Only preachers or fools sit at the head of the table

My great grandfather used to say, "Only preachers or fools sit at the head of the table." Does anyone know if this was a common saying and, if so, then what are its origins?

I've never heard it. Maybe the head of the table is reserved for the head of the household. And only a fool or visiting preacher would sit there, displacing the host. Also, there is a Bible verse that says when you enter a banquet hall you should go to the lowest place. Then you will be invited up to a more honored seat.

Your great grandfather was under the mistaken impression that "fools" and "visiting preachers" are mutually exclusive.