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The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles (Didache) - The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles
Chapter I.--The Two Ways; The First Commandment.
1. There are two ways, [2370] one of life and one of death; [2371] but a great difference between the two ways. 2. The way of life, then, is this: First, thou shalt love God [2372] who made thee; second, thy neighbour as thyself; [2373] and all things whatsoever thou wouldst should not occur to thee, thou also to another do not do. [2374] 3. And of these sayings [2375] the teaching is this: Bless them that curse you, and pray for your enemies, and fast for them that persecute you. [2376] For what thank is there, if ye love them that love you? Do not also the Gentiles do the same? [2377] But do ye love them that hate you; and ye shall not have an enemy. [2378] 4. Abstain thou from fleshly and worldly lusts. [2379] If one give thee a blow upon thy right cheek, turn to him the other also; [2380] and thou shalt be perfect. If one impress thee for one mile, go with him two. [2381] If one take away thy cloak, give him also thy coat. [2382] If one take from thee thine own, ask it not back, [2383] for indeed thou art not able. 5. Give to every one that asketh thee, and ask it not back; [2384] for the Father willeth that to all should be given of our own blessings (free gifts). [2385] Happy is he that giveth according to the commandment; for he is guiltless. Woe to him that receiveth; for if one having need receiveth, he is guiltless; but he that receiveth not having need, shall pay the penalty, why he received and for what, and, coming into straits (confinement), [2386] he shall be examined concerning the things which he hath done, and he shall not escape thence until he pay back the last farthing. [2387] 6. But also now concerning this, it hath been said, Let thine alms sweat [2388] in thy hands, until thou know to whom thou shouldst give.