Saint Augustine (354-430)

Against Faustus

Translated by Richard Stothert

Book XIV

Chapter 13

If Faustus thinks Moses an enemy of continence or virginity because he says, “Cursed is everyone that raiseth not up seed in Israel,” let them hear the words of Isaiah: “Thus saith the Lord to all eunuchs; To them who keep my precepts, and choose the things that please me, and regard my covenant, will I give in my house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters; I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.” Though our adversaries disagree with Moses. if they agree with Isaiah it is something gained. It is enough for us to know that the same God spoke by both Moses and Isaiah, and that every one is cursed who raiseth not up seed in Israel, both then when begetting children in marriage (for the continuation of the people was a civil duty), and now because no one spiritually born should rest content without seeking spiritual increase in the production of Christians by preaching Christ, each one according to his ability. So that the times of both Testaments are briefly described in the words, “Cursed is every one that raiseth not up seed in Israel.”

Book XIV Chapter 12

Book XV Chapter 1