CHAPTER 2

Verse 1.^[176] “If, receiving the words of my command, you hide [them] for yourself.” Someone “hides” who does not do [the father’s word] out of vainglory, but is eager to escape notice.

Verse 5.^[177] “Then you will understand the fear of the Lord.” Do observe to what extent we will understand the “fear of the Lord,” for that it is in fact unclear is apparent from those who are simpler. For one can see that there are some who think they should fear the Lord in things they need not, and others who do not fear in things they should.

Verse 3.^[178] “And to understanding give your voice.” Each person gives his own voice to something, either giving utterance to wrath at what caused it, or to grief, or to fornication. But blessed is he dedicates his whole voice to the Lord, in order that whatever he may speak, it may be wisdom. As another [seeks] “silver” ^[179], so also you yourself seek for wisdom, being a lover of money, as it were, in this [respect].

Verse 16.^[180] “Let not evil counsel overtake you.” Those who are foreign to the Church profess one thing at the beginning, but another at the end; for they forsake idolatry at the beginning, and they approach the Creator; then, being altered, they reject the Old [Testament] Scripture, becoming opposed to the elementary condition [they had in their] youth. But with the ecclesiastical teachers the ends are harmonious with the elements in the beginning.