Life of Constantine

Chapter I.—Preface.—Of the Death of Constantine. Already have all mankind united in celebrating with joyous festivities the completion of the second and third decennial period of this great emperor’s reign; already have…

Ch. I–II — Preface.—Of the Death of Constantine. (¶1)

Chapter III.—How God honors Pious Princes, but destroys Tyrants. Having given assurance that those who glorify and honor him will meet with an abundant recompense at his hands, while those who set themselves against him…

Ch. III–IV — How God honors Pious Princes, but destroys Tyrants. (¶2)

Chapter V.—That he reigned above Thirty Years, and lived above Sixty. With respect to the duration of his reign, God honored him with three complete periods of ten years, and something more, extending the whole term of…

Ch. V–VI — That he reigned above Thirty Years, and lived above Sixty. (¶3)

Chapter VII.—Comparison with Cyrus, King of the Persians, and with Alexander of Macedon. Ancient history describes Cyrus, king of the Persians, as by far the most illustrious of all kings up to his time.

Ch. VII–VIII — Comparison with Cyrus, King of the Persians, and with Alexander of Mac (¶4)

Chapter IX.—That he was the Son of a Pious Emperor, and bequeathed the Power to Royal Sons. Nor did he give this testimony in words merely, while exhibiting failure in his own practice, but pursued every path of virtue,…

Ch. IX–X — That he was the Son of a Pious Emperor, and bequeathed the Power to Ro (¶5)

Chapter XI.—That his Present Object is to record only the Pious Actions of Constantine. It is my intention, therefore, to pass over the greater part of the royal deeds of this thrice-blessed prince; as, for example, his…

Ch. XI–XII — That his Present Object is to record only the Pious Actions of Constan (¶6)

Chapter XIII.—Of Constantius his Father, who refused to imitate Diocletian, Maximian, and Maxentius,3078in their Persecution of the Christians. [Alluding probably to Ecclesiastes xi.

Ch. XIII–XIV — Of Constantius his Father, who refused to imitate Diocletian, Maximian (¶7)

Chapter XV.—Of the Persecution raised by his Colleagues. By command of the supreme authorities of the empire, the governors of the several provinces had set on foot a general persecution of the godly.

Ch. XV–XVI — Of the Persecution raised by his Colleagues. (¶8)

Chapter XVII.—Of his Christian Manner of Life. The father of Constantine, then, is said to have possessed such a character as we have briefly described.

Ch. XVII–XVIII — Of his Christian Manner of Life. (¶9)

Chapter XIX.—Of his Son Constantine, who in his Youth accompanied Diocletian into Palestine. The latter had been with his father’s imperial colleagues, and had passed his life among them, as we have said, like God’s…

Ch. XIX–XX — Of his Son Constantine, who in his Youth accompanied Diocletian into P (¶10)

Chapter XXI.—Death of Constantius, who leaves his Son Constantine Emperor. Immediately, therefore, on his escape from the plots which had been thus insidiously laid for him, he made his way with all haste to his father,…

Ch. XXI–XXII — Death of Constantius, who leaves his Son Constantine <span class="lc-f (¶11)

Chapter XXIII.—A Brief Notice of the Destruction of the Tyrants. With respect to the other princes, who made war against the churches of God, I have not thought it fit in the present work to give any account of their…

Ch. XXIII–XXIV — A Brief Notice of the Destruction of the Tyrants. (¶12)

Chapter XXV.—Victories of Constantine over the Barbarians and the Britons. As soon then as he was established on the throne, he began to care for the interests of his paternal inheritance, and visited with much…

Ch. XXV–XXVI — Victories of Constantine over the Barbarians and the Britons. (¶13)

Chapter XXVII.—That after reflecting on the Downfall of those who had worshiped Idols, he made Choice of Christianity. Being convinced, however, that he needed some more powerful aid than his military forces could…

Ch. XXVII–XXVIII — That after reflecting on the Downfall of those who had worshiped Idols (¶14)

Chapter XXIX.—How the Christ of God appeared to him in his Sleep, and commanded him to use in his Wars a Standard made in the Form of the Cross.

Ch. XXIX–XXX — How the Christ of God appeared to him in his Sleep, and commanded him (¶15)

Chapter XXXI.—A Description of the Standard of the Cross, which the Romans now call the Labarum. Now it was made in the following manner.

Ch. XXXI–XXXII — A Description of the Standard of the Cross, which the Romans now call (¶16)

Chapter XXXIII.—Of the Adulterous Conduct of Maxentius at Rome. For he who had tyrannically possessed himself of the imperial city, had proceeded to great lengths in impiety and wickedness, so as to venture without…

Ch. XXXIII–XXXIV — Of the Adulterous Conduct of Maxentius at <span class="lc-fn-term" dat (¶17)

Chapter XXXV.—Massacre of the Roman People by Maxentius. All men, therefore, both people and magistrates, whether of high or low degree, trembled through fear of him whose daring wickedness was such as I have described,…

Ch. XXXV–XXXVI — Massacre of the Roman People by Maxentius. (¶18)

Chapter XXXVII.—Defeat of Maxentius’s Armies in Italy. Constantine, however, filled with compassion on account of all these miseries, began to arm himself with all warlike preparation against the tyranny.

Ch. XXXVII–XXXVIII — Defeat of Maxentius’s Armies in Italy. (¶19)

Chapter XXXIX.—Constantine’s Entry into Rome. Having then at this time sung these and suchlike praises to God, the Ruler of all and the Author of victory, after the example of his great servant Moses, Constantine…

Ch. XXXIX–XL — Constantine’s Entry into Rome. (¶20)

Chapter XLI.—Rejoicings throughout the Provinces; and Constantine’s Acts of Grace. Thus the pious emperor, glorying in the confession of the victorious cross, proclaimed the Son of God to the Romans with great boldness…

Ch. XLI–XLII — Rejoicings throughout the Provinces; and Constantine’s Acts of Grace. (¶21)

Chapter XLIII.—Constantine’s Liberality to the Poor. He likewise distributed money largely to those who were in need, and besides these showing himself philanthropist and benefactor even to the heathen, who had no claim…

Ch. XLIII–XLIV — Constantine’s Liberality to the Poor. (¶22)

Chapter XLV.—His Forbearance with Unreasonable Men. Moreover he endured with patience some who were exasperated against himself, directing them in mild and gentle terms to control themselves, and not be turbulent.

Ch. XLV–XLVI — His Forbearance with Unreasonable Men. (¶23)

Chapter XLVII.—Death of Maximin,3147who had attempted a Conspiracy, and of Others whom Constantine detected by Divine Revelation. While he was thus engaged, the second of those who had resigned the throne, being…

Ch. XLVII–XLVIII — Death of Maximin,3147who had attempted a Conspiracy, and of Others who (¶24)

Chapter XLIX.—How Licinius oppressed the East. For he was informed that in that quarter a certain savage beast was besetting both the church of God and the other inhabitants of the provinces, owing, as it were, to the…

Ch. XLIX–L — How Licinius oppressed the East. (¶25)

Chapter LI.—Intrigues of Licinius against the Bishops, and his Prohibition of Synods. And at first he made secret enquiry respecting the ministers of God subject to his dominion, who had never, indeed, in any respect…

Ch. LI–LII — Intrigues of Licinius against the Bishops, and his Prohibition of Syno (¶26)

Chapter LIII.—Edict that Women should not meet with the Men in the Churches. Accordingly he passed a second law, which enjoined that men should not appear in company with women in the houses of prayer, and forbade women…

Ch. LIII–LIV — Edict that Women should not meet with the Men in the Churches. (¶27)

Chapter LV.—The Lawless Conduct and Covetousness of Licinius. Such were the ordinances of Licinius. But why should I enumerate his innovations respecting marriage, or those concerning the dying, whereby he presumed to…

Ch. LV–LVI — The Lawless Conduct and Covetousness of Licinius. (¶28)

Chapter LVII.—That Maximian,3155brought Low by a Fistulous Ulcer with Worms, issued an Edict in Favor of the Christians. For whereas this man had commenced the attack on the churches, and had been the first to pollute…

Ch. LVII–LVIII — That Maximian,3155brought Low by a Fistulous Ulcer with Worms, issued (¶29)

Chapter LIX.—That Maximin, blinded by Disease, issued an Edict in Favor of the Christians. And still the stroke of God continued heavy upon him, so that his eyes protruded and fell from their sockets, leaving him quite…

Ch. LIX — That Maximin, blinded by Disease, issued an Edict in Favor of the Chri (¶30)

Chapter I.—Secret Persecution by Licinius, who causes Some Bishops to be put to Death at Amasia of Pontus. In this manner, he of whom we have spoken continued to rush headlong towards that destruction which awaits the…

Ch. I–II — Secret Persecution by Licinius, who causes Some Bishops to be put to D (¶1)

Chapter III.—How Constantine was stirred in Behalf of the Christians thus in Danger of Persecution. He, perceiving the evils of which he had heard to be no longer tolerable, took wise counsel, and tempering the natural…

Ch. III–IV — How Constantine was stirred in Behalf of the Christians thus in Danger (¶2)

Chapter V.—What Licinius, while sacrificing in a Grove, said concerning Idols, and concerning Christ. And when he was now ready to engage, he desired the most approved of his body-guard and his most valued friends to…

Ch. V–VI — What Licinius, while sacrificing in a Grove, said concerning Idols, an (¶3)

Chapter VII.—That Victory everywhere followed the Presence of the Standard of the Cross in Battle. The whole passage seems altogether too appropriate to receive ready credence; but it is worth noting here how Eusebius…

Ch. VII–VIII — That Victory everywhere followed the Presence of the Standard of the C (¶4)

Chapter IX.—That One of the Cross-Bearers, who fled from his Post, was slain: while Another, who faithfully stood his Ground, was preserved.

Ch. IX–X — That One of the Cross-Bearers, who fled from his Post, was slain: whil (¶5)

Chapter XI.—Flight, and Magic Arts of Licinius. In these circumstances their commander, finding himself bereft of the aid of his followers, having lost his lately numerous array, both of regular and allied forces,…

Ch. XI–XII — Flight, and Magic Arts of Licinius. (¶6)

Chapter XIII.—His Humane Treatment of Prisoners. Thus the emperor and his army had long been accustomed to act, whenever there was a prospect of an engagement; for his God was ever present to his thoughts, and he…

Ch. XIII–XIV — His Humane Treatment of Prisoners. (¶7)

Chapter XV.—Treacherous Friendship, and Idolatrous Practices of Licinius. And inasmuch as he who had lately fled before him now dissembled his real sentiments, and again petitioned for a renewal of friendship and…

Ch. XV–XVI — Treacherous Friendship, and Idolatrous Practices of Licinius. (¶8)

Chapter XVII.—Constantine’s Victory. But as soon as he perceived that his adversaries persisted in their resolution, and were already drawing their swords, he gave free scope to his indignation, and by a single charge…

Ch. XVII–XVIII — Constantine’s Victory. (¶9)

Chapter XIX.—Rejoicings and Festivities. And now, the impious being thus removed, the sun once more shone brightly after the gloomy cloud of tyrannic power.

Ch. XIX–XX — Rejoicings and Festivities. (¶10)

Chapter XXI.—His Laws concerning Martyrs, and concerning Ecclesiastical Property. Such were the benefits secured by the emperor’s written mandates to the persons of those who had thus suffered for the faith, and his…

Ch. XXI–XXII — His Laws concerning Martyrs, and concerning Ecclesiastical Property. (¶11)

Chapter XXIII.—That he declared God to be the Author of his Prosperity: and concerning his Rescripts. And now that, through the powerful aid of God his Saviour, all nations owned their subjection to the emperor’s…

Ch. XXIII–XXIV — That he declared God to be the Author of his Prosperity: and concernin (¶12)

Chapter XXV.—An Illustration from Ancient Times. “For certainly any one who will mentally retrace the course of events from the earliest period down to the present time, and will reflect on what has occurred in past…

Ch. XXV–XXVI — An Illustration from Ancient Times. (¶13)

Chapter XXVII.—How the Persecution became the Occasion of Calamities to the Aggressors. “From the causes I have described, grievous wars arose, and destructive devastations.

Ch. XXVII–XXVIII — How the Persecution became the Occasion of Calamities to the Aggressor (¶14)

Chapter XXIX.—Constantine’s Expressions of Piety towards God; and Praise of the Confessors. “I said, under the guidance of his hand; for I would desire never to be forgetful of the gratitude due to his grace.

Ch. XXIX–XXX — Constantine’s Expressions of Piety towards God; and Praise of the Conf (¶15)

Chapter XXXI.—Release likewise granted to Exiles in the Islands. “Furthermore, it is our command that all those who have been detained in the islands against their will should receive the benefit of this present…

Ch. XXXI–XXXII — Release likewise granted to Exiles in the Islands. (¶16)

Chapter XXXIII.—Concerning those Confessors engaged in Military Service. “Once more, with respect to those who had previously been preferred to any military distinction, of which they were afterwards deprived, for the…

Ch. XXXIII–XXXIV — Concerning those Confessors engaged in Military Service. (¶17)

Chapter XXXV.—Of the Inheritance of the Property of Martyrs and Confessors, also of those who had suffered Banishment or Confiscation of Property.

Ch. XXXV–XXXVI — Of the Inheritance of the Property of Martyrs and Confessors, also of (¶18)

Chapter XXXVIII.—In what Manner Requests should be made for these. “But it is possible that those who have become masters of such property (if it be right or possible to allow them such a title) will assure us by way of…

Ch. XXXVIII–XXXIX — In what Manner Requests should be made for these. (¶19)

Chapter XL.—The Tombs of Martyrs and the Cemeteries to be transferred to the Possession of the Churches. “Again, with respect to those places which are honored in being the depositories of the remains of martyrs, and…

Ch. XL–XLI — The Tombs of Martyrs and the Cemeteries to be transferred to the Posse (¶20)

Chapter XLII.—An Earnest Exhortation to worship God. “And now, since it appears by the clearest and most convincing evidence, that the miseries which erewhile oppressed the entire human race are now banished from every…

Ch. XLII–XLIII — An Earnest Exhortation to worship God. (¶21)

Chapter XLIV.—That he promoted Christians to Offices of Government, and forbade Gentiles in Such Stations to offer Sacrifice. After this the emperor continued to address himself to matters of high importance, and first…

Ch. XLIV–XLV — That he promoted Christians to Offices of Government, and forbade Gent (¶22)

Chapter XLVI.—Constantine’s Letter to Eusebius and Other Bishops, respecting the Building of Churches, with Instructions to repair the Old, and erect New Ones on a Larger Scale, with the Aid of the Provincial Governors.

Ch. XLVI–XLVII — Constantine’s Letter to Eusebius and Other Bishops, respecting the Bui (¶23)

Chapter XLVIII.—Constantine’s Edict to the People of the Provinces concerning the Error of Polytheism, commencing with Some General Remarks on Virtue and Vice.

Ch. XLVIII–XLIX — Constantine’s Edict to the People of the Provinces concerning the Erro (¶24)

Chapter L.—That the Persecution originated on Account of the Oracle of Apollo, who, it was said, could not give Oracles because of “the Righteous Men.” “About that time it is said that Apollo spoke from a deep and…

Ch. L–LI — That the Persecution originated on Account of the Oracle of Apollo, wh (¶25)

Chapter LII.—The Manifold Forms of Torture and Punishment practiced against the Christians. “Then, indeed, one might see with what arrogance those venerable worshipers of God were daily exposed, with continued and…

Ch. LII–LIII — The Manifold Forms of Torture and Punishment practiced against the Chr (¶26)

Chapter LIV.—What Vengeance overtook those who on Account of the Oracle raised the Persecution. “But why need I longer dwell on these lamentable events, and the general sorrow which in consequence pervaded the world?

Ch. LIV–LV — What Vengeance overtook those who on Account of the Oracle raised the (¶27)

Chapter LVI.—He prays that All may be Christians, but compels None. “My own desire is, for the common good of the world and the advantage of all mankind, that thy people should enjoy a life of peace and undisturbed…

Ch. LVI–LVII — He prays that All may be Christians, but compels None. (¶28)

Chapter LVIII.—He glorifies him again for his Government of the Universe. The truth of this is assured to us by thy works. It is thy power which removes our guilt, and makes us faithful.

Ch. LVIII–LIX — He glorifies him again for his Government of the Universe. (¶29)

Chapter LX.—An Admonition at the Close of the Edict, that No One should trouble his Neighbor. Probably meaning rains. [Constantine seems here to allude to the Gentile deities as powers of evil, capable, if unrestrained…

Ch. LX–LXI — An Admonition at the Close of the Edict, that No One should trouble hi (¶30)

Chapter LXII.—Concerning the Same Arius, and the Melitians. Some thus at Alexandria maintained an obstinate conflict on the highest questions.

Ch. LXII–LXIII — Concerning the Same Arius, and the <span class="lc-fn-term" data-fn="[ (¶31)

Chapter LXIV.—Constantine’s Letter to Alexander the Bishop, and Arius the Presbyter. “Victor Constantinus, Maximus Augustus, to Alexander and Arius.

Ch. LXIV–LXV — Constantine’s Letter to Alexander the Bishop, and Arius the Presbyter. (¶32)

Chapter LXVI.—That he also adjusted the Controversies which had arisen in Africa. “Finding, then, that the whole of Africa was pervaded by an intolerable spirit of mad folly, through the influence of those who with…

Ch. LXVI–LXVII — That he also adjusted the Controversies which had arisen in Africa. (¶33)

Chapter LXVIII.—Being grieved by the Dissension, he counsels Peace. “But, O glorious Providence of God! how deep a wound did not my ears only, but my very heart receive in the report that divisions existed among…

Ch. LXVIII–LXIX — Being grieved by the Dissension, he counsels Peace. (¶34)

Chapter LXX.—An Exhortation to Unanimity. “Let therefore both the unguarded question and the inconsiderate answer receive your mutual forgiveness.

Ch. LXX–LXXI — An Exhortation to Unanimity. (¶35)

Chapter LXXII.—The Excess of his Pious Concern caused him to shed Tears; and his Intended Journey to the East was postponed because of These Things.

Ch. LXXII–LXXIII — The Excess of his Pious Concern caused him to shed Tears; and his Inte (¶36)

Chapter I.—A Comparison of Constantine’s Piety with the Wickedness of the Persecutors. In this manner that spirit who is the hater of good, actuated by envy at the blessing enjoyed by the Church, continued to raise…

Ch. I–II — A Comparison of Constantine’s Piety with the Wickedness of the Persecu (¶1)

Chapter III.—Of his Picture surmounted by a Cross and having beneath it a Dragon. And besides this, he caused to be painted on a lofty tablet, and set up in the front of the portico of his palace, so as to be visible to…

Ch. III–IV — Of his Picture surmounted by a Cross and having beneath it a Dragon. (¶2)

Chapter V.—Of the Disagreement respecting the Celebration of Easter. Especially the book of Revelation, and Isaiah as quoted below. [Literally, by encaustic painting. See Bk. 1, ch. 3, note.—Bag.] Isa. xxvii. 1.

Ch. V–VI — Of the Disagreement respecting the Celebration of Easter. (¶3)

Chapter VII.—Of the General Council, at which Bishops from all Nations were Present. In effect, the most distinguished of God’s ministers from all the churches which abounded in Europe, Lybia, and Asia were here…

Ch. VII–VIII — Of the General Council, at which Bishops from all Nations were <span c (¶4)

Chapter IX.—Of the Virtue and Age of the Two Hundred and Fifty Bishops. Of these ministers of God, some were distinguished by wisdom and eloquence, others by the gravity of their lives, and by patient fortitude of…

Ch. IX–X — Of the Virtue and Age of the Two Hundred and Fifty Bishops. (¶5)

Chapter XI.—Silence of the Council, after Some Words by the Bishop Eusebius. The bishop who occupied the chief place in the right division of the assembly then rose, and, addressing the emperor, delivered a concise…

Ch. XI–XII — Silence of the Council, after Some Words by the Bishop Eusebius. (¶6)

Chapter XIII.—How he led the Dissentient Bishops to Harmony of Sentiment. As soon as the emperor had spoken these words in the Latin tongue, which another interpreted, he gave permission to those who presided in the…

Ch. XIII–XIV — How he led the Dissentient Bishops to Harmony of Sentiment. (¶7)

Chapter XV.—How Constantine entertained the Bishops on the Occasion of His Vicennalia. About this time he completed the twentieth year of his reign.

Ch. XV–XVI — How Constantine entertained the Bishops on the Occasion of His Vicenna (¶8)

Chapter XVII.—Constantine’s Letter to the Churches respecting the Council at Nicæa. “Constantinus Augustus, to the Churches. “Having had full proof, in the general prosperity of the empire, how great the favor of God…

Ch. XVII–XVIII — Constantine’s Letter to the Churches respecting the Council at Nicæa. (¶9)

Chapter XIX.—Exhortation to follow the Example of the Greater Part of the World. “Since, therefore, it was needful that this matter should be rectified, so that we might have nothing in common with that nation of…

Ch. XIX–XX — Exhortation to follow the Example of the Greater Part of the World. (¶10)

Chapter XXI.—Recommendation to the Bishops, on their Departure, to Preserve Harmony. And now, when the council was on the point of being finally dissolved, he summoned all the bishops to meet him on an appointed day,…

Ch. XXI–XXII — Recommendation to the Bishops, on their Departure, to Preserve Harmony (¶11)

Chapter XXIII.—How he wrote to the Egyptians, exhorting them to Peace. Or “such were the injunctions which the emperor laid especially on their consciences.” And now, when all else were at peace, among the Egyptians…

Ch. XXIII–XXIV — How he wrote to the Egyptians, exhorting them to Peace. (¶12)

Chapter XXV.—How he ordered the Erection of a Church at Jerusalem, in the Holy Place of our Saviour’s Resurrection. After these things, the pious emperor addressed himself to another work truly worthy of record, in the…

Ch. XXV–XXVI — How he ordered the Erection of a Church at Jerusalem, in the Holy Plac (¶13)

Chapter XXVII.—How Constantine commanded the Materials of the Idol Temple, and the Soil itself, to be removed at a Distance. Nor did the emperor’s zeal stop here; but he gave further orders that the materials of what…

Ch. XXVII–XXVIII — How Constantine commanded the Materials of the Idol Temple, and the So (¶14)

Chapter XXIX.—How he wrote concerning the Erection of a Church, both to the Governors of the Provinces, and to the Bishop Macarius. Immediately after the transactions I have recorded, the emperor sent forth injunctions…

Ch. XXIX–XXX — How he wrote concerning the Erection of a Church, both to the Governor (¶15)

Chapter XXXI.—That the Building should surpass all the Churches in the World in the Beauty of its Walls, its Columns, and Marbles. “It will be well, therefore, for your sagacity to make such arrangements and provision…

Ch. XXXI–XXXII — That the Building should surpass all the Churches in the World in the (¶16)

Chapter XXXIII.—How the Church of our Saviour, the New Jerusalem prophesied of in Scripture, was built. This was the emperor’s letter; and his directions were at once carried into effect.

Ch. XXXIII–XXXIV — How the Church of our Saviour, the New Jerusalem prophesied of in Scri (¶17)

Chapter XXXV.—Description of the Atrium and Porticos. The next object of his attention was a space of ground of great extent, and open to the pure air of heaven.

Ch. XXXV–XXXVI — Description of the Atrium and Porticos. (¶18)

Chapter XXXVII.—Description of the Double Porticos on Either Side, and of the Three Eastern Gates. Besides this were two porticos on each side, with upper and lower ranges of pillars, corresponding in length with the…

Ch. XXXVII–XXXVIII — Description of the Double Porticos on Either Side, and of the Three Ea (¶19)

Chapter XXXIX.—Description of the Inner Court, the Arcades and Porches. It would seem from this description that the paneling was like that of Santa Maria Maggiore at Rome, a horizontal surface rather than the pointed…

Ch. XXXIX–XL — Description of the Inner Court, the Arcades and Porches. (¶20)

Chapter XLI.—Of the Erection of Churches in Bethlehem, and on the Mount of Olives. In the same country he discovered other places, venerable as being the localities of two sacred caves: and these also he adorned with…

Ch. XLI–XLII — Of the Erection of Churches in Bethlehem, and on the Mount of Olives. (¶21)

Chapter XLIII.—A Farther Notice of the Churches at Bethlehem. For without delay she dedicated two churches to the God whom she adored, one at the grotto which had been the scene of the Saviour’s birth; the other on the…

Ch. XLIII–XLIV — A Farther Notice of the Churches at Bethlehem. (¶22)

Chapter XLV.—Helena’s Pious Conduct in the Churches. While, however, her character derived luster from such deeds as I have described, she was far from neglecting personal piety toward God.

Ch. XLV–XLVI — Helena’s Pious Conduct in the Churches. (¶23)

Chapter XLVII.—How Constantine buried his Mother, and how he honored her during her Life. Her body, too, was honored with special tokens of respect, being escorted on its way to the imperial city by a vast train of…

Ch. XLVII–XLVIII — How Constantine buried his Mother, and how he honored her during her L (¶24)

Chapter XLIX.—Representation of the Cross in the Palace, and of Daniel at the Public Fountains. On the other hand one might see the fountains in the midst of the market place graced with figures representing the good…

Ch. XLIX–L — Representation of the Cross in the Palace, and of Daniel at the Public (¶25)

Chapter LI.—That he ordered a Church to be built at Mambre. Such was the principal sacred edifices erected by the emperor’s command. But having heard that the self-same Saviour who erewhile had appeared on earth had in…

Ch. LI–LII — That he ordered a Church to be built at Mambre. (¶26)

Chapter LIII.—That the Saviour appeared in this Place to Abraham. “She assures me, then, that the place which takes its name from the oak of Mambre, where we find that Abraham dwelt, is defiled by certain of the slaves…

Ch. LIII–LIV — That the Saviour appeared in this Place to Abraham. (¶27)

Chapter LV.—Overthrow of an Idol Temple, and Abolition of Licentious Practices, at Aphaca in Phœnicia. The emperor’s next care was to kindle, as it were, a brilliant torch, by the light of which he directed his imperial…

Ch. LV–LVI — Overthrow of an Idol Temple, and Abolition of Licentious Practices, at (¶28)

Chapter LVII.—How the Gentiles abandoned Idol Worship, and turned to the Knowledge of God. Hence it was that, of those who had been the slaves of superstition, when they saw with their own eyes the exposure of their…

Ch. LVII–LVIII — How the Gentiles abandoned Idol Worship, and turned to the Knowledge o (¶29)

Chapter LIX.—Of the Disturbance at Antioch by Eustathius. In the midst, however, of the general happiness occasioned by these events, and while the Church of God was every where and every way flourishing throughout the…

Ch. LIX–LX — Of the Disturbance at Antioch by Eustathius. (¶30)

Chapter LXI.—The Emperor’s Letter to Eusebius praising him for refusing the Bishopric of Antioch. The Emperor’s Letter to me on my refusing the Bishopric of Antioch. “Victor Constantinus, Maximus Augustus, to Eusebius.

Ch. LXI–LXII — The Emperor’s Letter to Eusebius praising him for refusing the Bishopr (¶31)

Chapter LXIII.—How he displayed his Zeal for the Extirpation of Heresies. Such were the exhortations to do all things to the honor of the divine religion which the emperor addressed to the rulers of the churches.

Ch. LXIII–LXIV — How he displayed his Zeal for the Extirpation of Heresies. (¶32)

Chapter LXV.—The Heretics are deprived of their Meeting Places. “Forasmuch, then, as it is no longer possible to bear with your pernicious errors, we give warning by this present statute that none of you henceforth…

Ch. LXV–LXVI — The Heretics are deprived of their Meeting Places. (¶33)

Chapter I.—How he honored Many by Presents and Promotions. While thus variously engaged in promoting the extension and glory of the church of God, and striving by every measure to commend the Saviour’s doctrine, the…

Ch. I–II — How he honored Many by Presents and Promotions. (¶1)

Chapter III.—Equalization of the More Oppressive Taxes. And whereas some persons found fault with the surveys of land which had been made under former emperors, and complained that their property was unduly burdened;…

Ch. III–IV — Equalization of the More Oppressive Taxes. (¶2)

Chapter V.—Conquest of the Scythians defeated through the Sign of Our Saviour. And why should I relate even briefly and incidentally, how he subjected barbarous nations to the Roman power; how he was the first who…

Ch. V–VI — Conquest of the Scythians defeated through the Sign of Our Saviour. (¶3)

Chapter VII.—Ambassadors from Different Barbarous Nations receive Presents from the Emperor. Indeed, ambassadors were continually arriving from all nations, bringing for his acceptance their most precious gifts.

Ch. VII–VIII — Ambassadors from Different Barbarous Nations receive Presents from the (¶4)

Chapter IX.—Letter of Constantine Augustus to Sapor, King of the Persians, containing a truly Pious Confession of God and Christ. Copy of his Letter to the King of Persia.

Ch. IX–X — Letter of Constantine Augustus to Sapor, King of the Persians, contain (¶5)

Chapter XI.—Against the Tyrants and Persecutors; and on the Captivity of Valerian. [Referring to the luminous appearances produced by the Pagan priests in the celebration of their mysteries.—Bag.] “I cannot, then, my…

Ch. XI–XII — Against the Tyrants and Persecutors; and on the Captivity of Valerian. (¶6)

Chapter XIII.—He bespeaks his Affectionate Interest for the Christians in his Country. “Imagine, then, with what joy I heard tidings so accordant with my desire, that the fairest districts of Persia are filled with…

Ch. XIII–XIV — He bespeaks his Affectionate Interest for the Christians in his Countr (¶7)

Chapter XV.—He causes himself to be represented on his Coins, and in his Portraits, in the Attitude of Prayer. How deeply his soul was impressed by the power of divine faith may be understood from the circumstance that…

Ch. XV–XVI — He causes himself to be represented on his Coins, and in his Portraits (¶8)

Chapter XVII.—Of his Prayers in the Palace, and his Reading the Holy Scriptures. Still nobler proofs of his piety might be discerned by those who marked how he modeled as it were his very palace into a church of God,…

Ch. XVII–XVIII — Of his Prayers in the Palace, and his Reading the Holy Scriptures. (¶9)

Chapter XIX.—That he directed even his Pagan Soldiers to pray on the Lord’s Day. With regard to those who were as yet ignorant of divine truth, he provided by a second statute that they should appear on each Lord’s day…

Ch. XIX–XX — That he directed even his Pagan Soldiers to pray on the Lord’s Day. (¶10)

Chapter XXI.—He orders the Sign of the Saviour’s Cross to be engraven on his Soldiers’ Shields. And not only so, but he also caused the sign of the salutary trophy to be impressed on the very shields of his soldiers;…

Ch. XXI–XXII — He orders the Sign of the Saviour’s Cross to be engraven on his Soldie (¶11)

Chapter XXIII.—How he forbade Idolatrous Worship, but honored Martyrs and the Church Festivals. Such were his sacred ministrations in the service of his God.

Ch. XXIII–XXIV — How he forbade Idolatrous Worship, but honored Martyrs and the Church (¶12)

Chapter XXV.—Prohibition of Sacrifices, of Mystic Rites, Combats of Gladiators, also the Licentious Worship of the Nile. Consistently with this zeal he issued successive laws and ordinances, forbidding any to offer…

Ch. XXV–XXVI — Prohibition of Sacrifices, of Mystic Rites, Combats of Gladiators, als (¶13)

Chapter XXVII.—Among Other Enactments, he decrees that no Christian shall slave to a Jew, and affirms the Validity of the Decisions of Councils.

Ch. XXVII–XXVIII — Among Other Enactments, he decrees that no Christian shall slave to a (¶14)

Chapter XXIX.—Of Constantine’s Discourses and Declamations. For himself, he sometimes passed sleepless nights in furnishing his mind with Divine knowledge: and much of his time was spent in composing discourses, many of…

Ch. XXIX–XXX — Of Constantine’s Discourses and <span class="lc-fn-term" data-fn="Comp (¶15)

Chapter XXXI.—That he was derided because of his Excessive Clemency. Meantime, since there was no fear of capital punishment to deter from the commission of crime, for the emperor himself was uniformly inclined to…

Ch. XXXI–XXXII — That he was derided because of his Excessive <span class="lc-fn-term" (¶16)

Chapter XXXIII.—How he listened standing to Eusebius’ Declamation in Honor of our Saviour’s Sepulchre. One act, however, I must by no means omit to record, which this admirable prince performed in my own presence.

Ch. XXXIII–XXXIV — How he listened standing to Eusebius’ Declamation in Honor of our Savi (¶17)

Chapter XXXV.—Constantine’s Letter to Eusebius, in praise of his Discourse concerning Easter. “Victor Constantinus, Maximus Augustus, to Eusebius.

Ch. XXXV–XXXVI — Constantine’s Letter to Eusebius, in praise of his Discourse concernin (¶18)

Chapter XXXVII.—How the Copies were provided. Such were the emperor’s commands, which were followed by the immediate execution of the work itself, which we sent him in magnificent and elaborately bound volumes of a…

Ch. XXXVII–XXXVIII — How the Copies were provided. (¶19)

Chapter XXXIX.—That a Place in Phœnicia also was made a City, and in Other Cities Idolatry was abolished, and Churches built. A similar change was effected in several other cities; for instance, in that town of Phœnicia…

Ch. XXXIX–XL — That a Place in Phœnicia also was made a City, and in Other Cities Ido (¶20)

Chapter XLI.—That in the meantime he ordered a Council to be convened at Tyre, because of Controversies raised in Egypt. Meanwhile that spirit of envy which is the enemy of all good, like a dark cloud intercepting the…

Ch. XLI–XLII — That in the meantime he ordered a Council to be convened at Tyre, beca (¶21)

Chapter XLIII.—Bishops from all the Provinces attended the Dedication of the Church at Jerusalem. No sooner had these injunctions been carried into effect, than another emissary arrived with despatches from the emperor,…

Ch. XLIII–XLIV — Bishops from all the Provinces attended the Dedication of the Church a (¶22)

Chapter XLV.—Various Discourses by the Assembled Bishops; also by Eusebius, the Writer of this History. Compare Hefele, 2. 26–7. [Alexander, bishop of Thessalonica.

Ch. XLV–XLVI — Various Discourses by the Assembled Bishops; also by Eusebius, the Wri (¶23)

Chapter XLVII.—That the Council at Nicæa was held in the Twentieth, the Dedication of the Church at Jerusalem in the Thirtieth, Year of Constantine’s Reign.

Ch. XLVII–XLVIII — That the Council at Nicæa was held in the Twentieth, the Dedication of (¶24)

Chapter XLIX.—Marriage of his Son Constantius Cæsar. On the completion of the thirtieth year of his reign he solemnized the marriage of his second son, having concluded that of his first-born long before.

Ch. XLIX–L — Marriage of his Son Constantius Cæsar. (¶25)

Chapter LI.—That Constantine divided the Empire between his Three Sons, whom he had instructed in Politics and Religion. Having thus established his power in the opposite extremities of the world, he divided the whole…

Ch. LI–LII — That Constantine divided the Empire between his Three Sons, whom he ha (¶26)

Chapter LIII.—Having reigned about Thirty-Two Years, and lived above Sixty, he still had a Sound Body. He completed the time of his reign in two and thirty years, wanting a few months and days, and his whole life…

Ch. LIII–LIV — Having reigned about Thirty-Two Years, and lived above Sixty, he still (¶27)

Chapter LV.—Constantine employed himself in Composition of Various Kinds to the Close of his Life. [In his Chronicon, Eusebius gives the more correct period of thirty years and ten months. Constantine’s reign began a.d.

Ch. LV–LVI — Constantine employed himself in Composition of Various Kinds to the Cl (¶28)

Chapter LVII.—How he received an Embassy from the Persians and kept the Night Vigil with others at the Feast of Easter. Compare remarks in Prolegomena, under Writings and Character.

Ch. LVII–LVIII — How he received an Embassy from the Persians and kept the Night Vigil (¶29)

Chapter LIX.—Farther Description of the same Church. Such was the magnificence with which the emperor was pleased to beautify this church.

Ch. LIX–LX — Farther Description of the same Church. (¶30)

Chapter LXI.—His Sickness at Helenopolis, and Prayers respecting his Baptism. At first he experienced some slight bodily indisposition, which was soon followed by positive disease.

Ch. LXI–LXII — His Sickness at Helenopolis, and Prayers respecting his Baptism. (¶31)

Chapter LXIII.—How after his Baptism he rendered Thanks to God. He then lifted his voice and poured forth a strain of thanksgiving to God; after which he added these words.

Ch. LXIII–LXIV — How after his Baptism he rendered Thanks to God. (¶32)

Chapter LXV.—Lamentations of the Soldiery and their Officers. Immediately the assembled spearmen and body-guard rent their garments, and prostrated themselves on the ground, striking their heads, and uttering…

Ch. LXV–LXVI — Lamentations of the Soldiery and their Officers. (¶33)

Chapter LXVII.—He received the same Honors from the Counts and other Officers as before his Death. The military officers, too, of the highest rank, the counts, and the whole order of magistrates, who had been accustomed…

Ch. LXVII–LXVIII — He received the same Honors from the Counts and other Officers as befo (¶34)

Chapter LXIX.—Mourning for Constantine at Rome; and the Honor paid him there through Paintings after his Death. On the arrival of the news of the emperor’s death in the imperial city, the Roman senate and people felt…

Ch. LXIX–LXX — Mourning for Constantine at Rome; and the Honor paid him there through (¶35)

Chapter LXXI.—Sacred Service in the Church of the Apostles on the Occasion of Constantine’s Funeral. As soon as [Constantius] had withdrawn himself with the military train, the ministers of God came forward, with the…

Ch. LXXI–LXXII — Sacred Service in the Church of the Apostles on the Occasion of Consta (¶36)

Chapter LXXIII.—How Constantine is represented on Coins in the Act of ascending to Heaven. A coinage was also struck which bore the following device.

Ch. LXXIII–LXXIV — How Constantine is represented on Coins in the Act of ascending to Hea (¶37)

Chapter LXXV.—He surpassed all Preceding Emperors in Devotion to God. Standing, as he did, alone and pre-eminent among the Roman emperors as a worshiper of God; alone as the bold proclaimer to all men of the doctrine of…

Ch. LXXV–I — He surpassed all Preceding Emperors in Devotion to God. (¶38)

Chapter II.—An Appeal to the Church and to his Hearers to pardon and correct the Errors of His Speech. Hear then, thou master of the ship, possessor of virgin purity, and thou Church, the cherisher of tender and…

Ch. II–III — An Appeal to the Church and to his Hearers to pardon and correct the E (¶39)

Chapter IV.—On the Error of Idolatrous Worship. Whatever has had a beginning, has also an end. Now that which is a beginning in respect of time, is called a generation: and whatever is by generation is subject to…

Ch. IV–V — On the Error of Idolatrous Worship. (¶40)

Chapter VI.—The Falsity of the General Opinion respecting Fate3389is proved by the Consideration of Human Laws, and by the Works of Creation, the Course of which is not Fortuitous, but according to an Orderly…

Ch. VI–VII — The Falsity of the General Opinion respecting Fate3389is proved by the (¶41)

Chapter VIII.—That God bestows an Abundant Supply of whatever is suited to the Wants of Man, and ministers but sparingly to his Pleasures; in Both Cases with a View to his Advantage.

Ch. VIII–IX — That God bestows an Abundant Supply of whatever is suited to the Wants (¶42)

Chapter X.—Of those who reject the Doctrines of Philosophers, as well as those of Scripture: and that we ought to believe the Poets in All Things, or disbelieve them in All.

Ch. X–XI — Of those who reject the Doctrines of Philosophers, as well as those of (¶43)

Chapter XII.—Of those who are Ignorant of this Mystery; and that their Ignorance is Voluntary. The Blessings which await those who know it, especially such as die in the Confession of the Faith.

Ch. XII–XIII — Of those who are Ignorant of this Mystery; and that their Ignorance is (¶44)

Chapter XIV.—That Created Nature differs infinitely from Uncreated Being; to which Man makes the Nearest Approach by a Life of Virtue.

Ch. XIV–XV — That Created Nature differs infinitely from Uncreated Being; to which (¶45)

Chapter XVI.—The Coming of Christ was predicted by the Prophets; and was ordained to be the Overthrow of Idols and Idolatrous Cities. Long since had his passion, as well as his advent in the flesh, been predicted by the…

Ch. XVI–XVII — The Coming of Christ was predicted by the Prophets; and was ordained t (¶46)

Chapter XVIII.—Of the Erythræan Sibyl, who pointed in a Prophetic Acrostic at our Lord and his Passion. The Acrostic is “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour, Cross.” My desire, however, is to derive even from foreign…

Ch. XVIII–XIX — Of the Erythræan Sibyl, who pointed in a Prophetic Acrostic at our Lor (¶47)

Chapter XX.—A Farther Quotation from Virgilius Maro respecting Christ, with its Interpretation, showing that the Mystery was indicated therein darkly, as might be expected from a Poet.

Ch. XX–XXI — A Farther Quotation from Virgilius Maro respecting Christ, with its In (¶48)

Chapter XXII.—The Emperor thankfully ascribes his Victories and all other Blessings to Christ; and condemns the Conduct of the Tyrant Maximin, the Violence of whose Persecution had enhanced the Glory of Religion.

Ch. XXII–XXIII — The Emperor thankfully ascribes his Victories and all other Blessings (¶49)

Chapter XXIV.—Of Decius, Valerian, and Aurelian, who experienced a Miserable End in consequence of their Persecution of the Church. To thee, Decius, I now appeal, who has trampled with insult on the labors of the…

Ch. XXIV–XXV — Of Decius, Valerian, and Aurelian, who experienced a Miserable End in (¶50)

Chapter XXVI.—The Emperor ascribes his Personal Piety to God; and shows that we are bound to seek Success from God, and attribute it to him; but to consider Mistakes as the Result of our own Negligence.

Ch. XXVI–I — The Emperor ascribes his Personal Piety to God; and shows that we are (¶51)