Reading map

	THE GOSPEL OF THOMAS
	Excerpts from the Gospel of Mary
	The GOSPEL of the BIRTH OF MARY.
Chapter 1	1 The parentage of Mary. 7 Joachim her father, and Anna her mother, go to Jerusalem to the feast of the dedication. 9 Issachar the high priest reproaches Joachim for being childless.
Chapter 2	1 An angel appears to Joachim, 9 and informs him that Anna shall conceive and bring forth a daughter, who shall be called Mary, 11 be brought up in the temple, 12 and while yet a virgin, in a way unparalleled, bring forth the Son of God: 13 gives him a sign, 14 and departs.
Chapter 3	1 The angel appears to Anna; 2 tells her a daughter shall be born unto her, 3 devoted to the service of the Lord in the temple, 5, who, being a virgin and not knowing man, shall bring forth the Lord, 6 and gives her a sign therefore. 8 Joachim and Anna meet and rejoice, 10 and praise the Lord. 11 Anna conceives, and brings forth a daughter called Mary.
Chapter 4	1 Mary brought to the temple at three years old. 6 Ascends the stairs of the temple by miracle. 8 Her parents sacrificed and returned home.
Chapter 5	2 Mary ministered unto by angels. 4 The high-priest orders all virgins of fourteen years old to quit the temple and endeavour to be married. 5 Mary refuses, 6 having vowed her virginity to the Lord. 7 The high-priest commands a meeting of the chief persons of Jerusalem, 11 who seek the Lord for counsel in the matter. 13 A voice from the mercy-seat. 15 The high priest obeys it by ordering all the unmarried men of the house of David to bring their rods to the altar, 17 that his rod which should flower, and on which the Spirit of God should sit, should betroth the Virgin.
Chapter 6	1 Joseph draws back his rod. 5 The dove pitches on it. He betroths Mary and returns to Bethlehem. 7 Mary returns to her parents' house at Galilee.
Chapter 7	7 The salutation of the Virgin by Gabriel, who explains to her that she shall conceive, without lying with a man, while a Virgin, 19 by the Holy Ghost coming upon her without the heats of lust. 21 She submits.
Chapter 8	1 Joseph returns to Galilee to marry the Virgin he had betrothed. 4 perceives she is with child, 5 is uneasy, 7 purposes to put her away privily, 8 is told by the angel of the Lord it is not the work of man but the Holy Ghost, 12 Marries her, but keeps chaste, 13 removes with her to Bethlehem, 15 where she brings forth Christ.
	The PROTEVANGELION;
Chapter 1	1 Joachim, a rich man, 2 offers to the Lord, 3 is opposed by Reuben the high-priest, because he has not begotten issue in Israel, 6 retires into the wilderness and fasts forty days and forty nights.
Chapter 2	1 Anna, the wife of Joachim, mourns her barrenness, 6 is reproached with it by Judith her maid, 9 sits under a laurel tree and prays to the Lord.
Chapter 3	1 Anna perceiving a sparrow's nest in the laurels bemoans her barrenness.
Chapter 4	1 An Angel appears to Anna and tells her she shall conceive; two angels appear to her on the same errand. 5 Joachim sacrifices. 8 Anna goes to meet him, 9 rejoicing that she shall conceive.
Chapter 5	1 Joachim abides the first day in his house, but sacrifices on the morrow. 2 consults the plate on the priest's forehead. 3 And is without sin. 6 Anna brings forth a daughter, 9 whom she calls Mary.
Chapter 6	1 Mary at nine months old, walks nine steps, 3 Anna keeps her holy, 4 When she is a year old, Joachim makes a great feast. 7 Anna gives her the breast, and sings a song to the Lord.
Chapter 7	3 Mary being three years old, Joachim causes certain virgins to light each a lamp, and goes with her to the temple. 5 The high-priest places her on the third step of the altar, and she dances with her feet.
Chapter 8	2 Mary fed in the temple by angels, 3 when twelve years old the priests consult what to do with her. 6 The angel of the Lord warns Zacharias to call together all the widowers, each bringing a rod. 7 The people meet by sound of trumpet. 8 Joseph throws away his hatchet, and goes to the meeting, 11 a dove comes forth from his rod, and alights on his head. 12 He is chosen to betroth the Virgin. 13 refuses because he is an old man, 15 is compelled, 16 takes her home, and goes to mind his trade of building.
Chapter 9	1 The priests desire a new veil for the temple, 3 seven virgins cast lots for making different parts of it, 4 the lot to spin the true purple falls to Mary. 5 Zacharias, the high priest, becomes dumb. 7 Mary takes a pot to draw water, and hears a voice, 8 trembles and begins to work, 9 an angel appears, and salutes her, and tells her she shall conceive by the Holy Ghost, 17 she submits,
Chapter 10	1 Joseph returns from building houses, finds the Virgin grown big, being six months' gone with child, 2 is jealous and troubled, 8 reproaches her, 10 she affirms her innocence, 13 he leaves her, 16 determines to dismiss her privately, 17 is warned in a dream that Mary is with child by the Holy Ghost, 20 and glorifies God who hath shewn him such favour.
Chapter 11	3 Annas visits Joseph, perceives the Virgin big with child, 4 informs the high priest that Joseph had privately married her. 8 Joseph and Mary brought to trial on the charge. 17 Joseph drinks the water of the Lord as an ordeal, and receiving no harm, returns home.
Chapter 12	1 A decree from Augustus for taxing the Jews. 5 Joseph puts Mary on an ass, to return to Bethlehem, 6 she looks sorrowful, 7 she laughs, 8 Joseph inquires the cause of each, 9 she tells him she sees two persons, one mourning and the other rejoicing, 10 the delivery being near, he takes her from the ass, and places her in a cave.
Chapter 13	1 Joseph seeks a Hebrew midwife, 2 perceives the fowls stopping in their flight, 3 the working people at their food not moving, 8 the sheep standing still, 9 the shepherd fixed and immoveable, 10 and kids with their mouths touching the water but not drinking.
Chapter 14	1 Joseph finds a midwife. 10 A bright cloud overshadows the care. 11 A great light in the cave, gradually increases until the infant is born. 13 The midwife goes out, and tells Salome that she has seen a virgin bring forth. 17 Salome doubts it. 20 her hand withers, 22 she supplicates the Lord, 28 is cured, 30 but warned not to declare what she had seen.
Chapter 15	1 Wise men come from the east. 3. Herod alarmed; 8 desires them if they find the child, to bring him word. 10 They visit the cave, and offer the child their treasure, 11 and being warned in a dream, do not return to Herod, but go home another way.
Chapter 16	1 Herod enraged, orders the infants in Bethlehem to be slain. 2 Mary puts her infant in an ox manger. 3 Elizabeth flees with her son John to the mountains. 6 A mountain miraculously divides and receives them. 9 Herod incensed at the escape of John, causes Zacharias to be murdered at the altar, 23 the roofs of the temple rent, the body miraculously conveyed, and the blood petrified. 25 Israel mourns for him. 27 Simeon chosen his successor by lot.
	The first Gospel of the INFANCY of JESUS CHRIST.
Chapter 1	1 Caiaphas relates, that Jesus when in his cradle, informed his mother, that he was the Son. of God. 5 Joseph and Mary going to Bethlehem to be taxed, Mary's time of bringing forth arrives, and she goes into a cave. 8 Joseph fetches in a Hebrew woman, the cave with great lights. 11 The infant born, 17 cures the woman, 19 arrival of the shepherds.
Chapter 2	1 The child circumcised in the cave, 2 and the old woman preserving his foreskin or navel-string in a box of spikenard, Mary afterwards anoints Christ with it. 5 Christ brought to the temple, 6 shines, 7 angels stand around him adoring. 8 Simeon praises Christ.
Chapter 3	1 The wise men visit Christ. Mary gives them one of his swaddling clothes. 3 An angel appears to them in the form of a star. They return and make a fire, and worship the swaddling cloth, and put it in the fire, where it remains unconsumed.
Chapter 4	1 Herod intends to put Christ to death. 3 An angel warns Joseph to take the child and its mother into Egypt. 6 Consternation on their arrival. 13 The idols fall down. 15 Mary washes Christ's swaddling clothes, and hangs them to dry on a post. 16 A son of the chief priest puts one on his head, and being possessed of devils, they leave him.
Chapter 5	1 Joseph and Mary leave Egypt. 3 Go to the haunts of robbers, 4 Who, hearing a mighty noise as of a great army, flee away.
Chapter 6	1 Mary looks on a woman in whom Satan had taken up his abode, and she becomes dispossessed. 5 Christ kissed by a bride made dumb by sorcerers, cures her, 11 miraculously cures a gentlewoman in whom Satan had taken up his abode. 16 A leprous girl cured by the water in which he was washed, and becomes the servant of Mary and Joseph. 20 The leprous son of a prince's wife cured in like manner. 37 His mother offers large gifts to Mary, and dismisses her.
Chapter 7	1 A man who could not enjoy his wife, freed from his disorder. 5 A young man who had been bewitched, and turned into a mule, miraculously cured by Christ being put on his back. 28 and is married to the girl who had been cured of leprosy.
Chapter 8	1 Joseph and Mary pass through a country infested by robbers, 3 Titus, a humane thief, offers Dumachus, his comrade, forty groats to let Joseph and Mary pass unmolested. 6 Jesus prophesies that the thieves, Dumachus and Titus, shall be crucified with him, and that Titus shall go before him into Paradise. 10 Christ causes a well to spring from a sycamore tree, and Mary washes his coat in it. 11 A balsam grows there from his sweat: They go to Memphis, where Christ works more miracles. Return to Judaea. 15 being warned, depart for Nazareth.
Chapter 9	2 Two sick children cured by water wherein Christ was washed.
Chapter 10	1 Two wives of one man, each have a son sick. 2 One of them, named Mary, and whose son's name was Caleb, presents the Virgin with a handsome carpet, and Caleb is cured; but the son of the other wife dies, 4 which occasions a difference between the women. 5 The other wife puts Caleb into a hot oven, and he is miraculously preserved; 9 she afterwards throws him into a well, and he is again preserved; 11 his mother appeals to the Virgin against the other wife, 12, whose downfall the Virgin prophesies, 13 and who accordingly falls into the well, 14 therein fulfilling a saying of old.
Chapter 11	1 Bartholomew, when a child and sick, miraculously restored by being laid on Christ's bed.
Chapter 12	1 A leprous woman healed by Christ's washing water. 7 A princess healed by it and restored to her husband.
Chapter 13	1 A girl, whose blood Satan sucked, receives one of Christ's swaddling clothes from the Virgin. 14 Satan comes like a dragon, and she shews it to him; flames and burning coals proceed from it and fall upon him; 19 he is miraculously discomfited, and leaves the girl.
Chapter 14	1 Judas when a boy possessed by Satan, and brought by his parents to Jesus to be cured, whom he tries to bite, 7 but failing, strikes Jesus and makes him cry out. Whereupon Satan goes from Jesus in the shape of a dog.
Chapter 15	1 Jesus and other boys play together, and make day figures of animals. 4 Jesus causes them to walk, 6 also makes day birds, which he causes to fly, and eat and drink. 7 The children's parents alarmed, and take Jesus for a sorcerer. 8 He goes to a dyer's shop, and throws all the cloths into the furnace, and works a miracle therewith. 15 Whereupon the Jews praise God.
Chapter 16	1 Christ miraculously widens or contracts the gates, milk-pails, sieves, or bones, not properly made by Joseph, 4 he not being skilful at his carpenter's trade. 5 The King of Jerusalem gives Joseph an order for a throne. 6 Joseph works on it for two years in the king's palace, and makes it two spans too short. The king being angry with. him, 10 Jesus comforts him, 13 commands him to pull one side of the throne, while he pulls the other, and brings it to its proper dimensions. 14 Whereupon the bystanders praise God.
Chapter 17	1 Jesus plays with boys at hide and seek. 3 Some women put his playfellows in a furnace, 7 where they are transformed by Jesus into kids. 10 Jesus calls them to go and play, and they me restored to their former shape.
Chapter 18	1 Jesus becomes the king of his playfellows, and they crown him with flowers, 4 miraculously causes a serpent who had bitten Simon the Cananite, then a boy, to suck our all the poison again; 16 the serpent bursts, and Christ restores the boy to health.
Chapter 19	1 James being bitten by a viper, Jesus blows on the wound and cures him. 4. Jesus charged with throwing a boy from the roof of a house, 10 miraculously causes the dead boy to acquit Mm, 12 fetches water for his mother, breaks the pitcher and miraculously gathers the water in his mantle and brings it home, 16 makes fish-pools on the Sabbath, 20 causes a boy to die who broke them down, 22 another boy run against him, whom he also causes to die.
Chapter 20	1 Sent to school to Zaccheus to learn his letters, and teaches Zaccheus. 13 Sent to another schoolmaster. 14 refuses to tell his letters, and the schoolmaster going to whip him his hand withers and he dies.
Chapter 21	1 Disputes miraculously with the doctors in the temple, 7 on law, 9 on astronomy, 12 on physics and metaphysics, 21 is worshipped by a philosopher, 28 and fetched home by his mother.
Chapter 22	1 Conceals his miracles, 2 studies the law and is baptised.
	THOMAS'S GOSPEL of the INFANCY of JESUS CHRIST.
Chapter 1	2 Jesus miraculously dears the water after rain. 4 plays with clay sparrows, which he animates on the sabbath day.
Chapter 2	2 Causes a boy to wither who broke down his fish pools, 6 partly restores him, 7 dills another boy, 16 causes blindness to fall on his accusers, 18 for which Joseph pulls him by the ear.
Chapter 3	1 Astonishes his schoolmaster by his learning.
Chapter 4	1 Fragment of an adventure at a dyer's.
	THE EPISTLES of JESUS CHRIST and ABGARUS KING of EDESSA.
Chapter 1	A copy of a letter written by King Abgarus to Jesus, and sent to him by Ananias, his footman, to Jerusalem, 5 inviting him to Edessa.
Chapter 2	The answer of Jesus by Ananias the footman to Abgarus the king, 3 declining to visit Edessa.
	The GOSPEL of NICODEMUS, formerly called the ACTS of PONTIUS PILATE.
Chapter 1	1 Christ accused to Pilate by the Jews of healing on the sabbath, 9 summoned before Pilate by a messenger who does him honour, 20 worshipped by the standards bowing down to him.
Chapter 2	2 Is compassionated by Pilate's wife, 7 charged with being born in fornication. 12 Testimony to the betrothing of his parents. Hatred of the Jews to him.
Chapter 3	1 Is exonerated by Pilate. 11 Disputes with Pilate concerning Truth.
Chapter 4	1 Pilate finds no fault in Jesus. 16 The Jews demand his crucifixion.
Chapter 5	1 Nicodemus speaks in defence of Christ, and relates his miracles. 12 Another Jew, 26 with Veronica, 34 Centurio, and others, testify of other miracles.
Chapter 6	1 Pilate dismayed by the turbulence of the Jews, 5 who demand Barabbas to be released, and Christ to be crucified, 9 Pilate warmly expostulates with them, 20 washes his hands of Christ's blood, 23 and sentences him to be whipped and crucified.
Chapter 7	1 Manner of Christ's crucifixion with the two thieves.
Chapter 8	1 Miraculous appearance at his death. 10 The Jews say the eclipse was natural. 12 Joseph of Arimathaea embalms Christ's body and buries it.
Chapter 9	1 The Jews angry with Nicodemus; 5 and with Joseph of Arimathaea, 7 whom they imprison.
Chapter 10	1 Joseph's escape. 2 The soldiers relate Christ's resurrection. 18 Christ is seen preaching in Galilee. 21 The Jews repent of their cruelty to him.
Chapter 11	1 Nicodemus counsels the Jews. 6 Joseph found. 11 Invited by the Jews to return. 19 Relates the manner of his miraculous escape.
Chapter 12	1 The Jews astonished and confounded. 17 Simeon's two sons, Charinus and Lenthius, rise from the dead at Christ's crucifixion. 19 Joseph proposes to get them to relate the mysteries of their resurrection. 21 They are sought and found, 22 brought to the synagogue, 23 privately sworn to secrecy, 25 and undertake to write what they had seen.
Chapter 13	1 The narrative of Charinus and Lenthius commences. 3 A great light in hell. 7 Simeon arrives, and announces the coming of Christ.
Chapter 14	1 Adam causes Seth to relate what he heard from Michael the archangel, when he sent him to Paradise to entreat God to anoint his head in his sickness.
Chapter 15	1 Quarrel between Satan and the prince of hell concerning the expected arrival of Christ in hell.
Chapter 16	1 Christ's arrival at hell-gates; the confusion thereupon. 10 He descends into hell.
Chapter 17	1 Death and the devils in great horror at Christ's coming. 13 He tramples on death, seizes the prince of hell, and takes Adam with him to heaven.
Chapter 18	1 Beelzebub, prince of hell, vehemently upbraids Satan for persecuting Christ and bringing him to hell. 4. Christ gives Beelzebub dominion over Satan for ever, as a recompense for taking away Adam and his sons.
Chapter 19	1 Christ takes Adam by the hand, the rest of the saints join hands, and they all ascend with him to Paradise.
Chapter 20	1 Christ delivers Adam to Michael the archangel. 3. They meet Enoch and Elijah in heaven, 5 and also the blessed thief, who relates how he cares to Paradise.
Chapter 21	1 Charinus and Lenthius being only allowed three days to remain on earth, 7 deliver in their narratives, which miraculously correspond; they vanish, 13 and Pilate records these transactions.
Chapter 22	1 Pilate goes to the temple; calls together the rulers, and scribes, and doctors. 2 Commands the gates to be shut; orders the book of the Scripture; and causes the Jews to relate what they really knew concerning Christ. 14 They declare that they crucified Christ in ignorance, and that they now know him to be the Son of God, according to the testimony of the Scriptures; which, after they put him to death, they are examined.
	The APOSTLES' CREED.
	THE EPISTLE of PAUL the APOSTLE to the LAODICEANS.
Chapter 1	1 He salutes the brethren. 3 exhorts them to persevere in good works, 4 and not to be moved by vain speaking. 6 Rejoices in his bonds, 10 desires them to live in the fear of the Lord.
	The EPISTLES of PAUL the APOSTLE to SENECA, with SENECA'S to PAUL.
	The ACTS of PAUL and THECLA.
Chapter 1	1 Demas and Hermogenes become Paul's companions. 4 Paul visits Onesiphorus. 8 Invited by Demas and Hermogenes. 11 Preaches to the household of Onesiphorus. 12 His sermon.
Chapter 2	1 Thecla listens anxiously to Paul's preaching. 5 Thamyris, her admirer, concerts with Theoclia her mother to dissuade her, 12 in vain. 14 Demos and Hermogenes viler Paul to Thamyria.
Chapter 3	1 They betray Paul. 7 Thamyris arrests him with officers.
Chapter 4	1 Paul accused before the governor by Thamyris. 5 Defends himself. 9 Is committed to Prison, 10 and visited by Thecla.
Chapter 5	1 Thecla sought and found by her relations. 4 Brought with Paul before the governor. 9 Ordered to be burnt, and Paul to be whipt. 15 Thecla miraculously saved.
Chapter 6	1 Paul with Onesiphorus in a cave. 7 Thecla discovers Paul; 12 proffers to follow him: 13 he exhorts her not for fear of fornication.
Chapter 7	1 Paul and Thecla go to Antioch. 2 Alexander, a magistrate, falls in love with Thecla: kisses her by force: 5 she resists him: 6 is carried before the governor, and condemned to be thrown to wild beasts.
Chapter 8	2 Thecla entertained by Trifina; 3 brought out to the wild beasts; a she-lion licks her feet. 5 Trifina upon a vision of her deceased daughter, adopts Thecla, 11 who is taken to the amphitheatre again.
Chapter 9	1 Thecla thrown naked to the wild beasts; 2 they all refuse to attack her; 8 throws herself into a pit of water. 10 other wild beasts refuse her. 11 Tied to wild bulls. 13 Miraculously saved. 15 Released. 24 Entertained by Trifina.
Chapter 10	1 Thecla visits Paul. 8 Visits Onesiphorus. 8 Visits her mother. 9 Who repulses her. 12 Is tempted by the devil. Works miracles.
Chapter 11	1 Is attempted to be ravished, 12 escapes by a rock opening, 17 and closing miraculously.
	The FIRST EPISTLE of CLEMENT to the CORINTHIANS.
Chapter 1	He commends them for their excellent order and piety in Christ, before their schism broke out.
Chapter 2	How their divisions began.
Chapter 3	Envy and emulation the original of all strife and disorder. Examples of the mischiefs they have occasioned.
Chapter 4	1 He exhorts them to live by the rules, and repent of their divisions, and they shall be forgiven.
Chapter 5	1 He sets before them the examples of holy men, whose piety is recorded in the Scriptures.
Chapter 6	1 And particularly such as have been eminent for their kindness and charity to their neighbours.
Chapter 7	1 What rules are given for this purpose.
Chapter 8	He advises them to be humble; and that from the examples of Jesus and of holy men in all ages.
Chapter 9	He again persuades them to compose their divisions.
Chapter 10	He exhorts them to obedience, from the consideration of the goodness of God, and of his presence in every place.
Chapter 11	Of faith, and particularly what we are to believe as to the resurrection.
Chapter 12	The Resurrection further proved.
Chapter 13	It is impossible to escape the vengeance of God, if we continue in sin.
Chapter 14	How we must live that we may please God.
Chapter 15	We are justified by faith; yet this must not lessen our care to live well, nor our pleasure in it.
Chapter 16	This enforced from the examples of the holy angels, and from the exceeding greatness of that reward which God has prepared for us.
Chapter 17	1 We must attain unto this reward by faith and obedience, which we must carry on in an orderly pursuing of the duties of our several stations, without envy or contention. 24 The necessity of different orders among men. 33 We have none of us anything but what we received of God: whom therefore we ought in every condition thankfully to obey.
Chapter 18	From whence he exhorts them to do everything orderly in the Church, as the only way to please God.
Chapter 19	The orders of Ministers in Christ's Church established by the Apostles according to Christ's command, 7 after the example of Moses. 16 Therefore they who have been duly placed in the ministry according to their order cannot without great sin be put out of it.
Chapter 20	He exhorts them to peace from examples out of the Holy Scriptures, 20 particularly from St. Paul's exhortation to them.
Chapter 21	1 The value which God puts upon love and unity: the effects of a true charity, 8 which is the gift of God, and must be obtained by prayer.
Chapter 22	1 He exhorts such as have been concerned in these divisions to repent, and return to their unity, confessing their sin to God, 7 which he enforces from the example of Moses, 10 and of many among the heathen, 23 and of Judith and Esther among the Jews.
Chapter 23	The benefit of mutual advice and correction. He entreats them to follow that which is here given to them.
Chapter 24	1 Recommends there to God. Desires speedily to hear that this Epistle has had a good effect upon them. 4 conclusion.
	The SECOND EPISTLE of CLEMENT to the CORINTHIANS.
Chapter 1	That we ought to value our salvation; and to skew that we do, by a sincere obedience.
Chapter 2	1 That God had before prophesied by Isaiah, that the Gentiles should be saved. 8 That this ought to engage such especially to live well; without which they will still miscarry.
Chapter 3	1 That whilst we secure the other world, we need not fear what can befall us in this. 5. That if we follow the interests of this present world, we cannot escape the punishment of the other. 10 Which ought to bring us to repentance and holiness, 14 and that presently: because in this world is the only time for repentance.
Chapter 4	1 We shall rise, and be judged in our bodies; therefore we must live well in them, 6 that we ought, for our own interest, to live well; though few seem to mind what really is for their advantage, 10 and not deceive ourselves: seeing God will certainly judge us, and render to all of us according to our works.
Chapter 5	Of the Lord's kingdom.
	The GENERAL EPISTLE OF BARNABAS.
Chapter 1	Preface to the Epistle.
Chapter 2	That God has abolished the legal sacrifices to introduce the spiritual righteousness of the Gospel.SEEING then the days are exceeding evil, and the adversary has got the power of this present [146:5] world we ought to give the more diligence to inquire into the [146:6] righteous judgments of the Lord.
Chapter 3	The prophecies of Daniel, concerning the ten kings, and the coming of Christ.
Chapter 4	That Christ was to suffer: proved from the prophecies concerning him.
Chapter 5	The subject continued.
Chapter 6	The scape-goat an evident type of this.
Chapter 7	The red heifer, another type of Christ.
Chapter 8	Of the circumcision of the ears; and how in the first institution of circumcision Abraham, mystically foretold Christ by name.
Chapter 9	That the commands of Moses concerning clean and unclean beasts, &c., were all designed for a spiritual signification.
Chapter 10	Baptism and the Cross of Christ foretold in figures under the law.
Chapter 11	The subject continued.
Chapter 12	The promise of God not made to the Jews only, but to the Gentiles also, and fulfilled to us by Jesus Christ.
Chapter 13	That the sabbath of the Jews was but a figure of a more glorious sabbath to come, and their temple, of the spiritual temples of God.
Chapter 14	Of the way of light; being a summary of what a Christian is to do, that he may be happy for ever.
Chapter 15	Of the way of darkness; that is, what kind of persons shall be for ever cast out of the kingdom of God.
	The EPISTLE of IGNATIUS to the EPHESIANS.
Chapter 1	1 Commends them for sending Onesimus, and other members of the church to him. 8 Exhorts them to unity, 13 by a due subjection to their bishop.
Chapter 2	1 The benefit of subjection. 4 The bishop not to be respected the less because he is not forward in exacting it: 8 warns them against heretics; bidding them cleave to Jesus, whose divine and human nature is declared; commends them for their care to keep themselves front false teachers; and shews them the way to God.
Chapter 3	1 Exhorts them to prayer; to be unblameable. 5 To be careful of salvation; 11 frequent in public devotion; 13 and to live in charity.
Chapter 4	1 To have a care for the Gospel. 9 The virginity of Mary, the incarnation, and the death of Christ, were hid front the Devil. 11 How the birth of Christ was revealed. 16 Exhorts to unity.
	The EPISTLE of IGNATIUS to the MAGNESIANS.
Chapter 1	4 Mentions the arrival of Damon, their bishop, and others, 6 whom he exhorts them to reverence, notwithstanding he was a young man.
Chapter 2	1 That as all must die, 4 he exhorts them to live orderly and in unity.
Chapter 3	1 He cautions them against false opinions. 4 Especially those of [*173:16] Ebion and the Judaizing Christians.
Chapter 4	1 Commends their faith and piety; exhorts them to persevere; 10 desires their prayers for himself and the church at Antioch.
	The EPISTLE of IGNATIUS to the TRALLIANS.
Chapter 1	1 Acknowledges the coming of their bishop. 5 Commends them for their subjection to their bishop, priests, and deacons; and exhorts them to continue in it: 15 is afraid even of his over-great desire to suffer, lest it should be prejudicial to him.
Chapter 2	1 Warns them against heretics, 4 exhorts them to humility and unity, 10 briefly sets before them the true doctrine concerning Christ.
Chapter 3	He again exhorts to unity: and desires their prayers for himself and for his church at Antioch.
	The EPISTLE of IGNATIUS to the ROMANS.
Chapter 1	He testifies his desire to see, and his hopes of suffering for Christ, 5 which he earnestly entreats them not to prevent, 10 but to pray for him, that God would strengthen him to the combat.
Chapter 2	Expresses his great desire and determination to suffer martyrdom.
Chapter 3	Further expresses his desire to suffer.
	The EPISTLE of IGNATIUS to the PHILADELPHIANS.
Chapter 1	Commends their bishop whom they had sent unto him, 5 warns them against divisions and schism.
Chapter 2	Desires their prayers, and to be united but not to Judaize.
Chapter 3	Informs them he had heard that the persecution was stopped at Antioch, and directs them to send a messenger hitherto to congratulate with the church.
	The EPISTLE of IGNATIUS to the SMYRNAeANS.
Chapter 1	1 Declares his joy for their firmness in the Gospel. 4 Enlarges on the person of Christ, against such as pretend that Christ did not really suffer.
Chapter 2	1 Exhorts them against heretics. 8 The danger of their doctrine.
Chapter 3	1 Exhorts them to follow their bishop and pastors; but especially their bishop. 6 Thanks them for their kindness, 11 and acquaints them with the ceasing of the persecution at Antioch.
	The EPISTLE of IGNATIUS to POLYCARP.
Chapter 1	Blesses God for the firm establishment of Polycarp in the faith, and gives him particular directions for improving it.
Chapter 2	1 Continues his advice, 6 and teaches him how to advise others. 12 Enforces unity and subjection to the bishop.
Chapter 3	1 Greets Polycarp on the peace of the church at Antioch: and desires him to write to that and other churches.
	The EPISTLE of POLYCARP to the PHILIPPIANS.
Chapter 1	Commends the Philippians for their respect to those who suffered for the Gospel; and for their own faith.
Chapter 2	2 Exhorts to Faith, Hope, and Charity. 5 Against covetousness, and as to the duties of husbands, wives, widows, 6 deacons, young men, virgins, and presbyters.
Chapter 3	1 As to faith in our Saviour Christ: his nature and sufferings, the resurrection and judgment. 3 Exhorts to prayer 5 and steadfastness in the faith, from the examples of Christ, 7 and Apostles and saints, and exhorts to carefulness in all well-doing.
Chapter 4	Valens, a presbyter, having fallen into the sin of covetousness, he exhorts them against it.
	THE SHEPHERD OF HERMAS.
Chapter 1	1 Against filthy and proud thoughts, 20 also the neglect of Hermas in chastising his children.
Chapter 2	Again, of his neglect in correcting his talkative wife; and of his lewd sons. [*199:4]
Chapter 3	Of the building of the church triumphant, and of the several sorts of reprobates.
Chapter 4	Of the trial and tribulation that is about to come upon men.
	The Second Book of HERMAS, called his COMMANDS.
	Introduction
Chapter 1	Of [*212:3] believing in one God.
Chapter 2	That we must avoid detraction, and do our alms-deeds with simplicity.
Chapter 3	Of avoiding lying, and the repentance of Hermas for his dissimulation.
Chapter 4	Of putting away one's wife for adultery.
Chapter 6	Of the sadness of the heart, and of patience.
Chapter 6	That every man has two [*218:3] angels, and of the suggestions of both.
Chapter 7	That we must fear God, but not the Devil.
Chapter 8	That we must flee from evil, and do good.
Chapter 9	That we must ask of God daily; and without doubting.
Chapter 10	Of the sadness of the heart; and that we must take heed not to grieve the spirit of God that is in us.
Chapter 11	That the spirits and prophets are to be tried by their works; and of a twofold spirit.
Chapter 12	Of a two fold desire: that the commands of God are not impossible: and that the devil is not to be feared by them that believe.
	The Third Book of HERMAS, which is called his SIMILITUDES.
Chapter 1	That seeing we have no abiding city in this world, we ought to look after that which is to come.
Chapter 2	As the vine is supported by the elm, so is the rich man helped by the prayers of the poor.
Chapter 3	As the green trees in the winter cannot be distinguished from the dry; so neither can the righteous from the wicked in this present world.
Chapter 4	As in the summer the living trees are distinguished from the dry by their fruit and green leaves; so in the world to come the righteous shall be distinguished from the unrighteous by their happiness.
Chapter 5	Of a true fast, and the rewards of it, also of the cleanliness of the body.
Chapter 6	Of two sorts of voluptuous men, and of their death, defection, and of the continuance of their pains.
Chapter 7	That they who repent, must bring forth fruits worthy of repentance.
Chapter 8	That there are many kinds of elect, and of repenting sinners: and how all of them shall receive a reward proportionable to the measure of their repentance and good works.
Chapter 9	The greatest mysteries of the militant and triumphant church which is to be built.
Chapter 10	Of Repentance and alms-deeds.
	THE LOST GOSPEL ACCORDING TO PETER
	LETTER OF HEROD TO PILATE THE GOVERNOR.
Chapter 1	HEROD TO PONTIUS PILATE THE GOVERNOR OF JERUSALEM: PEACE.
Chapter 2	LETTER OF PILATE TO HEROD.
	THE EPISTLE OF PONTIUS PILATE
Chapter 1	TO THE ROMAN EMPEROR CONCERNING OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Chapter 2	THE REPORT OF PILATE THE GOVERNOR, CONCERNING OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST; WHICH WAS SENT TO AUGUSTUS CaeSAR, IN ROME.
Chapter 3	THE REPORT OF PONTIUS PILATE, GOVERNOR OF JUDEA;
Chapter 4	THE TRIAL AND CONDEMNATION OF PILATE. Commonly called "the Paradosis of Pilate." It may be regarded as an historical continuation of the preceding, which it usually follows in the MSS. without any title.
Chapter 4	To Licianus who holdeth the first place in the East Country.
Chapter 5	THE DEATH OF PILATE, WHO CONDEMNED JESUS.
	THE FIRST BOOK OF Adam and Eve
Chapter 1	The crystal sea. God commands Adam, expelled from Eden, to dwell in the Cave of Treasures.
Chapter 2	Adam and Eve faint upon leaving the Garden. God sends His word to encourage them.
Chapter 3	Concerning the promise of the great five days and a half.
Chapter 4	Adam laments the changed conditions. Adam and Eve enter the Cave of Treasures.
Chapter 5	In which Eve makes a noble and emotionable intercession, taking the blame on herself.
Chapter 6	God's admonition to Adam and Eve in which he points out how and why they sinned.
Chapter 7	The beasts are reconciled.
Chapter 8	The "Bright Nature" of man is taken away.
Chapter 9	Water from the Tree of Life. Adam and Eve near drowning.
Chapter 10	Their bodies need water after they leave the Garden.
Chapter 11	A recollection of the glorious days in the Garden.
Chapter 12	How darkness came between Adam and Eve.
Chapter 13	The fall of Adam. Why night and day were created.
Chapter 14	The earliest prophecy of the coming of Christ.
Chapter 15
Chapter 16	The first sunrise. Adam and Eve think it is a fire coming to burn them.
Chapter 17	The Chapter of the Serpent.
Chapter 18	The mortal combat with the serpent.
Chapter 19	Beasts made subject to Adam.
Chapter 20	Adam wishes to protect Eve.
Chapter 21	Adam and Eve attempt suicide.
Chapter 22	Adam in a chivalrous mood.
Chapter 23	Adam and Eve gird themselves and make the first altar ever built.
Chapter 24	A vivid prophecy of the life and death of Christ.
Chapter 25	God represented as merciful and loving. The establishing of worship.
Chapter 26	A beautiful prophecy of eternal life and joy (v. 15). The fall of night.
Chapter 27	The second tempting of Adam and Eve. The devil takes on the form of a beguiling light.
Chapter 28	The Devil pretends to lead Adam and Eve to the water to bathe.
Chapter 29	God tells Adam of the Devil's purpose. (v. 4).
Chapter 30	Adam receives the first worldly goods.
Chapter 31	They make themselves more comfortable in the Cave of Treasures on the third day.
Chapter 32	Adam and Eve go into the water to pray.
Chapter 33	Satan falsely promises the "bright light!'
Chapter 34	Adam recalls the creation of Eve. He eloquently appeals for food and drink.
Chapter 35	God's reply.
Chapter 36	Figs.
Chapter 37	Forty-three days of penance do not redeem one hour of sin (v. 6).
Chapter 38	"When 5500 years are fulfilled . . . ."
Chapter 39	Adam is cautious--but too late.
Chapter 40	The first Human hunger.
Chapter 41	The first Human thirst.
Chapter 42	A promise of the Water of Life. The third prophecy of the coming of Christ.
Chapter 43	The Devil attempts arson.
Chapter 44	The power of fire over man.
Chapter 45	Why Satan didn't fulfil his promises.
Chapter 46	"How many times have I delivered thee out of his hand . . ."
Chapter 47	The Devil's own Scheming.
Chapter 48	Fifth apparition of Satan to Adam and Eve.
Chapter 49	The first prophecy of the Resurrection.
Chapter 50	Adam and Eve seek to cover their nakedness.
Chapter 51	"What is his beauty that you should have followed him?"
Chapter 52	Adam and Eve sew the first shirt.
Chapter 53	The prophecy of the Western Lands.
Chapter 54	Adam and Eve go exploring.
Chapter 55	The Conflict of Satan.
Chapter 56	A chapter of divine comfort.
Chapter 57	"Therefore did I fall. . .
Chapter 58	"About sunset on the 53rd day . . . ."
Chapter 59	Eighth apparition of Satan to Adam and Eve.
Chapter 60	The Devil appears like an old man. He offers "a place of rest."
Chapter 61	They begin to follow Satan.
Chapter 62	Two fruit trees.
Chapter 63	The first joy of trees.
Chapter 64	Adam and Eve partake of the first earthly food.
Chapter 65	Adam and Eve acquire digestive organs. Final hope of returning to the Garden is quenched.
Chapter 66	Adam does his first day's work.
Chapter 67	"Then Satan began to lead astray Adam and Eve. . . ."
Chapter 68	How destruction and trouble is of Satan when he is the master. Adam and Eve establish the custom of worship.
Chapter 69	Twelfth apparition of Satan to Adam and Eve, while Adam was praying over the offering upon the altar; when Satan smote him.
Chapter 70	Thirteenth apparition of Satan to Adam and Eve, to make war against him, through his marriage with Eve.
Chapter 71	Adam is troubled by his wedding with Eve.
Chapter 72	Adam's heart is set on fire.
Chapter 73	The betrothal of Adam and Eve.
Chapter 74	The birth of Cain and Luluwa. Why they received those names.
Chapter 75	The family revisits the Cave of Treasures. Birth of Abel and Aklemia.
Chapter 76	Cain becomes jealous because of his sisters.
Chapter 77	Cain, 15 years old, and Abel 12 years old, grow apart.
Chapter 78	Jealousy overcomes Cain. He makes trouble in the family. How the first murder was planned.
Chapter 79	A wicked plan is carried to a tragic conclusion. Cain is frightened. "Am I my brother's keeper?" The seven punishments. Peace is shattered.
	THE SECOND BOOK OF Adam and Eve
Chapter 1	The grief stricken family. Cain marries Luluwa and they move away.
Chapter 2	A third son is born to Adam and Eve.
Chapter 3	Satan appears as a beautiful woman tempting Adam, telling him he is still a youth. "Spend thy youth in mirth and pleasure." (12) The different forms which Satan takes (15).
Chapter 4	Adam sees the Devil in his true colors.
Chapter 5	The devil paints a brilliant picture for Seth to feast his thoughts upon.
Chapter 6	Seth's conscience helps him. He returns to Adam and Eve.
Chapter 7	Seth marries Aklia. Adam lives to see grand children and great-grand-children.
Chapter 8	Adam's remarkable last words. He predicts the Flood. He exhorts his offspring to good. He reveals certain mysteries of life.
Chapter 9	The death of Adam.
Chapter 10	"Adam was the first...."
Chapter 11	Seth becomes head of the most happy and just tribe of people who ever lived.
Chapter 12	Seth's family affairs. His death. The headship of Enos. How the outcast branch of Adam's family fared.
Chapter 13	"Among the children of Cain there was much robbery, murder and sin."
Chapter 14	Time, like an ever-rolling stream, bears away another generation of men.
Chapter 15	The offspring of Adam continue to keep the Cave of Treasures as a family shrine.
Chapter 16	The good branch of the family is still afraid of the children of Cain.
Chapter 17	Jared turns martinet. He is lured away to the land of Cain where he sees many voluptuous sights. Jared barely escapes with a clean heart.
Chapter 18	Confusion in the Cave of Treasures. Miraculous speech of the dead Adam.
Chapter 19	The children of Jared are led astray.
Chapter 20	Ravishing music; strong drink loosed among the sons of Cain. They don colorful clothing. The children of Seth look on with longing eyes. They revolt from wise counsel; they descend the mountain into the valley of iniquity. They can not ascend the mountain again.
Chapter 21	Jared dies in sorrow for his sons who had gone astray. A prediction of the Flood.
Chapter 22	Only three righteous men left in the world. The evil conditions of men prior to the Flood.
	THE BOOK OF THE SECRETS OF ENOCH.
Chapter 1	An account of the mechanism of the world showing the machinery of the sun and moon in operation. Astronomy and an interesting ancient calendar. See Chapter 15-17 also 21. What the world was like before Creation, see Chapter 24. Chapter 26 is especially picturesque. A unique account of how Satan was created (Chapter 29.)
Chapter 2	The Instruction. How Enoch instructed his sons.
Chapter 3	Of Enoch's assumption; how the angels took him into the first heaven.
Chapter 4	Of the Angels ruling the stars.
Chapter 5	Of how the Angels keep the store-houses of the snow.
Chapter 6	Of the dew and of the olive-oil, and various flowers.
Chapter 7	Of how Enoch was taken on to the second heaven.
Chapter 8	Of the assumption of Enoch to the third heaven.
Chapter 9	The showing to Enoch of the place of the righteous and compassionate.
Chapter 10	Here they showed Enoch the terrible place and various tortures.
Chapter 11	Here they took Enoch up on to the fourth heaven where is the course of sun and moon.
Chapter 12	Of the very marvellous elements of the sun.
Chapter 13	The angels took Enoch and placed him in the east at the sun's gates.
Chapter 14	They took Enoch to the West.
Chapter 15	The elements of the sun, the Phoenixes and Chalkydri broke into song.
Chapter 16	They took Enoch and again placed him in the east at the course of the moon.
Chapter 17	Of the singings of the angels, which it is impossible to describe.
Chapter 18	Of the taking of Enoch on to the fifth heaven.
Chapter 19	Of the taking of Enoch on to the sixth heaven.
Chapter 20	Hence they took Enoch into the Seventh Heaven.
Chapter 21	Of how the angels here left Enoch, at the end of the seventh Heaven, and went away from him unseen.
Chapter 22	In the tenth Heaven the archangel Michael led Enoch to before the Lord's face.
Chapter 23	Of Enoch's writing, how he wrote his wonderful journeyings and the heavenly apparitions and himself wrote three hundred and sixty-six books.
Chapter 24	Of the great secrets of God, which God revealed and told to Enoch, and spoke with him face to face.
Chapter 25	God relates to Enoch, how out of the very lowest darkness comes down the visible and invisible.
Chapter 26	God summons from the very lowest a second time that Archas, heavy and very red should come forth.
Chapter 27	Of how God founded the water, and surrounded it with light, and established on it seven islands.
Chapter 28	The week in which God showed Enoch all his wisdom and power, throughout all the seven days, how he created all the heavenly and earthly forces and all moving things even down to man.
Chapter 29	Then it became evening, and then again morning, and it was the second day. [Monday is the first day.] The fiery Essence.
Chapter 30	And then I created all the heavens, and the third day was, [Tuesday.]
Chapter 31	God gives over paradise to Adam, and gives him a command to see the heavens opened, and that he should see the angels singing the song of victory.
Chapter 32	After Adam's sin God sends him away into the earth 'whence I took thee,' but does not wish to ruin him for all years to come.
Chapter 33	God shows Enoch the age of this world, its existence of seven thousand years, and the eighth thousand is the end, neither years, nor months, nor weeks, nor days.
Chapter 34	God convicts the idolaters and sodomitic fornicators, and therefore brings down a deluge upon them.
Chapter 35	God leaves one righteous man of Enoch's tribe with his whole house, who did God's pleasure according to his will.
Chapter 36	God commanded Enoch to live on earth thirty days, to give instruction to his sons and to his children's children. After thirty days he was again taken on to heaven.
Chapter 37	Here God summons an angel.
Chapter 38	Mathusal continued to have hope and to await his father Enoch at his couch day and night.
Chapter 39	Enoch's pitiful admonition to his sons with weeping and great lamentation, as he spoke to them.
Chapter 40	Enoch admonishes his children truly of all things from the Lord's lips, how he saw and heard and wrote down.
Chapter 41	Of how Enoch lamented Adam's sin.
Chapter 42	Of how Enoch saw the key-holders and guards of the gates of hell standing.
Chapter 43	Enoch shows his children how he measured and wrote out God's judgements.
Chapter 44	Enoch instructs his sons, that they revile not the face of man, small or great.
Chapter 45	God shows how he does not want from men sacrifices, nor burnt-offerings, but pure and contrite hearts.
Chapter 46	Of how an earthly ruler does not accept from man abominable and unclean gifts, then how much more does God abominate unclean gifts, but sends them away with wrath and does not accept his gifts.
Chapter 47	Enoch instructs his sons from God's lips, and hands them the handwriting of this book.
Chapter 48	Of the sun's passage along the seven circles.
Chapter 49	Enoch instructs his sons not to swear either by heaven or earth, and shows God's promise, even in the mother's womb.
Chapter 50	Of how none born on earth can remain hidden nor his work remain concealed, but he (sc. God) bids us be meek, to endure attack and insult, and not to offend widows and orphans.
Chapter 51	Enoch instructs his sons, that they hide not treasures in the earth, but bids them give alms to the poor.
Chapter 52	God instructs his faithful. how they are to praise his name.
Chapter 53	[Let us not say: 'Our father is before God, he will stand forward for us on the day of judgement,' for there father cannot help son, nor yet son father.]
Chapter 54	Enoch instructs his sons, that they should hand the books to others also.
Chapter 55	Here Enoch shows his sons, telling them with tears: 'My children, the hour has approached for me to go up on to heaven; behold, the angels are standing before me.'
Chapter 56	Methosalam asks of his father blessing, that he (sc. Methosalam) may make him (sc. Enoch) food to eat.
Chapter 57	Enoch bade his son Methosalam. to summon all his brethren.
Chapter 58	Enoch's instruction to his sons.
Chapter 59	Enoch instructs his sons wherefore they may not touch beef because of what comes from it.
Chapter 60	He who does injury to soul of man, does injury to his own soul, and there is no cure for his flesh, nor pardon for all time. How it is not fitting to kill man neither by weapon nor by tongue.
Chapter 61	Enoch instructs his sons to keep themselves from injustice and often to stretch forth hands to the poor, to give a share of their labours.
Chapter 62	Of how it is fitting to bring one's gift with faith, because there is no repentance after death.
Chapter 63	Of how not to despise the poor, but to share with them equally, lest thou be murmured against before God.
Chapter 64	Of how the Lord calls up Enoch, and people took counsel to go and kiss him at the place called Achuzan.
Chapter 65	Of Enoch's instruction of his sons.
Chapter 66	Enoch instructs his sons and all the elders of the people, how they are to walk with terror and trembling before the Lord, and serve him alone and not bow down to idols, but to God, who created heaven and earth and. every creature, and to his image.
Chapter 67	The Lord let out darkness on to earth and covered the people and Enoch, and he was taken up on high, and light came again in the heaven.
Chapter 68
	THE PSALMS OF SOLOMON
Chapter 1	They became insolent in their prosperity . . . .
Chapter 2	The desecration of Jerusalem; captivity, murder, and raping. A psalm of utter despair.
Chapter 3	Righteousness versus Sin.
Chapter 4	A conversation of Solomon with the Men-pleasers.
Chapter 5	A statement of the philosophy of the indestructibility of matter. One of the tenets of modern physics.
Chapter 6	A song of hope and fearlessness and peace.
Chapter 7	The fine old doctrine--"Thou art our Shield!"
Chapter 8	Some remarkable similes of war creeping on Jerusalem. A survey of the sins that brought all this trouble.
Chapter 9	The exile of the tribes of Israel. A reference to the covenant which God made with Adam. (See the First Book of Adam and Eve, Chap. III, Verse 7).
Chapter 10	A glorious hymn. Further reference to the eternal covenant between God and Man.
Chapter 11	Jerusalem hears a trumpet and stands on tiptoe to see her children returning from the North, East and West.
Chapter 12	An appeal for family tranquility and peace and quiet at home.
Chapter 13	Of Solomon. A Psalm. Comfort for the righteous.
Chapter 14	Sinners "love the brief day spent in companionship with their sin." Profound wisdom, beautifully expressed.
Chapter 15	The psalmist restates the great philosophy of Right and Wrong.
Chapter 16	The psalmist again expresses profound truth--"For if Thou givest not strength, who can endure chastisement?"
Chapter 17	"They set a worldly monarchy . . . . they lay waste the Throne of David!' A poetic narrative about the utter disintegration of a great nation.
Chapter 18	With this psalm end the warlike Songs of Solomon.
	THE ODES OF SOLOMON.
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3	The first words of this Ode have disappeared.
Chapter 4	This Ode is important because of the historical allusion with which it commences. This may refer to the closing of the temple at Leontopolis in Egypt which would date this writing about 73 A. D.
Chapter 5	This Ode has strangely appeared in a speech by Salome in another ancient work called the Pistis Sophia.
Chapter 6	First century universalism is revealed in an interesting way in verse 10.
Chapter 7	A wonderfully, simple and joyful psalm on the Incarnation.
Chapter 8	Note the sudden transition from the person of the Psalmist to the person of the Lord (v. 10). This is like the canonical Psalter in style.
Chapter 9	We shall never know surely whether the wars referred to here are spiritual or actual outward wars.
Chapter 10	A vigorous little Ode in which Christ Himself is the speaker.
Chapter 11	A beautiful sketch of Paradise regained and the blessedness of those who have returned to the privileges of the fallen Adam.
Chapter 12	An exceptionally high level of spiritual thought.
Chapter 13	A strange little Ode.
Chapter 14	This Ode is as beautiful in style as the canonical Psalter.
Chapter 15	One of the loveliest Odes in this unusual collection.
Chapter 16	The beauty of God's creation.
Chapter 17	A peculiar change of personality, scarcely realized until the return from it in the last verse.
Chapter 18	A man who had a spiritual experience brings a message.
Chapter 19	Fantastic and not in harmony with the other Odes. The reference to a painless Virgin Birth is notable.
Chapter 20	A mixture of ethics and mysticism; of the golden rule and the tree of life.
Chapter 21	A remarkable explanation of the "coats of skin" in the third chapter of Genesis.
Chapter 22	Like the Psalms of David in their exultation because of freedom.
Chapter 23	The reference to the sealed document sent by God is one of the great mysteries of the collection.
Chapter 24	The mention of the Dove refers to a lost Gospel to which there are rare references in ancient writings.
Chapter 25	Back again to personal experience.
Chapter 26	Remarkable praise.
Chapter 27	The human body makes a cross when a man stands erect in prayer with arms outstretched.
Chapter 28	This Ode is a musical gem.
Chapter 29	Again reminiscent of the Psalms, of David.
Chapter 30	An invitation to the thirsty.
Chapter 31	A song that Marcus Aurelius might have known when he said "Be like the promontory against which the waves continually break."
Chapter 32	Joy and light.
Chapter 33	A virgin stands and proclaims (v. 5).
Chapter 34	True poetry--pure and simple.
Chapter 35	"No cradled child more softly lies than I: come soon, eternity."
Chapter 36	Theologians have never agreed on an explanation of this perplexing Ode.
Chapter 37	An elementary Ode.
Chapter 38	A beautiful description of the power of truth.
Chapter 39	One of the few allusions to events in the Gospels--that of our Lord walking on the Sea of Galilee.
Chapter 40	A song of praise without equal.
Chapter 41	We discover that the writer may be a Gentile (v. 8).
Chapter 42	The Odes of Solomon, the Son of David, are ended with the following exquisite verses.
	THE LETTER OF ARISTEAS
Chapter 1	At the time of the Jewish Captivity in Egypt, Ptolemy Philadelphus reveals himself as the first great bibliophile. He desires to have all the books in the world in his library; in order to get the Laws of Moses he offers to trade 100,000 captives for that work exclaiming, "It is a small boon indeed!"
Chapter 2	Showing how the most careful records were kept of affairs of state. Government Red Tape. A committee of six is appointed to go to the High Priest in Jerusalem and arrange for the exchange. Aristeas is put in charge of the delegation.
Chapter 3	In which is described the most exquisite and beautiful table ever produced. Also other rich gifts, Interesting in the light of recent excavations in Egypt.
Chapter 4	Vivid details of the sacrifice. The unerring accuracy of the priests is notable. A savage orgy. A description of the temple and its water-works.
Chapter 5	A description of the city and the countryside. Compare Verse 11 with conditions of today. Verses 89-41 reveal how the ancients estimate a scholar and a gentleman.
Chapter 6	Explanations of the customs of the people showing what is meant by the word, "Unclean." The essence and origin of the "God-Belief." Verses 48-44 give a picturesque description of the Divinity of physiology.
Chapter 7	The arrival of the envoys with the manuscript of the precious book and gifts. Preparations for a royal banquet. The host immediately upon being seated at table entertains his guests with questions and answers. Some sage comments on sociology.
Chapter 8	More questions and answers. Note Verse 20 with its reference to flying through the air written in 150 B. C.
Chapter 9	Verse 8 epitomizes the value of knowledge. Verse 28, parental affection. Note especially the question in Verse 26 and the answer. Also note the question in Verse 47 and the answer. This is sage advice for business men.
Chapter 10	The questions and answers continue. Showing how the army officers ought to be selected. What man is worthy of admiration and other problems of daily life as true today as 2000 years ago. Verses 15-17 are notable for recommending the theatre. Verses 2i-22 describe the wisdom of electing a president or having a king.
Chapter 11	For a comment on ancient stenography, see Verse 7. The translation is submitted for approval and accepted as read, and (Verse 23) a rising vote of approval is taken and unanimously carried.
	FOURTH BOOK OF MACCABEES
Chapter 1	An outline of philosophy from ancient times concerning Inspired Reason. Civilization has never achieved higher thought. A discussion of "Repressions." Verse 48 sums up the whole Philosophy of mankind.
Chapter 2	The ruling of Desire and Anger. The story of David's thirst. Stirring chapters of ancient history. Savage attempts to make the Jews eat swine. Interesting references to an ancient bank (Verse 21.)
Chapter 3	Eleazar, the gentle spirited old man, shows such fortitude that even as we read these words 2000 years later, they seem like an inextinguishable fire.
Chapter 4	This so called "Age of Reason" may in this chapter read that the Philosophy of Reason is 2000 years old. The story of seven sons and their mother.
Chapter 5	A chapter of horror and torture revealing ancient tyranny at its utmost savagery. Verse 26 is profound truth.
Chapter 6	Brotherly bonds and a mother's love.
Chapter 7	A comparison of a mother's and father's affections, in this chapter are some mountain peaks of eloquence.
Chapter 8	The famous "Athletes of Righteousness." Here ends the story of courage called the Fourth Book of Maccabees.
	THE STORY OF AHIKAR
Chapter 1	Ahikar, Grand Vizier of Assyria, has 60 wives but is fated to have no son. Therefore he adopts his nephew. He crams him full of wisdom and knowledge more than of bread and water.
Chapter 2	A "Poor Richard's Almanac" of ancient days. Immortal precepts of human conduct concerning money, women, dress, business, friends. Especially interesting proverbs are found in Verses 12, 17, 23, 37, 45, 47. Compare Verse 63 with some of the cynicism of today.
Chapter 3	Ahikar retires from active participation in affairs of state. He turns over his possessions to his treacherous nephew. Here is the amazing story of how a thankless profligate turns forgerer. A clever plot to entangle Ahikar results in his being condemned to death. Apparently the end of Ahikar.
Chapter 4	"The Riddles of the Sphinx." What really happened to Ahikar. His return.
Chapter 5	The letter of the "riddles" is shown to Ahikar. The boys on the eagles. The first "airplane" ride. Off to Egypt. Ahikar, being a man of wisdom also has a sense of humor. (Verse 27).
Chapter 6	The ruse succeeds. Ahikar answers every question of Pharaoh. The boys on the eagles are the climax of the day. Wit, so rarely found in the ancient Scriptures, is revealed in Verses 34-45.
Chapter 7	The parables of Ahikar in which he completes his nephews education. Striking similes. Ahikar calls the boy picturesque names. Here ends the story of Ahikar.
	The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs
	TESTAMENT OF REUBEN
Chapter 1	Reuben, the first-born son of Jacob and Leah. The man of experience counsels against fornication and points out the ways in. which men are most apt to fall into error.
Chapter 2	Reuben continues with his experiences and his good advice.
	TESTAMENT OF SIMEON
Chapter 1	Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. The strong man. He becomes jealous of Joseph and is an instigator of the plot against Joseph.
Chapter 2	Reuben counsels his hearers against envy.
Chapter 3	A prophecy of the coming of the Messiah.
	TESTAMENT OF LEVI
Chapter 1	Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah. A mystic and dreamer of dreams, a prophet.
Chapter 2	Levi urges piety and education.
Chapter 3	Levi has visions and shows what rewards are in store for the righteous.
Chapter 4	Levi shows how wisdom survives destruction. He has no use for scornful people.
Chapter 5	He prophesies the coming of the Messiah. This was written 100 years before Christ.
	THE TESTAMENT OF JUDAH
Chapter 1	Judah, the fourth son of Jacob and Leah. He is the giant, athlete, warrior; he recounts heroic deeds. He runs so fast that he can outstrip a hind.
Chapter 2	Judah describes some findings, a city with walls of Iron and gates of brass. He has an encounter with an adventuress.
Chapter 3	He counsels against wine and lust as twin evils. "For he who is drunken reverenceth no man." (Verse 13).
Chapter 4	Judah makes a vivid simile concerning tyranny and a dire prophecy concerning the morals of his listeners.
	THE TESTAMENT OF ISSACHAR
Chapter 1	Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. The sinless child of hire for mandrakes. He appeals for simplicity.
Chapter 2
	THE TESTAMENT OF ZEBULUN
Chapter 1	Zebulun, the sixth son of Jacob and Leah. The inventor and philanthropist., What he learned as a result of the plot against Joseph.
Chapter 2	He urges human sympathy and understanding of one's fellow men.
	THE TESTAMENT OF DAN
Chapter 1	The seventh son of Jacob and Bilhah. The jealous one. He counsels against anger saying that "it giveth peculiar vision." This is a notable thesis on anger.
Chapter 2	A prophecy of the sins, captivity, plagues, and ultimate restitution of the nation. They still talk of Eden (See Verse 18). Verse 23 is remarkable in the light of prophecy.
	THE TESTAMENT OF NAPHTALI
Chapter 1	Naphtali, the eighth son of Jacob and Bilhah. The Runner. A lesson in physiology.
Chapter 2	He makes a plea for orderly living. Notable for their eternal wisdom are Verses 27-40.
	THE TESTAMENT OF GAD
Chapter 1	Gad, the ninth son of Jacob and Zilpah. Shepherd and strong man but a murderer at heart. Verse 25 is a notable definition of hatred.
Chapter 2	Gad exhorts his listeners against hatred showing how it has brought him into so much trouble. Verses 8-11 are memorable.
	THE TESTAMENT OF ASHER
Chapter 1	Asher, the tenth son of Jacob and Zilpah. An explanation of dual personality. The first Jekyll and Hyde story. For a statement of the Law of Compensation that Emerson would have enjoyed, see Verse 27.
	THE TESTAMENT OF JOSEPH
Chapter 1	Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob and Rachel, the beautiful and beloved. His struggle against the Egyptian temptress.
Chapter 2	Joseph is the victim of many plots by the wicked ingenuity of the Memphian woman. For an interesting prophetic parable, see Verses 73-74.
	THE TESTAMENT OF BENJAMIN
Chapter 1	Benjamin, the twelfth son of Jacob and Rachel, the baby of the family, turns philosopher and philanthropist.
Chapter 2	Verse 3 contains a striking example of the homeliness--yet vividness of the figures of speech of these ancient patriarchs.