# Scenes from the Old and New Testaments (Dittochaeon) - Author: [Prudentius](https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/authors/prudentius/) - Latin title: *Dittochaeon (Tituli historiarum)* - Date: ca. 400–410 (approximate) - Source: Aurelii Prudentii Clementis Opera, ed. Lanfranchi, 2 vols. (Turin: Officina Salesiana, 1898); text of the Arevalo tradition, line numbers as printed (Latin text: Lanfranchi, Turin 1898 (public domain), via the Internet Archive OCR) - Translation: Claude, from the original text, unless a passage says otherwise; each passage below gives the translator - Work page: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/ - Passages: 49 ## Quatrain 1: Adam et Eva - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-1 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 1 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Adam and Eve: Eve, stained by the serpent’s deceit, corrupts Adam, and the naked pair cover themselves with fig leaves. ### Latin text Eva columba fuit tunc candida, nigra deinde Facta, per anguineum malesuada fraude venenum, Tinxit et innocuum maculis sordentibus Adam: Dat nudis ficulna draco mox tegmina victor. ### English translation (Claude) Eve was then a white dove, then black she became through the snake’s poison by deceit that counseled ill, and stained innocent Adam with foul spots; the dragon, now victor, soon gives the naked fig-leaf coverings. ### Scripture references - Gen 3:6: allusion, high confidence - Gen 3:7: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The Dittochaeon (“double food,” or Tituli historiarum) is a series of 49 quatrains, probably captions for pictures, 24 from the Old Testament and 25 from the New. ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 1 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 1; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/1). ## Quatrain 2: Abel et Cain - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-2 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 2 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Cain and Abel: God accepts Abel’s living offering and rejects Cain’s earthly one; the farmer kills the shepherd. ### Latin text Fratrum sacra Deus nutu distante duorum Aestimat, accipiens viva, et terrena refutans. Rusticus invidia pastorem sternit: in Abel Forma animae exprimitur; caro nostra in munere Cain. ### English translation (Claude) God judges the sacrifices of the two brothers with differing assent, accepting the living, refusing the earthly. The farmer in envy strikes down the shepherd: in Abel the pattern of the soul is shown; our flesh in Cain’s offering. ### Scripture references - Gen 4:4: allusion, high confidence - Gen 4:5: allusion, high confidence - Gen 4:8: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 2 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 2; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/2). ## Quatrain 3: Arca Noe - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-3 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 3 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Noah’s dove returns with an olive branch, while the raven stays among the carcasses. ### Latin text Nuntia diluvii iam decrescentis ad arcam Ore columba refert ramum viridantis olivae: Corvus enim ingluvie per foeda cadavra captus Haeserat: illa datae revehit nova gaudia pacis. ### English translation (Claude) As messenger of the flood now going down, the dove brings back to the ark in its beak a branch of green olive; for the raven, caught by its gluttony among foul carcasses, had stayed; she brings back the new joys of peace bestowed. ### Scripture references - Gen 8:7: allusion, high confidence - Gen 8:11: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 3 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 3; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/3). ## Quatrain 4: Ilex Mambrae - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-4 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 4 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: At the oak of Mamre the Lord is Abraham’s guest, and Sarah laughs at the promise of a son. ### Latin text Hospitium hoc Domini est, ilex ubi frondea Mambrae Armentale senis protexit culmen: in ista Risit Sarra casa, subolis sibi gaudia sera Ferri, et decrepitum sic credere posse maritum. ### English translation (Claude) This was the lodging of the Lord, where the leafy oak of Mamre sheltered the old man’s herdsman’s roof: in that tent Sarah laughed that late joys of offspring were promised her, and that her decrepit husband could believe it so. ### Scripture references - Gen 18:1: allusion, high confidence - Gen 18:12: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 4 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 4; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/4). ## Quatrain 5: Monumentum Sarae - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-5 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 5 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Abraham buys the cave of Machpelah to bury Sarah, for the righteous are strangers on earth. ### Latin text Abraham mercatus agrum, quo conderet ossa Coniugis, in terris quoniam peregrina moratur Iustitia atque fides. Hoc illud millibus emptum Spelaeum, sanctae requies ubi parta favillae est. ### English translation (Claude) Abraham bought a field in which to lay the bones of his wife, since righteousness and faith dwell as strangers on earth. This is that cave bought for thousands, where a resting place was gained for holy ashes. ### Scripture references - Gen 23:16: allusion, high confidence - Gen 23:19: allusion, high confidence - Heb 11:13: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 5 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 5; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/5). ## Quatrain 6: Somnium Pharaonis - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-6 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 6 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Joseph, with Christ as interpreter, explains Pharaoh’s dream of seven good and seven lean years. ### Latin text Bis septem spicae, vaccae totidem Pharaoni Per somnum visae, portendunt, dispare forma, Vberis atque famis duo per septennia tempus Instare: hoc solvit Patriarcha, interprete Christo. ### English translation (Claude) Twice seven ears of grain, and as many cows, seen by Pharaoh in his sleep, foretell by their differing form that a time of plenty and of famine is at hand for two seven-year spans: this the patriarch solved, with Christ as interpreter. ### Scripture references - Gen 41:1: allusion, high confidence - Gen 41:25: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 6 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 6; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/6). ## Quatrain 7: Ioseph a fratribus agnitus - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-7 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 7 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Joseph, once sold by his brothers, has his cup hidden in Benjamin’s sack; they recognize him and are ashamed at his forgiveness. ### Latin text Venditus insidiis fratrum puer, ipse vicissim Cratera in fratris sacco clam praecipit abdi. Vtque reos furti Ioseph tenet, auctio fallax Proditur, agnoscunt fratrem, veniaque pudescunt. ### English translation (Claude) The boy sold by his brothers’ treachery in turn himself orders a cup to be hidden secretly in his brother’s sack. And as Joseph holds them guilty of theft, the false sale is revealed; they recognize their brother, and are ashamed at his pardon. ### Scripture references - Gen 37:28: allusion, high confidence - Gen 44:2: allusion, high confidence - Gen 45:3: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 7 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 7; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/7). ## Quatrain 8: Ignis in rubo - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-8 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 8 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: God speaks to Moses from the burning bush; his rod becomes a serpent, he removes his sandals, and goes to Pharaoh. ### Latin text Sentibus involitans Deus igneus, ore corusco Compellat iuvenem, pecoris tunc forte magistrum. Ille capit, iussus, virgam. Fit vipera virga. Solvit vincla pedum: properat Pharaonis ad arcem. ### English translation (Claude) Flying over the thorns, God in fire, with flashing voice, addresses the young man, then by chance a keeper of the flock. He takes the rod, as commanded. The rod becomes a serpent. He looses the bonds of his feet; he hastens to Pharaoh’s citadel. ### Scripture references - Exod 3:2: allusion, high confidence - Exod 3:5: allusion, high confidence - Exod 4:3: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 8 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 8; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/8). ## Quatrain 9: Iter per mare - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-9 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 9 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The Red Sea opens for Israel and drowns Pharaoh. ### Latin text Tutus agit vir iustus iter, vel per mare magnum. Ecce Dei famulis scissim freta rubra dehiscunt, Quum peccatores rabidos eadem freta mergant. Obruitur Pharao: patuit via libera Mosi. ### English translation (Claude) The just man goes his way safely, even through the great sea. See, for God’s servants the Red Sea parts asunder, while the same waters drown the raging sinners. Pharaoh is overwhelmed; a free way lay open to Moses. ### Scripture references - Exod 14:21: allusion, high confidence - Exod 14:28: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 9 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 9; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/9). ## Quatrain 10: Moses accipit legem - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-10 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 10 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Moses receives the ten commandments on smoking Sinai, while the people worship the golden calf. ### Latin text Fumat montis apex divinis ignibus, in quo Scripta decem verbis saxorum pagina Mosi Traditur, ille suos, suscepta lege, revisit: Forma sed his vituli solus Deus, et Deus aurum. ### English translation (Claude) The mountain’s peak smokes with divine fires; on it the page of stones written with ten words is given to Moses; having received the law he returns to his own people; but for them the form of a calf was their only god, and their god was gold. ### Scripture references - Exod 19:18: allusion, high confidence - Exod 31:18: allusion, high confidence - Exod 32:4: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 10 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 10; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/10). ## Quatrain 11: Manna et coturnices - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-11 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 11 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The manna in the desert, kept in a golden jar, and the quails given to the people who craved meat. ### Latin text Panibus angelicis albent tentoria patrum. Certa fides facti: tenet urceus aureus exin Servatum Manna. Ingratis venit altera nubes, Atque avidos carnis saturat congesta coturnix. ### English translation (Claude) The tents of the fathers grow white with the bread of angels. There is sure proof of the deed: a golden urn thenceforth holds the manna kept. For the ungrateful another cloud comes, and the quail heaped up fills those greedy for flesh. ### Scripture references - Exod 16:14: allusion, high confidence - Ps 78:25 (77:25 LXX): allusion, high confidence - Exod 16:33: allusion, high confidence - Heb 9:4: allusion, medium confidence - Num 11:31: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 11 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 11; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/11). ## Quatrain 12: Serpens aeneus in eremo - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-12 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 12 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Moses lifts up the bronze serpent, here on a cross, to heal those bitten in the desert. ### Latin text Fervebat via sicca eremi serpentibus atris: Iamque venenati per livida vulnera morsus Carpebant populum: sed prudens aere politum Dux cruce suspendit, qui virus temperet, anguem. ### English translation (Claude) The dry road of the desert seethed with black serpents, and now poisoned bites through livid wounds were consuming the people; but the wise leader hung up on a cross a snake of polished bronze, to temper the venom. ### Scripture references - Num 21:6: allusion, high confidence - Num 21:9: allusion, high confidence - John 3:14: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The bronze serpent is read as a figure of the cross (John 3:14). ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 12 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 12; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/12). ## Quatrain 13: Lacus myrrhae in eremo - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-13 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 13 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: At Marah Moses throws wood into the bitter water and makes it sweet. ### Latin text Aspera gustatu, populo sitiente, lacuna Tristificos latices stagnanti felle tenebat. Moses sanctus ait: Lignum date, gurgitem in istum Conicite: in dulcem vertentur amara saporem. ### English translation (Claude) A pool, harsh to the taste, while the people thirsted, held gloomy waters with stagnant gall. Holy Moses says: “Give wood, throw it into this water: the bitter will be turned into a sweet taste.” ### Scripture references - Exod 15:23: allusion, high confidence - Exod 15:25: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The wood was commonly read as a figure of the cross. ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 13 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 13; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/13). ## Quatrain 14: Elim lucus in eremo - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-14 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 14 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: At Elim twelve springs and seventy palms prefigure the twelve apostles and the seventy disciples. ### Latin text Devenere viri Mosi duce, sex ubi fontes, Et sex forte alii vitreo de rore rigabant Septenas decies palmas: qui mysticus Helim Lucus apostolicum numerum libris quoque pinxit. ### English translation (Claude) With Moses as leader the men came to where six springs, and six others likewise, watered with glassy dew seventy palms: this mystic grove of Elim prefigured the apostolic number also in the books. ### Scripture references - Exod 15:27: allusion, high confidence - Luke 10:1: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 14 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 14; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/14). ## Quatrain 15: Duodecim lapides in Iordane - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-15 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 15 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The Jordan turns back for Israel, and twelve stones set up in it prefigure the twelve disciples. ### Latin text In fontem refluo Iordanis gurgite fertur, Dum calcanda Dei populis vada sicca relinquit. Testes bis seni lapides, quos flumine in ipso Constituere patres, in formam discipulorum. ### English translation (Claude) The Jordan is borne back to its source with its flowing tide, while it leaves dry fords to be trodden by the people of God. Witnesses are the twice six stones which the fathers set up in the river itself, in the pattern of the disciples. ### Scripture references - Josh 3:16: allusion, high confidence - Josh 4:9: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 15 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 15; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/15). ## Quatrain 16: Raab meretrix - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-16 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 16 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: When Jericho falls, Rahab’s house alone is spared, marked by the scarlet cord, a sign of Christ’s blood. ### Latin text Procubuit Hiericho: sola adstant atria Raab. Hospita sanctorum meretrix (tanta est fidei vis), Incolumi secura domo spectabile coccum Ignibus adversis in signum sanguinis offert. ### English translation (Claude) Jericho fell: only the house of Rahab stands. The harlot, hostess of the saints (so great is the power of faith), secure in her house unharmed, displays the conspicuous scarlet against the hostile fires as a sign of the blood. ### Scripture references - Josh 6:20: allusion, high confidence - Josh 2:18: allusion, high confidence - Josh 6:25: allusion, high confidence - Heb 11:31: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 16 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 16; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/16). ## Quatrain 17: Samson leonem necat - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-17 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 17 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Samson kills the lion, from which honey later flows, and a spring comes from the jawbone with which he fought. ### Latin text Invictum virtute comae leo frangere Samson Adgreditur. Necat ille feram; sed ab ore leonis Mella fluunt: maxilla asini fontem vomit ultro, Stultitia exundat lymphis, dulcedine virtus. ### English translation (Claude) A lion undertakes to break Samson, unconquered in the strength of his hair. He kills the beast; but from the lion’s mouth honey flows; the jawbone of an ass pours forth a spring of itself: folly overflows with waters, strength with sweetness. ### Scripture references - Judg 14:6: allusion, high confidence - Judg 14:8: allusion, high confidence - Judg 15:19: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 17 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 17; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/17). ## Quatrain 18: Samson vulpes capit - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-18 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 18 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Samson’s foxes with burning tails, which set the Philistines’ fields alight, are a figure of heresy spreading vice. ### Latin text Tercentum vulpes Samson capit, ignibus armat, Pone faces caudis circumligat, in sata mittit Allophylum, segetesque cremat. Sic callida vulpis Nunc heresis flammas vitiorum spargit in agros. ### English translation (Claude) Samson catches three hundred foxes, arms them with fire, ties torches to their tails behind, sends them into the crops of the foreigners, and burns the harvest. So now the cunning fox of heresy scatters the flames of vices in the fields. ### Scripture references - Judg 15:4: allusion, high confidence - Judg 15:5: allusion, high confidence - Song 2:15: allusion, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 18 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 18; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/18). ## Quatrain 19: David Goliam sternit - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-19 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 19 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: David, the youngest shepherd and harpist, comes to Saul’s court and kills Goliath with his sling. ### Latin text David parvus erat, fratrum ultimus, et modo Iesse Cura gregis, citharam formans ad ovile paternum: Inde ad delicias regis. Mox horrida bella Conserit, et funda sternit stridente Goliam. ### English translation (Claude) David was small, the last of his brothers, and lately Jesse’s care of the flock, shaping the lyre at his father’s fold; then to the delights of the king. Soon he joins grim wars and lays Goliath low with his whistling sling. ### Scripture references - 1 Sam 16:11: allusion, high confidence - 1 Sam 16:23: allusion, high confidence - 1 Sam 17:49: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 19 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 19; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/19). ## Quatrain 20: Regnum David - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-20 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 20 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: David’s royal insignia, scepter, oil, horn, crown, purple and altar, all apply to Christ. ### Latin text Regis mitifici fulgent insignia David: Sceptrum, oleum, cornu, diadema, et purpura et ara. Omnia conveniunt Christo: chlamys, atque corona; Virga potestatis, cornu crucis, altar olivum. ### English translation (Claude) The insignia of David, the mild king, shine: scepter, oil, horn, diadem, and purple, and altar. All fit Christ: the cloak and the crown, the rod of power, the horn of the cross, the altar, the olive oil. ### Scripture references - 1 Sam 16:13: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:28: allusion, medium confidence - Matt 27:29: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 20 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 20; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/20). ## Quatrain 21: Aedificatio templi - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-21 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 21 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Solomon builds the temple and the Queen of Sheba brings gold; Christ will build a temple in human hearts, honored by all nations. ### Latin text Aedificat templum sapientia per Salomonis Obsequium: Regina Austri grave congerit aurum. Tempus adest, quo templum hominis sub pectore Christus Aedificet, quod Graia colant: quod barbara ditent. ### English translation (Claude) Wisdom builds the temple through the service of Solomon: the Queen of the South brings heaped-up weighty gold. The time is at hand when Christ will build a temple in the heart of man, which Greeks will worship, which barbarians will enrich. ### Scripture references - 1 Kgs 6:1: allusion, high confidence - 1 Kgs 10:10: allusion, high confidence - Matt 12:42: allusion, medium confidence - 1 Cor 3:16: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 21 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 21; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/21). ## Quatrain 22: Filii prophetarum - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-22 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 22 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Elisha makes the lost axe head float by throwing a stick into the Jordan. ### Latin text Forte prophetarum nati dum ligna recidunt Fluminis in ripa, cecidit discussa bipennis. Gurgite submersum est ferrum: sed mox leve lignum Iniectum stagnis, ferrum revocabile fecit. ### English translation (Claude) When the sons of the prophets happened to be cutting wood on the bank of the river, an axe flew off and fell. The iron sank in the stream; but soon light wood, thrown into the water, made the iron come back. ### Scripture references - 2 Kgs 6:5: allusion, high confidence - 2 Kgs 6:6: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The wood was commonly read as a figure of the cross. ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 22 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 22; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/22). ## Quatrain 23: Captivitas Israel - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-23 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 23 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The exiles weep by the rivers of Babylon and hang their harps on the willows. ### Latin text Gens Hebraeorum, peccamine capta frequenti, Fleverat exilium dirae Babylonis ad amnes: Tum patrios cantare modos, praecepta recusat, Organaque in ramis salicis suspendit amarae, ### English translation (Claude) The people of the Hebrews, taken captive for their frequent sinning, had wept their exile by the rivers of dread Babylon; then they refuse, when ordered, to sing their fathers’ songs, and hang their instruments on the branches of the bitter willow. ### Scripture references - Ps 137:1 (136:1 LXX): allusion, high confidence - Ps 137:2 (136:2 LXX): allusion, high confidence - Ps 137:4 (136:4 LXX): allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 23 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 23; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/23). ## Quatrain 24: De rege Ezechia - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-24 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 24 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Hezekiah’s life is extended fifteen years, confirmed by the shadow going back on the steps. ### Latin text Hic bonus Ezechias meruit ter quinque per annos Praescriptum proferre diem, legemque obeundi Tendere: tot gradibus, quot vespera texerat umbram, Lumine perfusis, docuit sol versus in ortum. ### English translation (Claude) Here good Hezekiah earned to extend his appointed day by three times five years, and to stretch the law of dying: by as many steps as evening had covered with shadow, the sun, turned back toward its rising, showed them flooded with light. ### Scripture references - 2 Kgs 20:6: allusion, high confidence - 2 Kgs 20:11: allusion, high confidence - Isa 38:8: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 24 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 24; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/24). ## Quatrain 25: Gabriel ad Mariam - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-25 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 25 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Gabriel announces to Mary that by the Holy Spirit she will bear Christ. ### Latin text Adventante Deo, descendit nuntius alto Gabriel Patris ex solio, sedemque repente Intrat Virgineam. Sanctus te Spiritus, inquit, Implevit, Maria: Christum paries, sacra Virgo. ### English translation (Claude) As God draws near, a messenger comes down from the high throne of the Father, Gabriel, and suddenly enters the Virgin’s dwelling. “The Holy Spirit,” he says, “has filled you, Mary: you will bear Christ, holy Virgin.” ### Scripture references - Luke 1:26: allusion, high confidence - Luke 1:35: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 25 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 25; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/25). ## Quatrain 26: Civitas Bethlehem - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-26 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 26 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Bethlehem bore Christ as man, who was God before the sun and stars. ### Latin text Sancta Bethlem caput est orbis: quae protulit Iesum, Orbis principium, caput ipsum principiorum. Vrbs hominem Christum genuit; qui Christus agebat Ante Deus, quam sol fieret, quam lucifer esset. ### English translation (Claude) Holy Bethlehem is the head of the world: it brought forth Jesus, the beginning of the world, the very head of beginnings. The city bore Christ as man; but Christ was acting as God before the sun was made, before the morning star existed. ### Scripture references - Mic 5:2: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:4: allusion, high confidence - Col 1:18: allusion, medium confidence - Ps 110:3 (109:3 LXX): allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 26 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 26; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/26). ## Quatrain 27: Magorum munera - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-27 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 27 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The Magi bring gold, incense and myrrh, and Mary marvels that she has borne God and King. ### Latin text Hic pretiosa Magi, sub Virginis ubere, Christo Dona ferunt puero, myrrhaeque et turis et auri. Miratur genitrix tot casti ventris honores, Seque Deum genuisse hominem, Regem quoque summum. ### English translation (Claude) Here the Magi bring precious gifts to the child Christ at the Virgin’s breast, of myrrh and incense and gold. The mother marvels at so many honors of her chaste womb, and that she has borne God as man, and the highest King too. ### Scripture references - Matt 2:11: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:19: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 27 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 27; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/27). ## Quatrain 28: Pastores ab angelis admoniti - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-28 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 28 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The angels’ light appears to the shepherds, who find the Christ child in the manger and adore him. ### Latin text Pervigiles pastorum oculos vis luminis implet Angelici, natum celebrans de Virgine Christum. Inveniunt tectum pannis: praesepe iacenti Cuna erat, exultant alacros, et Numen adorant. ### English translation (Claude) The power of angelic light fills the watchful eyes of the shepherds, as it celebrates Christ born of the Virgin. They find him covered with cloths; a manger was the cradle for him lying there; they exult eagerly and adore the Godhead. ### Scripture references - Luke 2:8: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:9: allusion, high confidence - Luke 2:16: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 28 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 28; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/28). ## Quatrain 29: Occiduntur infantes in Bethlehem - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-29 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 29 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Herod slaughters the infants while seeking Christ. ### Latin text Impius innumeris infantum caedibus hostis Perfurit Herodes, dum Christum quaerit in illis. Fumant lacteolo parvorum sanguine cunae, Vulneribusque madent calidis pia pectora matrum. ### English translation (Claude) The impious enemy Herod rages in countless slaughters of infants, while he seeks Christ among them. The cradles smoke with the milk-white blood of little ones, and the loving breasts of mothers are wet with warm wounds. ### Scripture references - Matt 2:16: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 29 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 29; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/29). ## Quatrain 30: Christus baptizatur - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-30 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 30 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: John the Baptist, clothed in camel’s hair and fed on locusts, baptizes Christ, and the Spirit declares him the one who forgives sins. ### Latin text Perfundit fluvio, pastus Baptista locustis, Silvarumque favis, et amictus veste cameli, Tinxerat et Christum: sed Spiritus aethere missus Testatur tinctum, qui tinctis crimina donet. ### English translation (Claude) The Baptist, fed on locusts and the honeycombs of the woods, and clothed in camel’s garment, bathes in the river; he had dipped Christ too; but the Spirit sent from heaven testifies that the one dipped is he who forgives the sins of the dipped. ### Scripture references - Matt 3:4: allusion, high confidence - Matt 3:16: allusion, high confidence - John 1:29: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 30 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 30; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/30). ## Quatrain 31: Pinna templi - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-31 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 31 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: A pinnacle of the ruined temple remains, and the rejected stone has become the head of the corner, joining two peoples. ### Latin text Excidio templi veteris stat pinna superstes: Structus enim lapide ex illo manet angulus, usque In saeclum saecli, quem sprerunt aedificantes; Nunc caput est templi, et lapidum compago duorum. ### English translation (Claude) A pinnacle stands, surviving the destruction of the old temple; for the corner remains built of that stone, to the age of ages, which the builders rejected; now it is the head of the temple and the joining of two stones. ### Scripture references - Matt 4:5: allusion, medium confidence - Ps 118:22 (117:22 LXX): allusion, high confidence - Eph 2:20: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The “two stones” are Jews and Gentiles joined in Christ (Eph 2:14–20). ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 31 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 31; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/31). ## Quatrain 32: Ex aqua vinum - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-32 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 32 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: At the wedding at Cana Christ turns water into wine. ### Latin text Foedera coniugii celebrabant auspice coetu Forte Galilaei. lam deerant vina ministris: Christus vasa iubet properanter aquaria lymphis Impleri: inde meri veteris defunditur unda. ### English translation (Claude) Galileans, by chance, were celebrating the covenant of marriage with a gathering for the auspices. Now the servants lacked wine: Christ bids the water jars be quickly filled with water; from them the liquid of old wine is poured out. ### Scripture references - John 2:1: allusion, high confidence - John 2:7: allusion, high confidence - John 2:10: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 32 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 32; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/32). ## Quatrain 33: Piscina Siloa - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-33 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 33 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Christ heals the blind man by sending him to wash in the pool of Siloam. ### Latin text Morborum medicina latex, quem spiritus horis Eructat variis: fusum ratione latenti, Siloam vocitant: sputis ubi conlita coeci Lumina Salvator iussit de fonte lavari. ### English translation (Claude) A water that is a medicine for diseases, which breathes out at various hours, poured forth by a hidden cause, they call Siloam: where the Savior bade the blind man’s eyes, smeared with spittle, be washed in the spring. ### Scripture references - John 9:6: allusion, high confidence - John 9:7: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 33 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 33; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/33). ## Quatrain 34: Passio Ioannis - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-34 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 34 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Herodias’s daughter asks for the head of John the Baptist on a platter. ### Latin text Praemia saltatrix poscit funebria virgo Ioannis caput, abscisum quod lance reportet Incestae ad gremium matris. Fert regia donum Psaltria, respersis manibus de sanguine iusto. ### English translation (Claude) The dancing girl demands a deadly reward, the head of John, cut off, to carry back on a dish to the lap of her incestuous mother. The royal harpist bears the gift, her hands sprinkled with righteous blood. ### Scripture references - Matt 14:8: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:11: allusion, high confidence - Mark 6:28: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 34 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 34; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/34). ## Quatrain 35: Ter mare ambulat Christus - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-35 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 35 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Christ walks on the sea and holds up Peter when he begins to sink. ### Latin text It mare per medium Dominus, fluctusque liquentes Calce terens. Iubet instabili descendere cumba Discipulum: sed mortalis trepidatio plantas Mergit; at ille manum regit, et vestigia firmat. ### English translation (Claude) The Lord goes through the midst of the sea, treading the liquid waves with his heel. He bids his disciple step down from the unsteady boat; but mortal fear sinks his feet; yet he guides his hand and steadies his steps. ### Scripture references - Matt 14:25: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:29: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:31: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 35 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 35; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/35). ## Quatrain 36: Daemon missus in porcos - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-36 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 36 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Christ frees the Gerasene demoniac and sends the demons into the swine, which drown. ### Latin text Vincla sepulcrali sub carcere ferrea daemon Fregerat: erumpit, pedibusque advolvitur Iesu. Ast hominem Dominus sibi vindicat, et iubet hostem Porcorum raptare greges, ac per freta mergi. ### English translation (Claude) A demon had broken iron chains in the prison of the tombs: he bursts out and rolls at the feet of Jesus. But the Lord claims the man for himself, and bids the enemy seize the herds of swine and be drowned in the sea. ### Scripture references - Mark 5:3: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:6: allusion, high confidence - Mark 5:13: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 36 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 36; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/36). ## Quatrain 37: Quinque panes et duo pisces - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-37 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 37 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Christ feeds five thousand with five loaves and two fish, with twelve baskets left over. ### Latin text Quinque Deus panes fregit, piscesque gemellos: His hominum large saturavit millia quinque. Implentur nimio micarum fragmine corbes Bis seni: aeternae tanta est opulentia mensae. ### English translation (Claude) God broke five loaves, and twin fishes: with these he amply filled five thousand people. Twice six baskets are filled with the great quantity of fragments: so great is the wealth of the eternal table. ### Scripture references - Matt 14:19: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:20: allusion, high confidence - Matt 14:21: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 37 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 37; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/37). ## Quatrain 38: Lazarus suscitatus a mortuis - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-38 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 38 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Christ raises Lazarus from the tomb at Bethany. ### Latin text Conscius insignis facti locus in Bethania Vidit ab inferna te, Lazare, sede reversum. Adparet scissum, fractis foribus, monumentum, Vnde putrescentis redierunt membra sepulti. ### English translation (Claude) The place in Bethany, aware of the famous deed, saw you, Lazarus, returned from the seat below. The tomb appears split, its doors broken, from which the limbs of the decaying buried man came back. ### Scripture references - John 11:39: allusion, high confidence - John 11:44: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 38 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 38; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/38). ## Quatrain 39: Ager sanguinis - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-39 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 39 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The field of blood bought with Judas’s silver becomes a burial ground, and Judas hangs himself. ### Latin text Campus Acheldamach, sceleris mercede nefandi Venditus, exsequias recipit tumulosus humandas. Sanguinis hoc pretium est Christi. Iudas eminus artat Infelix collum laqueo pro crimine tanto. ### English translation (Claude) The field of Akeldama, sold for the wage of an unspeakable crime, full of graves, receives funerals for burial. This is the price of the blood of Christ. Far off, unhappy Judas tightens his neck with a noose for so great a crime. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:5: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:7: allusion, high confidence - Acts 1:19: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 39 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 39; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/39). ## Quatrain 40: Domus Caiphae - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-40 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 40 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The ruined house of Caiaphas, where Christ was struck, is a sign of sinners’ end. ### Latin text Impia blasphemi cecidit domus ecce Caiphae, In qua pulsata est alapis facies sacra Christi. Hic peccatores manet exitus: obruta quorum Vita ruinosis tumulis sine fine iacebit. ### English translation (Claude) See, the impious house of blaspheming Caiaphas has fallen, in which the sacred face of Christ was struck with blows. This end awaits sinners: their life, overwhelmed, will lie without end in ruinous heaps. ### Scripture references - Matt 26:57: allusion, high confidence - Matt 26:67: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 40 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 40; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/40). ## Quatrain 41: Columna ad quam flagellatus est Christus - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-41 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 41 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The column where Christ was scourged still stands, teaching freedom from all scourges. ### Latin text Vinctus in his Dominus stetit aedibus, atque columnae Adnexus tergum dedit, ut servile, flagellis. Perstat adhuc, templumque gerit veneranda columna, Nosque docet cunctis immunes vivere flagris. ### English translation (Claude) Bound in this house the Lord stood, and, tied to a column, gave his back, like a slave, to the scourges. The venerable column still stands and bears up the temple, and teaches us to live free of all scourges. ### Scripture references - Matt 27:26: allusion, high confidence - Isa 50:6: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 41 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 41; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/41). ## Quatrain 42: Passio Salvatoris - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-42 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 42 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: From Christ’s pierced side flow blood, his victory, and water, baptism; of the two thieves one denies him, the other is crowned. ### Latin text Traiectus per utrumque latus, laticem atque cruorem Christus agit. Sanguis, victoria: lympha, lavacrum est. Tunc duo discordant crucibus hinc inde latrones Contiguis: negat ille Deum; fert iste coronam. ### English translation (Claude) Pierced through either side, Christ sends forth water and blood. The blood is victory; the water is the bath. Then two robbers on crosses on either side close by disagree: one denies God; the other wins a crown. ### Scripture references - John 19:34: allusion, high confidence - Luke 23:39: allusion, high confidence - Luke 23:43: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 42 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 42; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/42). ## Quatrain 43: Sepulcrum Christi - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-43 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 43 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Christ rises, conquering death; the saints rise with him, and he shows himself to many. ### Latin text Christum non tenuit saxum, non claustra sepulcri: Mors illi devicta iacet: calcavit abyssum. Sanctorum populus superas simul ivit ad oras, Seque dedit multis tactuque oculisque probandum. ### English translation (Claude) No stone held Christ, nor the bars of the tomb: death lies conquered by him; he trod down the abyss. The people of the saints went with him to the regions above, and he gave himself to many to be tested by touch and eyes. ### Scripture references - Matt 28:2: allusion, high confidence - Matt 27:52: allusion, high confidence - 1 Cor 15:6: allusion, high confidence - Luke 24:39: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 43 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 43; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/43). ## Quatrain 44: Mons Oliveti - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-44 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 44 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Christ ascends from the Mount of Olives, leaving footprints of peace; its olive oil signifies the gift of the anointing. ### Latin text Montis oliviferi Christus de vertice sursum Ad Patrem rediit, sig-nans vestigia pacis. Frondibus aeternis praepinguis liquitur humor, Qui probat infusum terris de Chrismate donum. ### English translation (Claude) From the summit of the olive-bearing mountain Christ returned upward to the Father, marking footprints of peace. From the everlasting leaves a very rich moisture flows, which proves the gift poured on the earth from the Chrism. ### Scripture references - Acts 1:9: allusion, high confidence - Acts 1:12: allusion, high confidence - Luke 24:50: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The footprints of Christ shown on the Mount of Olives were a pilgrimage tradition. ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 44 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 44; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/44). ## Quatrain 45: Passio Stephani - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-45 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 45 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Stephen, the first martyr, prays for those who stone him. ### Latin text Primus init Stephanus mercedem sanguinis, imbri Adflictus lapidum; Christum tamen ille cruentus Inter saxa rogat, ne sit lapidatio fraudi Hostibus. O primae pietas miranda coronae! ### English translation (Claude) Stephen first enters on the reward of blood, struck down by a shower of stones; yet, bloodied, he asks Christ amid the stones that the stoning may not be held against his enemies. O the wondrous goodness of the first crown! ### Scripture references - Acts 7:58: allusion, high confidence - Acts 7:60: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Stephen’s name means “crown.” ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 45 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 45; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/45). ## Quatrain 46: Porta Speciosa - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-46 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 46 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: At the Beautiful Gate Peter, in Christ’s name, makes the lame man walk. ### Latin text Porta manet templi, Speciosam quam vocitarunt, Egregium Solomonis opus: sed maius in illa Cliristi opus emicuit. Nam claudus surgere iussus Ore Petri, stupuit luxatos currere gressus. ### English translation (Claude) There remains the gate of the temple which they called Beautiful, the outstanding work of Solomon; but a greater work of Christ shone out in it. For the lame man, bidden to rise by Peter’s mouth, was amazed that his dislocated steps could run. ### Scripture references - Acts 3:2: allusion, high confidence - Acts 3:6: allusion, high confidence - Acts 3:8: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 46 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 46; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/46). ## Quatrain 47: Visio Petri - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-47 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 47 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Peter’s vision of the sheet of animals leads him to call the Gentiles to the faith. ### Latin text Somniat inlapsum Petrus alto ex aethere discum, Confertum omnigenis animalibus: ille recusat Mandere; sed Dominus iubet omnia munda putare. Surgit, et immundas vocat ad mysteria gentes. ### English translation (Claude) Peter dreams of a dish let down from high heaven, filled with animals of every kind: he refuses to eat; but the Lord bids him think all things clean. He rises, and calls the unclean nations to the mysteries. ### Scripture references - Acts 10:11: allusion, high confidence - Acts 10:14: allusion, high confidence - Acts 10:15: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 47 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 47; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/47). ## Quatrain 48: Vas electionis - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-48 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 48 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: Saul the persecutor, blinded, becomes Paul the apostle and teacher of the nations. ### Latin text Hic lupus ante rapax vestitur vellere molli: Saulus qui fuerat, fit, ademto lumine, Paulus. Mox recipit visum; fit apostolus, ac populorum Doctor, et ore potens corvos mutare columbis. ### English translation (Claude) Here the wolf, once rapacious, is clothed with soft fleece: he who had been Saul becomes, his sight taken away, Paul. Soon he receives his sight; he becomes an apostle, and teacher of the peoples, mighty in speech to change ravens into doves. ### Scripture references - Gen 49:27: allusion, medium confidence - Acts 9:8: allusion, high confidence - Acts 9:18: allusion, high confidence - 1 Tim 2:7: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The wolf becoming a sheep alludes to Gen 49:27 (Benjamin, Paul’s tribe, as a ravening wolf). ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 48 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 48; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/48). ## Quatrain 49: Apocalypsis Ioannis - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/prudentius-dittochaeon/1/#p-49 - Source: Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 49 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-11-05 Summary: The twenty-four elders with harps, bowls and crowns praise the slain Lamb who alone can open the sealed book. ### Latin text Bis duodena senum sedes, pateris citharisque, Totque coronarum fulgens insignibus. Agnum Caede cruentatum laudat: qui evolvere librum, Et septem potuit signacula pandere solus. ### English translation (Claude) The seats of the twice twelve elders, with bowls and harps, and shining with as many crowns as insignia, praise the Lamb bloodied by slaughter, who alone was able to unroll the book and to open the seven seals. ### Scripture references - Rev 4:4: allusion, high confidence - Rev 5:8: allusion, high confidence - Rev 5:9: allusion, high confidence - Rev 5:5: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Prudentius, Ditt. 49 (Lanfranchi 2:quatrain 49; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/prudentius-dittochaeon/49).