Ethiopic Didascalia

Ethiopic Didascalia — Platt English translation page 118

trouble him, and say to him. How is it that thou hast first given to her, when we are much more in need than she is ? They are fooUsh who say thus, thinking it is a gift from man ; whereas the gift of favour cometh from the Lord. Certainly she was in want. It is not lawful that they should, go and trouble him who hath shown mercy ; but rather let them remain in their houses, and fall down upon their faces, and repent, and pray unto the Lord. For the Lord showeth mercy to them that proclaim his goodness ; for our Lord saith. When ye enter into an house, say. Peace be unto this house ! And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it ; and if not, your peace shall return to you again. Now if Peace find not any place prepared for her where she may rest, she remaineth not there, but returneth to him that sent her ; and so the unjust curse shall not come upon him that hath not sinned, but shall return back upon him that hath cursed. For he that curseth another without cause, hath cursed himself, as Solomon saith. XVL That it is not lawful that ye should do evil against your Neighbours. In like manner ye also, as ye have done unto others, so shall ye be recom- pensed. For he saith. He hath digged a pit, and hollowed it out, and he shall fall 118