more complex Against Heresies. This practice of writing a small introduction to Christian doctrine and theology for laypeople who might have difficulty reading and understanding the weightier books became a common practice for centuries to come. In Latin such a slim volume came to be called an enchiridion, a term meaning both “handbook” and “dagger.” Such little volumes of Christian teaching were considered weapons of spiritual warfare. Irenaeus died in Lyons during a massacre of Christians in 202.