Source edition
Cyprian. Saint. S. Thasci Caecili Cypriani Opera omnia, Pars I (Corpus Scriptorum Ecclesiasticorum Latinorum, Volume 3.1). Hartel, Wilhelm von, editor. Vienna: Gerold, 1868.
Source data
Open Greek and Latin · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is a moral and religious exhortation written by Cyprian to the virgins of the Church, who are esteemed as dedicated to Christ. The author begins by emphasizing the vital role of discipline (disciplina) in the Christian life, urging virgins to preserve both their bodies and spirits as holy temples. He proceeds to argue against the vanity of earthly wealth and luxurious attire, asserting that material riches should be used for charity rather than self-indulgence. Furthermore, he strictly warns against cosmetics and bodily alterations as offenses against God's creation, while forbidding attendance at worldly weddings and mixed baths which compromise purity. Ultimately, Cyprian encourages the virgins to overcome worldly desires and live on par with the angels, calling on them to serve as mutual examples for one another as they strive for their heavenly reward.