But they will perhaps ask, what then is the meaning of “male and female Gen. i. 27.,” and “Be fruitful and multiply?” In answer we shall say that “Be fruitful and multiply Ibid. i. 28.” does not altogether refer to the multiplying by the marriage connection. For God had power to multiply the race also in different ways, if they kept the precept unbroken Text, ἀπαραχάρακτον. Variant, ἀπαρεγχάρακτον, old trans. “in intransmutationem.” to the end Vid. supr., bk. ii. ch. 30.. But God, Who knoweth all things before they have existence, knowing in His foreknowledge that they would fall into transgression in the future and be condemned to death, anticipated this and made “male and female,” and bade them “be fruitful and multiply.” Let us, then, proceed on our way and see the glories Text αυξήυατα = increases. We have read αὐχήματα. of virginity: and this also includes chastity.