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, written by Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, is a theological and ethical treatise that warns Christians against the dangers of "jealousy and envy," vices that are often underestimated yet secretly destroy the soul. The author begins by pointing out that the devil fell through his own jealousy and subsequently brought ruin to humanity. Drawing on biblical examples such as Cain, Esau, and Saul, Cyprian demonstrates that envy is the root of various sins and discord. He warns that this inner vice consumes the soul and represents a walk in darkness, urging believers to maintain humility, love, and the innocence of sheep. He argues that those reborn through baptism must cast away fleshly sins, clothe themselves in the heavenly image of Christ, and practice love even for their enemies. Finally, the author encourages constant meditation, prayer, and good deeds to counter the devil's temptations, exhorting his readers to abandon jealousy and live in love and peace under the gaze of God.