The Didache, or the Doctrine of the Twelve Apostles, was an early document believed to have originated in Syria. It was written between 65 and 80 CE, though it is often attributed to the second century. Although lost for many centuries, the Didache was rediscovered by Archbishop Bryennios of Nicomedia and published in 1883. Though fragmentary, the work is divisible into two distinct sections: one morally instructional, the other disciplinary. The first portion deals with the new Christian's tasks of conversion, including guidelines for ritual and prayer. Instructions for baptizing converts are also included: baptism is to occur in a lake or river if possible, but otherwise water is to be poured over the head three times. The second portion of the Didache warns against evildoers and their attempts to take advantage of the faithful. The work is perhaps the first text to append a doxology to the Lord's Prayer: "...for thine is the power and the glory unto all ages." In addition, it speaks of the hierarchy of local ministry as a two-tiered system between bishop/presbyter and deacon, thereby providing important evidence about the structure of the primitive Church. Chapter 1 of this document is provided below - as well as a link to the English Translation by Charles H. Hoole.
Chapter 1
1:1 There are two paths, one of life and one of death, and the difference is great between the two paths.
1:2 Now the path of life is this -- first, thou shalt love the God who made thee, thy neighbour as thyself, and all things that thou wouldest not should be done unto thee, do not thou unto another.
1:3 And the doctrine of these maxims is as follows. Bless them that curse you, and pray for your enemies. Fast on behalf of those that persecute you; for what thank is there if ye love them that love you? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? But do ye love them that hate you, and ye will not have an enemy.
1:4 Abstain from fleshly and worldly lusts. If any one give thee a blow on thy right cheek, turn unto him the other also, and thou shalt be perfect; if any one compel thee to go a mile, go with him two; if a man take away thy cloak, give him thy coat also; if a man take from thee what is thine, ask not for it again, for neither art thou able to do so.
1:5 Give to every one that asketh of thee, and ask not again; for the Father wishes that from his own gifts there should be given to all. Blessed is he who giveth according to the commandment, for he is free from guilt; but woe unto him that receiveth. For if a man receive being in need, he shall be free from guilt; but he who receiveth when not in need, shall pay a penalty as to why he received and for what purpose; and when he is in tribulation he shall be examined concerning the things that he has done, and shall not depart thence until he has paid the last farthing.
1:6 For of a truth it has been said on these matters, let thy almsgiving abide in thy hands until thou knowest to whom thou hast given.
To Check Out A Complete Online Version Of The Didache Click Here.
