words of a Buddha, heart of a serpent; hypocritical and vicious
Meanings
1 sense · 3 examplesidiom
words of a saint, heart of a viper; hypocritical and malicious
literaryA literary idiom describing a person whose kind, benevolent, or righteous words mask a cruel, scheming, or vicious heart. Equivalent to the English idiom 'a wolf in sheep's clothing' but emphasizes the contrast between speech and intent. Often used in a cautionary or critical context.
He advises you to be good on the surface but schemes against you behind your back; he is truly a person with the words of a Buddha and the heart of a serpent.
Don't be fooled by his philanthropist appearance; this man has a viper's heart behind a saintly mouth and is skilled in political manipulation.
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Those with the mouths of saints and hearts of serpents have always been despised by decent people.