proverb · Source-linked selection
The beadle of the parish is always of the vicar’s opinion.
The beadle of the parish is always of the vicar’s opinion.
In print by 1857 AD · industrial
Recorded in a printed collection by this date; the original date of these words is still unknown.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Agreement may reflect dependence on a superior rather than an independent judgement. Ask whether the reasons would remain convincing without the authority behind them.
What the words are saying
The two parish roles show an opinion following a hierarchy. The beadle agrees with the vicar so consistently that independent judgement becomes doubtful. In another setting, a subordinate may echo a leader because disagreement carries a cost. Look for reasons and evidence beyond the relationship between the speakers. The word always exaggerates the pattern: agreement can also be sincere and well founded. The image questions automatic deference, rather than declaring every lower-ranking person incapable of thinking independently.
Everyday example
A committee invites members to explain their reasons before accepting a proposal simply because the chair supports it.
When to use it
Use it to question agreement that seems to follow rank rather than evidence.
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What it does not mean
Shared conclusions are not proof of dependence; assess the reasoning and whether disagreement is possible.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional (French-language collection)
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- In print by 1857 AD · industrial
In print by 1857: recorded in A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs (1857). Collection publication is an upper bound for this wording, not its earliest origin, composition date or the author's lifetime.
An author lifetime, approximate period or collection date is not necessarily the date when these words were first written or spoken. - Recorded source
- A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs (1857) (1857 AD)
Printed page 31; French section, paragraph 620; source wording: Le bedeau de la paroisse est toujours de l’avis de monsieur le curé.
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.