That we must avoid detraction, and do our
alms-deeds with simplicity.
HE said unto me, Be innocent
and without disguise; so shalt
thou be like an infant who knows
no malice which destroys the
life of man.
2 Especially see that thou speak
evil of none, nor willingly hear
any one speak evil of others.
3 For if thou observest not this,
thou also who hearest shall be
partaker of the sin of him that
speaketh evil, by believing the
slander, and thou also shalt have
sin, because thou believedst him
that spoke evil of thy brother.
4 Detraction is a pernicious
thing; an inconstant, evil spirit;
that never continues in peace, but
is always in discord. Wherefore
refrain thyself from it, and keep
peace ever more with thy brother.
5 Put on an holy constancy,
in which there are no sins, but
all is full of joy; and do good
of thy labours.
6 Give without distinction to
all that are in want, not doubting
to whom thou givest.
7 But give to all, for God will
have us give to all, of all his own
gifts. They therefore that receive
shall give an account to God, both
wherefore they received and for
what end.
8 And they that receive without
real need, shall give an account
for it; but he that gives shall be
innocent.
9 For he has fulfilled his duty
as he received it from God; not
making any choice to whom he
should give, and to whom not.
And this service he did with
simplicity and to the glory
of God.
10 Keep therefore this command
according as I have delivered it
into thee: that thy repentance
nay be found to be sincere, and
that good may come to thy house;
and have a pure heart.