Use the bath not out of zeal or for the sheen of the body, but only for the remedy of health. Use the washing, I say, when infirmity demands, not when the will persuades. For if you do what is not necessary, you will sin. It is written: And make not provision for the flesh in its concupiscences (Rom. XIII). The care of the flesh that comes from concupiscence is held in vice; not that which is suited to restoring health. Wherefore let not the will of the flesh entice you to wash too often, but let the necessity of infirmity command it. For you will be without fault, if you do that which is needful.