Two Letters of Clement of Alexandria: To Theodore and Letter 366
In comparing Letter to Theodore and Letter 366 , we see striking thematic and linguistic parallels, particularly in their shared emphasis on self-control ( ἐγκράτεια ) as a central tenet of spiritual and moral purity. In Letter to Theodore , the phrase Καλῶς ἐποίησας ἐπιστομίσαι τὰς ἀῤῥήτους διδασκαλίας τῶν Καρποκρατιανῶν highlights the need to "silence the unspeakable teachings of the Carpocratians," echoing Clement's advocacy for spiritual vigilance and protective boundaries against heretical doctrines. This boundary-setting aligns closely with Letter 366’s use of Καλῶς ποιεῖς ὅρους ἡμῖν εὐθεῖς ὁρίζων , which praises the setting of "straight boundaries." Both letters promote ἐγκράτεια as not merely a form of self-restraint but as a transformative power leading to divine participation ( Θεοῦ μετουσία ). Further, both texts discuss the corrupting force of desire. Letter to Theodore condemns the πλανῆται ("wandering stars") of heretics who, deviat