The Didascalia Apostolorum
Overview
The Didascalia Apostolorum—literally “the teaching of the apostles”—is a third-century document expanded from the Didache of the first century AD. Considered by most Church Fathers to be of actual apostolic origin, scholars now believe it is likely of Syrian or Antiochene provenance, compiled by a prominent Syrian bishop. Originally written in Greek, this English version of the Didascalia is translated by Margaret Dunlop Gibson from the early-nineteenth century Syriac edition. It contains Church Orders and instructions for Christian clergy.
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- Presents an English translation of the Didascalia Apostolorum, rendered from the Syriac edition
- Contains ancient Church Orders and instructions for bishops
- Provides insight into early liturgy and Church history
Top Highlights
“The most salient feature of the Didascalia is its exaltation of the authority of the Bishops; yet it is noteworthy that there is no mention of the Bishops of Rome as superior over other Bishops.” (Page vi)
“As passages of it are quoted by St Epiphanius, who lived in the fourth century, we cannot doubt that it is of early date; but whatever the precise period at which it was first promulgated, it evidently came forth clothed with the supposed authority of our Lord’s Apostles.” (Page v)
“nor to approach those foreign customs, 1nor to1 remember the name of an idol, may this be far from believers” (Page 93)
“It is better that he should be and remain without a wife,” (Page 11)
“It would be very good, my brethren, that we should appoint women as Deaconesses” (Page 17)
Margaret Dunlop Gibson (1843–1920) and her twin sister, Agnes Smith Lewis, were born in Scotland, educated in England, and traveled widely in the Middle East. Both sisters became experts in a number of ancient languages, and throughout their lives conducted much important research and translation work. The sisters’ pioneering research and publications earned them an important place in Semitic scholarship.