Quote by Thomas Aquinas
If forgers and malefactors are put to death by the secular power, there is much more reason for excommunicating and even putting to death one convicted of heresy.
Summary
This quote suggests that if criminals and counterfeiters are punished with death by the secular authorities, then there is even more justification for excommunicating or even executing someone found guilty of heresy. It implies that heresy is a more severe offense than forgery or other crimes and justifies a harsher punishment. The quote reflects a mindset prevalent in earlier periods when religious dissent was viewed as a threat and subject to severe consequences, highlighting the importance placed on religious orthodoxy.