Commentary on Leviticus

Jerome (342–420)

They quote the passage which says that "the lips of a strange woman drop as honeycomb," which is sweet indeed in the eater's mouth but is afterward found more bitter than gall. This, they argue, is the reason that neither honey nor wax is offered in the sacrifices of the Lord, and that oil, the product of the bitter olive, is burned in his temple.

Under no circumstances is there an offering of honey. "Whatever happens," it says, "will be impure." Honey is a sign of pleasure and sweetness, and believe me, sensual pleasure always brings death; sensuality as such is never pleasing to God.

Salt is good, and every offering must be sprinkled with it. Therefore also the apostle has given the commandment: "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt." But "if the salt have lost his savor," it is cast out.

See also

• More works by Jerome

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