Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Matthew 17:15

Western Saints

Augustine of Hippo

Or the fire pertains to anger, which aims upwards, water to the lusts of the flesh.

Catena Aurea by Aquinas ↗

Thomas Aquinas

Then the petition is presented. He does not ask, but sets forth the infirmity: for it suffices to set forth one's misery to one who is merciful. First he sets forth the infirmity; secondly, the symptoms; thirdly, that he found no remedy. He says therefore Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is a lunatic. …

Commentary on Matthew ↗

Rabanus Maurus

The lunatic is figuratively one who is hurried into fresh vices every hour, one while is cast into the fire, with which the hearts of the adulterers burn; or again into the waters of pleasures or lusts, which yet have not strength to quench love. (Hos. 7:4, 6.)

Catena Aurea by Aquinas ↗