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, deviating from the narrow path of commandments, succumb to bodily and carnal sins. Letter 366 echoes this, addressing how angels, through lack of ἐγκράτεια, “were dragged down from heaven by desire” (ἠκούσαμεν ἀκρατεῖς γεγονέναι κατασπασθέντας οὐρανοῦ δἰ ἐπιθυμίαν). In both cases, there is an emphasis on how yielding to desire results in a "fall" from a higher spiritual state.

Additionally, Letter to Theodore presents Jesus as teaching hidden mysteries only to those who are “perfected” in the faith, paralleling Letter 366’s depiction of Jesus as the embodiment of ἐγκράτεια—a model of restraint who, even in eating and drinking, does not succumb to corruption. Both texts employ the language of secrecy and divine participation, positioning ἐγκράτεια as essential for those who would comprehend the deeper truths of the faith.

The conceptual resonance and shared vocabulary between Letter to Theodore and Letter 366—especially around themes of boundaries, purity, and the disciplined soul—highlight a unified approach to spiritual guidance and suggest a Clementine origin or influence for both texts.