THEOSISJerome of Stridon
The message conveyed in Ecclesiastes, ‘A time to be silent, and a time to speak’ (Ecclesiastes 3:7), is reiterated through prophetic declarations; for true wisdom knows when to remain silent and when to articulate, providing nourishment to fellow servants at the right moment. Consequently, Isaiah addresses the disbelieving people, saying, ‘Shall I keep silent when and always be silent?’ declares the Lord (Isaiah 42:14).
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Hence, the one who, due to numerous transgressions, was silent for an extended period, upon witnessing others who might repent, and of whom it is said, ‘He who listens, let him listen, and he who remains quiet, let him remain quiet from his evil deeds and forsake them,’ then opens his mouth, not through his own desire, but in obedience to the command of the Lord, he starts to speak to the people. Nonetheless, what we interpret as: whoever listens, let him listen, and whoever remains in peace, let him remain in peace, contrasts with the LXX’s interpretation: whoever listens, let him listen, and whoever does not believe, let him remain unbelieving. This is paraphrased in the second rendition of Aquila: whoever listens, let him be heard, and whoever forsakes, let him be forsaken. The implication is clear: to everyone who possesses, more will be given; but from one who lacks, even what he thinks he possesses will be taken away from him (Luke 8:18).