Read three short treatises by Theodore[437] _On Persian Magic and
wherein it differs from Christianity_,[438] dedicated to Mastubius,
an Armenian and suffragan bishop. In the first book the accursed
doctrine of the Persians, introduced by Zarades,[439] concerning
Zuruam,[440] whom he makes the beginning of all things and calls
Fortune, is expounded; how that, having offered a libation to beget
Hormisdas,[441] he begot both him and Satan. Of the mixing of
blood.[442] Having set forth this impious and disgraceful doctrine
in plain words he refutes it in the first book. In the other two
books he discusses the Christian faith, beginning from the creation
of the world and at the same time rapidly going down to the law of
grace.[443]
This Theodore is believed to be Theodore of Mopsuestia, since he
mentions with approval the heresy of Nestorius, especially in the
third book. He also foolishly talks of the restoration of sinners to
their former condition.