Shepherd of Hermas — Similitude 9 · Chapter 22
Similitude 9.22.1
Greek (Lake printed edition)
Similitude 9.22.1 Those who believed from the fifth mountain, which has green plants and is rugged, are like this: faithful indeed, but slow to learn, self-willed, and pleased with themselves. They wish to know everything, yet know absolutely nothing.
Textual & reception notes
Similitude 9.22.1 — Textual: Green but rugged terrain signifies believers whose self-will and self-satisfaction impede learning despite their desire to know everything. Reception: No section-specific reception verified in the sources checked.
Similitude 9.22.2
Greek (Lake printed edition)
Similitude 9.22.2 Because of this self-will of theirs, understanding departed from them, and senseless folly entered them. They praise themselves as though they had understanding and wish to be self-appointed teachers, though they are foolish.
Textual & reception notes
Similitude 9.22.2 — Textual: Self-appointed teaching arises from folly disguised as understanding; the compound term carries the element of self-authorization. Reception: No section-specific reception verified in the sources checked.
Similitude 9.22.3
Greek (Lake printed edition)
Similitude 9.22.3 Because of this arrogance, therefore, many emptied themselves by exalting themselves. For self-will and empty confidence are a great demon. Many of these, therefore, were rejected, but some repented and believed, and subjected themselves to those who have understanding, recognizing their own folly.
Textual & reception notes
Similitude 9.22.3 — Textual: Self-exaltation paradoxically empties these people. Repentance involves recognizing folly and submitting to those with understanding. Reception: No section-specific reception verified in the sources checked.
Similitude 9.22.4
Greek including Lake’s editorial reconstruction from versions
Similitude 9.22.4 Repentance is also available to the others of this kind, for they did not become wicked, but rather foolish and without understanding. If these repent, therefore, they will live to God. But if they do not repent, they will dwell with the women who do them evil.
Textual & reception notes
Similitude 9.22.4 — Textual: Foolishness is distinguished from wickedness as grounds for continuing opportunity. Lake reconstructs difficult wording; the isolated electronic alpha is not a sentence. Reception: No section-specific reception verified in the sources checked.