Shepherd of Hermas — Vision 3 · Chapter 12
Vision 3.12.1
Greek
Vision 3.12.1 “In the second vision you saw her standing, with a younger face and more cheerful than before, but with an elderly woman's flesh and hair. Hear this parable too,” he said.
Textual & reception notes
Vision 3.12.1 — Textual: Standing and a younger, happier face signal partial renewal, while aged flesh and hair remain visible in the second form. Reception: No section-specific reception verified in the sources checked.
Vision 3.12.2
Greek
Vision 3.12.2 “When an elderly person has already despaired of himself because of his weakness and poverty, he expects nothing but the last day of his life. Then suddenly an inheritance is left to him. On hearing it, he rises, becomes overjoyed, and clothes himself with strength. He no longer reclines but stands; his spirit, already ruined by his former circumstances, is renewed. He no longer sits, but takes courage. So also you, when you heard the revelation which the Lord revealed to you,
Textual & reception notes
Vision 3.12.2 — Textual: An unexpected inheritance restores hope to an impoverished elder. This comparison continues across the section boundary into the community's renewal. Reception: No section-specific reception verified in the sources checked.
Vision 3.12.3
Greek
Vision 3.12.3 “because He had compassion on you, He renewed your spirits. You laid aside your weaknesses, strength came to you, and you were empowered in faith. The Lord saw your strengthening and rejoiced. For this reason He showed you the building of the tower, and He will show other things, if with your whole heart you are at peace among yourselves.
Textual & reception notes
Vision 3.12.3 — Textual: The Lord rejoices at renewed strength in faith. Further disclosure remains conditional on wholehearted mutual peace. Reception: No section-specific reception verified in the sources checked.