Hildegard to an Abbot
The Letters of Hildegard of Bingen love. Therefore, for the grace divinely bestowed on you, we return thanks to the high Giver of all good things, Who has instilled a feminine breast with virile strength, not only to turn aside sin and shame but also to provide necessary counsel and help for the needy.
But because we know that you are busy, we do not dare to speak at length.
We ask, therefore, that you mercifully offer the help of your consolation to us.
Justusberg
Hildegard to an Abbot Before 1170 Hildegard advises the abbot to use moderation with his flock.
He Who gives gifts to givers and a track to runners says: Do not hinder your sheep from taking the right paths. What does this mean? Impose lighter burdens on those who cannot sustain the heavy labors of the journey. For a boy cannot be equal to a young man, nor a young man to an old one, nor can an old man be equated to any of them. Therefore, assign this man1 a task that he can accomplish. May God so infuse your soul with this stability that you may avoid senseless fluctuations.
Note 1. Apparently in answer to the abbot's question about this person.
Kaisbeim
The Abbot Conrad to Hildegard
The abbot asks why Hildegard is so slow in answering his request. Also, as so frequently in these letters, he asks whether it would be acceptable to God if he resigned his administrative office.
Conrad, abbot of Kaisheim (although unworthy), to the holy lady Hildegard, prelate in the cloister of St. Rupert in Bingen, with devoted prayers and humble submission.