were punished ecclesiastically in the early Christian Church as follows:
(1.) In Spain, — the Council of Elvira (A.D. 305 or 306) refused communion even at the hour of death to any person who should falsely accuse any bishop, priest, or deacon.
(2.) In France, by the first Council of Arles (314), those who falsely accused their brethren were excommunicated for life. This was re-enacted at the second council (443), but permission was given for the restoration of those who should do penance and give satisfaction commensurate with their offence. —