Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Ecclesiastes 10:20

Western Saints

Jerome

"Even in your thoughts do not curse a king, and in your bed-chamber do not curse the rich, for a bird of the skies may carry the sound, and some winged creature may betray the matter. "This simple example teaches the listeners that we should not be overpowered by anger and fury, and curse and blame kings and leaders, since it seems to happen against one's wish, that what we curse is made known. And we run into danger by the inability to hold our tongue. …

Commentary on Ecclesiastes ↗

Bonaventure

Here he restrains subjects from secret detraction, should it happen that such a one is placed in authority: and first he sets forth the exhortation; second, he gives the reason. He exhorts therefore that one should neither speak evil by diminishing reputation, nor call down a curse by wishing his misery. …

Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Chapter 10 ↗