The Law Code of Simeon of Rev-Ardashir, originally written in Persian, was translated into Syriac by a monk of Bēt-Qaṭrāyē. The Code's author, possibly the early 7th century Metropolitan mentioned in the letters of Patriarch Īšoʿ-yahb III, aims to clarify the origins of the Christian legal system, and to address family matters, including inheritance and the role of slaves.
Table of Contents v
List of Abbreviations vii
List of Symbols ix
Introduction 1
Outline 1
Law of Moses 2
Acts of Synods 2
Code of Īšōʿ-yahb the Catholicos 2
Consensus 3
Equivalent Retaliation (lex talionis) 3
Manuscript 5
Previous Editions and Translations 6
Summary 6
Text and Translation 9
The apology of the One who was Asked by Him
(=Bishop Simeon) to Translate this Book from Persian to Syriac 10
Forward of the Book: Justification (of Simeon) Addressed to the One Who Requested from Him to Put in Writing the Book. 16
Chapter One: What Goal Does the Teaching of Our Lord Have, and Why He did not Lay Down Any Law Concerning Juridical Decisions? 16
Chapter Two: Why Do We Not Practice Law on the Basis of Mosaic Law? 26
(Chapter Three): Concerning the Origins of Past and Present Laws Practiced in the Church 30
Beginning of All Laws 50
Bibliography of Works Cited 87
Syriac Sources 87
Modern Sources 87
Online Sources 88
Index 89
Names and Themes 89
Biblical References 89