The Shepherd of Hermas

All the stones, said he, which you saw enter into the building of the tower, given by their hands and remaining in the building, had put on the power of

For this reason you see that the tower has become one solid stone with the rock. So also those who believe on the Lord through his Son, and put on these spirits will become one spirit and one body, and the colour of their raiment will be one. And the dwelling of such as bear the names of the maidens is in the tower,

Why, Sir, said[*](The rejected stones) I, were the rejected stones rejected? For they came in through the gate and were put into the building of the tower by the hands of the maidens. Since, said he, you care for everything, and enquire accurately, listen concerning the rejected stones.

These, said he, all bore the name of the Son of God, and they also received the power of these maidens. By receiving these spirits, then, they were strengthened and were with the servants of God, and they had one spirit and one body, and one raiment, for they had the same mind, and wrought righteousness.

After some time, then, they were made disobedient by the women whom you saw clothed in black raiment, who had their shoulders bare, and their hair loose, and were beautiful. When they saw them they desired them, and put on their power, and put off the clothing and power of the maidens.

They were therefore rejected from the house of God and were handed over to those women. But those who were not deceived by the beauty of these women remained in the house of God. You have here, said he, the explanation of those who were rejected.