The Shoulder Cords

They also wear double bands woven of woolen yarn, which the Greeks call analaboi, but which we would name belts or ties, or more properly cords. These fall down over the top of the neck, divide on either side of the throat, and go around the folds of the robe at the armpits, gathering them up on either side. In this way they can draw up the wide folds of the garment and tuck them in close to the body. So, with their arms tied back, they are made active and ready for every kind of work, striving with all their might to fulfill the apostle’s charge: “For these hands have served not only me but also those who are with me.” “Nor have we eaten anyone’s bread for nothing, but with labor and toil we worked night and day, so as not to be a burden to any of you.” And, “If anyone will not work, let him not eat.” [a]