Chapter XV.
Of those who only increase their own or their
brother’s grievances by hiding them.
On
the other hand we know
(and O! would that we did not know) some of the brethren who are so
hard and obstinate, that when they know that their own feelings are
aroused against their brother, or that their brother’s are
against them, in order to conceal their vexation of mind, which is
caused by indignation at the grievance of one or the other, go apart
from those whom they ought to smooth down by humbly making up to them
and talking with them; and begin to sing some verses of the Psalms. And
these while they fancy that they are softening the bitter thoughts
which have arisen in their heart, increase by their insolent conduct
what they could have got rid of at once if they had been willing to
show more care and humility, for a well-timed expression of regret
would cure their own feelings and soften their brother’s heart.
For by that plan they nourish and cherish the sin of meanness or rather
of pride, instead of stamping out all inducement to quarrelling, and
they forget the charge of the Lord which says: “Whosoever is
angry with his brother, is in danger of the judgment;” and:
“if thou remember that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave
there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way, first be reconciled to
thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”
1988
1988
S.
Matt. v. 22–24
.