The benefice must be taken with its liabilities.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

Accepting the benefits of a role also means considering its obligations. A favourable position should not be treated as though its accompanying duties disappear.

What the words are saying

A benefice is a position associated with support and responsibilities; the proverb pairs its advantages with its liabilities. In an ordinary arrangement, ask what work, costs or accountability accompany the reward before accepting it. This encourages clear terms and a willingness to fulfil agreed duties. It also protects against a later claim that someone should enjoy only the attractive side of a commitment. The saying does not require accepting undisclosed burdens or abusive conditions merely because a role once offered some benefit.

Everyday example

Someone accepting a committee role checks the meeting schedule and reporting duties instead of agreeing only because the position sounds prestigious.

When to use it

Use it to make the responsibilities attached to a benefit explicit.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.