Translator: Richard A. Edwards and Robert A. Wild
Editor: Richard A. Edwards and Robert A. Wild
Publisher: Scholars Press, 1981
Editor: Richard A. Edwards and Robert A. Wild
Publisher: Scholars Press, 1981
This collection of 451 sayings, comprised of a variety of specific forms, was probably compiled in Egypt. It was well-known among Christians, particularly after the fourth century as a result of the Latin translation of Rufinus. Although the author’s identity as Sextus has not finally been demonstrated, it appears certain that the editor, whoever he was, was a Christian.
The Basic outlook of this collection is best summarized by the phrase ‘mild asceticism.’ The Greek and English versions appear on facing pages.
Saying 1: A faithful man is an elect man.
Saying 124: Ask God for whatever you cannot get from man.
Saying 260: Strive to be a public benefactor to humanity.
Saying 451: Do not dare to speak about God to an undisciplined soul.
