The Shepherd of Hermas
Hermas
Hermas. The Apostolic Fathers with an English translation by Kirsopp Lake. In Two Volumes. Vol. II. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann Ltd. 1913
When, therefore, I ceased asking her all these[*](The vision of the seven women) things, she said to me: Would you like to see something else? I was anxious to see it, and rejoiced greatly at the prospect.
She looked at me and smiled and said to me: Do you see seven women round the tower? Yes, I said; I see them. This tower is being supported by them according to the commandment of the Lord.
Hear now their qualities. The first of them who[*](The explanation) is clasping her hands is called Faith. Through her the chosen of God are saved.
The second, who is girded and looks like a man, is called Continence; she is the daughter of Faith. Whosoever then shall follow her becomes blessed in his life, because he will abstain from all evil deeds, believing that if he refrains from every evil lust he will inherit eternal life.
But who are the others. Lady?They are daughters one of the other, and their names are Simplicity, Knowledge, Innocence, Reverence, and Love. When therefore you perform all the deeds of their mother, you can live.