He that sups with the devil . . .

Posted by Bruce Kahl January 06, 2003In reply to He that sups with the devil . . . posted by SALLY on January 06, 2003

Looking for the origin of 'He who sups with the devil should use a long spoon'. This phrase appears in both Chaucer and Shakespeare. Is it a serving spoon?? A long handled spoon would be difficult to eat with!

Not to be taken too literally, the proverb is just saying that if you really must have a relationship with someone like the devil then don't get TOO close to him---remember to keep your distance.