An essential volume for understanding the ancient Shepherd of Hermas text.

A notoriously puzzling text, the Shepherd of Hermas has been as challenging to scholars as it was revered in the patristic period. This volume offers a new lucid translation, recreating the original colloquial tone of the work to help dispel some of the mystery and misunderstanding surrounding this work. With introductory essays exploring authorship, genre, and theological and practical content, this volume draws out the powerful images and practical principles which remain relevant for readers. Accompanied by a commentary that unpacks the meanings of this ancient text, this volume allows the Shepherd of Hermas¿ unique voice to be illuminated and understood.