Gregory the Great (Wisigothic)→Unknown|gregory great
From: Gregory the Great, Pope, in Rome
To: Zittanus, military commander [in Italy]
Date: ~600 AD
Context: Gregory acknowledges that even religious people (clergy and monks) must pay their proper taxes.
Gregory to Zittanus, military commander.
I want to be clear on a point that has apparently caused some confusion: the obligation to pay legitimate taxes extends to clergy and religious people, not just to ordinary citizens. The church does not claim exemption from civil obligations that apply generally, except in cases where specific exemptions have been properly granted.
I say this not to undermine the church's interests but to clarify them. An unjust exemption is not something the church should seek; it damages our credibility and gives legitimate grounds for resentment. What we claim, and what we are prepared to argue for, are exemptions that have been properly established by law and custom. Nothing beyond that.
Act accordingly in the cases that come before you.
Gregory
Context:Gregory acknowledges that even religious people (clergy and monks) must pay their proper taxes.
Gregory to Zittanus, military commander.
I want to be clear on a point that has apparently caused some confusion: the obligation to pay legitimate taxes extends to clergy and religious people, not just to ordinary citizens. The church does not claim exemption from civil obligations that apply generally, except in cases where specific exemptions have been properly granted.
I say this not to undermine the church's interests but to clarify them. An unjust exemption is not something the church should seek; it damages our credibility and gives legitimate grounds for resentment. What we claim, and what we are prepared to argue for, are exemptions that have been properly established by law and custom. Nothing beyond that.
Act accordingly in the cases that come before you. Gregory
Modern English rendering for readability. See the 19th-century translation or original Latin/Greek for scholarly use.