| << | Contents | >> |
Ignatius
Introductory Note to the Epistles of Ignatius
[481] Does not this seem a pointed allusion to Rev. ii. 10?
[482] Στῆθι ὡς ἄκμων τυπτόμενος.
[483] See To the Tralliaus, cap. 13. Much might have been made, had it been found here, out of the reference to Christ the High Priest (Philadelphians, cap. 9).
[484] The other Epistles, bearing the name of Ignatius, will be found in the Appendix; so that the English reader possesses in this volume a complete collection of the Ignatian letters.
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians Shorter and Longer Versions
[485] Literally, “before the ages.”
[486] These words may agree with “glory,” but are better applied to the “Church.”
[487] Literally, “before the ages.”
[488] These words may agree with “glory,” but are better applied to the “Church.”
[489] Some read, as in the shorter recension, “grace.”
Chapter I.—Praise of the Ephesians.
[490] Literally, “imitators;” comp. Eph. v. 1.
[491] Comp. in the Greek, 2 Tim. i. 6.
[493] This is wanting in the Greek.
[494] Literally, “since therefore,” without any apodosis.
[495] Or, “unspeakably beloved.”
[496] Literally, “imitators;” comp. Eph. v. 1.
[497] Comp. in the Greek, 2 Tim. i. 6.
[499] This is wanting in the Greek.
[500] Or, “unspeakably beloved.”
Chapter II.—Congratulations and entreaties.
[501] Or, “our most blessed deacon in all things pertaining to God.”
[502] Literally, “pattern.”
[503] Comp.1 Cor. xvi. 18, etc.
[504] Comp. 1 Cor. xvi. 18, etc.
[506] Literally, “pattern.”
[507] Comp. 1 Cor. xvi. 18, etc.
[508] Comp. 2 Tim. i. 16.
[509] Comp.1 Cor. xvi. 18, etc.
Chapter III.—Exhortations to unity.
Chapter IV.—The same continued.
[515] Literally, “according to God.”
[516] Literally, “receiving a union to God in oneness.”
Chapter V.—The praise of unity.
[519] Or, “already.”
[520] Prov. iii. 34; Jas. iv. 6; 1 Pet. v. 5.
[521] Some read, “mixed up with.”
[523] Literally, “in the assembly of sacrifices.”
[525] Or, “believeth not” (John iii. 36).
[526] Prov. iii. 34;Jas. iv. 6; 1 Pet. v. 5.
Chapter VI.—Have respect to the bishop as to Christ Himself.
[527] That is, “showing forbearance.”
[528] Comp. Matt. xxiv. 25.
[529] Or, “heresy.”
[530] Comp. Matt. xxiv. 25.
[531] Prov. xxii. 29, after LXX.
Chapter VII.—Beware of false teachers.
[534] This clause is wanting in the Greek, and has been supplied from the ancient Latin version.
[535] Prov. x. 25, Prov. xi. 3.
[537] Or, “before the ages.”
Chapter VIII.—Renewed praise of the Ephesians.
[539] It is difficult to translate περίψημα in this and similar passages; comp. 1 Cor. iv. 13.
[540] Literally, “and the.”
Chapter IX.—Ye have given no heed to false teachers.
[542] Comp. 1 Pet. ii. 5.
[543] Comp. John xii. 32.
[544] Literally, “according to the other life.”
Chapter X.—Exhortations to prayer, humility, etc.
[554] Literally, “permit.”
[555] The verb is here omitted in the original.
[556] Comp.Col. i. 23.
Chapter XI.—An exhortation to fear God, etc.
[568] Literally, “let nothing become you.”
Chapter XII.—Praise of the Ephesians.
[571] Literally, “ye are the passage of.”
[572] Literally, “footsteps.”
[573] Literally, “am like to.”
Chapter XIII.—Exhortation to meet together frequently for the worship of God.
[576] Literally, “his destruction.”
[577] Literally, “of heavenly and earthly things.”
Chapter XIV.—Exhortations to faith and love.
[582] Literally, “being in unity.”
[583] Comp.1 John iii. 7.
[585] Literally, “there is not now the work of profession.”
Chapter XV.—Exhortation to confess Christ by silence as well as speech.
Chapter XVI.—The fate of false teachers.
[596] Comp. Jas. i. 16.
[598] Comp. Jas. i. 16.
Chapter XVII.—Beware of false doctrines.
[602] Comp. John xii. 7.
[603] Comp. John xii. 7.
[605] Literally, “before the ages.”
Chapter XVIII.—The glory of the cross.
[606] Again, περίψημα, translated “offscouring,” 1 Cor. iv. 13.
[607] Comp. 1 Cor. i. 18.
[609] Or, “economy,” or “dispensation.” Comp. Col. i. 25;1 Tim. i. 4.
[611] Literally, “before the ages.”
[612] Isa. vii. 14; Matt. i. 23.
Chapter XIX.—Three celebrated mysteries.
[613] Literally, “of noise.”
[614] Or, “in the silence of God”—divine silence.
[615] Literally, “to the ages.”
[616] Literally, “of noise.”
[617] Some read, “bond.”
[618] Literally, “opinion.”
[619] Literally, “bareness.”
[620] Literally, “truth.”
[621] Literally, “an economy.”
[622] Or, “that which was perfect received a beginning from God.”
Chapter XX.—Promise of another letter.
[623] The punctuation and meaning are here doubtful.
[624] Literally, “by name.”
Chapter XX.—Exhortations to stedfastness and unity.
[625] Literally, “by name.”
[627] Some render, “May I, in my turn, be the means of refreshing you and those,” etc.
[628] Literally, “to be found for.”
[629] Some render, “May I, in my turn, be the means of refreshing you and those,” etc.
[630] Some read, “even as.”
[631] Some omit, “Grace [be with you].”
Chapter I.—Reason of writing the epistle.
[632] Literally, “according to God.”
[633] Literally, “of the most God-becoming name,” referring either to the appellation “Theophorus,” or to that of “martyr” or “confessor.”
[634] Literally, “according to God.”
[636] Comp.Gal. iv. 9.
Chapter II.—I rejoice in your messengers.
[638] The apodosis is here wanting in the original, but must evidently be supplied in some such way as above.
[639] Literally, “worthy of God.”
[640] Literally, “worthy of God.”
[641] Literally, “whom may I enjoy.”
[642] The apodosis is here wanting in the original, but must evidently be supplied in some such way as above.
Chapter III.—Honour your youthful bishop.
[643] Literally, “to use the age of your bishop.”
[644] Literally, “according to.”
[645] Literally, “youthful condition.”
[646] Literally, “to flesh.”
[648] Susanna (Apoc.).
[653] Susanna 52 (Apoc.).
[660] Sheba is referred to under this name: see 2 Sam. xx. 22.
Chapter IV.—Some wickedly act independently of the bishop.
Chapter V.—Death is the fate of all such.
[664] The apodosis is wanting in the original, and some prefer finding it in the following sentence.
[665] Or, “after the likeness of His passion.”
[666] Or, “after the likeness of His passion.”
[667] Literally, “in harmony of God.”
[668] Literally, “before the ages.”
[669] Literally, “receiving the like manners of God.”
[670] The meaning is here doubtful.
[671] Literally, “in harmony of God.”
[672] Literally, “before the ages.”
[673] Dan. ii. 44, Dan. vii. 14, 27.
Chapter VII.—Do nothing without the bishop and presbyters.
[675] Or, “contrary to his judgment.”
Chapter VIII.—Caution against false doctrines.
[676] Some have argued that the Gnostic Σιγή, silence, is here referred to, and have consequently inferred that this epistle could not have been written by Ignatius.
[679] Some read ὑποστήσαντι, “that gave Him His hypostasis, or substance.”
Chapter IX.—Let us live with Christ.
[680] Literally, “in old things.”
[681] Or, “newness of.”
[682] Or, “according to.”
[683] Literally, “we have received to believe.”
[684] Comp. Matt. xxvii. 52.
[690] Reference is here made to well-known Jewish opinions and practices with respect to the Sabbath. The Talmud fixes 2000 cubits as the space lawful to be traversed. Philo (De Therap.) refers to the dancing, etc.
[691] Ps. vi.,Ps. xii. (inscrip.). [N.B.—The reference is to the title of these two psalms, as rendered by the LXX. Εἰς τὸ τέλος ὑπὲρ τῆς ὀγδόης.]
[694] Literally, “whirlpools of wealth.”
Chapter X.—Beware of Judaizing.
[695] Literally, “according to Christianity.”
[696] Some read, “to name.”
[697] Literally, “believe into,” merge into.
[702] Or, “enemy.”
[703] Matt. iii. 9; Isa. xli. 8; Jas. ii. 23. Some read, “children of God, friends of Abraham.”
Chapter XI.—I write these things to warn you.
[706] i.e., addicted to the error of Judaizing.
[708] i.e., addicted to the error of Judaizing.
[709] 2 Tim. iv. 1;Rom. ii. 6.
[710] Some read, “of you.”
Chapter XII.—Ye are superior to me.
[711] Literally, “are reverent.”
[712] Prov. xviii. 17. (LXX).
[713] Literally, “are reverent.”
[714] Prov. xviii. 17. (LXX).
[719] Some read, “Jacob.”
[720] Gen. xviii. 27;Job xxx. 19.
Chapter XIII.—Be established in faith and unity.
[725] Literally, “well-woven.”
Chapter XIV.—Your prayers requested.
[726] Literally, “of being sprinkled with dew.”
[727] Literally, “of being fed as by a shepherd.”
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Trallians Shorter and Longer Versions
[728] Some render, “in the resurrection which is by Him.”
[729] Either, “the whole members of the Church,” or, “in the fulness of blessing.”
[730] Either, “as an apostle,” or, “in the apostolic form.”
[731] Either, “the whole members of the Church,” or, “in the fulness of blessing.”
[732] Either, “as an apostle,” or, “in the apostolic form.”
Chapter I.—Acknowledgment of their excellence.
[733] Literally, “not according to use, but according to nature.”
[734] Literally, “not for use, but for a possession.”
Chapter II.—Be subject to the bishop, etc.
[735] It is doubtful whether this exhortation is addressed to the deacons or people; whether the former are urged in all respects to please the latter, or the latter in all points to be pleased with the former.
Chapter III.—Honour the deacons, etc.
[737] Literally, “commandment.” The text, which is faulty in the ms., has been amended as above by Smith.
[738] Literally, “no Church is called.”
[739] Or, “pattern.”
[740] Literally, “great instruction.”
[741] Some here follow a text similar to that of the longer recension.
[742] Both the text and meaning are here very doubtful; some follow the reading of the longer recension.
[743] Or, “conjunction.”
[744] Or, “pattern.”
Chapter IV.—I have need of humility.
[745] Literally, “I know many things in God.”
[746] A different turn altogether is given to this passage in the longer recension.
[748] Or, “confirmed.”
[749] Omitted in the ms.
Chapter V.—I will not teach you profound doctrines.
[750] Or, “stations.”
[751] Literally, “passing by this;” but both text and meaning are very doubtful.
[752] ἐβουλόμην apparently by mistake for ἐδυνάμην.
[753] Literally, “their force.”
[754] Or, “varieties of.”
Chapter VI.—Abstain from the poison of heretics.
[755] The ellipsis in the original is here very variously supplied.
[756] Literally, “interweave.”
[757] Or, “sweetly.”
[758] The construction is here difficult and doubtful.
[761] Literally, “Christ-sellers.”
[763] Literally, “sweet address.”
[764] Apost. Constitutions, vi. 13.
[765] Supplied from the old Latin version.
Chapter VII.—The same continued.
[766] Literally, “unseparated from.”
[767] This clause is inserted from the ancient Latin version.
[768] The text has “deacon.”
[770] Prov. xviii. 9 (LXX).
[773] Some render, “being a resemblance according to the power of Christ.”
[774] Some read, “imitators of Christ, ministering to the bishop, as Christ to the Father.”
Chapter VIII.—Be on your guard against the snares of the devil.
[775] Literally, “taking up.”
[776] Or, “renew yourselves.”
[779] Literally, “making you drink beforehand what will preserve you.”
[780] Or, “from which disease.”
[781] Literally, “taking up.”
[782] Comp. Eph. ii. 4.
[783] Comp. 1 Tim. ii. 6.
[785] 1 Tim. vi. 1;Tit. ii. 5.
Chapter IX.—Reference to the history of Christ.
[787] Literally, “apart from.”
[788] Literally, “apart from.”
[792] Literally, “hedge,” or “fence.”
[794] Some read, “He was taken down from the cross, and laid in a new tomb.”
Chapter X.—The reality of Christ’s passion.
[796] Literally, “to fight with.”
[797] Some read this and the following clause affirmatively, instead of interrogatively.
[798] The meaning is, that is they spoke the truth concerning the phantasmal character of Christ’s death, then Ignatius was guilty of a practical falsehood in suffering for what was false.
[799] Literally, “to fight with.”
[800] The meaning is, that if they spoke the truth concerning the phantasmal character of Christ’s death, then Ignatius was guilty of a practical falsehood in suffering for what was false.
[803] Comp. John xi. 42.
Chapter XI.—Avoid the deadly errors of the Docetæ.
[806] i.e., the cross.
[807] Both text and meaning here are doubtful.
[808] i.e., Satan’s.
[809] Literally, “loud, confused noise.”
[810] The Ebionites, who denied the divine nature of our Lord, are here referred to.
[811] It seems to be here denied that Nicolas was the founder of this school of heretics.
[815] i.e., the least.
[816] The shorter recension reads ἁγνίζετε, and the longer also hesitates between this and ἀσπάζεται. With the former reading the meaning is very obscure: it has been corrected as above to ἁγνίζηται.
[817] i.e., the least.
[818] The shorter recension reads ἁγνίζετε, and the longer also hesitates between this and ἀσπάζεται. With the former reading the meaning is very obscure: it has been corrected as above to ἁγνίζηται.
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Romans Shorter and Longer Versions
[819] Or, “most holy.”
[820] Or as in the shorter recension.
[821] Or, “most holy.”
Chapter I.—As a prisoner, I hope to see you.
[822] Some read, “since I have,” leaving out the following “for,” and finding the apodosis in “I hope to salute you.”
[823] Literally, “worthy of God.”
[824] Some read, “which I much desired to do.”
[825] Literally, “to receive.”
[826] He probably refers here, and in what follows, to the influence which their earnest prayers in his behalf might have with God.
[827] Literally, “worthy of God.”
[828] Literally, “to receive.”
[829] He probably refers here, and in what follows, to the influence which their earnest prayers in his behalf might have with God.
[830] Some read γε instead of μή, and translate as in shorter recension.
Chapter II.—Do not save me from martyrdom.
[831] Some translate as in longer recension, but there is in the one case ὑμῖν, and in the other ὑμᾶς.
[832] Literally, “have to be inscribed to.”
[833] Literally, “to be found and sent for.”
[834] Literally, “have to be inscribed to.”
[835] Literally, “to be found and sent for.”
[836] The text is here in great confusion.
[837] Literally, “beautiful.” Some read, “it is good,” etc.
Chapter III.—Pray rather that I may attain to martyrdom.
[838] Some read, “good.”
[839] 2 Cor. iv. 18. This quotation is not found in the old Latin version of the shorter recension.
[840] Or, “in.”
[841] Literally, “work.”
[842] 2 Cor. iv. 18. This quotation is not found in the old Latin version of the shorter recension.
[843] Literally, “work.”
[844] The meaning is here doubtful.
Chapter IV.—Allow me to fall a prey to the wild beasts.
[846] i.e., by the teeth of the wild beasts.
[847] “Free,” probably from human infirmity.
[848] i.e., by the teeth of the wild beasts.
[849] “Free,” probably from human infirmity.
[850] Comp.1 Cor. xv. 32, where the word is also used figuratively.
[851] Probably the soldiers received gifts from the Christians, to treat Ignatius with kindness.
[853] In the shorter recension there is ζηλώσῃ, and in the longer ζηλῶσαι; hence the variety of rendering, but the translation is by no means certain.
[854] Some deem this and the following word spurious.
[855] Literally, “evil.”
[856] Comp.1 Cor. xv. 32, where the word is also used figuratively.
[857] Probably the soldiers received gifts from the Christians, to treat Ignatius with kindness.
[859] In the shorter recension there is ζηλώσῃ, and in the longer ζηλῶσαι; hence the variety of rendering, but the translation is by no means certain.
Chapter VI.—By death I shall attain true life.
[860] Literally, “this age.”
[861] Literally, “into.”
[862] Matt. xvi. 26. Some omit this quotation.
[863] Literally, “to die.”
[864] Literally, “this age.”
[865] Literally, “to die.”
Chapter VII.—Reason of desiring to die.
[866] Some understand by love in this passage, Christ Himself; others regard it as referring to the natural desires of the heart.
[867] Literally, “desiring material.”
[868] The text and meaning are here doubtful. We have followed Hefele, who understands by the water the Holy Spirit, and refers to John vii. 38.
[869] Some understand by love in this passage, Christ Himself; others regard it as referring to the natural desires of the heart.
[870] Comp. John iv. 14.
Chapter VIII.—Be ye favourable to me.
[871] Some refer this to Ignatius himself.
Chapter IX.—Pray for the church in Syria.
[874] Comp. 1 Cor. xv. 8, 9.
[875] Some refer this to the jurisdiction of Ignatius.
[876] i.e., the outward road he had to travel.
[877] Or, “have sent me forward;” comp.Tit. iii. 13.
[878] Literally, “the name desired to me.”
[879] This clause is evidently an explanatory gloss which has crept into the text.
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Philadelphians Shorter and Longer Versions
[881] Or, “inseparably.”
[882] Or, “inseparably.”
[883] Comp. Matt. vii. 25.
Chapter I.—Praise of the bishop.
[884] The bishop previously referred to.
[886] Literally, “all.”
Chapter II.—Maintain union with the bishop.
[889] Comp.2 Tim. iii. 6.
[891] Comp. Matt. vii. 15.
[892] Comp.2 Tim. iii. 6.
Chapter III.—Avoid schismatics.
[893] i.e., heretical.
[895] i.e., heretical.
[896] Comp. Cant. ii. 15.
[897] Comp. 1 Cor. v. 11.
Chapter IV.—Have but one Eucharist, etc.
[904] Literally, “into.”
[906] Tit. ii. 14;1 Pet. ii. 9
[909] There was a prevalent opinion among the ancient Christian writers, that all these holy men lived a life of [chaste] celibacy.
[910] Or, “it is not because, etc., that I have mentioned these.”
[915] 1 Sam. xviii. 18; 2 Sam. vii. 18.
[917] Literally, “have proclaimed in reference to the Gospel.”
[918] In Christ.
[919] Literally, “people-deceiving.”
[920] Comp. Ps. li. 12 (LXX.).
[921] Literally, “teaching.”
[922] Or, “wrought.”
Chapter VI.—Do not accept Judaism.
[923] Literally, “Judaism.”
[924] Literally, “oppressed.”
[925] Or, “will.”
[926] Some render, “come together into the same place.”
[927] Apparently by attempting to impose the yoke of Judaism.
[928] Comp. John viii 44.
[929] Literally, “beneath.”
[930] Comp. John viii 44.
[931] Comp. the reading sanctioned by the ancient authorities, John i. 18.
[932] From a Hebrew word meaning “poor.”
[933] Or, “these things.”
[934] Literally, “the end of happiness.”
[935] Comp.Eph. ii. 2.
[936] Literally, “oppressed.”
[937] Some render, “come together into the same place.”
Chapter VII.—I have exhorted you to unity.
[940] Some translate, “as foreseeing the division to arise among you.”
[941] Literally, “did not know from human flesh.”
[942] Literally, “your flesh.”
[943] Comp. 1 Cor. iii. 16, 1 Cor. vi. 19.
[944] Literally, “your flesh.”
Chapter VIII.—The same continued.
[945] Literally, “prepared for.”
[946] Literally, “to the assembly of the bishop.”
[947] The meaning here is very doubtful. Some read ἐν τοῖς ἀρχαίοις, as translated above; others prefer ἐν τοῖς ἀρχείοις, as in the longer recension.
[948] i.e., the system of Christian doctrine.
[949] Literally, “to the assembly of the bishop.”
[950] Comp.Isa. lviii. 6.
[952] Or, “the archives of the Spirit are not exposed to all.”
Chapter IX.—The Old Testament is good: the New Testament is better.
[954] i.e., the Jewish priests.
[955] Literally, “proclaimed as to him.”
[956] The meaning is doubtful. Comp.2 Tim. i. 10.
[957] i.e., the Jewish priests.
[960] Literally, “the hedge.”
Chapter X.—Congratulate the inhabitants of Antioch on the close of the persecution.
[965] Literally, “for the name of.”
[966] Literally, “for the name of.”
Chapter XI.—Thanks and salutation.
[967] Literally, “bidding farewell to.”
[968] Or, “for the sake of honour.”
[969] Literally, “bidding farewell to.”
[970] Comp. Ezek. xviii. 23, 32, Ezek. xxxiii. 11; 2 Pet. iii. 9.
[971] The ms. has “Burgus.”
[972] Or, “for the sake of honour.”
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Smyrnæans Shorter and Longer Versions.
[973] Literally, “holy-bearing.”
[974] Literally, “holy-bearing.”
Chapter I.—Thanks to God for your faith.
[976] Theodoret, in quoting this passage, reads, “the Godhead and power.”
[978] i.e., the cross, “fruit” being put for Christ on the tree.
[979] Isa. v. 26, Isa. xlix. 22.
[983] Literally, “we are.”
Chapter II.—Christ’s true passion.
[984] Or, “seeing that they are phantasmal and diabolical,” as some render, but the above is preferable.
[989] Num. xxi. 9; John iii. 14.
Chapter III.—Christ was possessed of a body after His resurrection.
[990] Literally, “in the flesh.”
[991] Literally, “demon.” According to Jerome, this quotation is from the Gospel of the Nazarenes. Comp. Luke xxiv. 39.
[992] Literally, “above death.”
[993] Literally, “demon.” According to Jerome, this quotation is from the Gospel of the Nazarenes. Comp. Luke xxiv. 39.
[1000] Or, “mark.”
Chapter IV.—Beware of these heretics.
[1001] Comp. Rom. viii. 17.
[1002] Comp. Phil. iv. 13.
Chapter V.—Their dangerous errors.
[1003] Or, “foolishly.”
[1004] i.e., As they imagine Christ to have suffered only in appearance, so they believe that we suffer in vain.
[1005] Literally, “a flesh-bearer.”
[1006] Literally, “a death-bearer.”
[1007] Literally, “a flesh-bearer.”
Chapter VI—Unbelievers in the blood of Christ shall be condemned.
[1008] Literally, “the glory of the angels.”
[1009] Literally, “judgment is to them.”
[1011] Literally, “the whole is.”
[1015] John xiii. 34; Matt. xxii. 40.
Chapter VII.—Let us stand aloof from such heretics.
[1016] Theodoret, in quoting this passage, reads προσφοράς, “offering.”
[1017] Literally, “die disputing.”
[1018] Literally, “to love.” Some think there is a reference to the agapæ, or love-feasts.
[1019] The reading is περί in the one case, and μετά in the other, though the latter meaning seems preferable. Most of the mss. of the longer recension read περί, as in the shorter.
[1020] Literally, “perfected.”
[1021] Literally, “drove Adam out of.”
[1026] The reading is περί in the one case, and μετά in the other, though the latter meaning seems preferable. Most of the mss. of the longer recension read περί, as in the shorter.
Chapter VIII.—Let nothing be done without the bishop.
[1027] Or, “command.”
[1028] Or, “firm.”
[1029] Or, “firm.”
[1030] Or, “firm.”
[1031] Some refer the words to the Lord’s Supper.
Chapter IX.—Honour the bishop.
[1032] Or, “finally.”
[1033] Literally, “to know.”
[1037] Comp. Heb. x. 29.
[1038] Or, “great.”
Chapter X.—Acknowledgment of their kindness.
[1040] Or, “deacons.”
[1041] Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to Ephesians, chap. xxi.; to Polycarp, chap. ii. vi.
[1042] Or, “deacons.”
[1044] Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to Ephesians, chap. xxi.; to Polycarp, chap. ii. vi.
Chapter XI.—Request to them to send a messenger to Antioch.
[1045] Literally, “most becoming of God.”
[1046] Or, “from any conscience.”
[1047] Literally, “God-ambassador.”
[1048] Or, “having received.”
[1049] Literally, “body.”
[1050] Literally, “may glorify with him.”
[1051] Or, “think of.”
[1052] Or, “from any conscience.”
[1053] Literally, “God-ambassador.”
[1054] Literally, “body.”
[1055] Or, “think of.”
[1056] Or, “the ministry.”
[1057] Literally, “worthy of God.”
[1058] Literally, “most becoming of God.”
[1059] Literally, “in the union of God and of you.”
[1060] The deaconesses seem to have been called widows.
[1061] Literally, “the name desired of me.”
[1062] Literally, “the name desired of me.”
Chapter I.—Commendation and exhortation.
[1063] i.e., to make personal acquaintance with one esteemed so highly.
[1064] Or, “tolerate.”
[1065] Comp. 1 Thess. v. 17.
[1066] Some read, “according to thy practice.”
[1067] i.e., to make personal acquaintance with one esteemed so highly.
[1068] Or, “tolerate.”
[1069] Comp. 1 Thess. v. 17.
[1070] Some read, “according to thy practice.”
[1072] Literally, “paroxysms by embrocations.”
[1074] Literally, “flatter.”
[1075] Some refer this to the mysteries of God and others to things yet future.
[1076] Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians, chap. xxi., etc.
[1077] Literally, “paroxysms by embrocations.”
[1079] Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians, chap. xxi., etc.
[1080] Comp.1 Tim. i. 3, 1 Tim. vi. 3.
[1081] Literally, “great.”
[1082] Comp.1 Tim. i. 3, 1 Tim. vi. 3.
[1083] Literally, “great.”
[1084] The word in the original (φροντιστής) denotes one who thinks or cares for another.
[1085] Some refer the words to more frequent meetings, and others to these meetings being more numerous; no comparison is necessarily implied.
[1086] i.e., so as to bring them out to the public assembly.
[1087] Or, “act the part of slaves.”
[1088] Some refer the words to more frequent meetings, and others to these meetings being more numerous; no comparison is necessarily implied.
[1089] i.e., so as to bring them out to the public assembly.
[1090] Or, “act the part of slaves.”
Chapter V.—The duties of husbands and wives.
[1091] Some insert μή, and render, “rather do not even speak of them.”
[1093] i.e., in celibacy.
[1094] Some render, “to the honour of the flesh of the Lord,” as in the longer recension.
[1095] Comp.1 Cor. x. 31.
[1096] i.e., in celibacy.
[1097] Literally, “if he be known beyond the bishop.”
[1098] Comp. 1 Cor. x. 31.
Chapter VI.—The duties of the Christian flock.
[1099] As this Epistle, though sent to the bishop, was meant to be read to the people, Ignatius here directly addresses them.
[1100] Comp. chap. ii. etc.
[1101] Or, “assessors.”
[1102] A military reference, simply implying the idea of faithful effort leading to future reward.
[1103] Comp. Ignatius’ Epistle to the Ephesians, chap. ii.
[1104] As this Epistle, though sent to the bishop, was meant to be read to the people, Ignatius here directly addresses them.
[1105] Comp. chap. ii. etc.
[1106] Or, “assessors.”
[1107] Literally, “worthy of God.”
[1108] Comp. Ignatius’ Epistle to the Ephesians, chap. ii.
Chapter VII.—Request that Polycarp would send a messenger to Antioch.
[1109] Literally, “in freedom from care of God.”
[1110] Some read, “in the resurrection.”
[1111] Literally, “most befitting God.”
[1112] Literally, “God-runner.”
[1113] Literally, “at leisure for.”
[1114] Literally, “to Him.”
[1115] Literally, “in freedom from care of God.”
[1116] Literally, “most befitting God.”
[1117] Literally, “God-runner.”
[1118] Literally, “at leisure for.”
Chapter VIII.—Let other churches also send to Antioch.
[1119] Some suppose the reference to be to the soldiers, or perhaps to God Himself.
[1120] Or, “as possessed of the judgment.”
[1121] Literally, “men on foot.”
[1122] Some have the plural “ye” here.
[1123] Literally, “an eternal work.”
[1124] Some propose to read, “and of the bishop.”
[1125] Literally, “name desired by me.”
[1126] Some suppose the reference to be to the soldiers, or perhaps to God Himself.
[1127] Or, “as possessed of the judgment.”
[1128] Literally, “an eternal work.”
[1129] Literally, “name desired by me.”
Introductory Note to the Syriac Version of the Ignatian Epistles
[1130] See the extraordinary passage and note in his Hippolytus, vol. i. p. 58, etc.
The Epistle of Ignatius to Polycarp
[1131] The inscription varies in each of the three Syriac mss., being in the first, “The Epistle of my lord Ignatius, the bishop;” in the second, “The Epistle of Ignatius;” and in the third, “The Epistle of Ignatius, bishop of Antioch.”
[1132] For “vindicate thy place” in the Greek.
[1133] Literally, “draw out thy spirit.”
[1134] Cureton observes, as one alternative here, that “the Syrian translator seems to have read παράξυσμα for παροξυσμούς.”
[1135] Or, “flatter,” probably meaning to “deal gently with.”
[1136] Thus the Syriac renders ἀντίψυχον in the Greek.
[1137] The Greek has ἄκμων, “an anvil.”
[1138] The Greek has μετά, “after.”
[1139] Or, “constant,” “regular.”
[1140] i.e., “in celibacy.”
[1141] Or, “corrupted himself.”
[1142] Literally, “make the contest.”
[1143] Literally, “sons of His house.”
[1144] These are the only parts of chaps. vii. and viii. in the Greek that are represented in the Syriac.
[1145] These are the only parts of chaps. vii. and viii. in the Greek that are represented in the Syriac.
The Second Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians
[1146] Another inscription is, “Epistle the Second, which is to the Ephesians.”
[1147] Literally, “separated.”
[1148] Literally, “bound from actions.”
[1149] Cureton renders, “have received your abundance,” probably referring the words to gifts sent by the Ephesians to Ignatius.
[1150] Literally, “be in his image.”
[1151] There is no Apodosis, unless it be found in what follows.
[1152] The following clause is the whole of chap. iii. in the Greek, which is represented in the Syriac.
[1153] Chaps. iv. v. vi. vii. of the Greek are totally omitted in the Syriac.
[1154] Thus Cureton renders the words, referring in confirmation to the Peshito version of Phil. i. 4, but the meaning is doubtful.
[1155] Chaps. xi. xii. xiii. of the Greek are totally wanting in the Syriac, and only these few words of chaps. xiv. and xv. are represented.
[1156] The meaning seems to be that mere profession, without continuous practice, is nothing.
[1157] Chaps. xvi. and xvii. of the Greek are totally wanting in the Syriac.
[1158] Literally, “the mysteries of the shout.” The meaning is here confused and obscure. See the Greek.
[1159] Chaps. xx. and xxi. of the Greek are altogether wanting in the Syriac. [N.B.—See spurious Epistle to Philippians, cap. 4, infra. This concealment from Satan of the mystery of the incarnation is the explanation, according to the Fathers, of his tempting the Messiah, and prompting His crucifixion. Also, Christ the more profoundly humbled himself, “ne subtilis ille diaboli oculus magnum hoc pietatis deprehenderet sacramentum” (St. Bernard, opp. ii. 1944). Bernard also uses this opinion very strikingly (opp. ii. 1953) in one of his sermons, supposing that Satan discovered the secret too late for his own purpose, and then prompted the outcry, Come down from the cross, to defeat the triumph of the second Adam. (Comp. St.Mark i. 24 and St. Luke iv. 34, where, after the first defeat of the tempter, this demon suspects the second Adam, and tries to extort the secret).]
The Third Epistle of the Same St. Ignatius
[1160] Another inscription is, “The Third Epistle.”
[1161] Literally, “in life.”
[1162] The meaning is probably similar to that expressed in chap. xiv. of the Epistle to the Ephesians.
[1163] Literally, “I am ground.”
[1164] Literally, “with provoking, provoke.”
[1165] Literally, “they are who are.”
[1166] Literally, “by their injury.”
[1167] Literally, “and not as that which is afraid of some other men.” So Cureton translates, but remarks that the passage is evidently corrupt. The reference plainly is to the fact that the beasts sometimes refused to attack their intended victims. See the case of Blandina, as reported by Eusebius (Hist. Eccl., v. 1.).
[1168] Cureton renders interrogatively, “What is expedient for me?” and remarks that “the meaning of the Syriac appears to be, ‘I crave your indulgence to leave the knowledge of what is expedient for me to my own conscience.’ ”
[1169] Literally, “nothing.”
[1170] Literally, “and.”
[1171] The Latin version translates the Greek here, “He adds gain to me.”
[1172] Chap. viii. of the Greek is entirely omitted in the Syriac.
[1173] The following passage is not found in this Epistle in the Greek recensions, but forms, in substance, chaps. iv. and v. of the Epistle to the Trallians. Diverse views are held by critics as to its proper place, according to the degree of authority they ascribe to the Syriac version. Cureton maintains that this passage has been transferred by the forger of the Epistle to the Trallians, "to give a fiar colour to the fabrication by introducing a part of the genuine writing of Ignatius; while Hefele asserts that it is bound by the “closest connection” to the preceding chapter in the Epistle to the Trallians.
[1174] Or, as in the Greek, “Fare ye well, to the end.”
[1175] [N.B.—The aphoristic genius of Ignatius seems to be felt by his Syrian abbreviator, who reduces whole chapters to mere maxims.]
Introductory Note to the Spurious Epistles of Ignatius
[1176] [Spurious writings, if they can be traced to antiquity, are always useful. Sometimes they are evidence of facts, always of opinions, ideas and fancies of their date; and often they enable us to identify the origin of corruptions. Even interpolations prove what later partisans would be glad to find, if they could, in early writers. They bear unwilling testimony to the absence of genuine evidence in favour of their assumptions.]
Chapter I.—His own sufferings: exhortation to stedfastness.
[1179] Hab. ii. 4; Gal. iii. 11.
[1180] Ps. lxviii. 7 (after the LXX).
Chapter II.—Cautions against false doctrine.
[1181] Some omit this.
[1182] That is, as appears afterwards from chap. v., so as to have no personality distinct from the Father.
[1183] The translation is here somewhat doubtful.
Chapter III.—The true doctrine respecting Christ.
[1188] Acts xxvi. 23 (somewhat inaccurately rendered in English version).
Chapter V.—Refutation of the previously mentioned errors.
[1204] Some insert here John i. 3.
[1209] 1 Cor. xv. 13-14, 17, 18, 19, 32.
[1210] Literally, “coming also to the appetite of those things after eating.” The text is doubtful.
Chapter VIII.—Exhortations to holiness and good order.
Chapter IX.—Exhortations to the discharge of relative duties.
[1213] Literally, “of the Philippians.”
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Antiochians
[1215] Comp.Acts xi. 26.
Chapter I.—Cautions against error.
[1216] Literally, “in the Lord.”
Chapter II.—The true doctrine respecting God and Christ.
[1218] Deut. vi. 4;Mark xii. 29.
[1220] The ms. has “Lord.”
[1223] Deut. xviii. 15; Acts iii. 22, Acts vii. 37.
Chapter III.—The same continued.
[1224] Literally, “after these things.”
[1227] Isa. vii. 14; Matt. i. 23.
[1228] Isa. liii. 7; Jer. xi. 19.
[1233] 1 Cor. viii. 4, 6; Gal. iii. 20.
[1234] Eph. iv. 5, 6; 1 Tim. ii. 5.
Chapter V.—Denunciation of false teachers.
[1236] Comp. John vi. 70. Some read, “the son of the devil.”
[1237] Or, “that cannot be known.”
[1238] Comp. 1 John ii. 22, 1 John iv. 3; 2 John 7.
[1241] The text is here doubtful.
[1242] Literally, “fox-like thoes,” lynxes being perhaps intended.
Chapter VII.—Exhortation to consistency of conduct.
[1243] Some think that this is the same person as the Euodias referred to by St. Paul, Phil. iv. 2; but, as appears from the Greek (ver. 3, αἵτινες), the two persons there mentioned were women.
[1245] Comp. 1 Cor. iv. 16.
[1246] Comp. Col. iv. 18.
Chapter VIII.—Exhortations to the presbyters and others.
Chapter IX.—Duties of husbands, wives, parents, and children.
[1250] Comp. 1 Pet. iii. 6.
Chapter X.—Duties of masters and servants.
[1252] Literally, “If I did despise.”
[1253] Or, “judgment.”
Chapter XI.—Inculcation of various moral duties.
[1255] Comp. 2 Thess. iii. 10.
[1258] Literally, “the name desirable to me,” referring to Hero the deacon.
[1259] A class of persons connected with the Church, whose duty it was to bury the bodies of the martyrs and others.
[1260] Such as voluntarily confessed Christ before Gentile rulers.
[1261] Some insert here a clause referring to widows.
Chapter XIII.—Salutations continued.
[1262] Or, as some read, “Demas.”
[1264] Literally, “before ages.”
The Epistle of Ignatius to Hero, a Deacon of Antioch
Chapter I.—Exhortations to earnestness and moderation.
[1267] Literally, “having leisure for.”
[1268] Literally, “cast thyself down.”
[1272] Eccl. ii. 25 (after LXX.); Zech. ix. 17.
[1273] Comp. 1 Tim. iv. 13.
[1274] Literally, “athlete.”
Chapter II.—Cautions against false teachers.
[1276] Comp. Matt. vii. 15.
Chapter III.—Exhortations as to ecclesiastical duties.
[1280] The term ἱερουργέω, which we have translated as above, is one whose signification is disputed. It occurs once in the New Testament (Rom. xv. 16) where it is translated in our English version simply “ministering.” Etymologically, it means “to act as a priest,” and we have in our translation followed Hesychius (Cent. iv.), who explains it as meaning “to offer sacrifice.” [The whole passage in the Epistle to the Romans, where this word occurs may be compared (original Greek) with Mal. i. 11, Heb. v. 1, etc.]
[1281] Specifically, assemblies for the celebration of the Lord’s Supper.
Chapter IV.—Servants and women are not to be despised.
Chapter V.—Various relative duties.
[1284] Jas. iv. 6; 1 Pet. v. 5.
[1287] Prov. xv. 27 (after LXX.: Prov. xvi. 6 in English version)
Chapter VI—Exhortations to purity and caution.
[1288] 1 Cor. i. 31; 2 Cor. x. 17.
[1289] Sirach xix. 4.
Chapter VII.—Solemn charge to Hero, as future bishop of Antioch.
[1291] Comp. Epistle to the Antiochians, chap. xii.
[1292] Comp.Deut. xxxi. 7, 23.
Chapter IX.—Concluding salutations and instructions.
The Epistle of Ignatius to the Philippians
Chapter I.—Reason for writing the epistle.
[1297] Literally, “to your brother-loving spiritual love according to God.”
[1298] Literally, “course in Christ.”
[1299] 1 Cor. i. 10; Phil. ii. 2, Phil. iii. 16.
[1303] Literally, “which is given unto the death of the Lord.”
Chapter II.—Unity of the three divine persons.
[1305] Deut. vi. 4; Mark xii. 29.
[1310] i.e., “Advocate” or “Comforter;” comp. John xiv. 16.
[1315] Comp. Athanasian Creed.
Chapter III.—Christ was truly born, and died.
Chapter IV.—The malignity and folly of Satan.
[1321] [This is the idea worked out by St. Bernard. See my note (supra) suffixed to the Syriac Epistle to Ephesians.]
[1322] The various Gnostic sects are here referred to, who held that matter was essentially evil, and therefore denied the reality of our Lord’s incarnation.
[1323] The ms. has μαγείας, “of magic;” we have followed the emendation proposed by Faber.
[1324] Literally, “heretical in respect to phantasy.”
[1325] Literally, is “various,” or “manifold.”
Chapter V.—Apostrophe to Satan.
[1328] Matt. iv. 23, Matt. ix. 35.
[1329] Reference seems to be made to obscene heathen practices.
Chapter VII.—Continuation: inconsistency of Satan.
[1330] i.e., so as to have no separate personality from the Father. Comp. Epistle to the Tarsians, chap. ii.
[1331] Literally, “and taking away Christ from being born.”
[1332] Literally, “double.”
Chapter VIII.—Continuation: ignorance of Satan.
[1333] According to many of the Fathers, Satan was in great ignorance as to a multitude of points connected with Christ. [See my note at end of the Syriac Epistle to Ephesians, supra.]
Chapter IX.—Continuation: ignorance of Satan.
[1334] Literally, “thou wast dizzy in the head.”
[1335] Literally, “on account of the paltry things.”
[1336] Literally, “small.”
[1338] Or, “the belly.”
[1340] Some insert, “corruptible.”
Chapter X.—Continuation: audacity of Satan.
[1343] Comp. Rom. iv. 17.
Chapter XI.—Continuation: audacity of Satan.
[1349] Or, “belly.”
[1350] Or, “that always needs whipping.”
Chapter XII.—The meek reply of Christ.
[1352] Matt. iv. 10; Deut. vi. 13.
Chapter XV.—Salutations. Conclusion.
[1353] Comp. Col. iv. 18.
[1354] Nothing can be said with certainty as to the place here referred to. Some have conceived that the ordinary reading, Maria Cassobolita, is incorrect, and that it should be changed to Maria Castabalitis, supposing the reference to be to Castabala, a well-known city of Cilicia. But this and other proposed emendations rest upon mere conjecture.
[1355] Some propose to read, “always.”
Chapter I.—Occasion of the epistle.
[1356] Or, “wonderfully.”
[1357] The ms. has, “and.”
[1358] The ms. has ᾽Ημελάπης, which Vossius and others deem a mistake for ἡμεδαπῆς, as translated above.
[1359] The same as Azarbus (comp. Epist. to Hero, chap. ix.).
Chapter II.—Youth may be allied with piety and discretion.
[1361] Literally, “in themselves.”
[1362] Literally, “in recent newness of priesthood.”
[1363] Literally, “call up.”
[1364] Literally, “know.”
Chapter III.—Examples of youthful devotedness.
[1365] The ancient Latin version translates ὠμογέροντας “cruel old men,” which perhaps suits the reference better.
[1367] Comp. for similar statements to those here made, Epistle to the Magnesians (longer), chap. iii.
[1368] Literally, “understood the great question of the ignorance of the women respecting their children.”
[1369] Literally, “out of herself.”
Chapter IV.—The same subject continued.
[1372] Ps. 150:1 (in the Septuagint; not found at all in Hebrew).
Chapter V.—Expressions of respect for Ignatius.
[1373] Literally, “to trace up.”
[1374] Literally, “measure” or “limits.”
Chapter I.—Acknowledgment of her excellence and wisdom.
[1375] Literally, “a part.”
[1376] Literally, “all-wise.”
Chapter II.—His own condition.
[1377] Literally, “by the many wills of the adversaries.”
Chapter III.—He had complied with her request.
[1379] Literally, “I have gladly fulfilled the things commanded by thee in the letter.”
[1380] Literally, “by a judgment of God.”
[1381] Prov. viii. 17 (loosely quoted from LXX.).
Chapter IV.—Commendation and exhortation.
[1382] The original is πάπᾳ, [common to primitive bishops.]
Ignatius, and the brethren who are with him, to John the holy presbyter.
[1384] Literally, “of vices.”
[1385] Some mss. and editions seem with propriety to omit this word.
[1386] Literally, “a nature of angelic purity is allied to human nature.”
His friend Ignatius to John the holy presbyter.
[1387] Literally, “his own.”
[1388] Some omit this word.
[1389] Literally, “of herself.” Some read, instead of “de se,” “deorum,” when the translation will be, “the true God of gods.”
[1390] Or, “face.” Some omit the word.
[1391] Or, “good.”
Her friend Ignatius to the Christ-bearing Mary.
[1392] Literally, “his own.” [Mary is here called χριστοτόκος, and not θεοτόκος, which suggests a Nestorian forgery.]
The lowly handmaid of Christ Jesus to Ignatius, her beloved fellow-disciple.
Introductory Note to the Martyrdom of Ignatius
[1395] He published an edition of Ignatius, Oxford, 1709.
[1396] [A most remarkable statement. “References” may surely be traced, at least in Eusebius (iii. 36) and Irenæus (Adv. Hæres. v. 28), if not in Jerome, etc. But the sermon of St. Chrysostom (Opp. ii. 593) seems almost, in parts, a paraphrase.]
[1397] [See on this matter Jacobson’s note (vol ii. p. 262), and reference to Pearson (Vind. Ignat., part ii. cap. 12). The false accentuation (Θεόφορος) occurs in some copies to support the myth of the child Ignatius as the God-borne instead of the God-bearing; i.e., carried by Christ, instead of carrying the Spirit of Christ within.]
[1398] [But see the note in Jacobson, vol. ii. p.557.]
Chapter I.—Desire of Ignatius for martyrdom.
[1399] The date of Trajan’s accession was a.d. 98.
[1400] The text here is somewhat doubtful.
[1401] Literally, “any of the faint-hearted and more guileless.”
[1402] This word is of doubtful authority.
Chapter II.—Ignatius is condemned by Trajan.
[1403] The numeral is uncertain. In the old Latin version we find “the fourth,” which Grabe has corrected into the nineteenth. The choice lies between “ninth” and “nineteenth,” i.e., a.d. 107 or a.d. 116.
[1404] Literally, “would choose to submit to.”
[1405] Some read, “fear compelled.”
[1406] Literally, “evil-dæmon.”
[1407] Literally, “art zealous.”
[1408] Or, “one who carries God.”
[1409] Literally, “the dæmons.”
[1410] The Latin version reads, “Him who bore my sin, with its inventor, upon the cross.”
[1412] Literally, “with.”
[1413] Or, “beast-like.”
[1414] [Better, “like the noble leader,” etc.; remitting κριὸς to the margin, as an ignoble word to English ears.]
Chapter III.—Ignatius sails to Smyrna.
[1415] It is doubtful if this clause should be referred to Polycarp.
[1416] Or, “received.”
[1417] Literally, “a portion of.”
Chapter IV.—Ignatius writes to the churches.
[1418] The Latin version has, “that he was to.” [But compare the martyr’s Epistle to the Romans (cap. 5); “yet am I not thereby justified,” —a double reference to St. Paul’s doctrine, 1 Cor. iv. 4 and 1 Cor. xiii. 3. See also his quotation (Sept., Prov. xviii. 17). Epistle to Magnesians, cap 12.]
[1419] The punctuation and construction are here doubtful.
[1420] Or, “should prevent him from hastening to the Lord.”
Chapter V.—Ignatius is brought to Rome.
[1421] Or, “corrected.”
[1422] Comp.Acts xxviii. 13, 14.
[1423] Literally, “the ship being driven onwards from the stern.”
[1424] Literally, “declaring happy.”
Chapter VI.—Ignatius is devoured by the beasts at Rome.
[1425] [Of which we shall learn more when we come to Hippolytus. Trajan had just improved the work of Claudius at this haven, near Ostia.]
[1426] Literally, “for the.”
[1427] Literally, “boiling and saying.”
[1428] Or, “in spirit.”
[1429] i.e., in his Epistle to the Romans.
[1430] The Saturnalia were then celebrated.
[1431] Literally, “they came together zealously.”
[1432] The amphitheatre itself was sacred to several of the gods. [But (παρὰ τῷ ναῷ) the original indicates the cella or shrine, in the centre of the amphitheatre where the image of Pluto was exhibited. A plain cross, until the late excavations, marked the very spot.]
[1434] Or, “deposited.”
Chapter VII.—Ignatius appears in a vision after his death.
[1435] [The Greeks celebrate this martyrdom, to this day, on the twentieth of December.]
[1436] To the effect, viz., that the martyrdom of Ignatius had been acceptable to God.
[1437] Literally, “the visions of the dreams.”
Search Comments
This page has been visited 0185 times.
| << | Contents | >> |
10 per page