Chapter 46

1A male or female virgin is not instituted or appointed by man, but is voluntarily set apart and named a virgin. A hand is not laid on such a person for virginity, for this division is chosen by their own free will.

2It is right for virgins to be steadfast and bound to the suffering of a sound body, constant in fasts, prayers, weeping, and daily mourning. Let them always expect their departure from the flesh and strive as though at the moment of departure.

3Let them not serve raging passions, debauchery, drunkenness, vain talk, worldly work, or distraction. Rather, let them be like one who is on the cross. Let their hearts be lifted up with complete meekness of thought and dignity, with meditation on the Holy Scriptures, faithful thoughts, and kind consolations, so that when they pray they may be answered concerning the things they ask for the faithful who wish to provide for them.

4Let them not despise these things, so that through them a portion of life may also be apportioned to those… Let them be established in love, kindness, and true and perfect grace.

5Let them be constant in consolation, comforting their neighbors, catechizing and teaching those who have recently become faithful in understanding, knowledge, and kindness, encouraging those who are very young, and being examples of holiness among them in all good things.

6Let the women do likewise. Let them speak and work with order, grace, and knowledge, so that they may truly be the salt of the earth, as it is called.

7Let female virgins have their heads covered in the church, hiding only their hair. Let them be considered worthy of honor by everyone, so that the other women who desire it may imitate them.