: A Christian tore down the edict, mocking it. ### Latin text quod edictum quidam etsi non recte, magno tamen animo deripuit et conscidit, cum irridens diceret uictorias Gothorum et Sarmatarum propositas. ### English translation (Claude) A certain man, though not rightly, yet with great courage, tore down this edict and cut it up, saying mockingly that victories over the Goths and Sarmatians were being posted. ### Translation notes - Eusebius (Hist. eccl. 8.5) tells the same story without naming the man. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 13.2 (CSEL 27.2:187; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-13-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 13.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-13-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:187 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He was tortured and burned to death, enduring it with patience. ### Latin text statimque perductus non modo extortus, sed etiam legitime coctus cum admirabili patientia postremo exustus est. ### English translation (Claude) At once he was brought in and not only tortured but, in due legal form, roasted, and with admirable patience at last burned to death. ### Translation notes - “In due legal form” (legitime) is ironic. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 13.3 (CSEL 27.2:187; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-13-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 14.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:187 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius wanted more than the edict. ### Latin text Sed Caesar non contentus est edicti legibus: aliter Diocletianum aggredi parat. ### English translation (Claude) But the Caesar was not content with the terms of the edict; he prepared to work on Diocletian another way. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 14.1 (CSEL 27.2:187; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 14.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:187 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius had the palace set on fire and the Christians blamed for plotting against the emperors. ### Latin text nam ut illum ad propositum crudelissimae persecutionis impelleret, occultis ministris palatio subiecit incendium, et cum pars quaedam conflagrasset, Christiani arguebantur uelut hostes publici et [cum] ingenti inuidia simul cum palatio Christianorum nomen ardebat: illos consilio cum eunuchis habito de extinguendis principibus cogitasse, duos imperatores domi suae paene uiuos esse combustos. ### English translation (Claude) For to drive him to the purpose of a most cruel persecution, he had the palace set on fire by secret agents; and when some part of it had burned, the Christians were accused as public enemies, and with enormous hatred the Christian name burned together with the palace: it was said that they, having taken counsel with the eunuchs, had planned to destroy the emperors, and that the two emperors had nearly been burned alive in their own home. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “cum” before “ingenti inuidia” as spurious; it is left out. The claim that Galerius caused the fire is the author's; Eusebius (Hist. eccl. 8.6) reports the fire but not its cause, and Constantine (Oration to the Saints 25) attributes it to lightning. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 14.2 (CSEL 27.2:187; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 14.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian and his officials tortured innocent people to find the culprits. ### Latin text sedebat ipse atque innocentes igni torquebat, item iudices uniuersi, omnes denique qui erant in palatio magistri data potestate torquebant. ### English translation (Claude) He himself sat and tortured innocent people with fire; so did all the magistrates, and in short all the officials who were in the palace tortured them, having been given authority. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 14.4 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 14.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Nothing was found, since Galerius's own servants were not questioned, and he kept the old man's anger alive. ### Latin text erant certantes quis prior aliquid inueniret: nihil usquam reperiebatur, quippe cum familiam Caesaris nemo torqueret. aderat ipse et instabat nec patiebatur iram inconsiderati senis deflagrare. ### English translation (Claude) They vied with one another to be first to discover something; nothing was found anywhere, since no one tortured the Caesar's household. He himself was present and pressed on, and did not allow the anger of the thoughtless old man to burn itself out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 14.5 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 14.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: A second fire was set two weeks later. ### Latin text sed quindecim diebus interiectis aliud rursum incendium molitus est. sed celerius animaduersum, nec tamen auctor apparuit. ### English translation (Claude) But after fifteen days he contrived another fire. But it was noticed more quickly, and yet the author was not discovered. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 14.6 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 14.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius left at once, claiming to flee for his life. ### Latin text tunc Caesar medio hiemis profectione parata prorupit eodem die, contestans fugere se, ne uiuus arderet. ### English translation (Claude) Then the Caesar, having prepared to set out in midwinter, rushed off the same day, protesting that he was fleeing so as not to be burned alive. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 14.7 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 14.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:187–188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian, deceived, ordered his own household tortured. ### Latin text Diocletianus uero, qui semper se uolebat uideri astutum et intellegentem, nihil potuit suspicari, sed ira inflammatus excarnificari omnes suos protinus praecepit. ### English translation (Claude) But Diocletian, who always wished to seem shrewd and intelligent, could suspect nothing, but inflamed with anger ordered all his household to be butchered at once. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 14.8 (CSEL 27.2:187–188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-14-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 15.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian forced his wife and daughter to sacrifice. ### Latin text Furebat ergo imperator iam non in domesticos tantum, sed in omnes. et primam omnium filiam Valeriam coniugemque Priscam sacrificio pollui coegit. ### English translation (Claude) So the emperor raged now not only against his household but against everyone. And first of all he compelled his daughter Valeria and his wife Prisca to be polluted by sacrifice. ### Translation notes - The passage implies that Prisca and Valeria were Christians or sympathetic to Christianity. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 15.1 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 15.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Palace eunuchs were killed and clergy condemned without trial. ### Latin text potentissimi quondam eunuchi necati, per quos palatium et ipse ante constabat, comprehensi presbyteri ac ministri et sine ulla probatione aut confessione damnati cum omnibus suis deducebantur. ### English translation (Claude) The once most powerful eunuchs, through whom the palace and he himself had previously stood, were put to death; presbyters and ministers were arrested and, without any proof or confession, condemned and led away with all their households. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 15.2 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 15.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Christians were burned in groups and palace servants drowned with millstones. ### Latin text omnis sexus et aetatis homines ad exustionem rapti, nec singuli, quoniam tanta erat multitudo, sed gregatim circumdato igni ambiebantur; domestici alligatis ad collum molaribus mari mergebantur. ### English translation (Claude) People of every sex and age were seized for burning, and not one by one, since there was so great a multitude, but in herds, a fire being set around them, they were encircled; the servants of the household were drowned in the sea with millstones tied to their necks. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 15.3 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 15.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Magistrates forced the general population to sacrifice. ### Latin text nec minus in ceterum populum persecutio uiolenter incubuit. nam iudices per omnia templa dispersi uniuersos ad sacrificia cogebant. ### English translation (Claude) And no less violently did the persecution fall on the rest of the people. For magistrates, dispersed through all the temples, compelled everyone to sacrifice. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 15.4 (CSEL 27.2:188; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 15.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:188–189 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Altars were set in courtrooms so that litigants had to sacrifice before pleading. ### Latin text pleni carceres erant, tormentorum genera inaudita excogitabantur, et ne cui temere ius diceretur, arae in secretariis ac pro tribunali positae, ut litigatores prius sacrificarent atque ita causas suas dicerent, sic ergo ad iudices tamquam ad deos adiretur. ### English translation (Claude) The prisons were full; unheard-of kinds of torture were devised; and so that justice should not be given to anyone without care, altars were placed in the judges' chambers and before the tribunal, so that litigants should first sacrifice and so plead their cases; thus people approached the judges as if they were gods. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 15.5 (CSEL 27.2:188–189; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 15.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:189 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian gladly enforced the edicts in Italy. ### Latin text etiam litterae ad Maximianum atque Constantium commeauerant, ut eadem facerent: quorum sententia in tantis rebus expectata non. erat. et quidem senex Maximianus libens paruit per Italiam, homo non adeo clemens. ### English translation (Claude) Letters had also gone to Maximian and Constantius, that they should do the same; their opinion in matters so great had not been waited for. And indeed old Maximian, a man not very merciful, gladly obeyed throughout Italy. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 15.6 (CSEL 27.2:189; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 15.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:189 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantius only demolished church buildings and spared the Christians themselves. ### Latin text nam Constantius, ne dissentire a maiorum praeceptis uideretur, conuenticula id est parietes, qui restitui poterant, dirui passus est, uerum autem dei templum, quod est in hominibus, incolume seruauit. ### English translation (Claude) For Constantius, so as not to seem to disagree with the orders of his seniors, allowed the meeting-houses, that is, walls that could be restored, to be pulled down, but the true temple of God, which is in human beings, he kept unharmed. ### Scripture references - 1 Cor 3:16: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Eusebius (Hist. eccl. 8.13.13) says Constantius did not even destroy church buildings. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 15.7 (CSEL 27.2:189; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-15-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:189 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Apart from Gaul, three savage rulers persecuted across the empire. ### Latin text Vexabatur ergo uniuersa terra et praeter Gallias ab oriente usque ad occasum tres acerbissimae bestiae saeuiebant. ### English translation (Claude) So the whole earth was harassed, and except for the Gauls, from east to west three most savage beasts raged. ### Translation notes - The three are Diocletian, Maximian, and Galerius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.1 (CSEL 27.2:189; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:189 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: No one could recount all the crimes and punishments inflicted on the innocent. ### Latin text non, mihi si linguae centum oraque centum ferrea uox, omnes scelerum comprendere formas, omnia poenarum percurrere nomina possim, quae iudices per prouincias iustis atque innocentibus intulerunt. ### English translation (Claude) “Not if I had a hundred tongues and a hundred mouths and a voice of iron could I encompass all the forms of crime, or run through all the names of the punishments” which the magistrates throughout the provinces inflicted on the righteous and the innocent. ### Extrabiblical texts - Virgil, Aen. 6.625–627 (Virgil): quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Adapted from Virgil, Aen. 6.625–627. “had” (sint) is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.2 (CSEL 27.2:189; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:189 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Donatus himself knows these sufferings well. ### Latin text uerum quid opus est illa narrare praecipue tibi, Donate carissime, qui praeter ceteros tempestatem turbidae persecutionis expertus es? ### English translation (Claude) But what need is there to tell these things, especially to you, dearest Donatus, who more than the rest have experienced the storm of that turbulent persecution? ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.3 (CSEL 27.2:189; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:189 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Donatus stood firm before three successive persecuting officials. ### Latin text nam cum incidisses in Flaccinum praefectum, non pusillum homicidam, deinde in Hieroclem ex uicario praesidem, qui auctor et consiliarius ad faciendam persecutionem fuit, postremo in Priscillianum successorem eius, documentum omnibus inuictae fortitudinis praebuisti. ### English translation (Claude) For when you fell into the hands of Flaccinus the prefect, no petty murderer, then of Hierocles, promoted from deputy to governor, who was the author and adviser of the persecution, and lastly of Priscillianus his successor, you gave to all an example of unconquered fortitude. ### Translation notes - Sossianus Hierocles, governor of Bithynia, also wrote against the Christians. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.4 (CSEL 27.2:189; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:189–190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Tortured nine times, Donatus nine times confessed and overcame the devil. ### Latin text nouies enim tormentis cruciatibusque uariis subiectus nouies aduersarium gloriosa confessione uicisti, nouem proeliis zabulum cum satellitibus suis debellasti, nouem uictoriis saeculum cum suis terroribus triumphasti. ### English translation (Claude) For nine times, subjected to tortures and various torments, nine times you conquered the adversary by a glorious confession; in nine battles you defeated the devil with his henchmen; by nine victories you triumphed over the world with its terrors. ### Translation notes - Zabulus is a Latin form of diabolus, “the devil”. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.5 (CSEL 27.2:189–190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God delighted to see Donatus triumph over the persecutors. ### Latin text quam iucundum illud spectaculum deo fuit, cum uictorem te cerneret non candidos equos aut immanes elephantos, sed ipsos potissimum triumphatores currui tuo subiungentem! ### English translation (Claude) How delightful that spectacle was to God, when he saw you a victor, yoking to your chariot not white horses or huge elephants, but the very triumphers themselves! ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.6 (CSEL 27.2:190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The true triumph is when tyrants are overcome by a believer's steadfast faith. ### Latin text hic est uerus triumphus, cum dominatores dominantur. uicti enim tua uirtute ac subiugati sunt, quandoquidem nefanda iussione contempta omnes apparatus ac terriculas tyrannicae potestatis fide stabili et robore animi profligasti. ### English translation (Claude) This is the true triumph, when the masters are mastered. For they were conquered and subdued by your courage, since, scorning the wicked command, you routed with steadfast faith and strength of mind all the apparatus and bugbears of tyrannical power. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.7 (CSEL 27.2:190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: No torture could take away Donatus's faith. ### Latin text nihil aduersus te uerbera, nihil ungulae, nihil ignis, nihil ferrum, nihil uaria tormentorum genera ualuerunt: adimere tibi fidem ac deuotionem nulla uis potuit. ### English translation (Claude) Against you scourges availed nothing, claws nothing, fire nothing, the sword nothing, the various kinds of torture nothing: no force could take away your faith and devotion. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.8 (CSEL 27.2:190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: A true disciple and soldier of Christ cannot be overcome by any enemy or pain. ### Latin text hoc est esse discipulum dei, hoc est militem Christi, quem nullus hostis expugnet. nullus lupus de castris caelestibus rapiat, nullus laqueus inducat, nullus dolor uincat, nullus cruciatus affligat. ### English translation (Claude) This is to be a disciple of God, this is to be a soldier of Christ, whom no enemy can storm, no wolf snatch from the heavenly camp, no snare entrap, no pain conquer, no torment overwhelm. ### Scripture references - 2 Tim 2:3: echo, low confidence - John 10:12: echo, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.9 (CSEL 27.2:190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: After nine defeats the devil gave up attacking Donatus. ### Latin text denique post illas nouem gloriosissimas pugnas, quibus a te zabulus uictus est, non est ausus ulterius congredi tecum, quem tot proeliis expertus est non posse superari. ### English translation (Claude) Finally, after those nine most glorious fights, in which the devil was conquered by you, he did not dare to engage with you further, having learned by so many battles that you could not be overcome. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.10 (CSEL 27.2:190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 16.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Donatus's martyr's crown, though not yet received, is kept for him in God's kingdom. ### Latin text et cum tibi parata esset uictrix corona, desiit amplius prouocare, ne iam sumeres: quam licet non acceperis in praesenti, tamen integra tibi pro uirtutibus tuis et meritis in regno domini reseruatur. sed redeamus ad ordinem rerum. ### English translation (Claude) And though the victor's crown was ready for you, he ceased to challenge you further, so that you might not now take it; and although you have not received it at present, it is nevertheless kept intact for you in the kingdom of the Lord for your virtues and merits. But let us return to the order of events. ### Scripture references - 2 Tim 4:8: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 16.11 (CSEL 27.2:190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-16-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian went to Rome to celebrate his twentieth anniversary. ### Latin text Hoc igitur scelere perpetrato Diocletianus, cum iam felicitas ab eo recessisset, perrexit statim Romam, ut illic uicennalium diem celebraret, qui erat futurus a. d. duodecimum Kalendas Decembres. ### English translation (Claude) When this crime had been committed, Diocletian, since good fortune had now departed from him, went at once to Rome to celebrate there the day of his twentieth anniversary, which was to fall on the twelfth day before the Kalends of December. ### Translation notes - 20 November 303. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.1 (CSEL 27.2:190; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:190–191 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Unable to bear the Roman people's freedom of speech, he left Rome before his ninth consulship. ### Latin text quibus sollemnibus celebratis cum libertatem populi Romani ferre non poterat, impatiens et aeger animi prorupit ex urbe impendentibus Kalendis Ianuariis, quibus illi nonus consulatus deferebatur. ### English translation (Claude) When these solemnities had been celebrated, since he could not bear the freedom of the Roman people, impatient and sick at heart he broke out of the city as the Kalends of January approached, on which his ninth consulship was to be conferred on him. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.2 (CSEL 27.2:190–191; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:191 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Travelling in winter, he fell ill and had to be carried in a litter. ### Latin text tredecim dies tolerare non potuit, ut Romae potius quam Rauennae procederet consul, sed profectus hieme saeuiente, frigore atque imbribus uerberatus morbum lenem, at perpetuum contraxit uexatusque per omne iter lectica plurimum uehebatur. ### English translation (Claude) He could not endure thirteen days so as to enter on his consulship at Rome rather than at Ravenna; but, setting out while winter raged, battered by cold and rain, he contracted a slight but lingering illness, and, troubled throughout the whole journey, he was carried mostly in a litter. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.3 (CSEL 27.2:191; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:191 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Seriously ill, he returned to Nicomedia and dedicated his circus there. ### Latin text sic aestate transacta per circuitum ripae Istricae Nicomediam uenit morbo iam graui insurgente: quo cum se premi uideret, prolatus est tamen, ut circum quem fecerat dedicaret anno post uicennalia repleto. ### English translation (Claude) So, the summer having passed, by a circuit along the bank of the Danube he came to Nicomedia, the disease now growing serious; and though he saw himself oppressed by it, he was nevertheless brought out to dedicate the circus he had built, a year after the twentieth anniversary had been completed. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.4 (CSEL 27.2:191; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:191 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: In December 304 he was thought to have died. ### Latin text deinde ita languore < eat > oppressus, ut per omnes deos pro uita eius rogaretur, donec Idibus Decembribus luctus repente in palatio, maestitia et lacrimae iudicum, trepidatio et silentium tota ciuitate. ### English translation (Claude) Then he was so overcome by weakness that prayers were offered to all the gods for his life, until on the Ides of December there was suddenly mourning in the palace, grief and tears among the magistrates, alarm and silence in the whole city. ### Translation notes - The digital text has a stray “< eat >”, probably damaged supplement; it is not translated. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.5 (CSEL 27.2:191; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:191 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The next day word spread that he was alive. ### Latin text iam non modo mortuum, sed etiam sepultum dicebant, cum repente mane postridie peruagari fama quod uiueret, domesticorum ac iudicum uultus alacritate mutari. ### English translation (Claude) They were already saying that he was not only dead but buried, when suddenly next morning a report spread that he was alive, and the faces of the household and the magistrates changed to cheerfulness. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.6 (CSEL 27.2:191; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:191 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Some suspected his death was being hidden until Galerius arrived. ### Latin text non defuerunt qui suspicarentur celari mortem eius, donec Caesar ueniret, ne quid forte a militibus nouaretur. ### English translation (Claude) There were those who suspected that his death was being concealed until the Caesar should come, lest the soldiers perhaps attempt some revolution. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.7 (CSEL 27.2:191; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:191 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He appeared on 1 March 305, barely recognizable. ### Latin text quae suspicio tantum ualuit, ut nemo crederet eum uiuere, nisi Kalendis Martiis prodisset, uix agnoscendus, quippe qui anno fere toto aegritudine tabuisset. ### English translation (Claude) This suspicion was so strong that no one believed he was alive until he came forth on the Kalends of March, scarcely recognizable, since he had wasted away with sickness for almost a whole year. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.8 (CSEL 27.2:191; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 17.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:191–192 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He had recovered but was intermittently insane. ### Latin text et ille Idibus Decembribus morte sopitus animam receperat, nec tamen totam. demens enim factus est, ita ut certis horis insaniret, certis resipisceret. ### English translation (Claude) And he, lulled into death on the Ides of December, had recovered his life, yet not wholly. For he had become deranged, so that at certain hours he was insane and at others came to his senses. ### Translation notes - The claim of madness is the author's and is not reported by other sources. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 17.9 (CSEL 27.2:191–192; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-17-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:192 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius came to force Diocletian to abdicate, having already intimidated Maximian. ### Latin text Nec multis post diebus Caesar aduenit, non ut patri gratularetur, sed ut eum cogeret imperio cedere. iam conflixerat nuper Maximiano sene eumque terruerat iniecto armorum ciuilium metu. ### English translation (Claude) Not many days later the Caesar arrived, not to congratulate his father but to force him to give up the throne. He had lately clashed with old Maximian and had frightened him by raising the fear of civil war. ### Translation notes - “with” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.1 (CSEL 27.2:192; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:192 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius urged Diocletian to retire, citing Nerva's handing over power to Trajan. ### Latin text aggressus est ergo Diocletianum primum molliter et amice, iam senem esse dicens, iam minus ualidum et administrandae rei publicae inhabilem: debere illum requiescere post labores. simul et exemplum Neruae proferebat, qui imperium Traiano tradidisset. ### English translation (Claude) So he approached Diocletian, at first gently and in a friendly way, saying that he was now old, now less strong and unfit to administer the state; that he ought to rest after his labours. At the same time he brought forward the example of Nerva, who had handed over the empire to Trajan. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.2 (CSEL 27.2:192; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:192 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian replied that retirement would be undignified and unsafe. ### Latin text ille uero aiebat et indecens esse, si post tantam sublimis fastigii claritatem in humilis uitae tenebras decidisset, et minus tutum, quod in tam longo imperio multorum sibi odia quaesisset: ### English translation (Claude) But he said that it would be both unseemly, if after such brilliance of lofty eminence he should fall into the darkness of a humble life, and less safe, since in so long a reign he had earned the hatred of many; ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.3 (CSEL 27.2:192; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:192 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Nerva was a poor parallel; but all could be named Augusti if Galerius wanted the title. ### Latin text Neruam uero uno anno imperantem, cum pondus et curam tantarum rerum uel aetate uel insolentia ferre non quiret, abiecisse gubernaculum rei publicae atque ad priuatam uitam redisse, in qua consenuerat. uerum si nomen imperatoris cuperet adipisci, impedimento nihil esse quominus omnes Augusti nuncuparentur. ### English translation (Claude) and that Nerva, having reigned a single year, since from age or inexperience he could not bear the weight and care of such great affairs, had cast aside the helm of state and returned to the private life in which he had grown old. But if he desired to obtain the name of emperor, nothing prevented all of them from being called Augusti. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.4 (CSEL 27.2:192; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:192–193 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius insisted on keeping two senior and two junior emperors. ### Latin text at ille, qui orbem totum iam spe inuaserat, quoniam sibi aut nihil praeter nomen aut < non) multum uidebat accedere, respondit debere ipsius dispositionem in perpetuum conseruari, ut duo sint in re publica maiores, qui summam rerum teneant, item duo minores, qui sint adiumento: inter duos facile posse concordiam seruari, inter quattuor pares nullo modo. ### English translation (Claude) But he, who in hope had already seized the whole world, since he saw that either nothing but the name or not much would come to him, replied that Diocletian's own arrangement ought to be preserved forever: that there should be two senior rulers in the state to hold supreme power, and likewise two junior ones to assist them; between two, concord could easily be kept, between four equals in no way. ### Translation notes - “not” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.5 (CSEL 27.2:192–193; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:193 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius threatened to act for himself after fifteen hard years on the Danube frontier. ### Latin text si ipse cedere noluisset, se sibi consulturum, ne amplius minor et extremus esset. iam fluxisse annos quindecim in Illyricum id est ad ripam Danuuii relegatus cum gentibus barbaris luctaretur, cum alii intra laxiores et quietiores terras delicate imperarent. ### English translation (Claude) If he himself refused to give way, he would look after himself, so as no longer to be the junior and the last. Fifteen years had already passed in which, banished to Illyricum, that is, to the bank of the Danube, he had been struggling with barbarian nations, while others ruled in comfort within more spacious and quieter lands. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.6 (CSEL 27.2:193; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:193 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian tearfully agreed. ### Latin text his auditis senex languidus, qui iam et Maximiani senis litteras acceperat scribentis quaecumque locutus fuisset. et didicerat augeri ab eo exercitum, lacrimabundus fiat inquit si hoc placet. ### English translation (Claude) When he heard this, the feeble old man, who had already received a letter from old Maximian writing whatever the other had said to him, and had learned that he was increasing his army, said in tears, “Let it be, if this pleases you.” ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.7 (CSEL 27.2:193; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:193 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The choice of new Caesars was discussed. ### Latin text supererat ut communi consilio omnium Caesares legerentur. quid opus est consilio, cum sit necesse illis duobus placere quicquid nos fecerimus?) — ita plane. nam illorum filios nuncupari necesse est. ### English translation (Claude) It remained that the Caesars should be chosen by the common counsel of all. “What need is there of counsel, since whatever we two have done must necessarily please those two?” “Just so. For their sons must be named.” ### Translation notes - The dialogue form is rhetorical; the speakers are not always marked in the text. The digital text marks uncertain characters here. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.8 (CSEL 27.2:193; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:193 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian's son Maxentius, Galerius's son-in-law, was hated by both. ### Latin text erat autem Maximiano < filius > Maxentius, huius ipsius Maximiani gener, homo perniciosae ac malae mentis, adeo superbus et contumax, ut neque patrem neque socerum solitus sit adorare, et idcirco utrique inuisus fuit. ### English translation (Claude) Now Maximian had a son, Maxentius, the son-in-law of this very Maximian, a man of pernicious and evil mind, so proud and stubborn that he was not accustomed to pay homage either to his father or to his father-in-law, and for that reason he was hated by both. ### Translation notes - “this very Maximian” is Galerius. “son” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.9 (CSEL 27.2:193; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:193 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine, Constantius's son, was popular and present at court. ### Latin text Constantio quoque filius erat Constantinus, sanctissimus adulescens et illo fastigio dignissimus, qui insigni et decoro habitu corporis et industria militari et probis moribus et comitate singulari a militibus amaretur, a priuatis et optaretur. eratque tunc praesens iam pridem a Diocletiano factus tribunus ordinis primi. — quid ergo fiet? ### English translation (Claude) Constantius too had a son, Constantine, a most upright young man and most worthy of that eminence, who by his distinguished and comely bearing, his military energy, his upright character, and his singular courtesy was loved by the soldiers and desired by private citizens too. And he was then present, having long since been made a tribune of the first order by Diocletian. “What then shall be done?” ### Translation notes - The author's praise of Constantine reflects his position as tutor to Constantine's son Crispus. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.10 (CSEL 27.2:193; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:193–194 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius rejected Maxentius and Constantine and demanded Caesars under his own control. ### Latin text - ille inquit dignus non est. qui enim me priuatus contempsit, quid faciet, cum imperium acceperit? — hic uero et amabilis est et ita imperaturus, ut patre suo melior et clementior iudicetur. — ita fiet ut ego non possim facere quae uelim. eos igitur oportet nuncupari qui sint in mea potestate, qui timeant, qui nihil faciant nisi meo iussu. ### English translation (Claude) “He,” he said, “is not worthy. For one who despised me as a private man, what will he do when he has received power?” “But this one is both lovable and will so rule that he will be judged better and more merciful than his father.” “So it will turn out that I cannot do what I want. So those must be named who are in my power, who fear, who do nothing except at my command.” ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.11 (CSEL 27.2:193–194; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-12 - Source: CSEL 27.2:194 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius proposed Severus, whom Diocletian scorned as a drunkard. ### Latin text — quos ergo faciemus? - Seuerum inquit. — illumne saltatorem temulentum ebriosum. cui nox pro die est et dies pro nocte? — dignus. inquit quoniam militibus fideliter praefuit. et eum misi ad Maximianum, ut ab eo induatur). ### English translation (Claude) “Whom then shall we make?” “Severus,” he said. “That dancer, that drunkard, that sot, for whom night is day and day night?” “He is worthy,” he said, “since he has commanded soldiers faithfully; and I have sent him to Maximian to be invested by him.” ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.12 (CSEL 27.2:194; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-12). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.13 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-13 - Source: CSEL 27.2:194 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius proposed his nephew Daia, renamed Maximinus. ### Latin text — esto. alterum quem dabis? — hunc inquit ostendens Daiam adulescentem quendam semibarbarum, quem recens iusserat Maximinum uocari de suo nomine. nam et ipsi Diocletianus nomen ex parte mutauerat ominis causa, quia Maximianus fidem summa religione praestabat. ### English translation (Claude) “So be it. Whom will you give as the other?” “This one,” he said, pointing to Daia, a certain half-barbarian young man, whom he had recently ordered to be called Maximinus after his own name. For Diocletian too had partly changed Galerius's own name, for the sake of the omen, because Maximian had shown loyalty with the utmost devotion. ### Translation notes - Maximinus Daia was Galerius's nephew. The sentence about the change of name is compressed: Galerius's own name had originally been Maximinus, and Diocletian had changed it to Maximianus as an omen, because Maximian (Herculius) had been so loyal; Galerius now passed his old name Maximinus on to Daia. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.13 (CSEL 27.2:194; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-13). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.14 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-14 - Source: CSEL 27.2:194 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian protested that the men were unfit, but left the responsibility to Galerius. ### Latin text — quis est hic i quem mihi oers? — meus inquit affinis. — at ille gemebundus non idoneos homines mihi das quibus tutela rei publicae committi possit\\ — probaui eos inquit. — tu uideris, qui regimen imperii suscepturus es. ### English translation (Claude) “Who is this you are offering me?” “My relative,” he said. And the other, groaning: “You are not giving me men to whom the guardianship of the state can be entrusted.” “I have tested them,” he said. “You will see to it, since you are about to take up the government of the empire. ### Translation notes - The digital text is damaged at the beginning (“i quem mihi oers”, probably for quem mihi offers). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.14 (CSEL 27.2:194; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-14). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 18.15 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-15 - Source: CSEL 27.2:194 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian disclaimed responsibility for what would follow. ### Latin text ego satis laboraui et prouidi quemadmodum me imperante res publica staret incolumis. si quid accesserit aduersi, mea culpa non erit. ### English translation (Claude) I have laboured enough and have taken care that while I reigned the state stood unharmed. If anything adverse happens, it will not be my fault.” ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 18.15 (CSEL 27.2:194; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/1-1/#p-18-15). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 19.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:194 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: On 1 May 305 everyone expected Constantine to be named Caesar. ### Latin text Cum haec essent constituta, proceditur Kalendis Mais. Constantinum omnes intuebantur, nulla erat dubitatio: milites qui aderant et primores militum electi et acciti ex legionibus in hunc unum intenti gaudebant, optabant et uota faciebant. ### English translation (Claude) When these things had been settled, they went forth on the Kalends of May. Everyone was looking at Constantine; there was no doubt. The soldiers who were present, and the leading soldiers chosen and summoned from the legions, intent on him alone, were rejoicing, wishing, and making vows. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 19.1 (CSEL 27.2:194; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 19.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:194 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The ceremony was held on a hill near Nicomedia. ### Latin text erat locus altus extra ciuitatem ad milia fere tria, in cuius summo Maximianus ipse purpuram sumpserat, et ibi columna fuerat erecta cum Iouis signo. ### English translation (Claude) There was a high place about three miles outside the city, on whose summit Maximian himself had taken the purple, and there a column had been set up with a statue of Jupiter. ### Translation notes - Maximian here is Galerius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 19.2 (CSEL 27.2:194; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 19.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:194–195 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian tearfully announced his abdication. ### Latin text eo pergitur. contio militum conuocatur. incipit senex cum lacrimis, alloquitur milites: se inualidum esse, requiem post labores petere, imperium ualidioribus tradere, alios Caesares subrogare. summa omnium expectatio, quid afferret. ### English translation (Claude) There they went. An assembly of the soldiers was called. The old man began with tears and addressed the soldiers: he was infirm; he sought rest after his labours; he was handing over the empire to stronger men and appointing other Caesars. The expectation of all was at its height, what he would announce. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 19.3 (CSEL 27.2:194–195; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 19.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:195 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Severus and Maximinus Daia were named, to everyone's astonishment. ### Latin text tunc repente pronuntiat Seuerum et Maximinum Caesares. obstupefiunt omnes. in tribunali Constantinus adstabat susum. haesitare inter se num Constantini immutatum nomen esset, cum in conspectu omnium Maximianus manum retrorsum extendens protraxit a tergo Daiam Constantino repulso et exutum uestem priuatam constituit in medium. mirari omnes qui esset, unde esset. ### English translation (Claude) Then suddenly he proclaimed Severus and Maximinus Caesars. All were stunned. Constantine was standing up on the tribunal. They wondered among themselves whether Constantine's name had been changed, when, in the sight of all, Maximian, stretching his hand backwards, drew Daia forward from behind, thrusting Constantine back, and, having stripped off his private dress, set him in the middle. All wondered who he was, where he came from. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 19.4 (CSEL 27.2:195; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 19.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:195 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian invested Daia with his own purple and became a private man. ### Latin text nemo tamen reclamare ausus est cunctis insperatae nouitate rei turbatis. huic purpuram Diocletianus iniecit suam qua se exuit, et Diocles iterum factus est. ### English translation (Claude) Yet no one dared to protest, all being confused by the novelty of the unexpected event. Diocletian put on him his own purple, which he took off himself, and became Diocles again. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 19.5 (CSEL 27.2:195; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 19.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:195 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian retired; Daia, raised overnight from obscurity, received the East. ### Latin text tum descenditur, et reda per ciuitatem ueteranus rex foras exportatur in patriamque dimittitur, Daia uero sublatus nuper a pecoribus et siluis, statim scutarius, continuo protector, mox tribunus, postridie Caesar, accepit Orientem calcandum et conterendum, quippe qui neque militiam neque rem publicam sciret, iam non pecorum, sed militum pastor. ### English translation (Claude) Then they descended, and the old king was carried out through the city in a carriage and dismissed to his homeland; while Daia, lately taken from the herds and the forests, at once a guardsman, straightway a bodyguard, soon a tribune, the next day a Caesar, received the East to trample and crush, since he knew neither soldiering nor statecraft, now a shepherd not of cattle but of soldiers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 19.6 (CSEL 27.2:195; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-19-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 20.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:195 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius now saw himself as master of the world and despised the ailing Constantius. ### Latin text Maximianus postquam senibus expulsis quod uoluit effecit, se iam solum totius orbis dominum [esse] ferebat. nam Constantium quamuis priorem nominari esset necesse, contemnebat, quod et natura mitis esset et ualitudine corporis impeditus. ### English translation (Claude) Maximian, after he had achieved what he wanted by expelling the old men, now considered himself sole master of the whole world. For although Constantius had to be named first, he despised him, because he was both gentle by nature and hampered by bodily ill-health. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “esse” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 20.1 (CSEL 27.2:195; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 20.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:195–196 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He expected Constantius to die or to be easily removed. ### Latin text hunc sperabat breui obiturum, et si non obisset, uel inuitum exuere facile uidebatur. quid enim faceret, si a tribus cogeretur imperium deponere? ### English translation (Claude) He hoped that he would soon die, and if he did not die, it seemed easy to strip him of power even against his will. For what could he do if he were compelled by three to lay down the empire? ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 20.2 (CSEL 27.2:195–196; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 20.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:196 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He planned to raise his friend Licinius directly to Augustus. ### Latin text habebat ipse Licinium ueteris contubernii amicum et a prima militia familiarem, cuius consiliis ad omnia regenda utebatur, sed eum Caesarem facere noluit, ne filium nominaret, ut postea in Constantii ### English translation (Claude) He himself had Licinius, a friend of old comradeship and intimate from his first military service, whose counsels he used in governing everything; but he did not wish to make him Caesar, so as not to call him son, so that afterwards in the place of Constantius ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 20.3 (CSEL 27.2:196; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 20.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:196 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He planned to rule, then retire safely behind a wall of his own appointees. ### Latin text locum nuncuparet Augustum atque fratrem, tunc uero ipse principatum teneret ac pro arbitrio suo debacchatus in orbem terrae uicennalia celebraret ac substituto Caesare filio suo, qui tunc erat nouennis, et ipse deponeret; ita cum imperii summam tenerent Licinius ac Seuerus et secundum Caesarum nomen Maximinus et Candidianus, inexpugnabili muro circumsaeptus securam et tranquillam degeret senectutem. ### English translation (Claude) he might name him Augustus and brother; and then he himself would hold the first place, and having raged through the world at his pleasure he would celebrate his twentieth anniversary, and, having appointed as Caesar his son, who was then nine years old, he too would lay down power; so that, while Licinius and Severus held the supreme power and Maximinus and Candidianus the second title of Caesars, he, surrounded by an impregnable wall, might spend a secure and tranquil old age. ### Translation notes - Candidianus was Galerius's illegitimate son. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 20.4 (CSEL 27.2:196; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 20.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:196 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God frustrated all his plans. ### Latin text huc consilia eius tendebant. sed deus, quem sibi fecit infestum, cuncta illius cogitata dissoluit. ### English translation (Claude) To this his plans were tending. But God, whom he had made his enemy, broke up all his designs. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 20.5 (CSEL 27.2:196; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-20-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:196 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius set about oppressing the world. ### Latin text Adeptus igitur maximam potestatem ad uexandum orbem. ### English translation (Claude) Having obtained supreme power, then, to harass the world, ### Translation notes - The sentence continues in the next section. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.1 (CSEL 27.2:196; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:196 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius wanted to impose Persian-style servitude on Roman subjects. ### Latin text quem sibi patefecerat, animum intendit. nam post deuictos Persas, quorum hic ritus, hic mos est, ut regibus suis in seruitium se addicant et reges populo suo tamquam familia utantur, hunc morem nefarius homo in Romanam terram uoluit inducere: quem ex illo tempore uictoriae sine pudore laudabat. ### English translation (Claude) which he had opened for himself, he bent his mind. For after the Persians were conquered, whose rite and custom it is to give themselves into slavery to their kings, and for kings to treat their people as a household of slaves, this wicked man wished to bring this custom into the Roman land; and from the time of that victory he praised it without shame. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.2 (CSEL 27.2:196; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:196 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He abolished the legal privileges of the upper classes and tortured even leading citizens. ### Latin text et quia id aperte iubere non poterat, sic agebat, ut et ipse libertatem hominibus auferret. in primis honores ademit. torquebantur ab eo non decuriones modo, sed primores etiam ciuitatum, egregii ac perfectissimi uiri, et quidem in causis leuibus atque ciuilibus. si morte digni uiderentur, cruces stabant, sin minus, compedes parati. ### English translation (Claude) And because he could not command it openly, he acted so that he too might take liberty away from people. First of all he took away honours. Not only town councillors but even the leading men of the cities, men of eminent and most perfect rank, were tortured by him, and that in trivial and civil cases. If they seemed worthy of death, crosses stood ready; if not, fetters. ### Translation notes - Egregii and perfectissimi were formal equestrian ranks. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.3 (CSEL 27.2:196; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:196–197 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Noblewomen were forced into labour and free men flogged in a cruel way. ### Latin text matres familias ingenuae ac nobiles in gynaeceum rapiebantur. si quis esset uerberandus, defixi in stabulo pali quattuor stabant, ad quos nullus umquam seruus distendi solebat. ### English translation (Claude) Freeborn and noble mothers of families were dragged into the weaving-house. If anyone was to be flogged, four stakes stood fixed in the stable, to which no slave had ever been accustomed to be stretched. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.4 (CSEL 27.2:196–197; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:197 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius kept man-eating bears for amusement. ### Latin text quid lusorium uel delicias eius referam? habebat ursos ferociae ac magnitudinis suae simillimos, quos toto imperii sui tempore elegerat. quotiens delectari libuerat, horum aliquem adferri nominatim iubebat. ### English translation (Claude) Why should I tell of his sport or his pleasures? He had bears most like himself in ferocity and size, which he had collected through the whole time of his reign. Whenever he felt like being amused, he ordered one of them to be brought by name. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.5 (CSEL 27.2:197; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:197 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He watched men thrown to his bears and burned commoners. ### Latin text his homines non plane comedendi, sed obsorbendi obiectabantur: quorum artus cum dissiparentur, ridebat suauissime nec umquam sine humano cruore cenabat. dignitatem non habentibus poena ignis fuit. ### English translation (Claude) To these men were thrown, not so much to be eaten as to be swallowed; and when their limbs were torn apart, he laughed most pleasantly, and he never dined without human blood. For those without rank, the punishment was fire. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.6 (CSEL 27.2:197; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:197 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Death by slow fire had first been used against Christians. ### Latin text id exitn primo aduersus Christianos permiserat datis legibus, ut post tormenta damnati lentis ignibus urerentur. ### English translation (Claude) He had first allowed this against the Christians by enacting laws that, after torture, the condemned should be burned with slow fires. ### Translation notes - The digital text reads “id exitn”, probably corrupt; the sense is clear. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.7 (CSEL 27.2:197; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:197 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The torture began with slowly burning the feet. ### Latin text qui cum deligati fuissent, subdebatur primo pedibus lenis flamma tamdiu. donec callum solorum contractum igni ab ossibus reuelleretur. ### English translation (Claude) When they had been bound, a gentle flame was first put under their feet, until the soles of the feet, shrivelled by the fire, were torn away from the bones. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.8 (CSEL 27.2:197; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:197 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Every limb was burned while the victim was kept alive with water. ### Latin text deinde incensae faces et extinctae admouebantur singulis membris, ita ut locus nullus in corpore relinqueretur intactus. et inter haec suffundebatur facies aqua frigida et os umore abluebatur, ne arescentibus siccitate faucibus cito spiritus redderetur: ### English translation (Claude) Then torches, lit and put out, were applied to each limb, so that no place on the body was left untouched. And meanwhile the face was drenched with cold water and the mouth moistened, lest, the throat drying out, the breath be given up quickly; ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.9 (CSEL 27.2:197; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:197 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: When death finally came, the bodies were burned on a pyre. ### Latin text quod postremo accidebat, cum per multum diem decocta omni cute uis ignis ad intima uiscera penetrasset. hinc rogo facto cremabantur corpora iam cremata. ### English translation (Claude) which happened at last when, after a long day, all the skin having been roasted, the force of the fire had penetrated to the inmost organs. Then a pyre was made and the bodies, already burned, were burned. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.10 (CSEL 27.2:197; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 21.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:197–198 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The ashes were scattered in rivers and the sea. ### Latin text lecta ossa et in puluerem comminuta iactabantur in flumina ac mare. ### English translation (Claude) The bones were gathered, ground to powder, and thrown into rivers and the sea. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 21.11 (CSEL 27.2:197–198; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-21-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 22.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:198 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius applied the tortures learned on Christians to everyone. ### Latin text Quae igitur in Christianis excruciandis didicerat, consuetudine ipsa in omnes exercebat. ### English translation (Claude) What he had learned, then, in torturing Christians he practised by force of habit against everyone. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 22.1 (CSEL 27.2:198; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 22.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:198 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He used only the harshest penalties. ### Latin text nulla penes eum leuis, non insulae, non carceres, non metalla, sed ignis, crux, ferae in illo erant cotidiana et facilia. ### English translation (Claude) No punishment with him was light: not islands, not prisons, not the mines; but fire, the cross, and wild beasts were for him daily and easy. ### Translation notes - “punishment” (poena) is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 22.2 (CSEL 27.2:198; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 22.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:198 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Even beheading was a rare favour. ### Latin text domestici et administratores lancea emendabantur. in causa [poena] capitis [et] animaduersio gladii admodum paucis quasi beneficium deferebatur, qui ob merita uetera impetrauerant bonam mortem. ### English translation (Claude) Servants and officials were corrected with the lance. In a capital case, execution by the sword was granted as a favour to very few, who for old services had obtained a good death. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “poena” and “et” as spurious; they are left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 22.3 (CSEL 27.2:198; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 22.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:198 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Learning and the legal profession were suppressed. ### Latin text iam illa < prae > his leuia fuerunt eloquentia extincta, causidici sublati, iure consulti aut relegati aut necati, litterae autem inter malas artes habitae et qui eas nouerant, pro inimicis hostibusque protriti et execrati. ### English translation (Claude) Now these things were light compared with those: eloquence was extinguished, advocates removed, jurists either banished or killed, and letters were counted among evil arts, and those who knew them were trampled down and cursed as enemies and foes. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 22.4 (CSEL 27.2:198; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 22.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:198 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Laws were set aside and uneducated soldiers made judges. ### Latin text licentia rerum omnium solutis legibus adsumpta et iudicibus data. iudices militares humanitatis litterarum rudes sine adsessoribus in prouincias immissi. ### English translation (Claude) Licence in all things was assumed, the laws being set aside, and given to the judges. Military judges, ignorant of humane letters, were sent into the provinces without assessors. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 22.5 (CSEL 27.2:198; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-22-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:198 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: A new census brought universal misery. ### Latin text At uero illud publicae calamitatis et communis luctus omnium fuit, census in prouincias et ciuitates semel missus. censitoribus ubique diffusis et omnia exagitantibus hostilis tumultus et captiuitatis horrendae species erant. ### English translation (Claude) But what brought public calamity and common grief to all was the census sent at one time into the provinces and cities. The census-takers were spread everywhere and harried everything; there were scenes of an enemy onslaught and of horrible captivity. ### Translation notes - The census of 306. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.1 (CSEL 27.2:198; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:198–199 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Everyone was registered, and family members tortured to testify against each other. ### Latin text agri glebatim metiebantur, uites et arbores numerabantur, animalia omnis generis scribebantur, hominum capita notabantur. in ciuitatibus urbanae ac rusticae plebes adunatae, fora omnia gregibus familiarum referta, unus quisque cum liberis, cum seruis aderant, tormenta ac uerbera personabant, filii aduersus parentes suspendebantur. fidelissimi quique serui contra dominos uexabantur, uxores aduersus maritos. ### English translation (Claude) Fields were measured clod by clod, vines and trees counted, animals of every kind registered, heads of people recorded. In the cities the urban and rural populace were gathered together; all the forums were crammed with herds of households; each person was present with children and slaves; tortures and floggings resounded; sons were hung up against their parents; all the most faithful slaves were tormented against their masters, wives against their husbands. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.2 (CSEL 27.2:198–199; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:199 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: People were tortured into declaring property they did not own. ### Latin text si omnia defecerant, ipsi contra se torquebantur et cum dolor uicerat, adscribebantur quae non habebantur. ### English translation (Claude) If all this failed, they were tortured against themselves, and when pain had won, things they did not have were written down against them. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.3 (CSEL 27.2:199; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:199 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: No one was exempted; ages were falsified to increase taxes. ### Latin text nulla aetatis, ualitudinis excusatio. aegri et debiles deferebantur, aestimabantur aetates singulorum, paruulis adiciebantur anni, senibus detrahebantur. luctu et maestitia plena omnia. ### English translation (Claude) No excuse of age or health was allowed. The sick and disabled were brought in; the ages of each were estimated; years were added to little children and taken from the old. Everything was full of grief and sorrow. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.4 (CSEL 27.2:199; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:199 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius treated Romans as conquered people, in revenge for Trajan's census on the Dacians. ### Latin text quae ueteres aduersus uictos iure belli fecerant, et ille aduersus Romanos Romanisque subiectos facere ausus est, quia parentes eius censui subiugati fuerant, quem Traianus Daciis assidue rebellantibus poenae gratia uictor imposuit. ### English translation (Claude) What the ancients had done to the conquered by the law of war, he dared to do to Romans and Roman subjects, because his forefathers had been subjected to the census which Trajan, as victor, had imposed on the Dacians as a punishment for their constant rebellions. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.5 (CSEL 27.2:199; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:199 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Successive assessors kept raising the tax arbitrarily. ### Latin text post hoc pecuniae pro capitibus pendebantur et merces pro uita dabatur. non tamen isdem censitoribus fides habebatur, sed alii super alios mittebantur tamquam plura inuenturi, et duplicabatur semper, illis non inuenientibus, sed ut libuit addentibus, ne frustra missi uiderentur. ### English translation (Claude) After this, money was paid for heads, and a price was given for life. Yet the same census-takers were not trusted, but others were sent after others, as if to find more, and the assessments were always doubled, not because they found anything, but because they added as they pleased, so as not to seem to have been sent in vain. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.6 (CSEL 27.2:199; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:199 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Taxes were exacted even for the dead; only beggars were exempt. ### Latin text interea minuebantur animalia et mortales obibant et nihilo minus soluebantur tributa pro mortuis, ut nec uiuere iam nec mori saltim gratis liceret. mendici supererant soli a quibus nihil exigi posset: quos ab omni genere iniuriae tutos miseria et infelicitas fecerat. ### English translation (Claude) Meanwhile the animals decreased and people died, and nonetheless taxes were paid for the dead, so that it was no longer permitted to live, or even to die, for free. Only beggars remained, from whom nothing could be exacted, whom misery and misfortune had made safe from every kind of injury. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.7 (CSEL 27.2:199; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:199 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He had the beggars drowned, a bitter mockery of mercy. ### Latin text atquin homo pius misertus est illis, ut non egerent. congregari omnes iussit et exportatos nauiculis in mare mergi. adeo hominem misericordem, qui prouiderit ne quis illo imperante miser esset! ### English translation (Claude) But the pious man took pity on them, so that they should not be in want. He ordered them all to be gathered, carried out in boats, and drowned in the sea. So merciful a man, who provided that no one under his rule should be miserable! ### Translation notes - The praise is ironic. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.8 (CSEL 27.2:199; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 23.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:199–200 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: To prevent tax evasion he killed the truly poor. ### Latin text ita dum cauet ne quis simulatione mendicitatis censum subterfugiat, multitudinem uerorum miserorum contra omne ius humanitatis occidit. ### English translation (Claude) So, while he took care that no one should escape the census by pretending to be a beggar, he killed a multitude of the truly wretched against every law of humanity. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 23.9 (CSEL 27.2:199–200; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-23-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:200 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God's judgement on Galerius approached. ### Latin text Iam propinquauit illi iudicium dei secutumque tempus est quo res eius dilabi ac fluere coeperunt. ### English translation (Claude) Now the judgement of God drew near him, and the time followed in which his affairs began to slip and flow away. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.1 (CSEL 27.2:200; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:200 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius awaited Constantius's death but did not expect it so soon. ### Latin text nondum animum intenderat ad euertendum pellendumue Constantium, dum est occupatus his rebus quas superius exposui: et expectabat obitum eius, sed tam celeriter non putabat obiturum. ### English translation (Claude) He had not yet turned his mind to overthrowing or driving out Constantius, while he was occupied with the things I have set out above; and he was waiting for his death, but did not think he would die so quickly. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.2 (CSEL 27.2:200; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:200 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The dying Constantius asked for Constantine to be sent to him. ### Latin text qui cum grauiter laboraret. miserat litteras, ut filium suum Constantinum remitteret sibi uidendum, quem iam dudum . ### English translation (Claude) He, being gravely ill, had sent a letter asking him to send back his son Constantine to see him, whom he had long since asked back in vain. ### Translation notes - “in vain asked back” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.3 (CSEL 27.2:200; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:200 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius had secretly tried to have Constantine killed. ### Latin text ille uero nihil minus uolebat. nam et in insidiis saepe iuuenem adpetiuerat, quia palam nihil audebat, ne contra se arma ciuilia et. quod maxime uerebatur, odia militum concitaret, sub obtentu exercitii ac lusus feris illum ### English translation (Claude) But he wanted nothing less. For he had often attacked the young man by ambushes, since he dared nothing openly, lest he stir up civil war against himself and, what he feared most, the hatred of the soldiers; and under pretext of exercise and sport he had thrown him to wild beasts, ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.4 (CSEL 27.2:200; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:200 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius finally gave Constantine leave, planning to detain him. ### Latin text obiecerat, sed frustra, quoniam dei manus hominem protegebat. qui illum de manibus eius liberauit in ipso cardine. namque saepius cum iam diu negare non posset. dedit illi sigillum inclinante iam die praecepitque, ut postridie mane acceptis mandatis proficisceretur, uel ipse illum occasione aliqua retentaturus uel praemissurus litteras, ut a Seuero teneretur. ### English translation (Claude) but in vain, since the hand of God protected the man, who delivered him from his hands at the very turning-point. For, having been asked many times, when he could no longer refuse, he gave him the seal as the day was already declining and ordered him to set out the next morning after receiving his instructions, intending either to detain him on some pretext himself or to send letters ahead so that he would be held by Severus. ### Translation notes - The seal is the warrant for the imperial post. “having been asked” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.5 (CSEL 27.2:200; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:200 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine left at night, taking the post-horses to prevent pursuit. ### Latin text quae cum ille prospiceret, quiescente iam imperatore post cenam properauit exire sublatisque per mansiones multas omnibus equis publicis euolauit. ### English translation (Claude) When he foresaw this, while the emperor was resting after dinner he hurried to leave, and, carrying off all the public horses at many posting-stations, he flew away. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.6 (CSEL 27.2:200; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:200–201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius found Constantine gone and could not pursue him. ### Latin text postridie imperator cum consulto ad medium diem usque dormisset, uocari eum iubet. dicitur ei post cenam statim profectus. indignari ac fremere coepit. poscebat equos publicos, ut eum retrahi faceret. nudatus ei cursus publicus nuntiatur. uix lacrimas tenebat. ### English translation (Claude) The next day the emperor, having deliberately slept until midday, ordered him to be called. He was told that he had set out right after dinner. He began to be indignant and to roar. He demanded the public horses, to have him dragged back. He was told that the public post had been stripped bare. He could scarcely hold back his tears. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.7 (CSEL 27.2:200–201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine reached his dying father, who handed the empire to him. ### Latin text at ille incredibili celeritate usus peruenit ad patrem iam deficientem, qui ei militibus commendato imperium per manus tradidit. atque ita in lecto suo requiem uitae, sicut optabat, accepit. ### English translation (Claude) But he, travelling with incredible speed, reached his father, who was already failing; and he, having commended him to the soldiers, handed the empire over to him with his own hands. And so he received the rest of life in his own bed, as he had wished. ### Translation notes - Constantius died at York on 25 July 306. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.8 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 24.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine's first act was to restore Christian worship. ### Latin text suscepto imperio Constantinus Augustus nihil egit prius quam (Christianos cultui ac deo suo reddere. haec fuit prima eius sanctio sanctae religionis restitutae. ### English translation (Claude) Having taken up the empire, Constantine Augustus did nothing before restoring the Christians to their worship and their God. This was his first enactment for the restoration of the holy religion. ### Translation notes - The author's claim; it fits Constantine's later policy, but his first measures in Gaul are not otherwise documented. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 24.9 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-24-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 25.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine's portrait was sent to Galerius, who hesitated to accept it. ### Latin text Paucis post diebus laureata imago eius adlata est ad malam bestiam. deliberauit diu an susciperet. ### English translation (Claude) A few days later his laurelled portrait was brought to the evil beast. He deliberated long whether to accept it. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 25.1 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 25.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His friends warned that the army would side with Constantine. ### Latin text in eo paene res fuit, ut illam et ipsum qui attulerat exureret, nisi eum amici ab illo furore flexissent admonentes eum periculi, quod uniuersi milites, quibus inuitis ignoti Caesares erant facti, suscepturi Constantinum fuissent atque ad eum concursuri alacritate summa, si uenisset armatus. ### English translation (Claude) It very nearly came to his burning both it and the man who had brought it, had not his friends turned him from that frenzy, warning him of the danger that all the soldiers, against whose will unknown men had been made Caesars, would accept Constantine and run to him with the greatest eagerness if he came armed. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 25.2 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 25.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius reluctantly recognized Constantine. ### Latin text suscepit itaque imaginem admodum inuitus atque ipsi purpuram misit, ut ultro asciuisse illum in societatem uideretur. ### English translation (Claude) So he accepted the portrait, quite unwillingly, and sent him the purple, so that he might seem to have taken him into partnership of his own accord. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 25.3 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 25.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His plan to appoint Licinius was upset. ### Latin text iam turbatae rationes eius fuerant nec poterat alterum extra numerum nuncupare, ut uoluerat. ### English translation (Claude) Now his plans had been thrown into confusion, and he could not name another beyond the number, as he had wished. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 25.4 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 25.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He made Severus Augustus and demoted Constantine to Caesar. ### Latin text sed illud excogitauit, ut Seuerum, qui erat aetate maturior, Augustum nuncuparet, Constantinum uero non imperatorem, sicut erat factus, sed Caesarem cum Maximino appellari iuberet, ut eum de secundo loco reiceret in quartum. ### English translation (Claude) But he devised this: he named Severus, who was older, Augustus, and ordered that Constantine be called, not emperor, as he had been made, but Caesar together with Maximinus, so as to push him down from second place to fourth. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 25.5 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-25-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maxentius was proclaimed emperor at Rome. ### Latin text Compositae ei res quodam modo iam uidebantur, cum subito illi alius terror adlatus est, generum ipsius Maxentium Romae factum imperatorem. cuius motus haec fuit causa. ### English translation (Claude) His affairs seemed now in some measure settled, when suddenly another terror was brought to him: that his son-in-law Maxentius had been made emperor at Rome. The cause of this uprising was this. ### Translation notes - 28 October 306. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.1 (CSEL 27.2:201; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:201–202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius extended the census even to Rome. ### Latin text cum statuisset censibus institutis orbem terrae deuorare, ad hanc usque prosiluit insaniam, ut ab hac captiuitate ne populum quidem Romanum fieri uellet inmunem. ordinabantur iam censitores qui Romam missi describerent plebem. ### English translation (Claude) Having resolved to devour the world by instituting censuses, he leapt to such madness that he did not want even the Roman people to be exempt from this captivity. Census-takers were already being appointed to be sent to Rome to register the populace. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.2 (CSEL 27.2:201–202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The remaining praetorians and the people proclaimed Maxentius. ### Latin text eodem fere tempore castra quoque praetoria sustulerat. itaque milites pauci, qui Romae in castris relicti erant, opportunitatem nancti occisis quibusdam iudicibus non inuito populo, qui erat concitatus, Maxentium purpuram induerant. ### English translation (Claude) At about the same time he had also abolished the praetorian camp. So the few soldiers who had been left in the camp at Rome, seizing the opportunity, killed certain magistrates, with the consent of the people, who had been stirred up, and invested Maxentius with the purple. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.3 (CSEL 27.2:202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius was disturbed but unwilling to recognize Maxentius. ### Latin text quo nuntio adlato aliquantum rei nouitate turbatus est nec tamen nimium territus. et oderat hominem et tres Caesares facere non poterat. ### English translation (Claude) When this news was brought, he was somewhat disturbed by the novelty of the event, yet not too frightened. He both hated the man and could not make three Caesars. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.4 (CSEL 27.2:202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He sent Severus with Maximian's former army against Rome. ### Latin text satis uisum est semel fecisse quod noluit. Seuerum arcessit, hortatur ad recipiendum imperium, mittit eum cum exercitu Maximiani ad expugnandum Maxentium, et mittit Romam, in qua milites illi summis deliciis saepissime excepti non modo saluam esse illam urbem, sed ibi uiuere optarent. ### English translation (Claude) It seemed enough to have once done what he did not wish. He summoned Severus, urged him to recover the empire, sent him with Maximian's army to crush Maxentius; and he sent him to Rome, where those soldiers, having very often been received with the greatest luxuries, wished not only that the city be safe but to live there. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.5 (CSEL 27.2:202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maxentius looked for protection against Galerius. ### Latin text Maxentius tanti facinoris sibi conscius, licet iure hereditatis paternos milites traducere ad se posset, cogitans tamen fieri posse ut Maximianus socer id ipsum metuens Seuerum in Illyrico relinqueret atque ipse cum suo exercitu ad se oppugnandum ueniret, quaerebat quatenus se a periculo impendente muniret. ### English translation (Claude) Maxentius, conscious of so great a deed, although by right of inheritance he could bring his father's soldiers over to himself, yet thinking it possible that Maximian his father-in-law, fearing this very thing, might leave Severus in Illyricum and come himself with his own army to attack him, was seeking how to protect himself against the impending danger. ### Translation notes - The father-in-law is Galerius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.6 (CSEL 27.2:202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maxentius recalled his father Maximian to power, which he gladly accepted. ### Latin text patri suo post depositum imperium in Campania moranti purpuram mittit et bis Augustum nominat. ille uero et rerum nouarum cupidus et qui deposuerat inuitus, libenter arripuit. ### English translation (Claude) He sent the purple to his father, who was staying in Campania after laying down the empire, and named him Augustus a second time. And he, both eager for revolution and having laid down power unwillingly, gladly seized it. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.7 (CSEL 27.2:202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Severus's soldiers deserted to Maxentius. ### Latin text Seuerus interim uadit et ad muros urbis armatus accedit. statim milites sublatis signis abeunt et se (ei> contra quem uenerant, tradunt. ### English translation (Claude) Severus meanwhile advanced and approached the walls of the city in arms. At once the soldiers took up their standards, departed, and surrendered to the man against whom they had come. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.8 (CSEL 27.2:202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Severus fled to Ravenna. ### Latin text quid restabat deserto nisi fuga? sed occurrebat iam resumpto imperio Maximianus, cuius aduentu Rauennam confugit ibique se cum paucis militibus inclusit. ### English translation (Claude) What remained for the deserted man but flight? But Maximian, having resumed the empire, was already coming to meet him; at his approach he fled to Ravenna and shut himself up there with a few soldiers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.9 (CSEL 27.2:202; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:202–203 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Severus surrendered to Maximian. ### Latin text qui cum uideret futurum ut Maximiano traderetur, dedidit se ipse uestemque purpuream eidem a quo acceperat, reddidit. ### English translation (Claude) When he saw that he would be handed over to Maximian, he surrendered himself and gave back the purple robe to the very man from whom he had received it. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.10 (CSEL 27.2:202–203; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 26.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:203 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Severus was forced to open his veins. ### Latin text quo facto nihil aliud impetrauit nisi bonam mortem. nam uenis eius incisis leniter mori coactus est. [ab hoc capite suos persequi.] ### English translation (Claude) By doing this he obtained nothing but a good death. For his veins were cut and he was forced to die gently. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets the words “ab hoc capite suos persequi” (“from this point to pursue his own”) as a spurious gloss; they are left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 26.11 (CSEL 27.2:203; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-26-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:203–204 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian went to Gaul to ally with Constantine by giving him his daughter in marriage. ### Latin text Herculius uero cum Maximiani nosset insaniam, cogitare coepit illum audita nece Seueri inflammatum ira susceptis inimicitiis cum exercitu esse uenturum et fortasse adiuncto Maximino ac duplicatis copiis, quibus resisti nullo modo posset, urbe munita et rebus diligenter instructa proficiscitur in Galliam, ut Constantinum partibus suis conciliaret suae minoris filiae nuptiis. ### English translation (Claude) But Herculius, knowing Maximian's madness, began to think that, on hearing of Severus's death, inflamed with anger, having taken up enmity, he would come with an army, perhaps joined by Maximinus and with doubled forces, which could in no way be resisted; so, having fortified the city and carefully provided everything, he set out for Gaul, to win Constantine to his side by marriage with his younger daughter. ### Translation notes - Herculius is Maximian; the other Maximian here is Galerius. The daughter is Fausta, married to Constantine in 307. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.1 (CSEL 27.2:203–204; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:204 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius invaded Italy but found Rome too large to besiege. ### Latin text ille interea coacto exercitu inuadit Italiam, ad urbem accedit senatum extincturus, populum trucidaturus: uerum clausa et munita omnia offendit. nulla erat spes inrumpendi, oppugnatio difficilis, ad circumsedenda moenia non satis copiarum: quippe qui numquam uiderat Romam aestimaretque illam non multo esse maiorem quam quas nouerat ciuitates. ### English translation (Claude) Meanwhile he, having gathered an army, invaded Italy and approached the city to destroy the senate and slaughter the people; but he found everything closed and fortified. There was no hope of breaking in; an assault was difficult; there were not enough troops to surround the walls, since he had never seen Rome and supposed it was not much larger than the cities he knew. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.2 (CSEL 27.2:204; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:204 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Some legions deserted him. ### Latin text tunc quaedam legiones detestantes scelus, quod socer generum oppugnaret et quod Romani milites Romam, translatis signis imperium reliquerunt. ### English translation (Claude) Then certain legions, detesting the crime that a father-in-law should attack his son-in-law and Roman soldiers Rome, transferred their standards and abandoned his command. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.3 (CSEL 27.2:204; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:204 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius begged his troops not to betray him and retreated. ### Latin text et iam ceteri milites nutabant, cum ille fracta superbia dimissisque animis Seueri exitum metuens ad pedes militum prouolutus orabat ne hosti traderetur, donec promissis ingentibus flexit animos eorum et retro signa conuertit ac fugam trepidus capessiuit, in qua opprimi facillime potuit, si cum paucis quispiam sequeretur. ### English translation (Claude) And the rest of the soldiers were already wavering, when he, his pride broken and his spirit cast down, fearing the fate of Severus, threw himself at the soldiers' feet and begged not to be handed over to the enemy, until by huge promises he swayed their minds; and he turned back his standards and in alarm took to flight, in which he could very easily have been overwhelmed if anyone had followed with a few men. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.4 (CSEL 27.2:204; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:204 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He let his soldiers plunder to hinder pursuit. ### Latin text quod cum timeret, dedit militibus potestatem ut dispersi quam latissime diriperent omnia uel corrumperent, ut si quis insequi uoluisset, utensilia non haberet. ### English translation (Claude) Fearing this, he gave the soldiers leave to scatter as widely as possible and plunder or spoil everything, so that anyone who wished to pursue would have no supplies. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.5 (CSEL 27.2:204; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:204 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His army ravaged northern Italy. ### Latin text uastata est igitur ea pars Italiae qua pestiferum illud agmen incessit, expilata omnia, mulieres corruptae, uirgines uiolatae, extorti parentes et mariti, ut filias, ut coniuges, ut opes suas proderent. abactae tamquam de barbaris praedae pecorum ac iumentorum. ### English translation (Claude) So that part of Italy through which that pestilent column marched was laid waste: everything pillaged, women corrupted, virgins violated, parents and husbands tortured to give up their daughters, their wives, their wealth. Flocks and herds were driven off as booty, as if from barbarians. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.6 (CSEL 27.2:204; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:204–205 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He returned home as a ravager of Italy. ### Latin text hoc modo se ad sedes suas recepit, cum Romanus quondam imperator, nunc populator Italiae, hostiliter uniuersa uexasset. ### English translation (Claude) In this way he withdrew to his own seat, having as an enemy harassed everything, once a Roman emperor, now the ravager of Italy. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.7 (CSEL 27.2:204–205; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 27.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:205 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He had long wished to rename the Roman empire the Dacian empire. ### Latin text olim quidem ille ut nomen imperatoris acceperat, hostem se Romani nominis erat professus, cuius titulum immutari uolebat, ut non Romanum imperium, sed Daciscum cognominaretur. ### English translation (Claude) Long before, indeed, as soon as he had received the name of emperor, he had professed himself an enemy of the Roman name, whose title he wished to change, so that it should be called not the Roman but the Dacian empire. ### Translation notes - The claim is found only here. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 27.8 (CSEL 27.2:205; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-27-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 28.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:205 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian shared rule with Maxentius, who held the real power. ### Latin text Post huius fugam cum se Maximianus alter e Gallia recepisset, habebat imperium commune cum filio. sed iuueni magis parebatur quam seni, quippe cum prior et maior filii potestas, qui etiam patri reddiderat imperium. ### English translation (Claude) After his flight, when the other Maximian had returned from Gaul, he held the empire in common with his son. But the young man was obeyed more than the old, since the son's power was prior and greater, as he had even given back the empire to his father. ### Translation notes - “was” (esset) is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 28.1 (CSEL 27.2:205; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 28.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:205 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian plotted to overthrow his son. ### Latin text ferebat iniquo animo senex quod non posset libere facere quae uellet, et filio suo puerili aemulatione inuidebat. cogitabat ergo expellere adulescentem, ut sibi sua uindicaret: quod facile uidebatur, quia milites < ei > erant qui Seuerum reliquerant. ### English translation (Claude) The old man bore it ill that he could not freely do what he wished, and he envied his own son with childish rivalry. So he planned to drive out the young man, so as to claim for himself what was his: which seemed easy, because the soldiers who had deserted Severus were his. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 28.2 (CSEL 27.2:205; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 28.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:205 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian publicly blamed Maxentius and tore off his purple. ### Latin text aduocauit populum ac milites quasi contionem de praesentibus rei publicae malis habiturus. de quibus cum multa dixisset, conuertit ad filium manus et illum esse dicens auctorem malorum, illum principem calamitatum, quas res publica sustineret, deripuit ab humeris eius purpuram. ### English translation (Claude) He called together the people and the soldiers as if to hold an assembly on the present evils of the state. When he had said much about them, he turned his hands against his son, and, saying that he was the author of the evils and the source of the calamities the state was suffering, he tore the purple from his shoulders. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 28.3 (CSEL 27.2:205; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 28.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:205 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The soldiers sided with Maxentius, and Maximian was driven from Rome. ### Latin text exutus ille praecipitem se de tribunali dedit et a militibus exceptus est. quorum ira et clamore perturbatus est senex impius et ab urbe Roma tamquam Superbus alter exactus [est]. ### English translation (Claude) Stripped of it, he flung himself headlong from the tribunal and was caught by the soldiers. By their anger and uproar the impious old man was thrown into confusion and driven from the city of Rome like a second Superbus. ### Translation notes - Tarquinius Superbus, the last king of Rome, was expelled from the city. The edition brackets a second “est” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 28.4 (CSEL 27.2:205; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-28-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:205–206 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian went to Galerius, intending to kill him and take his realm. ### Latin text Rediens rursus in Gallias, ubi aliquantum moratus est, profectus ad hostem filii sui Maximianum, quasi ut de componendo rei publicae statu [et] cum eo disputaret. re autem uera, ut illum per occasionem reconciliationis occideret ac regnum eius teneret exclusus a suo quocumque uenisset. ### English translation (Claude) Returning again to Gaul, where he stayed for some time, he set out to his son's enemy Maximian, as if to discuss with him the settling of the state; but in reality to kill him on the occasion of reconciliation and to hold his realm, being shut out from his own wherever he had gone. ### Translation notes - The meeting at Carnuntum, November 308. The edition brackets “et” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.1 (CSEL 27.2:205–206; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:206 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: At Carnuntum Licinius was made Augustus; there were now six emperors. ### Latin text aderat ibi Diocles a genero nuper accitus, ut quod ante non fecerat, praesente illo imperium Licinio daret substituto in Seueri locum. itaque fit utroque praesente. sic uno tempore sex fuerunt. ### English translation (Claude) Diocles was there, lately summoned by his son-in-law, so that what he had not done before he might do in his presence: give the empire to Licinius, put in Severus's place. And so it was done with both present. So at one time there were six. ### Translation notes - The six: Galerius, Licinius, Maximinus, Constantine, Maxentius, and Maximian. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.2 (CSEL 27.2:206; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:206 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian returned to Gaul, feigning retirement, to plot against Constantine. ### Latin text qua re impeditis consiliis senex Maximianus tertiam quoque fugam moliebatur: redit in Galliam plenus malae cogitationis ac sceleris, ut Constantinum imperatorem, generum suum, generi filium, dolo malo circumueniret, et ut posset fallere, deponit regiam uestem. Francorum gens in armis erat. ### English translation (Claude) His plans thus hindered, old Maximian contrived a third flight too. He returned to Gaul full of evil thought and wickedness, to entrap by treachery the emperor Constantine, his son-in-law and the son of his son-in-law; and so as to be able to deceive him, he laid aside his royal dress. The nation of the Franks was in arms. ### Translation notes - Theodora, Maximian's daughter or step-daughter (the sources differ), had married Constantius, so Constantine was, loosely, his son-in-law's son (Constantine's mother was Helena, not Theodora). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.3 (CSEL 27.2:206; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:206 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He persuaded Constantine to take only a small force against the Franks. ### Latin text persuadet nihil suspicanti, ne omnem secum exercitum duceret, paucis militibus posse barbaros debellari, ut et ipse haberet exercitum quem occuparet, et ille opprimi posset ob militum paucitatem. ### English translation (Claude) He persuaded him, suspecting nothing, not to take his whole army with him, as the barbarians could be defeated with a few soldiers, so that he himself might have an army to seize, and the other might be overwhelmed because of the fewness of his soldiers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.4 (CSEL 27.2:206; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:206 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian seized power and the treasury while Constantine was away. ### Latin text credit adulescens ut perito ac seni, paret ut socero: proficiscitur relicta militum parte maiore. ille paucis diebus expectatis cum iam Constantinum aestimaret intrasse fines barbarorum, repente purpuram sumit, thesauros inuadit, donat ut solet large: fingit de Constantino quae in ipsum protinus reciderunt. ### English translation (Claude) The young man believed him as an experienced older man and obeyed him as a father-in-law; he set out, leaving behind the greater part of the soldiers. The other waited a few days, and when he reckoned that Constantine had already entered the barbarians' territory, suddenly took the purple, seized the treasuries, and gave largesse as he usually did; he invented things about Constantine which at once fell back on his own head. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.5 (CSEL 27.2:206; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:206 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine returned at once and caught Maximian unprepared. ### Latin text imperatori propere quae gesta sunt, nuntiantur. admirabili celeritate cum exercitu reuolat. opprimitur homo ex improuiso, nondum satis instructus. ### English translation (Claude) What had happened was quickly reported to the emperor. With astonishing speed he flew back with his army. The man was overwhelmed unexpectedly, not yet sufficiently prepared. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.6 (CSEL 27.2:206; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:206–207 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian held out at Marseille, but the gates were opened to Constantine. ### Latin text milites ad imperatorem suum redeunt. occupauerat Massiliam et portas obserauerat. accedit propius imperator et in muro adstantem alloquitur, non aspere nec hostiliter, sed rogat quid sibi uoluisset, quid ei defuisset, cur faceret quod ipsum praecipue non deceret. ille uero ingerebat maledicta de muris. tum subito a tergo eius portae reserantur, milites recipiuntur. ### English translation (Claude) The soldiers returned to their own emperor. He had seized Massilia and barred the gates. The emperor came nearer and addressed him as he stood on the wall, not harshly or as an enemy, but asked what he had meant, what he had lacked, why he was doing what least of all became him. But he hurled curses from the walls. Then suddenly behind him the gates were unbarred and the soldiers let in. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.7 (CSEL 27.2:206–207; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 29.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:207 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine spared Maximian's life. ### Latin text attrahitur ad imperatorem rebellis imperator, pater impius, socer perfidus. audit scelera quae fecit, detrahitur ei uestis et increpito uita donatur. ### English translation (Claude) The rebel emperor, the impious father, the faithless father-in-law, was dragged before the emperor. He heard the crimes he had committed; his robe was stripped off, and after a rebuke he was granted his life. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 29.8 (CSEL 27.2:207; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-29-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 30.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:207 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian plotted again. ### Latin text Sic amisso imperatoris ac soceri honore humilitatis impatiens alias rursus insidias machinatus est, quia semel habuit inpune. ### English translation (Claude) So, having lost the honour of emperor and of father-in-law, impatient of his humiliation, he contrived another plot, since he had once got off unpunished. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 30.1 (CSEL 27.2:207; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 30.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:207 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He urged Fausta to betray Constantine. ### Latin text uocat filiam Faustam eamque nunc precibus nunc blandimentis sollicitat ad proditionem mariti, alium digniorem uirum pollicetur: petit, cubiculum patens relinqui et neglegentius custodiri sinat. ### English translation (Claude) He called his daughter Fausta and, now by entreaties, now by flatteries, tempted her to betray her husband, promising another, worthier husband; he asked her to allow the bedroom to be left open and more carelessly guarded. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 30.2 (CSEL 27.2:207; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 30.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:207 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Fausta told Constantine, who set a trap with a eunuch in his place. ### Latin text pollicetur illa facturam et refert protinus ad maritum. componitur scaena qua manifesto facinus teneretur. supponitur quidam uilis eunuchus qui pro imperatore moriatur. ### English translation (Claude) She promised to do it and at once reported to her husband. A scene was arranged by which the crime might be caught in the act. A certain worthless eunuch was put in the bed to die in place of the emperor. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 30.3 (CSEL 27.2:207; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 30.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:207 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian killed the eunuch, thinking it was Constantine. ### Latin text surgit ille nocte intempesta, uidet omnia insidiis opportuna. rari excubitores erant et ii quidem longius: quibus tamen dicit uidisse somnium quod filio suo narrare uellet. ingreditur armatus et spadone obtruncato prosilit gloriabundus ac profitetur quid admiserit. ### English translation (Claude) He rose in the dead of night and saw everything favourable for the plot. The guards were few and those at some distance; yet he told them he had seen a dream which he wanted to tell his son. He went in armed, and, having cut down the eunuch, sprang out boasting and declared what he had done. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 30.4 (CSEL 27.2:207; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 30.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:207–208 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Caught, Maximian was allowed to choose his death and hanged himself. ### Latin text repente se ex altera parte Constantinus ostendit cum globo armatorum. profertur e cubiculo cadauer occisi: haeret manifestarius homicida et mutus stupet, quasi dura silex aut stet Marpesia cautes: impietatis ac sceleris increpatur. postremo datur ei potestas liberae mortis, ac nodum informis leti trabe nectit ab alta. ### English translation (Claude) Suddenly Constantine showed himself on the other side with a band of armed men. The corpse of the slain man was brought out of the bedroom. The murderer, caught in the act, was stuck fast and stood dumb and dazed, “as if he were hard flint or Marpesian rock”; he was rebuked for his impiety and crime. Finally he was granted the choice of his own death, and “from a high beam he tied the knot of an ugly death.” ### Extrabiblical texts - Virgil, Aen. 6.471 (Virgil): quotation, high confidence - Virgil, Aen. 12.603 (Virgil): quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - The quotations are Virgil, Aen. 6.471 and 12.603. Maximian's death in 310 is presented by other sources as suicide or execution; the plot story is found here and in later writers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 30.5 (CSEL 27.2:207–208; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 30.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:208 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian, once a great emperor, died a shameful death. ### Latin text ita ille Romani nominis maximus imperator, qui post longum temporis interuallum cum ingenti gloria uiginti annorum uota celebrauit, eliso et fracto superbissimo gutture uitam detestabilem turpi et ignominiosa morte finiuit. ### English translation (Claude) So that greatest emperor of the Roman name, who after a long interval of time had celebrated with immense glory the vows of twenty years, ended his detestable life with a shameful and ignominious death, his most proud throat crushed and broken. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 30.6 (CSEL 27.2:208; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-30-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 31.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:208 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God next turned to punish Galerius, author of the persecution. ### Latin text Ab hoc deus religionis ac populi sui uindex oculos ad Maximianum alterum transtulit, nefandae persecutionis auctorem, ut in eo et iam suae u>im maiestatis ostenderet. ### English translation (Claude) From him God, the avenger of his religion and his people, turned his eyes to the other Maximian, the author of the wicked persecution, so as to show in him also the power of his majesty. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 31.1 (CSEL 27.2:208; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 31.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:208 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius imposed new levies for his twentieth anniversary. ### Latin text iam de agendis et ipse uicennalibus cogitabat. , qui iam dudum prouincias afflixerat auri argentique indictionibus factis, quae promiserat redderet, etiam in nomine uicennalium securem alteram < iis > inflixit. ### English translation (Claude) He too was now thinking of celebrating his twentieth anniversary; and, having long since afflicted the provinces by imposing levies of gold and silver, so as to pay what he had promised, he struck them also with a second axe in the name of the anniversary. ### Translation notes - “and so that” and “them” are the editor's supplements. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 31.2 (CSEL 27.2:208; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 31.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:208–209 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Tax-collectors tortured those who could not pay. ### Latin text qua uexatione generis humani exactio celebrata sit maxime rei annonariae, quis enarrare digne potest? officiorum omnium milites uel potius carnifices singulis adhaerebant. cui prius satisfieret, incertum, uenia non habentibus nulla. sustinendi multiplices cruciatus, nisi exhiberetur statim quod non erat. ### English translation (Claude) With what harassment of the human race the exaction, above all of the grain supply, was carried out, who can worthily tell? Soldiers of all the offices, or rather executioners, clung to each person. Whom to satisfy first was uncertain; there was no mercy for those who had nothing. Manifold tortures had to be endured unless what did not exist was produced at once. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 31.3 (CSEL 27.2:208–209; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 31.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:209 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Every harvest was seized, leaving nothing to live on. ### Latin text multis custodiis circumsaepto nulla respirandi facultas, nullo tempore anni uel exigua requies. frequens super isdem hominibus uel ipsis iudicibus uel militibus iudicum pugna. nulla area sine exactore, nulla uindemia sine custode, nihil ad uictum laborantibus relictum. quae quamquam intolerabilia sint, eripi ab ore hominum cibos labore quaesitos tamen sustentabile aliquo modo uel spe futurorum. quid uestis omnis generis? quid aurum? ### English translation (Claude) Hemmed in by many guards, one had no chance to breathe, no respite at any time of year, however slight. Frequently there was fighting over the same people, either between the magistrates themselves or between the magistrates' soldiers. No threshing-floor without a tax-collector, no vintage without a guard, nothing left to the labourers to live on. Although these things are intolerable, that the food gained by labour should be snatched from people's mouths is still bearable in some way, or by hope of the future. But what of clothing of every kind? What of gold? ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 31.4 (CSEL 27.2:209; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 31.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:209 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: How could people pay in gold and silver when all their produce was taken? ### Latin text quid argentum? nonne haec necesse est ex uenditis fructibus comparari? unde igitur haec, o dementissime tyranne, praestabo, cum omnes fructus auferas, uniuersa nascentia uiolenter eripias? ### English translation (Claude) What of silver? Must not these be bought from the sale of produce? From where, then, most insane tyrant, shall I supply them, when you take away all the produce and violently snatch everything that grows? ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 31.5 (CSEL 27.2:209; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 31.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:209 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Everyone was ruined for a celebration Galerius did not live to see. ### Latin text quis ergo non bonis suis euersus est, ut opes, quae sub imperio eius fuerunt, conraderentur ad uotum, quod non erat celebraturus? ### English translation (Claude) Who, then, was not overturned from his possessions, so that the wealth that was under his rule might be scraped together for a vow which he was not going to celebrate? ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 31.6 (CSEL 27.2:209; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-31-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 32.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:209 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus resented Licinius's promotion over him. ### Latin text Nuncupato igitur Licinio imperatore Maximinus iratus nec Caesarem se nec tertio loco nominari uolebat. ### English translation (Claude) When Licinius, then, had been named emperor, Maximinus was angry and did not wish to be called Caesar or to be named in third place. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 32.1 (CSEL 27.2:209; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 32.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:209 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius urged Maximinus to accept the arrangement. ### Latin text mittit ergo ad eum saepe legatos, orat sibi pareat, dispositionem suam seruet, cedat aetati et honorem deferat canis. ### English translation (Claude) So he often sent envoys to him, begging him to obey, to keep his arrangement, to yield to age and pay honour to grey hairs. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 32.2 (CSEL 27.2:209; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 32.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:209 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus claimed precedence as the senior in appointment. ### Latin text at ille tollit audacius cornua et praescriptione temporis pugnat: sese priorem esse debere, qui prior sumpserit purpuram; preces eius et mandata contempsit. ### English translation (Claude) But he raised his horns more boldly and fought with the plea of priority in time: he ought to be first, who had first taken the purple; he scorned his entreaties and commands. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 32.3 (CSEL 27.2:209; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 32.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:209–210 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius was enraged at his nephew's ingratitude. ### Latin text dolet bestia et mugit, quod cum ideo ignobilem fecisset Caesarem, ut sibi obsequens esset, is tamen tanti beneficii sui oblitus uoluntati ac precibus suis impie repugnaret. ### English translation (Claude) The beast grieved and bellowed, that though he had made a nobody Caesar precisely so that he would be obedient to him, he nevertheless, forgetting so great a kindness, impiously resisted his will and entreaties. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 32.4 (CSEL 27.2:209–210; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 32.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:210 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Eventually all four rulers were recognized as Augusti. ### Latin text uictus contumacia tollit Caesarum nomen et se Liciniumque Augustos appellat, Maximinum et Constantinum filios Augustorum. Maximinus postmodum scribit quasi nuntians in campo Martio proxime celebrato Augustum se ab exercitu nuncupatum. recepit ille maestus ac dolens et uniuersos quattuor imperatores iubet nominari. ### English translation (Claude) Overcome by his obstinacy, he abolished the name of Caesars and called himself and Licinius Augusti, and Maximinus and Constantine sons of the Augusti. Maximinus afterwards wrote as if announcing that at the recent review on the Campus Martius he had been named Augustus by the army. He received this sadly and in grief and ordered all four to be named emperors. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 32.5 (CSEL 27.2:210; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-32-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 33.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-33-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:210 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: In his eighteenth year Galerius was struck by a spreading genital ulcer. ### Latin text Iam decimus et octauus annus agebatur, cum percussit eum deus insanabili plaga. nascitur ei ulcus malum in inferiori parte genitalium serpitque latius. ### English translation (Claude) Now the eighteenth year was running when God struck him with an incurable blow. An evil ulcer arose on him in the lower part of the genitals and spread more widely. ### Scripture references - Acts 12:23: echo, low confidence ### Extrabiblical texts - 2 Macc 9:5–10 (2 Maccabees): echo, low confidence ### Translation notes - AD 310. Eusebius (Hist. eccl. 8.16.3–5) also describes the disease. The account echoes the deaths of persecutors in Jewish and Christian tradition (2 Macc 9:5–10, Antiochus; Acts 12:23, Herod). It is written to show divine punishment; the medical details cannot be verified. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 33.1 (CSEL 27.2:210; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-33-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 33.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-33-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:210 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Surgery failed and the wound haemorrhaged. ### Latin text medici secant curant. sed inducta iam cicatrice scinditur uulnus et rupta uena fluit sanguis usque ad periculum mortis. uix tamen cruor sistitur. nona ex integro cura. tandem perducitur ad cicatricem. ### English translation (Claude) The physicians cut, they treat. But when a scar had already formed, the wound split open, a vein burst, and blood flowed to the point of danger of death. Yet the bleeding was barely stopped. Treatment had to begin again from the start. At last it was brought to a scar. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 33.2 (CSEL 27.2:210; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-33-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 33.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-33-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:210 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The wound bled again and he wasted away. ### Latin text rursus leui corporis m aliam autem epistolam iudicibus significaturi sumus quid debeant obseruare. unde iuxta hanc indulgentiam nostram debebunt deum suum orare pro salute nostra et rei publicae ac sua, ut undique uersum res publica praestetur incolumis et securi uiuere in sedibus suis possint. ### English translation (Claude) And since very many persisted in their resolve, and we saw that they neither offered due worship and reverence to the gods nor observed the God of the Christians, in consideration of our most gentle clemency, and having regard to our constant custom by which we are accustomed to grant pardon to all people, we have believed that our most ready indulgence should be extended to these too, so that they may again be Christians and may rebuild their meeting-places, provided that they do nothing contrary to discipline. By another letter we shall indicate to the magistrates what they are to observe. Therefore, in accordance with this indulgence of ours, they will be bound to pray to their God for our safety and that of the state and their own, so that the state may be kept unharmed on every side and they may be able to live securely in their homes.” ### Translation notes - “by” (per) is the editor's supplement. “Discipline” here is public order. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 34.4 (CSEL 27.2:213–214; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-34-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 35.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:214 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The edict was posted at Nicomedia on 30 April 311. ### Latin text Hoc edictum proponitur Nicomediae pridie Kalendas Maias ipso octies et Maximino iterum consulibus. ### English translation (Claude) This edict was posted at Nicomedia on the day before the Kalends of May, in the consulship of Galerius himself for the eighth time and of Maximinus for the second. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 35.1 (CSEL 27.2:214; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 35.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:214 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Donatus was released after six years in prison. ### Latin text tunc apertis carceribus, Donate carissime. cum ceteris confessoribus e custodia liberatus es, cum tibi carcer sex annis pro domicilio fuerit. ### English translation (Claude) Then, the prisons being opened, dearest Donatus, you were freed from custody with the other confessors, after the prison had been your home for six years. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 35.2 (CSEL 27.2:214; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 35.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:214 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius was not forgiven by God and died a few days later. ### Latin text nec tamen ille hoc facto ueniam sceleris accepit a deo, sed post dies paucos commendatis Licinio coniuge sua et filio atque in manum traditis, cum iam totius corporis membra ### English translation (Claude) Yet by this act he did not receive pardon for his crime from God; but after a few days, having commended his wife and son to Licinius and handed them into his care, when the limbs of his whole body were already ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 35.3 (CSEL 27.2:214; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 35.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:214 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His death became known at Nicomedia in May 311. ### Latin text diffluerent, horrenda tabe consumptus est idque cognitum Nicomediae *** mensis eiusdem, cum futura essent uicennalia Kalendis Martiis impendentibus. ### English translation (Claude) dissolving, he was consumed by a horrible putrefaction; and this became known at Nicomedia on the … of the same month, when his twentieth anniversary was to fall on the approaching Kalends of March. ### Translation notes - The day is lost in the manuscript (marked *** in the edition). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 35.4 (CSEL 27.2:214; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-35-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 36.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:214 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus rushed to seize Asia Minor and abolished the census to win favour. ### Latin text Quo nuntio Maximinus audito dispositis ab Oriente cursibus peruolauit, ut prouincias occuparet ac Licinio morante omnia sibi usque ad fretum Chalcedonium uindicaret, ingressusque Bithyniam, quo sibi ad praesens fauorem conciliaret, cum magna omnium laetitia sustulit censum. ### English translation (Claude) When this news was heard, Maximinus, having arranged relays from the East, flew to seize the provinces and, while Licinius delayed, to claim everything for himself as far as the Strait of Chalcedon; and entering Bithynia, to win favour for himself for the present, he abolished the census, to the great joy of all. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 36.1 (CSEL 27.2:214; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 36.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:214 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus and Licinius nearly fought but made a treaty on the Bosporus. ### Latin text discordia inter ambos imperatores ac paene bellum. diuersas ripas armati tenebant, sed condicionibus certis pax et amicitia componitur et in ipso freto foedus fit ac dexterae copulantur. ### English translation (Claude) There was discord between the two emperors and almost war. They held opposite shores in arms; but on fixed conditions peace and friendship were arranged, and on the strait itself a treaty was made and right hands joined. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 36.2 (CSEL 27.2:214; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 36.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:214–215 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus revoked the toleration by arranging for cities to petition against the Christians. ### Latin text redit ille securus et fit qualis in Syria et in Aegypto fuit. inprimis indulgentiam Christianis communi titulo datam tollit subornatis legationibus ciuitatum quae peterent, ne intra ciuitates suas Christianis conuenticula extruere liceret, ut suasu coactus et impulsus facere uideretur quod erat sponte facturus. ### English translation (Claude) He returned secure and became what he had been in Syria and Egypt. First of all, he took away the indulgence granted to the Christians by the common decree, having suborned delegations of cities to petition that Christians not be allowed to build meeting-places within their cities, so that he might seem to do under persuasion, compelled and driven, what he was going to do of his own accord. ### Translation notes - Eusebius (Hist. eccl. 9.2–4, 9.7) describes these petitions and quotes one. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 36.3 (CSEL 27.2:214–215; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 36.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:215 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He appointed pagan high priests in each city to suppress Christian worship. ### Latin text quibus annuens nouo more sacerdotes maximos per singulas ciuitates singulos ex primoribus fecit, qui et sacrificia per omnes deos suos cotidie facerent et ueterum sacerdotum ministerio subnixi darent operam, < ut) Christiani neque fabricarent neque publice aut priuatim coirent, sed comprehensos suo iure ad sacrificia cogerent uel iudicibus offerrent. ### English translation (Claude) Assenting to them, he made, in a new fashion, high priests in each city, one from among the leading men, to offer sacrifices to all their gods daily and, supported by the service of the old priests, to take care that the Christians should neither build meeting-places nor assemble publicly or privately, but that they should by their own authority arrest them and compel them to sacrifice or bring them before the magistrates. ### Translation notes - “that” and “meeting-places” are the editor's supplements. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 36.4 (CSEL 27.2:215; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 36.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:215 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He also appointed provincial high priests. ### Latin text parumque hoc fuit, nisi etiam prouinciis ex altiore dignitatis gradu singulos quasi pontifices superponeret, et eos utrosque candidis clamidibus ornatos iussit incedere. ### English translation (Claude) And this was not enough, unless he also set over the provinces, from a higher grade of rank, individuals as a kind of pontiffs; and he ordered both kinds to go about adorned with white cloaks. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 36.5 (CSEL 27.2:215; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 36.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:215 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Claiming mercy, he ordered Christians maimed rather than killed. ### Latin text facere autem parabat quae iam dudum in Orientis partibus fecerat. nam cum clementiam specie tenus profiteretur, occidi seruos dei uetuit, debilitari iussit. ### English translation (Claude) He was preparing to do what he had long since done in the regions of the East. For while he professed clemency in outward show, he forbade the servants of God to be killed but ordered them to be maimed. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 36.6 (CSEL 27.2:215; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 36.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:215 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Confessors were blinded and mutilated. ### Latin text itaque confessoribus effodiebantur oculi, amputabantur manus, pedes detruncabantur, nares uel auriculae desecabantur. ### English translation (Claude) And so the confessors' eyes were gouged out, hands cut off, feet chopped off, noses or ears cut away. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 36.7 (CSEL 27.2:215; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-36-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 37.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:215 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Deterred by Constantine, Maximinus persecuted secretly. ### Latin text Haec ille moliens Constantini litteris deterretur. dissimulauit ergo. et tamen si quis inciderat, mari occulte mergebantur. consuetudinem quoque suam non intermisit ut in palatio per singulos dies sacrificaretur. ### English translation (Claude) While he was undertaking these things, he was deterred by a letter from Constantine. So he dissembled; and yet if anyone fell into his hands, they were secretly drowned in the sea. Nor did he give up his custom that sacrifices should be offered in the palace every day. ### Translation notes - “into his hands” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 37.1 (CSEL 27.2:215; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 37.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:215–216 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: All food at his table was sacrificial, to defile his guests. ### Latin text et hoc primus inuenerat, ut animalia omnia quibus uescebatur, non a coquis, sed a sacerdotibus ad aras immolarentur nihilque prorsus mensae adponeretur nisi aut delibatum aut sacrificatum aut perfusum mero, ut quisquis ad cenam uocatus esset, inquinatus inde atque impurus exiret. ### English translation (Claude) And he was the first to devise that all the animals he ate should be slaughtered, not by cooks, but by priests at altars, and that nothing at all should be set on the table unless it had been offered in libation or sacrificed or sprinkled with wine, so that whoever was invited to dinner came away from it defiled and impure. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 37.2 (CSEL 27.2:215–216; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 37.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:216 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He plundered whatever his predecessors had left. ### Latin text in ceteris quoque magistri sui similis. nam si quid reliqui uel Diocles uel Maximianus reliquerant, hic abrasit sine ullo pudore auferens omnia. ### English translation (Claude) In the rest, too, he was like his master. For if Diocles or Maximian had left anything over, this man scraped it off, taking everything without any shame. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 37.3 (CSEL 27.2:216; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 37.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:216 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His exactions caused famine amid good harvests. ### Latin text itaque horrea priuatorum claudebantur, apothecae obsignabantur, debita in futuros annos exigebantur. hinc fames agris ferentibus, hinc caritas inaudita. ### English translation (Claude) And so the granaries of private persons were closed, the storehouses sealed, and debts exacted for future years. Hence famine while the fields bore, hence unheard-of dearness. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 37.4 (CSEL 27.2:216; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 37.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:216 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He lavished confiscated wealth on soldiers and barbarians. ### Latin text armentorum ac pecorum greges ex agris rapiebantur ad sacrificia cotidiana: quibus suos adeo corruperat, ut aspernarentur annonam. et effundebat passim sine dilectu, sine modo, cum satellites uniuersos, quorum numerus ingens erat, pretiosis uestibus et aureis nummis expungeret, gregariis et tironibus argentum daret, barbaros omni genere largitionis honoraret. ### English translation (Claude) Herds of cattle and flocks were seized from the fields for the daily sacrifices; with these he had so corrupted his own men that they scorned the ration. And he poured out wealth everywhere without discrimination or measure, discharging all his attendants, whose number was huge, with costly garments and gold coins, giving silver to common soldiers and recruits, honouring barbarians with every kind of largesse. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 37.5 (CSEL 27.2:216; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 37.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:216–217 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: At least he robbed without killing, like a merciful bandit. ### Latin text nam quod uiuentium bona uel auferebat uel dono suis dabat, ut quisque petierat aliena, nescio an agendas illi fuisse gratias putem, quod more clementium latronum incruenta spolia detrahebat. ### English translation (Claude) As for his either taking away the property of the living or giving it as a gift to his own people, as each had asked for another's goods, I do not know whether I should think he should be thanked, because, in the manner of merciful robbers, he took spoils without bloodshed. ### Translation notes - The remark is ironic. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 37.6 (CSEL 27.2:216–217; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/19-1/#p-37-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 38.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:217 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus's worst vice was unbridled lust. ### Latin text Illud uero capitale et supra omnes qui fuerunt, corrumpendi cupiditas! quid dicam nescio nisi caecam et effrenatam, et tamen his uerbis exprimi res pro indignatione sua non potest: uicit officium linguae sceleris magnitudo. eunuchi, lenones scrutabantur omnia. ### English translation (Claude) But that was his capital vice, beyond all who have ever been: his lust for seduction! I do not know what to call it except blind and unbridled; and yet the thing cannot be expressed in these words as its outrage deserves: the magnitude of the crime has overcome the function of the tongue. Eunuchs and pimps searched everything out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 38.1 (CSEL 27.2:217; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 38.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:217–218 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Women were inspected for his bed and drowned if they refused. ### Latin text ubicumque liberalior facies erat, secedendum patribus ac maritis fuit. detrahebantur nobilibus feminis uestes itemque uirginibus et per singulos artus inspiciebantur, ne qua pars corporis regio cubili esset indigna. si qua detrectauerat, in aqua necabatur, tamquam maiestatis crimen esset sub illo adultero pudicitia. ### English translation (Claude) Wherever there was a more comely face, fathers and husbands had to withdraw. Noble women and likewise virgins were stripped of their clothes and inspected limb by limb, lest any part of the body be unworthy of the royal bed. If any woman refused, she was drowned, as if under that adulterer chastity were a crime of treason. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 38.2 (CSEL 27.2:217–218; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 38.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:218 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Husbands of violated wives killed themselves; no woman was safe. ### Latin text aliqui constupratis uxoribus, quas ob castitatem ac fidem carissimas habebant, cum dolorem ferre non possent, se ipsos etiam necauerunt. sub hoc monstro pudicitiae integritas nulla, nisi ubi barbaram libidinem deformitas insignis arcebat. ### English translation (Claude) Some men, when their wives, whom they held most dear for their chastity and faithfulness, had been violated, could not bear the grief and even killed themselves. Under this monster there was no chastity left intact, except where striking ugliness kept off his barbarous lust. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 38.3 (CSEL 27.2:218; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 38.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:218 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: No one could marry without his leave, and he claimed brides first. ### Latin text postremo hunc iam induxerat morem, ut nemo uxorem sine permissu eius duceret, ut ipse in omnibus nuptiis praegustator esset ingenuas uirgines inminutas seruis suis donabat uxores. ### English translation (Claude) Finally he had introduced this custom, that no one should marry a wife without his permission, so that he himself might be the foretaster in all marriages; he gave freeborn virgins, once deflowered, to his slaves as wives. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 38.4 (CSEL 27.2:218; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 38.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:218 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His courtiers imitated him, and noble families were forced to give daughters to barbarians. ### Latin text sed >et comites eius sub tali principe imitabantur stupra et hospitum suorum cubilia inpune uiolabant: quis enim uindicaret? mediocrium filias, ut cuique libuerat, rapiebat. primariae, quae rapi non poterant, in beneficiis petebantur, nec recusare licebat subscribente imperatore, quin aut pereundum esset aut habendus gener aliquis barbarus. ### English translation (Claude) But his companions too, under such a prince, imitated his debaucheries and violated the beds of their hosts with impunity; for who would punish them? They carried off the daughters of people of middling rank, as each pleased. Women of the first rank, who could not be carried off, were asked for as favours, and it was not permitted to refuse when the emperor signed the request; one must either perish or accept some barbarian as son-in-law. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 38.5 (CSEL 27.2:218; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 38.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:218–219 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His bodyguard were barbarian refugees who now ruled over Romans. ### Latin text nam fere nullus stipator in latere ei nisi ex gente eorum qui a Gothis tempore uicennalium terris suis pulsi Maximiano se tradiderant malo generis humani, ut illi barbarorum seruitutem fugientes in Romanos dominarentur. ### English translation (Claude) For almost no one of his bodyguard was at his side except from the nation of those who, driven from their lands by the Goths at the time of the twentieth anniversary, had given themselves to Maximian, the bane of the human race, so that those who fled slavery to barbarians might lord it over Romans. ### Translation notes - Here Maximian is Galerius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 38.6 (CSEL 27.2:218–219; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 38.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:219 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: With these guards he made a mockery of the East. ### Latin text his satellitibus et protectoribus cinctus Orientem ludibrio habuit. ### English translation (Claude) Surrounded by these attendants and guards, he made a mockery of the East. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 38.7 (CSEL 27.2:219; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-38-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 39.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:219 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: His lust extended even to the empress Valeria. ### Latin text Denique cum libidinibus suis hanc legem dedisset, ut fas putaret quicquid concupisset, ne ab Augusta quidem, quam nuper appellauerat matrem, potuit temperare. ### English translation (Claude) Finally, since he had given his lusts this law, to think lawful whatever he desired, he could not restrain himself even from the Augusta, whom he had lately called mother. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 39.1 (CSEL 27.2:219; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 39.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:219 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Galerius's widow Valeria sought refuge with Maximinus, who desired her. ### Latin text uenerat post obitum Maximiani ad eum Valeria, cum se putaret in partibus eius tutius moraturam eo maxime, quod habebat uxorem. sed animal nefarium protinus inardescit. ### English translation (Claude) After the death of Maximian, Valeria had come to him, thinking she would live more safely in his territory, especially because he had a wife. But the wicked animal at once burned with passion. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 39.2 (CSEL 27.2:219; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 39.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:219 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus proposed marriage, planning to divorce his wife; Valeria replied boldly. ### Latin text adhuc in atris uestibus erat mulier nondum luctus tempore impleto. legatis praemissis in matrimonio postulat eiecturus uxorem, si impetrasset. respondit illa libere quae sola poterat: ### English translation (Claude) The woman was still in black garments, the time of mourning not yet complete. Sending envoys ahead, he asked her in marriage, intending to cast off his wife if he obtained his request. She answered freely, as she alone could: ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 39.3 (CSEL 27.2:219; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 39.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:219 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Valeria refused: she was in mourning, he would divorce her too, and remarriage did not befit her rank. ### Latin text primo non posse de nuptiis in illo ferali habitu agere tepidis adhuc cineribus mariti sui, patris eius; deinde illum impie facere, quod sibi fidam coniugem repudiet, idem utique facturus et sibi; postremo nefas esse illius nominis ac loci feminam sine more, sine exemplo maritum alterum experiri. ### English translation (Claude) first, that she could not treat of marriage in that funeral dress, while the ashes of her husband, his father, were still warm; next, that he was acting impiously in repudiating a faithful wife, and he would certainly do the same to her; finally, that it was wrong for a woman of her name and station to try a second husband, without custom, without precedent. ### Translation notes - “His father”: Galerius was Maximinus's adoptive father. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 39.4 (CSEL 27.2:219; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 39.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:219 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Enraged, Maximinus exiled Valeria and her mother and condemned her friends. ### Latin text nuntiatur homini quid esset ausa. libido in iram furoremque conuertitur. statim mulierem proscribit, bona eius rapit, aufert comites, spadones in tormentis necat, ipsam cum matre in exilium relegat nec in locum certum, sed huc atque illuc praecipitem cum ludibrio exturbat et amicas eius afficto adulterio damnat. ### English translation (Claude) What she had dared was reported to the man. His lust turned to anger and fury. At once he proscribed the woman, seized her goods, took away her companions, killed her eunuchs under torture, banished her with her mother, not to a fixed place but driving her headlong hither and thither with mockery, and condemned her friends on a trumped-up charge of adultery. ### Translation notes - The mother is Prisca, Diocletian's wife. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 39.5 (CSEL 27.2:219; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-39-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 40.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:219–220 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He had a noblewoman, Valeria's friend, targeted by the governor. ### Latin text Erat clarissima femina, cui ex filiis iuuenibus iam nepotes erant. hanc Valeria tamquam matrem alteram diligebat: cuius consilio negatam sibi suspicatur. dat negotium praesidi t Eratineo, ut eam cum dedecore interficiat. ### English translation (Claude) There was a woman of the highest rank who already had grandchildren from her young sons. Valeria loved her as a second mother; by her counsel he suspected that he had been refused. He commissioned the governor Eratineus to put her to death with dishonour. ### Translation notes - The governor's name is uncertain in the text (Eratineus). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 40.1 (CSEL 27.2:219–220; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 40.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:220 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Two other noblewomen were condemned with her. ### Latin text huic aliae duae adiunguntur aeque nobiles, quarum altera filiam uirginem Vestalem Romae reliquerat, furtiue tunc Valeriae familiaris, altera uirum habuit senatorem, non nimis Augustae proxima. sed utraque ob eximiam pulchritudinem corporis ac pudicitiam necabantur. ### English translation (Claude) Two others equally noble were joined with her, one of whom had left a daughter at Rome, a Vestal virgin, and was then secretly an intimate of Valeria; the other had a senator for a husband and was not very close to the Augusta. But both were put to death for their outstanding beauty of body and their chastity. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 40.2 (CSEL 27.2:220; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 40.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:220 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: A Jewish prisoner was bribed with promises of pardon to testify falsely against them at Nicaea. ### Latin text rapiuntur subito mulieres non ad iudicium, sed ad latrocinium: nec enim quisquam accusator extabat. inuenitur quidam Iudaeus ob alia facinora reus, qui spe inpunitatis inductus aduersus insontes mentiatur. iudex aequus et diligens extra ciuitatem < eum > cum praesidio, ne lapidibus obruatur, producit. agebatur haec tragoedia Nicaeae. inrogantur tormenta Iudaeo, dicit quae iussus oquerentur, pugnis a tortoribus coercentur. innocentes duci iubentur. fletus et comploratio non illius tantum mariti qui aderat bene meritae uxori, sed omnium quos res indigna et inaudita contraxerat. ### English translation (Claude) The women, so that they might not speak against it, were checked with fists by the torturers. The innocent were ordered to be led away. There was weeping and lamentation, not only of the husband who was present for his well-deserving wife, but of all whom the shameful and unheard-of affair had drawn together. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 40.4 (CSEL 27.2:220; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 40.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:220–221 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: They were led to execution under heavy guard. ### Latin text ac ne impetu populi de carnificum manibus raperentur, promoti militari modo instructi, clibanarii, sagittarii prosequuntur. ita mediae inter cuneos armatorum ad supplicium deductae. ### English translation (Claude) And so that they might not be snatched from the executioners' hands by the onrush of the people, cavalry armed in military fashion, mailed horsemen and archers, followed them. So they were led to punishment in the midst of the wedges of armed men. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 40.5 (CSEL 27.2:220–221; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 40.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:221 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The false witness was executed and confessed the women were innocent. ### Latin text iacuissentque insepultae domesticis in fugam uersis, nisi eas furtiua amicorum misericordia sepelisset. nec adultero inpunitas promissa persoluitur, sed patibulo adfixus aperit omne mysterium et sub extremo spiritu [inquit] omnibus qui uidebant, innocentes occisas esse testatur. ### English translation (Claude) And they would have lain unburied, their households having fled, had not the secret compassion of friends buried them. Nor was the promised impunity paid to the adulterer; but, fastened to the gibbet, he disclosed the whole secret and, with his last breath, testified to all who saw him that the women had been killed innocent. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “inquit” as spurious; it is left out. “Adulterer” refers to the false witness, perhaps as the alleged partner in the charge. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 40.6 (CSEL 27.2:221; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-40-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 41.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-41-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:221 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Valeria, exiled in Syria, secretly told her father Diocletian. ### Latin text Augusta uero in desertas quasdam Syriae solitudines relegata patrem suum Diocletianum per occultos nuntios gnarum calamitatis suae fecit. ### English translation (Claude) The Augusta, banished to certain desert wastes of Syria, made her father Diocletian aware of her calamity through secret messengers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 41.1 (CSEL 27.2:221; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-41-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 41.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-41-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:221 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian's requests for her return were refused. ### Latin text mittit ille legatos et rogat, ut ad se filiam remittat: nihil proficit. iterum ac saepius obsecrat: non remittitur. ### English translation (Claude) He sent envoys and asked that he send his daughter back to him: he achieved nothing. Again and repeatedly he pleaded: she was not sent back. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 41.2 (CSEL 27.2:221; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-41-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 41.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-41-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:221 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Even a powerful envoy failed to secure her release. ### Latin text postremo cognatum suum quendam, militarem ac potentem uirum, legat, qui eum beneficiorum suorum admonitum deprecetur. is quoque imperfecta legatione irritas preces renuntiat. ### English translation (Claude) Finally he sent a certain relative of his, a military and powerful man, to entreat him, reminding him of his favours. He too, his embassy unfulfilled, reported that the entreaties were in vain. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 41.3 (CSEL 27.2:221; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-41-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 42.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-42-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:221 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine ordered Maximian's images destroyed, and Diocletian's went with them. ### Latin text Eodemque tempore senis Maximiani statuae Constantini iussu reuellebantur et imagines ubicumque pictus esset, detrahebantur. et quia senes ambo simul plerumque picti erant, et imagines simul deponebantur amborum. ### English translation (Claude) At the same time, by Constantine's order, the statues of old Maximian were being pulled down and his portraits, wherever he was painted, were being removed. And because the two old men were mostly painted together, the portraits of both were taken down together. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 42.1 (CSEL 27.2:221; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-42-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 42.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-42-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:221–222 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Diocletian, grieving over his humiliations, resolved to die. ### Latin text itaque : cuius nunc exitum ruinamque subnectam. ### English translation (Claude) One of the adversaries of God, Maximinus, now remained, whose end and ruin I will now add. ### Translation notes - “Maximinus” is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 43.1 (CSEL 27.2:222; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 43.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:222 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus saw the betrothal of Constantine's sister to Licinius as an alliance against him. ### Latin text cum haberet aemulationem aduersus Licinium, quia praelatus ei a Maximiano fuerat, licet nuper cum eo amicitiam confirmasset, tamen ut audiuit Constantini sororem Licinio esse desponsam, existimauit affinitatem illam duorum imperatorum contra se copulari. ### English translation (Claude) Since he felt rivalry towards Licinius, because he had been preferred to him by Maximian, although he had lately confirmed friendship with him, yet when he heard that Constantine's sister had been betrothed to Licinius, he thought that this alliance of the two emperors was being joined against him. ### Translation notes - The sister is Constantia; Maximian here is Galerius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 43.2 (CSEL 27.2:222; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 43.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:222 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus secretly allied with Maxentius. ### Latin text et ipse legatos ad urbem misit occulte societatem Maxentii atque amicitiam postulatum. scribit etiam familiariter. recipiuntur legati benigne: fit amicitia, utriusque imagines simul locantur. ### English translation (Claude) He too sent envoys secretly to the city to request alliance and friendship with Maxentius. He even wrote in friendly terms. The envoys were kindly received; friendship was made; the portraits of both were set up together. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 43.3 (CSEL 27.2:222; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 43.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:222–223 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maxentius welcomed the alliance; some thought his father's quarrel with him had been a ruse, which was false. ### Latin text Maxentius tamquam diuinum auxilium libenter amplectitur: iam enim bellum Constantino indixerat quasi necem patris sui uindicaturus. unde suspicio inciderat senem illum exitiabilem finxisse discordiam cum filio, ut ad alios succidendos uiam sibi faceret, quibus omnibus sublatis sibi ac filio totius orbis imperium uindicaret. sed id falsum fuit. ### English translation (Claude) Maxentius gladly embraced it as if it were divine help; for he had already declared war on Constantine, as if to avenge his father's death. From this a suspicion had arisen that that deadly old man had feigned the quarrel with his son so as to make a way for himself to cut down the others, and, when they were all removed, to claim the empire of the whole world for himself and his son. But that was false. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 43.4 (CSEL 27.2:222–223; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 43.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:223 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximian had really intended to restore himself and Diocletian. ### Latin text nam id propositi habebat, ut et filio et ceteris extinctis se ac Diocletianum restitueret in regnum. ### English translation (Claude) For his purpose was, when both his son and the others had been destroyed, to restore himself and Diocletian to rule. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 43.5 (CSEL 27.2:223; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-43-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:223 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: War broke out; Maxentius stayed in Rome because of an oracle. ### Latin text Iam mota inter eos fuerant arma ciuilia. et quamuis se Maxentius Romae contineret, quod responsum acceperat periturum esse, si extra portas urbis exisset, tamen bellum per idoneos duces gerebatur. ### English translation (Claude) Now civil war had broken out between them. And although Maxentius kept himself at Rome, because he had received an oracle that he would perish if he went outside the gates of the city, yet the war was carried on through capable generals. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.1 (CSEL 27.2:223; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:223 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maxentius had the larger army. ### Latin text plus uirium Maxentio erat, quod et patris sui exercitum receperat a Seuero et suum proprium de Mauris atque Gaetulis nuper extraxerat. ### English translation (Claude) Maxentius had more forces, because he had both received his father's army from Severus and had lately drawn out his own from the Moors and Gaetulians. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.2 (CSEL 27.2:223; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:223 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine advanced and encamped by the Milvian Bridge. ### Latin text dimicatum, et Maxentiani milites praeualebant, donec postea confirmato animo Constantinus et ad utrumque paratus copias omnes ad urbem propius admouit et e regione pontis Muluii consedit. ### English translation (Claude) Battle was joined, and Maxentius's soldiers prevailed, until afterwards Constantine, his spirit strengthened and ready for either outcome, moved all his forces nearer to the city and encamped opposite the Milvian Bridge. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.3 (CSEL 27.2:223; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:223 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The anniversary of Maxentius's accession, 27 October, was near. ### Latin text imminebat dies quo Maxentius imperium ceperat, qui est a. d. sextum Kalendas Nouembres, et quinquennalia terminabantur. ### English translation (Claude) The day was approaching on which Maxentius had taken power, which is the sixth day before the Kalends of November, and his five years were coming to an end. ### Translation notes - The sixth day before the Kalends of November is 27 October; Maxentius's accession and the battle at the Milvian Bridge are usually dated 28 October (306 and 312). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.4 (CSEL 27.2:223; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:223 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: In a dream Constantine was told to mark Christ's sign on his soldiers' shields. ### Latin text commonitus est in quiete Constantinus, ut caeleste signum dei notaret in scutis atque ita proelium committeret. facit ut iussus est et transuersa X littera, summo capite circumflexo, Christum in scutis notat. ### English translation (Claude) Constantine was admonished in his sleep to mark the heavenly sign of God on the shields and so join battle. He did as he was commanded, and by the letter X turned sideways, with its top bent round, he marked Christ on the shields. ### Translation notes - The description seems to fit a staurogram or the Chi-Rho, but the exact form is disputed. Eusebius (Vit. Const. 1.28–31) gives a different account, of a vision in the sky before the campaign followed by a dream. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.5 (CSEL 27.2:223; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:223–224 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The armies met and fought fiercely. ### Latin text quo signo armatus exercitus capit ferrum. procedit hostis obuiam sine imperatore pontemque transgreditur. acies pari fronte concurrunt, summa ui utrimque pugnatur: neque his fuga nota neque illis. ### English translation (Claude) Armed with this sign, the army took up the sword. The enemy advanced to meet them without their emperor and crossed the bridge. The lines clashed with equal front; there was fighting with the utmost force on both sides: neither side knew flight. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.6 (CSEL 27.2:223–224; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:224 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: In Rome the crowd at the games shouted that Constantine was invincible. ### Latin text fit in urbe seditio et dux increpitatur uelut desertor salutis publicae cumque , repente populus — Circenses enim natali suo edebat — una uoce subclamat Constantinum uinci non posse. ### English translation (Claude) There was a riot in the city, and the leader was reviled as a deserter of the public safety; and when he was seen, suddenly the people (for he was giving circus games on his birthday) shouted with one voice that Constantine could not be conquered. ### Translation notes - “when he was seen” is the editor's supplement. The birthday is the anniversary of accession. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.7 (CSEL 27.2:224; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:224 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The Sibylline books declared that the enemy of the Romans would perish that day. ### Latin text qua uoce consternatus proripit se ac uocatis quibusdam senatoribus libros Sibyllinos inspici iubet: in quibus repertum est illo die hostem Romanorum esse periturum. ### English translation (Claude) Dismayed by this cry, he rushed out, called certain senators, and ordered the Sibylline books to be consulted; in them it was found that on that day the enemy of the Romans would perish. ### Translation notes - The Sibylline books of the Roman state are meant, not the Jewish-Christian Sibylline Oracles. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.8 (CSEL 27.2:224; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:224 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maxentius's army broke, and he fell into the Tiber and drowned. ### Latin text quo responso in spem uictoriae inductus procedit, in aciem uenit. pons a tergo eius scinditur. eo uiso pugna crudescit et manus dei supererat aciei. Maxentianus proterretur, ipse in fugam uersus properat ad pontem, qui interruptus erat, ac multitudine fugientium pressus in Tiberim deturbatur. ### English translation (Claude) Led by this reply to hope for victory, he went out and came to the battle line. The bridge was cut behind him. At this sight the fighting grew fiercer, and the hand of God was over the battle line. Maxentius's army was routed; he himself, turned to flight, hurried to the bridge, which had been broken, and, pressed by the multitude of fugitives, was thrown down into the Tiber. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.9 (CSEL 27.2:224; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:224 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: In Rome Constantine discovered Maximinus's secret alliance with Maxentius. ### Latin text confecto tandem acerbissimo bello cum magna senatus populique Romani laetitia susceptus imperator Constantinus Maximini perfidiam cognoscit, litteras deprehendit, statuas et imagines inuenit. ### English translation (Claude) When the most bitter war was at last ended, the emperor Constantine, received with great joy by the senate and people of Rome, learned of Maximinus's treachery: he found the letters, he discovered the statues and portraits. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.10 (CSEL 27.2:224; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:224 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The senate gave Constantine the senior title, to Maximinus's dismay. ### Latin text senatus Constantino uirtutis gratia primi nominis titulum decreuit, quem sibi Maximinus uindicabat: ad quem uictoria liberatae urbis cum fuisset adlata, non aliter accepit, quam si ipse uictus esset. ### English translation (Claude) The senate, in recognition of his valour, decreed to Constantine the title of the first name, which Maximinus claimed for himself; and when the news of the victory and liberation of the city was brought to him, he received it no differently than if he himself had been conquered. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.11 (CSEL 27.2:224; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 44.12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-12 - Source: CSEL 27.2:224–225 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus openly insulted Constantine. ### Latin text cognito deinde senatus decreto sic exarsit dolore, ut inimicitias aperte profiteretur, conuicia iocis mixta aduersus imperatorem maximum diceret. ### English translation (Claude) Then, when he learned of the senate's decree, he so burned with resentment that he openly professed enmity and uttered insults mixed with jests against the senior emperor. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 44.12 (CSEL 27.2:224–225; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-44-12). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:225 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine and Licinius met at Milan for Licinius's wedding. ### Latin text Constantinus rebus in urbe compositis hieme proxima Mediolanum concessit. eodem Licinius aduenit, ut acciperet uxorem. ### English translation (Claude) Constantine, having settled affairs in the city, went to Milan the following winter. Licinius came there too, to receive his wife. ### Translation notes - Early 313. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.1 (CSEL 27.2:225; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:225 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus marched from Syria in midwinter to attack. ### Latin text Maximinus ubi eos intellexit nuptiarum sollemnibus occupatos, exercitum mouit e Syria hieme [quam] cum maxime saeuiente et mansionibus geminatis in Bithyniam concurrit debilitato agmine. ### English translation (Claude) When Maximinus understood that they were occupied with the wedding festivities, he moved his army from Syria while winter was at its fiercest, and with double stages he hastened into Bithynia with a weakened column. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “quam” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.2 (CSEL 27.2:225; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:225 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The winter march killed many animals, an omen of defeat. ### Latin text nam maximis imbribus et niuibus et luto et frigore et labore iumenta omnis generis amissa sunt, quorum miserabilis per uiam strages speciem iam futuri belli et similem cladem militibus nuntiabat. ### English translation (Claude) For by the heaviest rains and snows and mud and cold and toil, beasts of burden of every kind were lost, and their pitiful slaughter along the road announced to the soldiers the appearance of the coming war and a like disaster. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.3 (CSEL 27.2:225; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:225 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He besieged Byzantium, whose garrison resisted. ### Latin text nec ipse intra fines suos moratus est, sed transiecto protinus freto ad Byzantii portas accessit armatus. erant ibi milites praesidiarii, ad huius modi casus a Licinio conlocati. hos primum muneribus et promissis inlicere temptauit, postea ui et oppugnatione terrere, nec tamen quicquam uis aut promissa ualuerunt. ### English translation (Claude) Nor did he stay within his own borders, but, crossing the strait at once, he approached the gates of Byzantium in arms. There were garrison soldiers there, placed by Licinius for such an event. He first tried to entice them with gifts and promises, then to terrify them by force and assault; yet neither force nor promises availed at all. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.4 (CSEL 27.2:225; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:225 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Byzantium surrendered after eleven days, and Heraclea delayed him further. ### Latin text iam consumpti erant dies undecim, per quos fuit spatium nuntios litterasque mittendi ad imperatorem, cum milites non fide, sed paucitate diffisi se ipsos dederunt. hinc promouit Heracleam et illic eadem ratione detentus aliquot dierum tempus amisit. ### English translation (Claude) Eleven days had now been spent, during which there was time to send messengers and letters to the emperor, when the soldiers, distrustful not in loyalty but in their small numbers, surrendered themselves. From there he advanced to Heraclea, and there, held up in the same way, lost some days' time. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.5 (CSEL 27.2:225; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:225–226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The two armies approached each other in Thrace. ### Latin text et iam Licinius festinato itinere cum paucis Hadrianopolim uenerat, cum ille accepta in deditionem Perintho aliquantum moratus processit ad mansionem milia decem et octo: nec enim poterat ulterius, Licinio iam secundam mansionem tenente distantem milibus totidem. ### English translation (Claude) And Licinius, by a hurried march, had already come with a few men to Hadrianople, when he, having received Perinthus in surrender and delayed somewhat, advanced to a station eighteen miles on: for he could go no further, since Licinius already held the second station, the same number of miles distant. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.6 (CSEL 27.2:225–226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Licinius advanced with 30,000 men against Maximinus's 70,000. ### Latin text qui collectis ex proximo quantis potuit militibus pergebat obuiam Maximino, magis ut eum moraretur quam proposito dimicandi aut spe uictoriae. quippe cum ille septuaginta milium armatorum exercitum duceret, ipse uix triginta milium numerum collegisset. ### English translation (Claude) He, having collected from nearby as many soldiers as he could, went to meet Maximinus, more to delay him than with the intention of fighting or hope of victory, since the other led an army of seventy thousand armed men, while he himself had gathered scarcely thirty thousand. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.7 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 45.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Licinius's troops were too scattered to assemble in time. ### Latin text sparsi enim milites per diuersas regiones fuerant et adunari omnes angustiae temporis non sinebant. ### English translation (Claude) For the soldiers had been scattered through various regions, and the shortness of time did not allow them all to be united. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 45.8 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-45-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Battle was imminent. ### Latin text Propinquantibus ergo exercitibus iam futurum propediem proelium uidebatur. ### English translation (Claude) As the armies drew near, then, a battle now seemed about to take place very soon. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.1 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus vowed to Jupiter to wipe out the Christians if he won. ### Latin text tum Maximinus eius modi uotum Ioui uouit, ut si uictoriam cepisset, Christianorum nomen extingueret unusque deleret. ### English translation (Claude) Then Maximinus made a vow to Jupiter of this kind: that if he gained the victory he would extinguish and utterly destroy the Christian name. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.2 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: An angel told Licinius in a dream to pray with his army to the highest God. ### Latin text tunc proxima nocte Licinio quiescenti adsistit angelus dei monens, ut ocius surgeret atque oraret deum summum cum omni exercitu suo: illius fore uictoriam. ### English translation (Claude) Then on the following night an angel of God stood by Licinius as he slept, warning him to rise quickly and pray to the most high God with all his army: the victory would be his ### Translation notes - Licinius's dream is reported only here. The account is written to show God's favour to Licinius, who later persecuted and was defeated by Constantine (324); the author wrote before that break. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.3 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The angel taught him the words of the prayer. ### Latin text si fecisset. post has uoces cum surgere sibi usus esset et cum ipse qui monebat, adstaret, tunc docebat eum, quomodo et quibus uerbis esset orandum. ### English translation (Claude) if he did so. After these words, when it seemed to him that he rose, and the one who was warning him stood by, he then taught him how and with what words he should pray. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.4 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: On waking Licinius dictated the prayer. ### Latin text discusso deinde somno notarium iussit acciri et sicut audierat, haec uerba dictauit: ### English translation (Claude) Then, shaking off sleep, he ordered a secretary to be summoned and dictated these words just as he had heard them: ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.5 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The text of the prayer to the highest God. ### Latin text Summe deus, te rogamus, sancte deus, te rogamus: omnem iustitiam tibi commendamus, salutem nostram tibi commendamus, imperium nostrum tibi commendamus. per te uiuimus, per te uictores et felices existimus. summe, sancte deus, preces nostras exaudi: brachia nostra ad te tendimus: exaudi sancte, summe deus. ### English translation (Claude) “Highest God, we pray to you; holy God, we pray to you. All justice we commend to you; our safety we commend to you; our empire we commend to you. Through you we live; through you we are victorious and fortunate. Highest, holy God, hear our prayers; we stretch out our arms to you; hear us, holy, highest God.” ### Translation notes - The prayer names no god specifically and could be said by pagan as well as Christian soldiers. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.6 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The prayer was taught to the whole army, raising their spirits. ### Latin text scribuntur haec in libellis pluribus et per praepositos tribunosque mittuntur, ut suos quisque milites doceat. creuit animus uniuersis uictoriam sibi credentibus de caelo nuntiatam. ### English translation (Claude) These words were written in many copies and sent through the commanders and tribunes, so that each might teach his own soldiers. Everyone's courage grew, believing that victory had been announced to them from heaven. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.7 (CSEL 27.2:226; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:226–227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Battle was set for 1 May, Maximinus's anniversary. ### Latin text statuit imperator proelium diei Kalendarum Maiarum, quae octauum annum nuncupationis eius implebant, ut suo potissimum natali uinceretur, sicut ille uictus est Romae. ### English translation (Claude) The emperor fixed the battle for the day of the Kalends of May, which completed the eighth year of his proclamation, so that he might be conquered precisely on his anniversary, as the other had been conquered at Rome. ### Translation notes - The “he” who would be conquered is Maximinus; the other is Maxentius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.8 (CSEL 27.2:226–227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus attacked a day early, on the plain called Serenus. ### Latin text Maximinus uoluit praeire maturius: pridie mane aciem composuit, ut natalem suum postridie uictor celebraret. nuntiatur in castra mouisse Maximinum. capiunt milites arma obuiamque procedunt. campus intererat sterilis ac nudus, quem uocant Serenum. ### English translation (Claude) Maximinus wanted to strike earlier: on the day before, in the morning, he drew up his line, so that on the next day he might celebrate his anniversary as victor. It was reported in camp that Maximinus had moved. The soldiers took up arms and went out to meet him. Between them lay a barren, bare plain which they call Serenus. ### Translation notes - The battle of Tzirallum, 30 April 313. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.9 (CSEL 27.2:227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Licinius's army prayed together in sight of the enemy. ### Latin text erat iam utraque acies in conspectu. Liciniani scuta deponunt, galeas resoluunt, ad caelum manus tendunt praeeuntibus praepositis et pro imperatore precem dicunt. audit acies peritura precantium murmur. ### English translation (Claude) Both lines were now in sight. The soldiers of Licinius laid down their shields, took off their helmets, stretched out their hands to heaven, their officers leading them, and said the prayer for the emperor. The line that was about to perish heard the murmur of those praying. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.10 (CSEL 27.2:227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: After praying three times they re-armed; the emperors met to talk. ### Latin text illi oratione ter dicta uirtute iam pleni reponunt capitibus galeas, scuta tollunt. procedunt imperatores ad conloquium. ### English translation (Claude) They, having said the prayer three times, now full of courage, put their helmets back on their heads and raised their shields. The emperors came forward to a parley. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.11 (CSEL 27.2:227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 46.12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-12 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus refused peace, expecting Licinius's army to defect. ### Latin text ferri non potuit Maximinus ad pacem: contemnebat enim Licinium ac desertum in a militibus existimabat, quod ille esset in largiendo tenax, ipse autem profusus, eoque proposito mouerat bellum, ut exercitu Licinii sine certamine accepto ad Constantinum duplicatis uiribus statim pergeret. ### English translation (Claude) Maximinus could not be brought to peace; for he despised Licinius and thought he would be deserted by his soldiers, because he was tight-fisted in giving, while he himself was lavish; and he had started the war with this purpose, that, taking over Licinius's army without a fight, he might at once proceed against Constantine with doubled forces. ### Translation notes - The digital text reads “desertum in”, probably for desertum iri. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 46.12 (CSEL 27.2:227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-46-12). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 47.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Licinius's men attacked; the enemy was paralysed with fear. ### Latin text Ergo propius acceditur, tubae canunt, signa procedunt. Liciniani impetu facto aduersarios inuadunt. illi uero perterriti nec gladios expedire nec tela iacere quiuerunt. ### English translation (Claude) So they drew nearer; the trumpets sounded; the standards advanced. Licinius's men charged and fell on the enemy. But they, terrified, could neither draw their swords nor throw their weapons. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 47.1 (CSEL 27.2:227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 47.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus's attempts to bribe failed and his army was cut down. ### Latin text Maximinus aciem circumire ac milites Licinianos nunc precibus sollicitare, nunc donis. nullo loco auditur. fit impetus in eum et ad suos refugit. caedebatur acies eius inpune et tantus numerus legionum, tanta uis militum a paucis metebatur. ### English translation (Claude) Maximinus went round the line and tried to win over Licinius's soldiers, now by entreaties, now by gifts. He was heard nowhere. An attack was made on him and he fled back to his own men. His line was cut down with impunity, and so great a number of legions, so great a force of soldiers, was mown down by a few. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 47.2 (CSEL 27.2:227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 47.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God gave his army up to slaughter. ### Latin text nemo nominis, nemo uirtutis, nemo ueterum praemiorum memor: quasi ad deuotam mortem, non ad proelium uenissent, sic eos deus summus iugulandos subiecit inimicis. iam strata erat ingens multitudo. uidet Maximinus aliter rem geri quam putabat. ### English translation (Claude) No one mindful of his name, no one of his valour, no one of his old rewards: as if they had come to a devoted death and not to battle, so the most high God subjected them to their enemies to be slaughtered. Now a huge multitude lay strewn. Maximinus saw that the thing was going otherwise than he had thought. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 47.3 (CSEL 27.2:227; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 47.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:227–228 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus fled disguised as a slave; his army was destroyed or surrendered. ### Latin text proiecit purpuram et sumpta ueste seruili fugit ac fretum traiecit. at in exercitu pars dimidia prostrata est, pars autem uel dedita uel in fugam conuersa est: ademerat enim pudorem deserendi desertor imperator. ### English translation (Claude) He threw away the purple, put on a slave's clothing, fled, and crossed the strait. In the army, half was laid low, and half either surrendered or was put to flight; for the deserter emperor had taken away the shame of deserting. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 47.4 (CSEL 27.2:227–228; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 47.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:228 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He fled 160 miles to Nicomedia in a day and night and went on to the East. ### Latin text at ille Kalendis Mais id est una nocte atque una die **, Nicomediam alia nocte peruenit, cum locus proelii abesset milia centum sexaginta, raptisque filiis et uxore et paucis ex palatio comitibus petiuit Orientem. ### English translation (Claude) And he, on the Kalends of May, that is, in one night and one day …, reached Nicomedia on the next night, though the place of battle was a hundred and sixty miles away; and seizing his children and wife and a few companions from the palace, he made for the East. ### Translation notes - Something is lost in the manuscript (marked ** in the edition). ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 47.5 (CSEL 27.2:228; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 47.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:228 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: In Cappadocia he regrouped and resumed the purple. ### Latin text sed in Cappadocia collectis ex fuga et ab Oriente militibus substitit. ita uestem resumpsit. ### English translation (Claude) But in Cappadocia, having gathered soldiers from the flight and from the East, he halted. So he put on his robe again. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 47.6 (CSEL 27.2:228; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-47-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:228 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: At Nicomedia on 13 June 313 Licinius published a letter restoring the church. ### Latin text Licinius uero accepta exercitus parte ac distributa traiecit exercitum in Bithyniam paucis post pugnam diebus et Nicomediam ingressus gratiam deo, cuius auxilio uicerat, retulit ac die Iduum Iuniarum Constantino atque ipso ter consulibus de restituenda ecclesia huius modi litteras ad praesidem datas proponi iussit: ### English translation (Claude) But Licinius, having received and distributed part of the army, took his army across into Bithynia a few days after the battle, and, entering Nicomedia, gave thanks to God by whose help he had conquered; and on the day of the Ides of June, when Constantine and he himself were consuls for the third time, he ordered a letter of this kind concerning the restoration of the church, addressed to the governor, to be posted: ### Translation notes - This letter is the text commonly called the “Edict of Milan”; it records the policy agreed at Milan. A Greek version is in Eusebius, Hist. eccl. 10.5.2–14. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.1 (CSEL 27.2:228; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:228–229 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Constantine and Licinius agreed at Milan to grant religious freedom to Christians and all others. ### Latin text Cum feliciter tam ego [quam] Constantinus Augustus quam etiam ego Licinius Augustus apud Mediolanum conuenissemus atque uniuersa quae ad commoda et securitatem publicam pertinerent, in tractatu haberemus, haec inter cetera quae uidebamus pluribus hominibus profutura, uel in primis ordinanda esse credidimus, quibus diuinitatis reuerentia continebatur, ut daremus et Christianis et omnibus liberam potestatem sequendi religionem quam quisque uoluisset, quo quicquid diuinitatis in sede caelesti, nobis atque omnibus qui sub potestate nostra sunt constituti, placatum ac propitium possit existere. ### English translation (Claude) “When I, Constantine Augustus, and I, Licinius Augustus, had happily met at Milan and were considering all things that pertained to the public advantage and security, we believed that among the other things which we saw would benefit most people, those matters in which reverence for the divinity was contained should be ordered first of all: that we should give both to the Christians and to all a free power of following whatever religion each wished, so that whatever divinity there is in the heavenly seat may be appeased and propitious to us and to all who are placed under our authority. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “quam” as spurious; it is left out. “is” (est) is the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.2 (CSEL 27.2:228–229; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:229 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: No one is to be refused the freedom to follow Christianity or any religion of their choice. ### Latin text itaque hoc consilium salubri ac rectissima ratione ineundum esse credidimus, ut nulli omnino facultatem abnegandam putaremus, qui uel obseruationi Christianorum uel ei religioni mentem suam dederat quam ipse sibi aptissimam esse sentiret, ut possit nobis summa diuinitas, cuius religioni liberis mentibus obsequimur, in omnibus solitum fauorem suum beniuolentiamque praestare. ### English translation (Claude) And so we believed that this plan should be undertaken on a sound and most right principle: that we should think that the opportunity should be denied to no one at all who had given his mind either to the observance of the Christians or to that religion which he himself felt was most fitting for him, so that the supreme divinity, whose religion we follow with free minds, may be able to show us in all things its accustomed favour and benevolence. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.3 (CSEL 27.2:229; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:229–230 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: All earlier restrictions on Christians are removed. ### Latin text quare scire dicationem tuam conuenit placuisse nobis, ut amotis omnibus omnino condicionibus quae prius scriptis ad officium tuum datis super Christianorum nomine nunc libere ac simpliciter unus quisque eorum, qui eandem obseruandae religionis Christianorum gerunt uoluntatem, citra ullam inquietudinem ac molestiam sui id ipsum obseruare contendant. ### English translation (Claude) Therefore it is fitting for your Devotedness to know that it has pleased us that, all conditions whatever being removed which were contained in the letters previously given to your office concerning the Christian name, and which seemed wholly harmful and foreign to our clemency, these be removed, and that now each one of those who share the wish to observe the religion of the Christians may freely and simply strive to observe it, without any disturbance or annoyance to himself. ### Translation notes - Several words are the editor's supplements. “Your Devotedness” (dicatio tua) is a courtesy title for the governor. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.4 (CSEL 27.2:229–230; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:230 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The governor is informed that Christians have full freedom of worship. ### Latin text quae sollicitudini tuae plenissime significanda esse credidimus, quo scires nos liberam atque absolutam colendae religionis suae facultatem isdem Christianis dedisse. ### English translation (Claude) We have believed that these things should be made known most fully to your Solicitude, so that you might know that we have given to these same Christians a free and unrestricted opportunity of practising their religion. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.5 (CSEL 27.2:230; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:230–231 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The same freedom is granted to all religions. ### Latin text quod cum isdem a nobis indultum esse peruideas, intellegit dicatio tua etiam aliis religionis suae uel obseruantiae potestatem similiter apertam et liberam pro quiete temporis nostri concessam, ut in colendo quod quisque delegerit, habeat liberam facultatem. honori neque cuiquam religioni aliquid a nobis (uideatur>. ### English translation (Claude) And when you perceive that this has been granted by us to them, your Devotedness understands that to others too the power of their own religion or observance has likewise been granted, open and free, for the peace of our time, so that each may have free opportunity in worshipping what he has chosen. This has been done by us so that nothing may seem to have been taken away by us from any honour or any religion. ### Translation notes - The last sentence is largely the editor's supplement. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.6 (CSEL 27.2:230–231; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:231–232 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Confiscated meeting-places are to be returned to the Christians without charge. ### Latin text atque hoc insuper in persona Christianorum statuendum esse censuimus, quod, si eadem loca, ad quae antea conuenire consuerant, de quibus etiam datis ad officium tuum litteris certa antehac forma fuerat comprehensa, priore tempore aliqui uel a fisco nostro uel ab alio quocumque uidentur esse mercati, eadem Christianis sine pecunia et sine ulla pretii petitione, postposita omni frustratione atque ambiguitate, ### English translation (Claude) And moreover we have decided that this must be established in respect of the Christians: that if any appear to have bought, in the past, either from our treasury or from anyone else, those places where they had previously been accustomed to meet, concerning which a definite rule had also been laid down before in letters sent to your office, they are to restore them to the Christians without payment and without any demand of price, all evasion and ambiguity being set aside; ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.7 (CSEL 27.2:231–232; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-8 - Source: CSEL 27.2:232 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Buyers and recipients must return the property and may seek compensation from the state. ### Latin text restituant, qui etiam dono fuerunt consecuti, eadem similiter isdem Christianis quantocius reddant, etiam uel hi qui emerunt uel qui dono fuerunt consecuti, si petiuerint de nostra beniuolentia aliquid, uicarium postulent, quo et ipsis per nostram clementiam consulatur. quae omnia corpori Christianorum protinus per intercessionem tuam ac sine mora tradi oportebit. ### English translation (Claude) those who have received them as a gift are likewise to give them back to the same Christians as quickly as possible; and if either those who bought them or those who received them as a gift ask anything of our benevolence, let them apply to the deputy, so that they too may be provided for by our clemency. All these things must be handed over to the body of the Christians at once through your intervention and without delay. ### Translation notes - The vicarius, deputy of the praetorian prefect. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.8 (CSEL 27.2:232; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-8). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-9 - Source: CSEL 27.2:232–233 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Other property owned by the churches as corporate bodies is also to be restored. ### Latin text et quoniam idem Christiani non [in] ea loca tantum ad quae conuenire consuerunt, sed alia etiam habuisse noscuntur ad ius corporis eorum id est ecclesiarum, non hominum singulorum, pertinentia, ea omnia lege quam superius comprehendimus, citra ullam prorsus ambiguitatem uel controuersiam isdem Christianis id est corpori et conuenticulis eorum reddi iubebis, supra dicta scilicet ratione seruata, ut ii qui eadem sine pretio sicut diximus restituant, indemnitatem de nostra beniuolentia sperent. ### English translation (Claude) And since these same Christians are known to have possessed not only those places where they were accustomed to meet, but others also belonging to the right of their body, that is, of the churches, not of individual persons, you will order all these, under the law we have stated above, to be given back without any ambiguity or dispute to the same Christians, that is, to their body and their assemblies, the above-mentioned principle being observed, that those who restore them without price, as we have said, may hope for indemnity from our benevolence. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “in” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.9 (CSEL 27.2:232–233; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-9). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-10 - Source: CSEL 27.2:233 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The governor must act quickly to carry out the order. ### Latin text in quibus omnibus supra dicto corpori Christianorum intercessionem tuam efficacissimam exhibere debebis, ut praeceptum nostrum quantocius conpleatur, quo etiam in hoc per clementiam nostram quieti publicae consulatur. ### English translation (Claude) In all these matters you ought to show the most effective intervention for the above-mentioned body of the Christians, so that our command may be fulfilled as quickly as possible, so that in this also, through our clemency, the public peace may be provided for. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.10 (CSEL 27.2:233; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-10). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-11 - Source: CSEL 27.2:233 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Thus divine favour will continue to bless the emperors and the state. ### Latin text hactenus fiet, ut, sicut superius comprehensum est, diuinus iuxta nos fauor, quem in tantis sumus rebus experti, per omne tempus prospere successibus nostris cum beatitudine publica - perseueret. ### English translation (Claude) Thus it will come about, as has been stated above, that the divine favour towards us, which we have experienced in such great matters, will continue through all time to prosper our successes together with the public happiness. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.11 (CSEL 27.2:233; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-11). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-12 - Source: CSEL 27.2:233 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The governor is to publish the letter everywhere. ### Latin text ut autem huius sanctionis beniuolentiae nostrae forma ad omnium possit peruenire notitiam, prolata programmate tuo haec scripta et ubique proponere et ad omnium scientiam te perferre conueniet, ut huius nostrae beniuolentiae [nostrae] sanctio latere non possit. ### English translation (Claude) And so that the form of this enactment and of our benevolence may come to the notice of all, it will be fitting for you to publish these writings by your proclamation, to post them everywhere, and to bring them to the knowledge of all, so that the enactment of this our benevolence may not be hidden.” ### Translation notes - The edition brackets a second “nostrae” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.12 (CSEL 27.2:233; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-12). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 48.13 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-13 - Source: CSEL 27.2:233 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The persecution lasted ten years and about four months. ### Latin text His litteris propositis etiam verbo hortatus est, ut conuenticula < 10) statum pristinum redderentur. sic ab euersa ecclesia usque ad restitutam fuerunt anni decem, menses plus minus quattuor. ### English translation (Claude) When this letter had been posted, he also exhorted by word of mouth that the meeting-places be restored to their former state. So from the overthrow of the church to its restoration there were ten years and about four months. ### Translation notes - From February 303 to June 313. The digital text has a stray “10)” for the editor's supplement “in”. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 48.13 (CSEL 27.2:233; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-48-13). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 49.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:233–234 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus fled to the Taurus passes and then to Tarsus. ### Latin text Sequenti autem Licinio cum exercitu tyrannum profugus concessit et rursus Tauri montis angustias petiit. munimentis ibidem ac turribus fabricatis iter obstruere conatus est et inde detrusus perrumpentibus omnia uictoribus Tarsum postremo confugit. ### English translation (Claude) As Licinius followed with his army, the fugitive tyrant withdrew and again made for the passes of Mount Taurus. There, building fortifications and towers, he tried to block the road; and, driven from there as the victors broke through everything, he finally fled to Tarsus. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 49.1 (CSEL 27.2:233–234; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 49.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:234 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Trapped at Tarsus, he resolved on suicide. ### Latin text ibi cum iam terra marique premeretur nec ullum speraret refugium, angore animi ac metu confugit ad mortem quasi ad remedium malorum, quae deus in caput eius ingessit. ### English translation (Claude) There, when he was now pressed by land and sea and hoped for no refuge, from anguish of mind and fear he fled to death as a remedy for the evils which God had heaped on his head. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 49.2 (CSEL 27.2:234; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 49.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:234 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He took poison after a feast, which caused a slow and painful death. ### Latin text sed prius cibo se infersit ac uino ingurgitauit, ut solent ii qui hoc ultimo se facere arbitrantur, et sic hausit uenenum. cuius uis referto stomacho repercussa ualere non potuit in praesens, sed in languorem malum uersum est pestilentiae similem, ut diutius protracto spiritu cruciamenta sentiret. ### English translation (Claude) But first he stuffed himself with food and gorged himself with wine, as those are accustomed to do who think they are doing this for the last time, and so drank poison. Its force, repelled by the full stomach, could not take effect immediately, but turned into an evil languor like the plague, so that, his breath being drawn out longer, he might feel torments. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 49.3 (CSEL 27.2:234; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 49.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:234 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maddened by the poison, he ate earth for four days. ### Latin text iam saeuire in eum coeperat uirus. cuius ui cum praecordia eius furerent, insustentabili dolore usque ad rabiem mentis elatus est, adeo ut per dies quattuor insania percitus haustam manibus terram uelut esuriens deuoraret. ### English translation (Claude) Now the poison had begun to rage in him. When his vitals raged with its force, he was carried by unbearable pain to the point of madness, so that for four days, driven by insanity, he devoured earth scooped up in his hands as if starving. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 49.4 (CSEL 27.2:234; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 49.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:234 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Blinded, he began to see God judging him. ### Latin text deinde post multos grauesque cruciatus cum caput suum parietibus infligeret, exilierunt oculi eius de caueis. tunc demum, amisso uisu, deum uidere coepit candidatis ministris de se iudicantem. ### English translation (Claude) Then, after many grievous torments, as he dashed his head against the walls, his eyes leapt from their sockets. Then at last, having lost his sight, he began to see God judging him, with attendants clothed in white. ### Translation notes - Eusebius (Hist. eccl. 9.10.14–15) gives a similar account. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 49.5 (CSEL 27.2:234; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 49.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:234 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: He blamed others, then confessed and begged Christ for mercy. ### Latin text exclamabat ergo sicut ii qui torquentur solent, et non se, sed alios fecisse dicebat. deinde quasi tormentis adactus fatebatur Christum subinde deprecans et implorans, ut suimet misereretur. ### English translation (Claude) So he cried out, as those who are tortured are accustomed to do, and said that not he but others had done it. Then, as if driven by tortures, he confessed, repeatedly praying to Christ and imploring him to have mercy on him. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 49.6 (CSEL 27.2:234; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 49.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:234–235 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus died in agony. ### Latin text sic inter gemitus quos tamquam cremaretur edebat, nocentem spiritum detestabili genere mortis efflauit. ### English translation (Claude) So, amid groans which he uttered as if he were being burned, he breathed out his guilty spirit by a detestable kind of death. ### Translation notes - Summer 313. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 49.7 (CSEL 27.2:234–235; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-49-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 50.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:235 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God destroyed all the persecutors and their families. ### Latin text Hoc modo deus uniuersos persecutores nominis sui debellauit, ut eorum nec stirps nec radix ulla remaneret. ### English translation (Claude) In this way God vanquished all the persecutors of his name, so that neither stock nor root of them remained. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 50.1 (CSEL 27.2:235; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 50.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:235 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Licinius ordered the deaths of Valeria and of Galerius's son Candidianus. ### Latin text nam Licinius summa rerum potitus in primis Valeriam, quam Maximinus iratus ne post fugam quidem, cum sibi uideret esse pereundum, fuerat ausus occidere, item Candidianum, quem Valeria ex concubina genitum ob sterilitatem adoptauerat, necari iussit. mulier tamen ut eum uicisse cognouit. ### English translation (Claude) For Licinius, having gained supreme power, ordered first of all that Valeria be put to death, whom Maximinus in his anger had not dared to kill even after his flight, when he saw he must perish; likewise Candidianus, whom Valeria, because of her barrenness, had adopted, though he was born of a concubine. Yet the woman, when she learned that he had conquered, ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 50.2 (CSEL 27.2:235; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 50.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:235 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Candidianus was killed at Nicomedia; Valeria, disguised, fled. ### Latin text mutato habitu comitatui eius se immiscuerat, ut fortunam Candidiani specularetur: < qui> quia Nicomediae se obtulerat et in honore haberi uidebatur, nihil tale metuens occisus est. et illa exitu eius audito protinus fugit. ### English translation (Claude) had changed her dress and mingled with his retinue, to watch the fortune of Candidianus; he, because he had presented himself at Nicomedia and seemed to be held in honour, fearing nothing of the kind, was killed. And she, hearing of his end, fled at once. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 50.3 (CSEL 27.2:235; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 50.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:235 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Severus's son Severianus was executed on suspicion of aiming at power. ### Latin text idem Seueri filium Seuerianum iam aetate robustum, qui fugientem Maximinum fuerat ex acie secutus, tamquam post obitum eius de sumenda purpura cogitasset, capitali sententiae subiectum interemit. ### English translation (Claude) The same man put to death Severianus, the son of Severus, already of mature age, who had followed the fleeing Maximinus from the battle, having subjected him to capital sentence as if he had thought of taking the purple after his death. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 50.4 (CSEL 27.2:235; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 50.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:235 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: These had sided with Maximinus out of fear of Licinius; Valeria had refused her inheritance to both. ### Latin text qui omnes Licinium iam pridem quasi malum metuentes, cum Maximino esse maluerant praeter Valeriam, quae uolenti Licinio, in omnia Maximiani hereditatis iure suo -^ cedere, idem Maximino negauerat. ### English translation (Claude) All of these, fearing Licinius long since as an evil, had preferred to be with Maximinus, except Valeria, who, though she had refused to Licinius, who wanted it, the right to all Maximian's property which was hers by inheritance, had refused the same to Maximinus. ### Translation notes - The Latin of the last clause is damaged and partly supplied by the editor; the translation gives the probable sense. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 50.5 (CSEL 27.2:235; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-5). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 50.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-6 - Source: CSEL 27.2:235–236 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Maximinus's children and wife were killed. ### Latin text ipsius quoque Maximini filium [suum] maximum agentem in annis octo et filiam septennem, quae desponsa fuerat Candidiano, extinxit. sed prius mater eorum in Orontem praecipitata est: ibi saepe illa castas feminas mergi iusserat. ### English translation (Claude) He also destroyed the son of Maximinus himself, who was eight years old, and his daughter of seven, who had been betrothed to Candidianus. But first their mother was thrown into the Orontes: there she had often ordered chaste women to be drowned. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “suum” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 50.6 (CSEL 27.2:235–236; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-6). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 50.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-7 - Source: CSEL 27.2:236 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The ungodly received what they had done to others. ### Latin text sic omnes impii uero et iusto iudicio dei eadem quae fecerant, receperunt. ### English translation (Claude) So all the ungodly, by the true and just judgement of God, received the same things they had done. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 50.7 (CSEL 27.2:236; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-50-7). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 51.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-51-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:236 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Valeria and her mother were caught at Thessalonica and executed. ### Latin text Valeria quoque per uarias prouincias quindecim mensibus plebeio cultu peruagata postremo apud Thessalonicam cognita, comprehensa cum matre poenas dedit. ### English translation (Claude) Valeria too, having wandered through various provinces for fifteen months in common dress, was at last recognized at Thessalonica, arrested with her mother, and paid the penalty. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 51.1 (CSEL 27.2:236; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-51-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 51.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-51-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:236 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: They were beheaded and thrown into the sea. ### Latin text ductae igitur mulieres cum ingenti spectaculo et miseratione tanti casus ad supplicium, et amputatis capitibus corpora earum in mare abiecta sunt. ita illis pudicitia et condicio exitio fuit. ### English translation (Claude) So the women were led to execution amid a huge spectacle and pity at so great a fall; their heads were cut off and their bodies thrown into the sea. So their chastity and their rank proved their ruin. ### Translation notes - The author does not present their death as God's judgement; he says their chastity and rank destroyed them. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 51.2 (CSEL 27.2:236; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-51-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 52.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-1 - Source: CSEL 27.2:236–237 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lactantius has written these events down faithfully so their memory and meaning are not lost. ### Latin text Quae omnia secundum fidem — scienti enim loquor — ita ut gesta sunt mandanda litteris credidi, ne aut memoria tantarum rerum interiret aut si quis historiam scribere uoluisset, [non] corrumperet ueritatem uel peccata illorum aduersus deum uel iudicium dei aduersus illos reticendo. ### English translation (Claude) All these things I have believed should be committed to writing faithfully (for I speak to one who knows) just as they were done, so that the memory of such great events might not perish, and so that, if anyone wished to write a history, he might not corrupt the truth by keeping silent either about their sins against God or about God's judgement against them. ### Translation notes - The edition brackets “non” as spurious; it is left out. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 52.1 (CSEL 27.2:236–237; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-1). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 52.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-2 - Source: CSEL 27.2:237 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God has gathered his scattered flock and destroyed the wild beasts that ravaged it. ### Latin text cuius aeternae pietati gratias agere debemus, qui tandem respexit in terram, quod gregem suum partim uastatum a lupis rapacibus partim uero dispersum reficere ac recolligere dignatus est et bestias malas extirpare, quae diuini gregis pascua protriuerant, cubilia dissipauerant. ### English translation (Claude) We ought to give thanks to his eternal kindness, that he has at last looked upon the earth, that he has deigned to restore and gather again his flock, partly laid waste by ravening wolves and partly scattered, and to root out the evil beasts which had trampled the pastures of the divine flock and destroyed its folds. ### Scripture references - Acts 20:29: echo, low confidence - Ezek 34:12: echo, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 52.2 (CSEL 27.2:237; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-2). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 52.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-3 - Source: CSEL 27.2:237 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The proud titles of the persecutors have been wiped from the earth. ### Latin text ubi sunt modo magnifica illa et clara per gentes Iouiorum et Herculiorum cognomina, quae primum a Dioclete ac Maximiano insolenter adsumpta ac postmodum ad successores eorum translata uiguerunt? nempe deleuit ea dominus et erasit de terra. ### English translation (Claude) Where now are those magnificent surnames of Jovii and Herculii, famous among the nations, which were first insolently assumed by Diocles and Maximian and afterwards passed to their successors and flourished? Surely the Lord has blotted them out and erased them from the earth. ### Translation notes - Diocletian took the name Jovius and Maximian Herculius. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 52.3 (CSEL 27.2:237; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-3). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 52.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-4 - Source: CSEL 27.2:237 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Let us celebrate God's victory with prayer so that he may make the peace permanent. ### Latin text celebremus igitur triumphum dei cum exultatione, uictoriam domini cum laudibus frequentemus, diurnis nocturnisque precibus celebremus, celebremus, ut pacem post annos decem plebi suae datam confirmet in saeculum. ### English translation (Claude) Let us therefore celebrate the triumph of God with exultation; let us throng the victory of the Lord with praises; let us celebrate it with prayers day and night; let us celebrate it, so that he may establish forever the peace given to his people after ten years. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 52.4 (CSEL 27.2:237; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-4). ## On the Deaths of the Persecutors 52.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-5 - Source: CSEL 27.2:237–238 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Donatus is asked to pray for God's continued mercy and the church's lasting peace. ### Latin text tu praecipue, Donate carissime, qui a deo mereris audiri, dominum deprecare, ut misericordiam suam seruet etiam famulis suis propitius ac mitis, ut omnes insidias atque impetus diaboli a populo suo arceat, ut florescentis ecclesiae perpetuam quietem custodiat. ### English translation (Claude) You above all, dearest Donatus, who deserve to be heard by God, entreat the Lord that he may keep his mercy, propitious and gentle, towards his servants also; that he may ward off all the snares and assaults of the devil from his people; that he may guard the lasting peace of the flourishing church. ### Citation (SBL) Lactantius, Mort. 52.5 (CSEL 27.2:237–238; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/lactantius-mortibus/38-1/#p-52-5).