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Reply to Faustus the Manichaean

81.

As regards Solomon, it need only be said that the condemnation of his conduct in the faithful narrative of holy Scripture is much more serious than the childish vehemence of Faustus' attacks. The Scripture tells us with faithful accuracy both the good that Solomon had at first, and the evil actions by which he lost the good he began with; while Faustus, in his attacks, like a man closing his eyes, or with no eyes at all, seeks no guidance from the light, but is prompted only by violent animosity. To pious and discerning readers of the sacred Scriptures evidence of the chastity of the holy men who are said to have had several wives is found in this, that Solomon, who by his polygamy gratified his passions, instead of seeking for offspring, is expressly noted as chargeable with being a lover of women. This, as we are informed by the truth which accepts no man's person, led him down into the abyss of idolatry.

Edition Hide
Contra Faustum Manichaeum libri triginta tres

81.

De Salomone autem quid dicam, nisi quia gravius ipsius fidelis et sanctae scripturae testimonio redarguitur quam petulantibus et nugacibus Fausti conviciis? Illa enim de illo et quid boni prius habuisset et quid mali faciendo bonum, in quo primum fuerat, reliquisset, veraciter fideliterque locuta est; p. 683,18 iste autem oculis clausis vel potius exstinctis non quo lumine manifestante ducebatur, ibat, sed quo malevolentia praecipitante ferebatur, irruebat. Hoc ipso enim magis insinuaverunt sancti libri religiosis lectoribus et electoribus suis, quam caste habuerint sancti viri plures uxores, quod Salomon, qui eas non illo modo, sed magis ad libidinem quam ad propaginem habuit, improbatus est et reprehensus his verbis, ut appellaretur amator mulierum et inde ad profundum idolatriae lapsus atque demersus eadem veritate personam nullius acceptante proderetur.