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XII. The Second Conference of Abbot Chæremon. On Chastity. Not translated · XVII. The Second Conference of Abbot Joseph. On Making Promises

Chapter XXVII

Page 901 of 1,144

A question whether the saying: "I have sworn and am purposed" is opposed to the view given above.

Germanus: So far as this consideration is concerned which has been clearly and fully treated of, a monk ought never to determine anything for fear lest he turn out a breaker of his word or else obstinate. And what then can we make of this saying of the Psalmist: "I have sworn and am purposed to keep Thy righteous judgments?"2066 What is "to swear and purpose" except to keep one's determinations fixedly?

Notes

  1. 2066

    (cxix.) 106.

Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Series II, Volume 11, ed. Philip Schaff and Henry Wace (1890–1900). Public domain. Text from the Christian Classics Ethereal Library.