Meaning & Analysis
The proverb literally suggests that the Devil, as a physical being, possesses a foul odor that lingers in a place after he has departed, a common belief in folklore where his presence is often associated with the smell of sulfur or brimstone.
Insights
Lasting Consequences of Evil
The 'stink' metaphorically represents the enduring negative consequences of evil actions. It suggests that wrongdoing leaves a lasting stain on reputations, relationships, and communities that cannot be easily erased.
The Taint of Moral Corruption
The proverb implies that involvement with malicious or immoral behavior inevitably leads to a state of moral decay. The 'stink' is the inescapable trace of this corruption that clings to a person or situation, betraying its tainted nature.
Inescapable Evidence of Wrongdoing
It serves as a warning that evil cannot be perfectly concealed. There will always be some residual evidence—an atmosphere of distrust, suspicion, or unease—that reveals its presence long after the act is committed.
Intuitive Recognition of Harm
The lingering 'stink' can be interpreted as an intuitive sense that something is wrong. It's the gut feeling or palpable tension that follows a deceitful or harmful event, signaling that trust has been broken.
Historical and Religious Symbolism
The association of the Devil with foul odors like sulfur (brimstone) is deeply rooted in Christian demonology, symbolizing his connection to Hell. The 1650 quotation links this to the goat, a creature historically associated with pagan deities and the scapegoat ritual, reinforcing the theme of impurity and corruption.
Moral and Ethical Warning
The proverb serves as a powerful moral warning that engaging in wrongdoing is never a clean act. It inevitably leaves a damaging trace on one's reputation, relationships, and environment, as illustrated in the 1675 quotation where dishonest business practices leave an 'evil savour'.
Psychological Residue
Psychologically, the 'stink' represents the lasting trauma and distrust that lingers after a harmful event or the influence of a malevolent person. It speaks to how negative experiences can permanently poison a person's sense of safety and well-being.
Cultural Antithesis
The proverb's concept is implicitly contrasted with the 'odor of sanctity' associated with holiness. The cross-reference to Venus leaving a 'perfume' highlights a clear cultural dichotomy: evil pollutes and corrupts, while goodness and beauty leave a pleasant, edifying trace.
Rhetorical Devices
Olfactory Imagery
The use of 'stink' creates powerful and visceral olfactory imagery. It connects the abstract concept of evil to a primal, physical sensation of disgust, making the proverb's warning more immediate and memorable.
Personification and Symbolism
The Devil is personified as the ultimate agent of malice, while the 'stink' he leaves serves as a potent symbol for the pervasive and corrupting influence of evil deeds.
Hyperbole
The use of the word 'always' is a form of hyperbole that underscores the supposed inevitability and certainty of evil's corrupting trace, leaving no room for exception and strengthening the proverb's cautionary tone.
Transcription
Quotations
Into every shop he [the devil] casts a short measure, or a false balance . . . Thus in every place where he comes . . he leaves an evil savour behind him.
The Rabbins say, he was represented as an He-goat . . Indeed, both Devils and Goats are said to go out in a stink.
Cross References
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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