When writing, you may need to use the abbreviations for the Apostolic Fathers according to the SBL Handbook of Style. Throughout my studies, I have often needed to reference these abbreviations.

The abbreviations for the Apostolic Fathers are provided below. You can access the SBL Handbook in print, but I have found it easier to use the version available on Logos Bible Software, since it’s easier to search.

Be aware that scholarship is divided on whether to cite these texts like biblical books (using colons) or like extra-biblical early Christian writings (using periods). SBL recommends consistently using periods rather than colons or commas (e.g., 1 Clem. 1.1).

Note also that The Shepherd of Hermas introduces extra complexity due to two competing numbering systems (the traditional division into Visions, Mandates, and Similitudes versus the continuous chapter numbering). SBL recommends using composite references that indicate both systems, such as Herm. Vis. 4.1.4.

Apostolic Fathers

Work Title	Abbreviation
Barnabas	Barn.
1-2 Clement	1-2 Clem.
Didache	Did.
Diognetus	Diogn.
Shepherd of Hermas, Mandate(s)	Herm. Mand.
Shepherd of Hermas, Similitude(s)	Herm. Sim.
Shepherd of Hermas, Vision(s)	Herm. Vis.
Ignatius, To the Ephesians	Ign. Eph.
Ignatius, To the Magnesians	Ign. Magn.
Ignatius, To the Philadelphians	Ign. Phld.
Ignatius, To Polycarp	Ign. Pol.
Ignatius, To the Romans	Ign. Rom.
Ignatius, To the Smyrnaeans	Ign. Smyrn.
Ignatius, To the Trallians	Ign. Trall.
Martyrdom of Polycarp	Mart. Pol.
Polycarp, To the Philippians	Pol. Phil.

 

You can order the SBL Manual of Style on Amazon here.

You can order Michael Holmes’s edition of The Apostolic Fathers: Greek Texts and English Translations on Amazon here.