Discourses of Dorotheos of Gaza

by Dorotheus of Gaza

There are moments when urgent needs come about and unless someone reveals the harsh fact, the business gives rise to more trouble and disturbances. Thus when such an occasion comes about one should know that in such need he may change his speech so as to stay away from a larger problem or danger. As Abba Alonios told Abbot Agathon, "Suppose two men engaged in a murder before you and each one ran to your cell. Then the police, searching for him, asks of you, "Is the murder with you?" Unless you lie you are delivering him over to be killed. But if a man were to do this, in extreme need, let him not be without concern, but let him repent, and grieve in the presence of God, and suppose it to be a time of temptation and may it not become a regular practice but done only once. In the same way that an antidote for the venom of a snake or a mighty purge is helpful when received in a time of need, it harms if taken regularly, without there being a need. So it may be fitting to use occasionally in the case of extreme need, but not to make a habit of it. And if the need and time arise, and one acts with fear and trembling before God, he will be guarded from any sin, since he is under compulsion, otherwise he would be harming himself.