Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Proverbs 31:20

Western Saints

Bede

"She opened her hand to the needy," etc. This can indeed be understood concerning works of alms which are generally done for the poor, but it is better understood concerning the word of the Lord, which confers the garment of salvation upon souls. Of this the blessed Job boasts, saying: "I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; my judgment was like a robe and a diadem" (Job XXIX). …

Commentary on Proverbs ↗

Bonaventure

The fifth column of the house of wisdom is liberality in effect. Wisdom wills to have mercy not only in affection, but also in effect. "She opened her hand to the needy and stretched out her palms to the poor. She opened her mouth to wisdom, and the law of clemency is on her tongue. From the fruit of her hands she gave to the needy." Wisdom teaches that a person should perform works not frivolous but fruitful, because "the fruit of good labors is glorious." Among all fruitful works, the works of mercy are most fruitful. …

Collationes de Septem Donis, Collation 9 ↗