Ignatius of Antioch, Theophorus: EPISTLE TO TRALLIANS Complete

Translated by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson (Shorter and Longer Versions)

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Page 4

Chapter IV. — I have need of humility.

I have great knowledge in God, [745] but I restrain myself, lest, I should perish through boasting. For now it is needful for me to be the more fearful; and not give heed to those that puff me up. For they that speak to me [in the way of commendation] scourge me. For I do indeed desire to suffer, but I know not if I be worthy to do so. For this longing, though it is not manifest to many, all the more vehemently assails me. [746] I therefore have need of meekness, by which the prince of this world is brought to nought.

But I measure myself, that I may not perish through boasting: but it is good to glory in the Lord. [747] And even though I were established [748] in things pertaining to God, yet then would it befit me to be the more fearful, and not give heed to those that vainly puff me up. For those that commend me scourge me. [I do indeed desire to suffer [749] ], but I know not if I be worthy to do so. For the envy of the wicked one is not visible to many, but it wars against me. I therefore have need of meekness, by which the devil, the prince of this world, is brought to nought.


[745] Literally, "I know many things in God."

[746] A different turn altogether is given to this passage in the longer recension.

[747] 1 Cor. i. 31.

[748] Or, "confirmed."

[749] Omitted in the ms.

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