rational faculties of his soul, . . . and again on the terrors of
the fire, and the torment of the worm, . . . and thus escaped
unhurt. And thus was the enemy brought to shame. For he who
thought himself to be equal with God was now mocked by a youth; and
he who boasted against flesh and blood was defeated by a man clothed
in flesh. For the Lord worked with him, who bore flesh on our
account, and gave to the body victory over the devil, that each man
in his battle may say, "Not I, but the grace of God which is with
me." At last, when the dragon could not overthrow Antony even thus,
but saw himself thrust out of his heart, then gnashing his teeth (as
is written), and as if beside himself, he appeared to the sight, as
he is to the reason, as a black child, and as it were falling down
before him, no longer attempted to argue (for the deceiver was cast
out), but using a human voice, said, "I have deceived many; I have
cast down many. But now, as in the case of many, so in thine, I
have been worsted in the battle." Then when Antony asked him, "Who
art thou who speakest thus to me?" he forthwith replied in a
pitiable voice, "I am the spirit of impurity.". . .

Then Antony gave thanks to God, and gaining courage, said, "Thou art
utterly despicable; for thou art black of soul, and weak as a child;
nor shall I henceforth cast one thought on thee. For the Lord is my
helper, and I shall despise my enemies." That black being, hearing
this, fled forthwith, cowering at his words, and afraid thenceforth
of coming near the man.

This was Antony's first struggle against the devil: or rather this
mighty deed in him was the Saviour's, who condemned sin in the flesh
that the righteousness of the Lord should be fulfilled in us, who
walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. But neither did