John of Damascus
Eusebius Pamphilius, from the Fifth Book of his Gospel Proofs, on ‘God appeared to Abraham by the Oak of Mambre.’
On Holy Images — translated by Mary H. Allies
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¶1
Hence, even now the inhabitants cherish the place where visions appeared to Abraham, as divinely consecrated. The turpentine tree is still to be seen, and those who received Abraham’s hospitality are painted in picture, one on each side, and the stranger of greatest dignity in the middle. He would be an image of our Lord and Saviour, whom even rude men reverence, Whose divine words they believe. It was He who, through Abraham, sowed the seeds of piety in men. In the likeness and habit of an ordinary man He presented himself to Abraham,and gave him knowledge of His Father.
Translated by Mary H. Allies. Edition opa.patristics.john-of-damascus.on-holy-images.en.