Simplicity: The Didache on Generosity and Simplicity

The Didache instructs early Christians: "Give to everyone who asks you, and ask not for it back; for the Father wills that to all should be given from His own free gifts. But woe to him who receives; for if one having need receives, he is guiltless; but he who receives not having need shall pay the penalty." This radical instruction combines simplicity with generosity -- possessions are held so lightly that they can be given to anyone who asks.

The Didache's vision of simplicity is communal, not individual. The community cares for its own, and each member holds possessions as steward, not owner. "Do not turn away the needy, but share all things with your brother, and do not say that anything is your own."

Practical application: The next time someone asks you for something -- money, time, a possession, a favor -- say yes, unless saying yes would harm someone. The Didache challenges the instinct to protect what we have and invites a default posture of generosity. Notice how this practice changes your relationship with your possessions.