The Shepherd of Hermas is one of the most widely read and spiritually significant texts of early Christianity—cherished by believers in the first centuries as a source of both moral instruction and mystical vision.
 
Written in the late first or early second century, The Shepherd was so beloved that it was often read publicly in churches, and some early Church Fathers even regarded it as Scripture. It appears in the Codex Sinaiticus—one of the oldest surviving Christian Bibles—and was quoted by figures like Irenaeus of Lyon and Clement of Alexandria.
 
The text is structured in three major parts: five visions, twelve commandments (or mandates), and ten parables (similitudes), all delivered to Hermas, a Christian layman and former slave, through angelic and symbolic revelation. The central figure of “the Shepherd”—the angel of repentance—guides Hermas in understanding the inner spiritual life, repentance, and the call to Christian virtue.
 
The work explores themes of forgiveness, moral renewal, spiritual discipline, and the mystery of the Church as a living, growing tower built from the faithful.
 
Unlike theological treatises aimed at scholars or clergy, The Shepherd of Hermas speaks to ordinary Christians seeking to live more faithfully. Its intense emphasis on repentance, watchfulness, and obedience makes it a powerful companion for those navigating the moral complexities of daily life. In a world increasingly confused about sin, holiness, and the soul’s eternal destiny, Hermas calls readers back to the basics: live humbly, repent sincerely, and trust in God’s mercy.
 
This Knights of Saint George Press edition is based on the public domain English translation by Philip Schaff and has been lightly revised for clarity and readability. It preserves the depth and devotional tone of the original, while making it accessible for modern readers.
 
Whether you're new to early Christian writings or a longtime student of the Fathers, The Shepherd of Hermas offers a glimpse into the soul of the early Church—a Church marked by urgency, reverence, and the relentless call to holiness.