67. Added to this
he was tolerant in disposition and humble in spirit. For though he was
such a man, he observed the rule of the Church most rigidly, and was
willing that all the clergy should be honoured above himself
1113
. For he was not ashamed to bow his head to
bishops and presbyters, and if ever a deacon came to him for help he
discoursed with him on what was profitable, but gave place to him in
prayer, not being ashamed to learn himself. For often he would ask
questions, and desired to listen to those who were present, and if any
one said anything that was useful he confessed that he was profited.
And besides, his countenance had a great and wonderful grace. This gift
also he had from the Saviour. For if he were present in a great company
of monks, and any one who did not know him previously, wished to see
him, immediately coming forward he passed by the rest, and hurried to
Antony, as though attracted by his appearance. Yet neither in height
nor breadth was he conspicuous above others, but in the serenity of his
manner and the purity of his soul. For as his soul was free from
disturbances, his outward appearance was calm; so from the joy of his
soul he possessed a cheerful countenance, and from his bodily movements
could be perceived the condition of his soul, as it is written,
‘When the heart is merry the countenance is cheerful, but when it
is sorrowful it is cast down
1114
.’ Thus Jacob
recognised the counsel Laban had in his heart, and said to his wives,
‘The countenance of your father is not as it was yesterday and
the day before
1115
.’ Thus Samuel
recognised David, for he had mirthful eyes, and teeth white as milk.
Thus Antony was recognised, for he was never disturbed, for his soul
was at peace; he was never downcast, for his mind was joyous.
1113
This
was by no means universal among monks: Athan. argues to Dracontius (cc.
8, 9) against the monastic tendency to think little of the clergy.
Here, he propounds the example of Antony for the imitation of the
‘peregrini fratres.’
1114
Prov. xv. 13
.
1115
Gen. xxxi. 5
;
1 Sam. xvi.
12
, xvii. 32