LUX VERITAS

Library of Sacred Texts

Apocrypha · Chapter 15 of 22

Martyrdom of Polycarp 15

Acts of the Martyrs

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When he had offered up the Amen and finished his prayer, the firemen lighted the fire. And, a mighty flame flashing forth, we to whom it was given to see, saw a marvel, yea and we were preserved that we might relate to the rest what happened.

2The fire, making the appearance of a vault, like the sail of a vessel filled by the wind, made a wall round about the body of the martyr; and it was there in the midst, not like flesh burning, but like [a loaf in the oven or like] gold and silver refined in a furnace. For we perceived such a fragrant smell, as if it were the wafted odor of frankincense or some other precious spice.

Words in this chapter

What these words meant in the original — and where else they appear.

About Martyrdom of Polycarp

The eyewitness account of the death of the bishop of Smyrna in the stadium, with the answer that endured: eighty-six years I have served Christ, how can I blaspheme him now? English text: The Apostolic Fathers, Martyrdom of Polycarp (1891), J. B. Lightfoot, 1891 (public domain). Portuguese and Spanish: Lux Veritas translations from this edition.

Source: The Apostolic Fathers, Martyrdom of Polycarp (1891), J. B. Lightfoot (1891) · public domain