Line 423: |
Line 423: |
| | | |
| [6] Let those that are at peace with you be many, | | [6] Let those that are at peace with you be many, |
| + | but let your advisers be one in a thousand. |
| + | |
| + | [7] When you gain a friend, gain him through testing, |
| + | and do not trust him hastily. |
| + | |
| + | [8] For there is a friend who is such at his own convenience, |
| + | but will not stand by you in your day of trouble. |
| + | |
| + | [9] And there is a friend who changes into an enemy, |
| + | and will disclose a quarrel to your disgrace. |
| + | |
| + | [10] And there is a friend who is a table companion, |
| + | but will not stand by you in your day of trouble. |
| + | |
| + | [11] In prosperity he will make himself your equal, |
| + | and be bold with your servants; |
| + | |
| + | [12] but if you are brought low he will turn against you, |
| + | and will hide himself from your presence. |
| + | |
| + | [13] Keep yourself far from your enemies, |
| + | and be on guard toward your friends. |
| + | |
| + | [14] A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter: |
| + | he that has found one has found a treasure. |
| + | |
| + | [15] There is nothing so precious as a faithful friend, |
| + | and no scales can measure his excellence. |
| + | |
| + | [16] A faithful friend is an elixir of life; |
| + | and those who fear the Lord will find him. |
| + | |
| + | [17] Whoever fears the Lord directs his friendship aright, |
| + | for as he is, so is his neighbor also. |
| + | |
| + | [18] My son, from your youth up choose instruction, |
| + | and until you are old you will keep finding wisdom. |
| + | |
| + | [19] Come to her like one who plows and sows, |
| + | and wait for her good harvest. |
| + | For in her service you will toil a little while, |
| + | and soon you will eat of her produce. |
| + | |
| + | [20] She seems very harsh to the uninstructed; |
| + | a weakling will not remain with her. |
| + | |
| + | [21] She will weigh him down like a heavy testing stone, |
| + | and he will not be slow to cast her off. |
| + | |
| + | [22] For wisdom is like her name, |
| + | and is not manifest to many. |
| + | |
| + | [23] Listen, my son, and accept my judgment; |
| + | do not reject my counsel. |
| + | |
| + | [24] Put your feet into her fetters, |
| + | and your neck into her collar. |
| + | |
| + | [25] Put your shoulder under her and carry her, |
| + | and do not fret under her bonds. |
| + | |
| + | [26] Come to her with all your soul, |
| + | and keep her ways with all your might. |
| + | |
| + | [27] Search out and seek, and she will become known to you; |
| + | and when you get hold of her, do not let her go. |
| + | |
| + | [28] For at last you will find the rest she gives, |
| + | and she will be changed into joy for you. |
| + | |
| + | [29] Then her fetters will become for you a strong protection, |
| + | and her collar a glorious robe. |
| + | |
| + | [30] Her yoke is a golden ornament, |
| + | and her bonds are a cord of blue. |
| + | |
| + | [31] You will wear her like a glorious robe, |
| + | and put her on like a crown of gladness. |
| + | |
| + | [32] If you are willing, my son, you will be taught, |
| + | and if you apply yourself you will become clever. |
| + | |
| + | [33] If you love to listen you will gain knowledge, |
| + | and if you incline your ear you will become wise. |
| + | |
| + | [34] Stand in the assembly of the elders. |
| + | Who is wise? Cleave to him. |
| + | |
| + | [35] Be ready to listen to every narrative, |
| + | and do not let wise proverbs escape you. |
| + | |
| + | [36] If you see an intelligent man, visit him early; |
| + | let your foot wear out his doorstep. |
| + | |
| + | [37] Reflect on the statutes of the Lord, |
| + | and meditate at all times on his commandments. |
| + | It is he who will give insight to your mind, |
| + | and your desire for wisdom will be granted. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 7== |
| + | [1] Do no evil, and evil will never befall you. |
| + | [2] Stay away from wrong, and it will turn away from you. |
| + | [3] My son, do not sow the furrows of injustice, |
| + | and you will not reap a sevenfold crop. |
| + | |
| + | [4] Do not seek from the Lord the highest office, |
| + | nor the seat of honor from the king. |
| + | [5] Do not assert your righteousness before the Lord, |
| + | nor display your wisdom before the king. |
| + | [6] Do not seek to become a judge, |
| + | lest you be unable to remove iniquity, |
| + | lest you be partial to a powerful man, |
| + | and thus put a blot on your integrity. |
| + | [7] Do not offend against the public, |
| + | and do not disgrace yourself among the people. |
| + | |
| + | [8] Do not commit a sin twice; |
| + | even for one you will not go unpunished. |
| + | [9] Do not say, "He will consider the multitude of my gifts, |
| + | and when I make an offering to the Most High |
| + | God he will accept it." |
| + | [10] Do not be fainthearted in your prayer, |
| + | nor neglect to give alms. |
| + | |
| + | [11] Do not ridicule a man who is bitter in soul, |
| + | for there is One who abases and exalts. |
| + | [12] Do not devise a lie against your brother, |
| + | nor do the like to a friend. |
| + | [13] Refuse to utter any lie, |
| + | for the habit of lying serves no good. |
| + | [14] Do not prattle in the assembly of the elders, |
| + | nor repeat yourself in your prayer. |
| + | |
| + | [15] Do not hate toilsome labor, |
| + | or farm work, which were created by the Most High. |
| + | [16] Do not count yourself among the crowd of sinners; |
| + | remember that wrath does not delay. |
| + | [17] Humble yourself greatly, |
| + | for the punishment of the ungodly is fire and worms. |
| + | |
| + | [18] Do not exchange a friend for money, |
| + | or a real brother for the gold of Ophir. |
| + | [19] Do not deprive yourself of a wise and good wife, |
| + | for her charm is worth more than gold. |
| + | [20] Do not abuse a servant who performs his work faithfully, |
| + | or a hired laborer who devotes himself to you. |
| + | [21] Let your soul love an intelligent servant; |
| + | do not withhold from him his freedom. |
| + | |
| + | [22] Do you have cattle? Look after them; |
| + | if they are profitable to you, keep them. |
| + | [23] Do you have children? Discipline them, |
| + | and make them obedient from their youth. |
| + | [24] Do you have daughters? Be concerned for their chastity, |
| + | and do not show yourself too indulgent with them. |
| + | [25] Give a daughter in marriage; you will have |
| + | finished a great task. |
| + | But give her to a man of understanding. |
| + | |
| + | [26] If you have a wife who pleases you, do not cast her out; |
| + | but do not trust yourself to one whom you detest. |
| + | [27] With all your heart honor your father, |
| + | and do not forget the birth pangs of your mother. |
| + | [28] Remember that through your parents you were born; |
| + | and what can you give back to them that equals |
| + | their gift to you? |
| + | |
| + | [29] With all your soul fear the Lord, |
| + | and honor his priests. |
| + | [30] With all your might love your Maker, |
| + | and do not forsake his ministers. |
| + | [31] Fear the Lord and honor the priest, |
| + | and give him his portion, as is commanded you: |
| + | the first fruits, the guilt offering, the gift |
| + | of the shoulders, |
| + | the sacrifice of sanctification, |
| + | and the first fruits of the holy things. |
| + | |
| + | [32] Stretch forth your hand to the poor, |
| + | so that your blessing may be complete. |
| + | [33] Give graciously to all the living, |
| + | and withhold not kindness from the dead. |
| + | [34] Do not fail those who weep, |
| + | but mourn with those who mourn. |
| + | [35] Do not shrink from visiting a sick man, |
| + | because for such deeds you will be loved. |
| + | [36] In all you do, remember the end of your life, |
| + | and then you will never sin. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 8== |
| + | [1] Do not contend with a powerful man, |
| + | lest you fall into his hands. |
| + | [2] Do not quarrel with a rich man, |
| + | lest his resources outweigh yours; |
| + | for gold has ruined many, |
| + | and has perverted the minds of kings. |
| + | [3] Do not argue with a chatterer, |
| + | nor heap wood on his fire. |
| + | |
| + | [4] Do not jest with an ill-bred person, |
| + | lest your ancestors be disgraced. |
| + | [5] Do not reproach a man who is turning away from sin; |
| + | remember that we all deserve punishment. |
| + | [6] Do not disdain a man when he is old, |
| + | for some of us are growing old. |
| + | [7] Do not rejoice over any one's death; |
| + | remember that we all must die. |
| + | [8] Do not slight the discourse of the sages, |
| + | but busy yourself with their maxims; |
| + | because from them you will gain instruction |
| + | and learn how to serve great men. |
| + | [9] Do not disregard the discourse of the aged, |
| + | for they themselves learned from their fathers; |
| + | because from them you will gain understanding |
| + | and learn how to give an answer in time of need. |
| + | |
| + | [10] Do not kindle the coals of a sinner, |
| + | lest you be burned in his flaming fire. |
| + | [11] Do not get up and leave an insolent fellow, |
| + | lest he lie in ambush against your words. |
| + | [12] Do not lend to a man who is stronger than you; |
| + | but if you do lend anything, be as one who has lost it. |
| + | [13] Do not give surety beyond your means, |
| + | but if you give surety, be concerned as one who must pay. |
| + | |
| + | [14] Do not go to law against a judge, |
| + | for the decision will favor him because of his standing. |
| + | [15] Do not travel on the road with a foolhardy fellow, |
| + | lest he be burdensome to you; |
| + | for he will act as he pleases, |
| + | and through his folly you will perish with him. |
| + | [16] Do not fight with a wrathful man, |
| + | and do not cross the wilderness with him; |
| + | because blood is as nothing in his sight, |
| + | and where no help is at hand, he will strike you down. |
| + | [17] Do not consult with a fool, |
| + | for he will not be able to keep a secret. |
| + | [18] In the presence of a stranger do nothing that |
| + | is to be kept secret, |
| + | for you do not know what he will divulge. |
| + | [19] Do not reveal your thoughts to every one, |
| + | lest you drive away your good luck. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 9== |
| + | [1] Do not be jealous of the wife of your bosom, |
| + | and do not teach her an evil lesson to your own hurt. |
| + | [2] Do not give yourself to a woman |
| + | so that she gains mastery over your strength. |
| + | [3] Do not go to meet a loose woman, |
| + | lest you fall into her snares. |
| + | [4] Do not associate with a woman singer, |
| + | lest you be caught in her intrigues. |
| + | [5] Do not look intently at a virgin, |
| + | lest you stumble and incur penalties for her. |
| + | [6] Do not give yourself to harlots |
| + | lest you lose your inheritance. |
| + | [7] Do not look around in the streets of a city, |
| + | nor wander about in its deserted sections. |
| + | [8] Turn away your eyes from a shapely woman, |
| + | and do not look intently at beauty belonging to another; |
| + | many have been misled by a woman's beauty, |
| + | and by it passion is kindled like a fire. |
| + | [9] Never dine with another man's wife, |
| + | nor revel with her at wine; |
| + | lest your heart turn aside to her, |
| + | and in blood you be plunged into destruction. |
| + | |
| + | [10] Forsake not an old friend, |
| + | for a new one does not compare with him. |
| + | A new friend is like new wine; |
| + | when it has aged you will drink it with pleasure. |
| + | |
| + | [11] Do not envy the honors of a sinner, |
| + | for you do not know what his end will be. |
| + | [12] Do not delight in what pleases the ungodly; |
| + | remember that they will not be held guiltless |
| + | as long as they live. |
| + | |
| + | [13] Keep far from a man who has the power to kill, |
| + | and you will not be worried by the fear of death. |
| + | But if you approach him, make no misstep, |
| + | lest he rob you of your life. |
| + | Know that you are walking in the midst of snares, |
| + | and that you are going about on the city battlements. |
| + | |
| + | [14] As much as you can, aim to know your neighbors, |
| + | and consult with the wise. |
| + | [15] Let your conversation be with men of understanding, |
| + | and let all your discussion be about the law of the Most High. |
| + | [16] Let righteous men be your dinner companions, |
| + | and let your glorying be in the fear of the Lord. |
| + | [17] A work will be praised for the skill of the craftsmen; |
| + | so a people's leader is proved wise by his words. |
| + | [18] A babbler is feared in his city, |
| + | and the man who is reckless in speech will be hated. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 10== |
| + | [1] A wise magistrate will educate his people, |
| + | and the rule of an understanding man will be well ordered. |
| + | [2] Like the magistrate of the people, so are his officials; |
| + | and like the ruler of the city, so are all its inhabitants. |
| + | [3] An undisciplined king will ruin his people, |
| + | but a city will grow through the understanding of its rulers. |
| + | [4] The government of the earth is in the hands of the Lord, |
| + | and over it he will raise up the right man for the time. |
| + | [5] The success of a man is in the hands of the Lord, |
| + | and he confers his honor upon the person of the scribe. |
| + | |
| + | [6] Do not be angry with your neighbor for any injury, |
| + | and do not attempt anything by acts of insolence. |
| + | [7] Arrogance is hateful before the Lord and before men, |
| + | and injustice is outrageous to both. |
| + | [8] Sovereignty passes from nation to nation |
| + | on account of injustice and insolence and wealth. |
| + | [9] How can he who is dust and ashes be proud? |
| + | for even in life his bowels decay. |
| + | [10] A long illness baffles the physician; |
| + | the king of today will die tomorrow. |
| + | [11] For when a man is dead, |
| + | he will inherit creeping things, and wild beasts, and worms. |
| + | [12] The beginning of man's pride is to depart from the Lord; |
| + | his heart has forsaken his Maker. |
| + | [13] For the beginning of pride is sin, |
| + | and the man who clings to it pours out abominations. |
| + | Therefore the Lord brought upon them extraordinary afflictions, |
| + | and destroyed them utterly. |
| + | [14] The Lord has cast down the thrones of rulers, |
| + | and has seated the lowly in their place. |
| + | [15] The Lord has plucked up the roots of the nations, |
| + | and has planted the humble in their place. |
| + | [16] The Lord has overthrown the lands of the nations, |
| + | and has destroyed them to the foundations of the earth. |
| + | [17] He has removed some of them and destroyed them, |
| + | and has extinguished the memory of them from the earth. |
| + | [18] Pride was not created for men, |
| + | nor fierce anger for those born of women. |
| + | |
| + | [19] What race is worthy of honor? The human race. |
| + | What race is worthy of honor? Those who fear the Lord. |
| + | What race is unworthy of honor? The human race. |
| + | What race is unworthy of honor? Those who |
| + | transgress the commandments. |
| + | [20] Among brothers their leader is worthy of honor, |
| + | and those who fear the Lord are worthy of honor in his eyes. |
| + | [22] The rich, and the eminent, and the poor -- |
| + | their glory is the fear of the Lord. |
| + | [23] It is not right to despise an intelligent poor man, |
| + | nor is it proper to honor a sinful man. |
| + | [24] The nobleman, and the judge, and the ruler will be honored, |
| + | but none of them is greater than the man who fears the Lord. |
| + | [25] Free men will be at the service of a wise servant, |
| + | and a man of understanding will not grumble. |
| + | |
| + | [26] Do not make a display of your wisdom when you do your work, |
| + | nor glorify yourself at a time when you are in want. |
| + | [27] Better is a man who works and has an abundance of everything, |
| + | than one who goes about boasting, but lacks bread. |
| + | [28] My son, glorify yourself with humility, |
| + | and ascribe to yourself honor according to your worth. |
| + | [29] Who will justify the man that sins against himself? |
| + | And who will honor the man that dishonors his own life? |
| + | [30] A poor man is honored for his knowledge, |
| + | while a rich man is honored for his wealth. |
| + | [31] A man honored in poverty, how much more in wealth! |
| + | And a man dishonored in wealth, how much more in poverty! |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 11== |
| + | [1] The wisdom of a humble man will lift up his head, |
| + | and will seat him among the great. |
| + | |
| + | [2] Do not praise a man for his good looks, |
| + | nor loathe a man because of his appearance. |
| + | [3] The bee is small among flying creatures, |
| + | but her product is the best of sweet things. |
| + | [4] Do not boast about wearing fine clothes, |
| + | nor exalt yourself in the day that you are honored; |
| + | for the works of the Lord are wonderful, |
| + | and his works are concealed from men. |
| + | [5] Many kings have had to sit on the ground, |
| + | but one who was never thought of has worn a crown. |
| + | [6] Many rulers have been greatly disgraced, |
| + | and illustrious men have been handed over to others. |
| + | |
| + | [7] Do not find fault before you investigate; |
| + | first consider, and then reprove. |
| + | [8] Do not answer before you have heard, |
| + | nor interrupt a speaker in the midst of his words. |
| + | [9] Do not argue about a matter which does not concern you, |
| + | nor sit with sinners when they judge a case. |
| + | |
| + | [10] My son, do not busy yourself with many matters; |
| + | if you multiply activities you will not go unpunished, |
| + | and if you pursue you will not overtake, |
| + | and by fleeing you will not escape. |
| + | [11] There is a man who works, and toils, and presses on, |
| + | but is so much the more in want. |
| + | [12] There is another who is slow and needs help, |
| + | who lacks strength and abounds in poverty; |
| + | but the eyes of the Lord look upon him for his good; |
| + | he lifts him out of his low estate |
| + | [13] and raises up his head, |
| + | so that many are amazed at him. |
| + | |
| + | [14] Good things and bad, life and death, |
| + | poverty and wealth, come from the Lord. |
| + | [17] The gift of the Lord endures for those who are godly, |
| + | and what he approves will have lasting success. |
| + | [18] There is a man who is rich through his diligence |
| + | and self-denial, |
| + | and this is the reward allotted to him: |
| + | [19] when he says, "I have found rest, |
| + | and now I shall enjoy my goods!" |
| + | he does not know how much time will pass |
| + | until he leaves them to others and dies. |
| + | [20] Stand by your covenant and attend to it, |
| + | and grow old in your work. |
| + | |
| + | [21] Do not wonder at the works of a sinner, |
| + | but trust in the Lord and keep at your toil; |
| + | for it is easy in the sight of the Lord |
| + | to enrich a poor man quickly and suddenly. |
| + | [22] The blessing of the Lord is the reward of the godly, |
| + | and quickly God causes his blessing to flourish. |
| + | [23] Do not say, "What do I need, |
| + | and what prosperity could be mine in the future?" |
| + | [24] Do not say, "I have enough, |
| + | and what calamity could happen to me in the future?" |
| + | [25] In the day of prosperity, adversity is forgotten, |
| + | and in the day of adversity, prosperity is not remembered. |
| + | [26] For it is easy in the sight of the Lord |
| + | to reward a man on the day of death according to his conduct. |
| + | [27] The misery of an hour makes one forget luxury, |
| + | and at the close of a man's life his deeds will be revealed. |
| + | [28] Call no one happy before his death; |
| + | a man will be known through his children. |
| + | |
| + | [29] Do not bring every man into your home, |
| + | for many are the wiles of the crafty. |
| + | [30] Like a decoy partridge in a cage, so is the |
| + | mind of a proud man, |
| + | and like a spy he observes your weakness; |
| + | [31] for he lies in wait, turning good into evil, |
| + | and to worthy actions he will attach blame. |
| + | [32] From a spark of fire come many burning coals, |
| + | and a sinner lies in wait to shed blood. |
| + | [33] Beware of a scoundrel, for he devises evil, |
| + | lest he give you a lasting blemish. |
| + | [34] Receive a stranger into your home and he will |
| + | upset you with commotion, |
| + | and will estrange you from your family. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 12== |
| + | [1] If you do a kindness, know to whom you do it, |
| + | and you will be thanked for your good deeds. |
| + | [2] Do good to a godly man, and you will be repaid -- |
| + | if not by him, certainly by the Most High. |
| + | [3] No good will come to the man who persists in evil |
| + | or to him who does not give alms. |
| + | [4] Give to the godly man, but do not help the sinner. |
| + | [5] Do good to the humble, but do not give to the ungodly; |
| + | hold back his bread, and do not give it to him, |
| + | lest by means of it he subdue you; |
| + | for you will receive twice as much evil |
| + | for all the good which you do to him. |
| + | [6] For the Most High also hates sinners |
| + | and will inflict punishment on the ungodly. |
| + | [7] Give to the good man, but do not help the sinner. |
| + | [8] A friend will not be known in prosperity, |
| + | nor will an enemy be hidden in adversity. |
| + | [9] A man's enemies are grieved when he prospers, |
| + | and in his adversity even his friend will separate from him. |
| + | [10] Never trust your enemy, |
| + | for like the rusting of copper, so is his wickedness. |
| + | [11] Even if he humbles himself and goes about cringing, |
| + | watch yourself, and be on your guard against him; |
| + | and you will be to him like one who has polished a mirror, |
| + | and you will know that it was not hopelessly tarnished. |
| + | [12] Do not put him next to you, |
| + | lest he overthrow you and take your place; |
| + | do not have him sit at your right, |
| + | lest he try to take your seat of honor, |
| + | and at last you will realize the truth of my words, |
| + | and be stung by what I have said. |
| + | |
| + | [13] Who will pity a snake charmer bitten by a serpent, |
| + | or any who go near wild beasts? |
| + | [14] So no one will pity a man who associates with a sinner |
| + | and becomes involved in his sins. |
| + | [15] He will stay with you for a time, |
| + | but if you falter, he will not stand by you. |
| + | |
| + | [16] An enemy will speak sweetly with his lips, |
| + | but in his mind he will plan to throw you into a pit; |
| + | an enemy will weep with his eyes, |
| + | but if he finds an opportunity his thirst |
| + | for blood will be insatiable. |
| + | [17] If calamity befalls you, you will find him there ahead of you; |
| + | and while pretending to help you, he will |
| + | trip you by the heel; |
| + | [18] he will shake his head, and clap his hands, |
| + | and whisper much, and change his expression. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 13== |
| + | [1] Whoever touches pitch will be defiled, |
| + | and whoever associates with a proud man will become like him. |
| + | [2] Do not lift a weight beyond your strength, |
| + | nor associate with a man mightier and richer than you. |
| + | How can the clay pot associate with the iron kettle? |
| + | The pot will strike against it, and will itself be broken. |
| + | [3] A rich man does wrong, and he even adds reproaches; |
| + | a poor man suffers wrong, and he must add apologies. |
| + | [4] A rich man will exploit you if you can be of use to him, |
| + | but if you are in need he will forsake you. |
| + | [5] If you own something, he will live with you; |
| + | he will drain your resources and he will not care. |
| + | [6] When he needs you he will deceive you, |
| + | he will smile at you and give you hope. |
| + | He will speak to you kindly and say, "What do you need?" |
| + | [7] He will shame you with his foods, |
| + | until he has drained you two or three times; |
| + | and finally he will deride you. |
| + | Should he see you afterwards, he will forsake you, |
| + | and shake his head at you. |
| + | |
| + | [8] Take care not to be led astray, |
| + | and not to be humiliated in your feasting. |
| + | [9] When a powerful man invites you, be reserved; |
| + | and he will invite you the more often. |
| + | [10] Do not push forward, lest you be repulsed; |
| + | and do not remain at a distance, lest you be forgotten. |
| + | [11] Do not try to treat him as an equal, |
| + | nor trust his abundance of words; |
| + | for he will test you through much talk, |
| + | and while he smiles he will be examining you. |
| + | [12] Cruel is he who does not keep words to himself; |
| + | he will not hesitate to injure or to imprison. |
| + | [13] Keep words to yourself and be very watchful, |
| + | for you are walking about with your own downfall. |
| + | |
| + | [15] Every creature loves its like, |
| + | and every person his neighbor; |
| + | [16] all living beings associate by species, |
| + | and a man clings to one like himself. |
| + | [17] What fellowship has a wolf with a lamb? |
| + | No more has a sinner with a godly man. |
| + | [18] What peace is there between a hyena and a dog? |
| + | And what peace between a rich man and a poor man? |
| + | [19] Wild asses in the wilderness are the prey of lions; |
| + | likewise the poor are pastures for the rich. |
| + | [20] Humility is an abomination to a proud man; |
| + | likewise a poor man is an abomination to a rich one. |
| + | |
| + | [21] When a rich man totters, he is steadied by friends, |
| + | but when a humble man falls, he is even pushed |
| + | away by friends. |
| + | [22] If a rich man slips, his helpers are many; |
| + | he speaks unseemly words, and they justify him. |
| + | If a humble man slips, they even reproach him; |
| + | he speaks sensibly, and receives no attention. |
| + | [23] When the rich man speaks all are silent, |
| + | and they extol to the clouds what he says. |
| + | When the poor man speaks they say, "Who is this fellow?" |
| + | And should he stumble, they even push him down. |
| + | |
| + | [24] Riches are good if they are free from sin, |
| + | and poverty is evil in the opinion of the ungodly. |
| + | [25] A man's heart changes his countenance, |
| + | either for good or for evil. |
| + | [26] The mark of a happy heart is a cheerful face, |
| + | but to devise proverbs requires painful thinking. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 14== |
| + | [1] Blessed is the man who does not blunder with his lips |
| + | and need not suffer grief for sin. |
| + | [2] Blessed is he whose heart does not condemn him, |
| + | and who has not given up his hope. |
| + | |
| + | [3] Riches are not seemly for a stingy man; |
| + | and of what use is property to an envious man? |
| + | [4] Whoever accumulates by depriving himself, accumulates |
| + | for others; |
| + | and others will live in luxury on his goods. |
| + | [5] If a man is mean to himself, to whom will he be generous? |
| + | He will not enjoy his own riches. |
| + | [6] No one is meaner than the man who is grudging to himself, |
| + | and this is the retribution for his baseness; |
| + | [7] even if he does good, he does it unintentionally, |
| + | and betrays his baseness in the end. |
| + | [8] Evil is the man with a grudging eye; |
| + | he averts his face and disregards people. |
| + | [9] A greedy man's eye is not satisfied with a portion, |
| + | and mean injustice withers the soul. |
| + | [10] A stingy man's eye begrudges bread, |
| + | and it is lacking at his table. |
| + | |
| + | [11] My son, treat yourself well, according to your means, |
| + | and present worthy offerings to the Lord. |
| + | [12] Remember that death will not delay, |
| + | and the decree of Hades has not been shown to you. |
| + | [13] Do good to a friend before you die, |
| + | and reach out and give to him as much as you can. |
| + | [14] Do not deprive yourself of a happy day; |
| + | let not your share of desired good pass by you. |
| + | [15] Will you not leave the fruit of your labors to another, |
| + | and what you acquired by toil to be divided by lot? |
| + | [16] Give, and take, and beguile yourself, |
| + | because in Hades one cannot look for luxury. |
| + | [17] All living beings become old like a garment, |
| + | for the decree from of old is, "You must surely die!" |
| + | [18] Like flourishing leaves on a spreading tree |
| + | which sheds some and puts forth others, |
| + | so are the generations of flesh and blood: |
| + | one dies and another is born. |
| + | [19] Every product decays and ceases to exist, |
| + | and the man who made it will pass away with it. |
| + | |
| + | [20] Blessed is the man who meditates on wisdom |
| + | and who reasons intelligently. |
| + | [21] He who reflects in his mind on her ways |
| + | will also ponder her secrets. |
| + | [22] Pursue wisdom like a hunter, |
| + | and lie in wait on her paths. |
| + | [23] He who peers through her windows |
| + | will also listen at her doors; |
| + | [24] he who encamps near her house |
| + | will also fasten his tent peg to her walls; |
| + | [25] he will pitch his tent near her, |
| + | and will lodge in an excellent lodging place; |
| + | [26] he will place his children under her shelter, |
| + | and will camp under her boughs; |
| + | [27] he will be sheltered by her from the heat, |
| + | and will dwell in the midst of her glory. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 15== |
| + | [1] The man who fears the Lord will do this, |
| + | and he who holds to the law will obtain wisdom. |
| + | [2] She will come to meet him like a mother, |
| + | and like the wife of his youth she will welcome him. |
| + | [3] She will feed him with the bread of understanding, |
| + | and give him the water of wisdom to drink. |
| + | [4] He will lean on her and will not fall, |
| + | and he will rely on her and will not be put to shame. |
| + | [5] She will exalt him above his neighbors, |
| + | and will open his mouth in the midst of the assembly. |
| + | [6] He will find gladness and a crown of rejoicing, |
| + | and will acquire an everlasting name. |
| + | [7] Foolish men will not obtain her, |
| + | and sinful men will not see her. |
| + | [8] She is far from men of pride, |
| + | and liars will never think of her. |
| + | |
| + | [9] A hymn of praise is not fitting on the lips of a sinner, |
| + | for it has not been sent from the Lord. |
| + | [10] For a hymn of praise should be uttered in wisdom, |
| + | and the Lord will prosper it. |
| + | |
| + | [11] Do not say, "Because of the Lord I left the right way"; |
| + | for he will not do what he hates. |
| + | [12] Do not say, "It was he who led me astray"; |
| + | for he had no need of a sinful man. |
| + | [13] The Lord hates all abominations, |
| + | and they are not loved by those who fear him. |
| + | [14] It was he who created man in the beginning, |
| + | and he left him in the power of his own inclination. |
| + | [15] If you will, you can keep the commandments, |
| + | and to act faithfully is a matter of your own choice. |
| + | [16] He has placed before you fire and water: |
| + | stretch out your hand for whichever you wish. |
| + | [17] Before a man are life and death, |
| + | and whichever he chooses will be given to him. |
| + | [18] For great is the wisdom of the Lord; |
| + | he is mighty in power and sees everything; |
| + | [19] his eyes are on those who fear him, |
| + | and he knows every deed of man. |
| + | [20] He has not commanded any one to be ungodly, |
| + | and he has not given any one permission to sin. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 16== |
| + | [1] Do not desire a multitude of useless children, |
| + | nor rejoice in ungodly sons. |
| + | [2] If they multiply , do not rejoice in them, |
| + | unless the fear of the Lord is in them. |
| + | [3] Do not trust in their survival, |
| + | and do not rely on their multitude; |
| + | for one is better than a thousand, |
| + | and to die childless is better than to have ungodly children. |
| + | [4] For through one man of understanding a city |
| + | will be filled with people, |
| + | but through a tribe of lawless men it will be made desolate. |
| + | [5] Many such things my eye has seen, |
| + | and my ear has heard things more striking than these. |
| + | |
| + | [6] In an assembly of sinners a fire will be kindled, |
| + | and in a disobedient nation wrath was kindled. |
| + | [7] He was not propitiated for the ancient giants |
| + | who revolted in their might. |
| + | [8] He did not spare the neighbors of Lot, |
| + | whom he loathed on account of their insolence. |
| + | [9] He showed no pity for a nation devoted to destruction, |
| + | for those destroyed in their sins; |
| + | [10] nor for the six hundred thousand men on foot, |
| + | who rebelliously assembled in their stubbornness. |
| + | [11] Even if there is only one stiff-necked person, |
| + | it will be a wonder if he remains unpunished. |
| + | For mercy and wrath are with the Lord; |
| + | he is mighty to forgive, and he pours out wrath. |
| + | [12] As great as his mercy, so great is also his reproof; |
| + | he judges a man according to his deeds. |
| + | [13] The sinner will not escape with his plunder, |
| + | and the patience of the godly will not be frustrated. |
| + | [14] He will make room for every act of mercy; |
| + | every one will receive in accordance with his deeds. |
| + | |
| + | [17] Do not say, "I shall be hidden from the Lord, |
| + | and who from on high will remember me? |
| + | Among so many people I shall not be known, |
| + | for what is my soul in the boundless creation? |
| + | [18] Behold, heaven and the highest heaven, |
| + | the abyss and the earth, will tremble at his visitation. |
| + | [19] The mountains also and the foundations of the earth |
| + | shake with trembling when he looks upon them. |
| + | [20] And no mind will reflect on this. |
| + | Who will ponder his ways? |
| + | [21] Like a tempest which no man can see, |
| + | so most of his works are concealed. |
| + | [22] Who will announce his acts of justice? |
| + | Or who will await them? For the covenant is far off." |
| + | [23] This is what one devoid of understanding thinks; |
| + | a senseless and misguided man thinks foolishly. |
| + | |
| + | [24] Listen to me, my son, and acquire knowledge, |
| + | and pay close attention to my words. |
| + | [25] I will impart instruction by weight, |
| + | and declare knowledge accurately. |
| + | |
| + | [26] The works of the Lord have existed from the beginning by his |
| + | creation, and when he made them, he determined their divisions. |
| + | [27] He arranged his works in an eternal order, |
| + | and their dominion for all generations; |
| + | they neither hunger nor grow weary, |
| + | and they do not cease from their labors. |
| + | [28] They do not crowd one another aside, |
| + | and they will never disobey his word. |
| + | [29] After this the Lord looked upon the earth, |
| + | and filled it with his good things; |
| + | [30] with all kinds of living beings he covered its surface, |
| + | and to it they return. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 17== |
| + | [1] The Lord created man out of earth, |
| + | and turned him back to it again. |
| + | [2] He gave to men few days, a limited time, |
| + | but granted them authority over the things upon the earth. |
| + | [3] He endowed them with strength like his own, |
| + | and made them in his own image. |
| + | [4] He placed the fear of them in all living beings, |
| + | and granted them dominion over beasts and birds. |
| + | [6] He made for them tongue and eyes; |
| + | he gave them ears and a mind for thinking. |
| + | [7] He filled them with knowledge and understanding, |
| + | and showed them good and evil. |
| + | [8] He set his eye upon their hearts |
| + | to show them the majesty of his works. |
| + | [10] And they will praise his holy name, |
| + | to proclaim the grandeur of his works. |
| + | [11] He bestowed knowledge upon them, |
| + | and allotted to them the law of life. |
| + | [12] He established with them an eternal covenant, |
| + | and showed them his judgments. |
| + | [13] Their eyes saw his glorious majesty, |
| + | and their ears heard the glory of his voice. |
| + | [14] And he said to them, "Beware of all unrighteousness." |
| + | And he gave commandment to each of them concerning |
| + | his neighbor. |
| + | [15] Their ways are always before him, |
| + | they will not be hid from his eyes. |
| + | [17] He appointed a ruler for every nation, |
| + | but Israel is the Lord's own portion. |
| + | [19] All their works are as the sun before him, |
| + | and his eyes are continually upon their ways. |
| + | [20] Their iniquities are not hidden from him, |
| + | and all their sins are before the Lord. |
| + | [22] A man's almsgiving is like a signet with the Lord |
| + | and he will keep a person's kindness like |
| + | the apple of his eye. |
| + | [23] Afterward he will arise and requite them, |
| + | and he will bring their recompense on their heads. |
| + | [24] Yet to those who repent he grants a return, |
| + | and he encourages those whose endurance is failing. |
| + | |
| + | [25] Turn to the Lord and forsake your sins; |
| + | pray in his presence and lessen your offenses. |
| + | [26] Return to the Most High and turn away from iniquity, |
| + | and hate abominations intensely. |
| + | [27] Who will sing praises to the Most High in Hades, |
| + | as do those who are alive and give thanks? |
| + | [28] From the dead, as from one who does not exist, |
| + | thanksgiving has ceased; |
| + | he who is alive and well sings the Lord's praises. |
| + | [29] How great is the mercy of the Lord, |
| + | and his forgiveness for those who turn to him! |
| + | [30] For all things cannot be in men, |
| + | since a son of man is not immortal. |
| + | [31] What is brighter than the sun? Yet its light fails. |
| + | So flesh and blood devise evil. |
| + | [32] He marshals the host of the height of heaven; |
| + | but all men are dust and ashes. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 18== |
| + | [1] He who lives for ever created the whole universe; |
| + | [2] the Lord alone will be declared righteous. |
| + | [4] To none has he given power to proclaim his works; |
| + | and who can search out his mighty deeds? |
| + | [5] Who can measure his majestic power? |
| + | And who can fully recount his mercies? |
| + | [6] It is not possible to diminish or increase them, |
| + | nor is it possible to trace the wonders of the Lord. |
| + | [7] When a man has finished, he is just beginning, |
| + | and when he stops, he will be at a loss. |
| + | [8] What is man, and of what use is he? |
| + | What is his good and what is his evil? |
| + | [9] The number of a man's days is great if he reaches |
| + | a hundred years. |
| + | [10] Like a drop of water from the sea and a grain of sand |
| + | so are a few years in the day of eternity. |
| + | [11] Therefore the Lord is patient with them |
| + | and pours out his mercy upon them. |
| + | [12] He sees and recognizes that their end will be evil; |
| + | therefore he grants them forgiveness in abundance. |
| + | [13] The compassion of man is for his neighbor, |
| + | but the compassion of the Lord is for all living beings. |
| + | He rebukes and trains and teaches them, |
| + | and turns them back, as a shepherd his flock. |
| + | [14] He has compassion on those who accept his discipline |
| + | and who are eager for his judgments. |
| + | |
| + | [15] My son, do not mix reproach with your good deeds, |
| + | nor cause grief by your words when you present a gift. |
| + | [16] Does not the dew assuage the scorching heat? |
| + | So a word is better than a gift. |
| + | [17] Indeed, does not a word surpass a good gift? |
| + | Both are to be found in a gracious man. |
| + | [18] A fool is ungracious and abusive, |
| + | and the gift of a grudging man makes the eyes dim. |
| + | |
| + | [19] Before you speak, learn, |
| + | and before you fall ill, take care of your health. |
| + | [20] Before judgment, examine yourself, |
| + | and in the hour of visitation you will find forgiveness. |
| + | [21] Before falling ill, humble yourself, |
| + | and when you are on the point of sinning, turn back. |
| + | [22] Let nothing hinder you from paying a vow promptly, |
| + | and do not wait until death to be released from it. |
| + | [23] Before making a vow, prepare yourself; |
| + | and do not be like a man who tempts the Lord. |
| + | [24] Think of his wrath on the day of death, |
| + | and of the moment of vengeance when he turns away his face. |
| + | [25] In the time of plenty think of the time of hunger; |
| + | in the days of wealth think of poverty and need. |
| + | [26] From morning to evening conditions change, |
| + | and all things move swiftly before the Lord. |
| + | |
| + | [27] A wise man is cautious in everything, |
| + | and in days of sin he guards against wrongdoing. |
| + | [28] Every intelligent man knows wisdom, |
| + | and he praises the one who finds her. |
| + | [29] Those who understand sayings become skilled themselves, |
| + | and pour forth apt proverbs. |
| + | |
| + | [30] Do not follow your base desires, |
| + | but restrain your appetites. |
| + | [31] If you allow your soul to take pleasure in base desire, |
| + | it will make you the laughingstock of your enemies. |
| + | [32] Do not revel in great luxury, |
| + | lest you become impoverished by its expense. |
| + | [33] Do not become a beggar by feasting with borrowed money, |
| + | when you have nothing in your purse. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 19== |
| + | [1] A workman who is a drunkard will not become rich; |
| + | he who despises small things will fail little by little. |
| + | [2] Wine and women lead intelligent men astray, |
| + | and the man who consorts with harlots is very reckless. |
| + | [3] Decay and worms will inherit him, |
| + | and the reckless soul will be snatched away. |
| + | |
| + | [4] One who trusts others too quickly is lightminded, |
| + | and one who sins does wrong to himself. |
| + | [5] One who rejoices in wickedness will be condemned, |
| + | [6] and for one who hates gossip evil is lessened. |
| + | [7] Never repeat a conversation, |
| + | and you will lose nothing at all. |
| + | [8] With friend or foe do not report it, |
| + | and unless it would be a sin for you, do not disclose it; |
| + | [9] for some one has heard you and watched you, |
| + | and when the time comes he will hate you. |
| + | [10] Have you heard a word? Let it die with you. |
| + | Be brave! It will not make you burst! |
| + | [11] With such a word a fool will suffer pangs |
| + | like a woman in labor with a child. |
| + | [12] Like an arrow stuck in the flesh of the thigh, |
| + | so is a word inside a fool. |
| + | |
| + | [13] Question a friend, perhaps he did not do it; |
| + | but if he did anything, so that he may do it no more. |
| + | [14] Question a neighbor, perhaps he did not say it; |
| + | but if he said it, so that he may not say it again. |
| + | [15] Question a friend, for often it is slander; |
| + | so do not believe everything you hear. |
| + | [16] A person may make a slip without intending it. |
| + | Who has never sinned with his tongue? |
| + | [17] Question your neighbor before you threaten him; |
| + | and let the law of the Most High take its course. |
| + | |
| + | [20] All wisdom is the fear of the Lord, |
| + | and in all wisdom there is the fulfilment of the law. |
| + | [22] But the knowledge of wickedness is not wisdom, |
| + | nor is there prudence where sinners take counsel. |
| + | [23] There is a cleverness which is abominable, |
| + | but there is a fool who merely lacks wisdom. |
| + | [24] Better is the God-fearing man who lacks intelligence, |
| + | than the highly prudent man who transgresses the law. |
| + | [25] There is a cleverness which is scrupulous but unjust, |
| + | and there are people who distort kindness to gain a verdict. |
| + | [26] There is a rascal bowed down in mourning, |
| + | but inwardly he is full of deceit. |
| + | [27] He hides his face and pretends not to hear; |
| + | but where no one notices, he will forestall you. |
| + | [28] And if by lack of strength he is prevented from sinning, |
| + | he will do evil when he finds an opportunity. |
| + | [29] A man is known by his appearance, |
| + | and a sensible man is known by his face, when you meet him. |
| + | [30] A man's attire and open-mouthed laughter, |
| + | and a man's manner of walking, show what he is. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 20== |
| + | [1] There is a reproof which is not timely; |
| + | and there is a man who keeps silent but is wise. |
| + | [2] How much better it is to reprove than to stay angry! |
| + | And the one who confesses his fault will be kept from loss. |
| + | [4] Like a eunuch's desire to violate a maiden |
| + | is a man who executes judgments by violence. |
| + | [5] There is one who by keeping silent is found wise, |
| + | while another is detested for being too talkative. |
| + | [6] There is one who keeps silent because he has no answer, |
| + | while another keeps silent because he knows when to speak. |
| + | [7] A wise man will be silent until the right moment, |
| + | but a braggart and fool goes beyond the right moment. |
| + | [8] Whoever uses too many words will be loathed, |
| + | and whoever usurps the right to speak will be hated. |
| + | |
| + | [9] There may be good fortune for a man in adversity, |
| + | and a windfall may result in a loss. |
| + | [10] There is a gift that profits you nothing, |
| + | and there is a gift that brings a double return. |
| + | [11] There are losses because of glory, |
| + | and there are men who have raised their heads |
| + | from humble circumstances. |
| + | [12] There is a man who buys much for a little, |
| + | but pays for it seven times over. |
| + | [13] The wise man makes himself beloved through his words, |
| + | but the courtesies of fools are wasted. |
| + | [14] A fool's gift will profit you nothing, |
| + | for he has many eyes instead of one. |
| + | [15] He gives little and upbraids much, |
| + | he opens his mouth like a herald; |
| + | today he lends and tomorrow he asks it back; |
| + | such a one is a hateful man. |
| + | [16] A fool will say, "I have no friend, |
| + | and there is no gratitude for my good deeds; |
| + | those who eat my bread speak unkindly." |
| + | [17] How many will ridicule him, and how often! |
| + | |
| + | [18] A slip on the pavement is better than a slip of the tongue; |
| + | so the downfall of the wicked will occur speedily. |
| + | [19] An ungracious man is like a story told at the wrong time, |
| + | which is continually on the lips of the ignorant. |
| + | [20] A proverb from a fool's lips will be rejected, |
| + | for he does not tell it at its proper time. |
| + | |
| + | [21] A man may be prevented from sinning by his poverty, |
| + | so when he rests he feels no remorse. |
| + | [22] A man may lose his life through shame, |
| + | or lose it because of his foolish look. |
| + | [23] A man may for shame make promises to a friend, |
| + | and needlessly make him an enemy. |
| + | |
| + | [24] A lie is an ugly blot on a man; |
| + | it is continually on the lips of the ignorant. |
| + | [25] A thief is preferable to a habitual liar, |
| + | but the lot of both is ruin. |
| + | [26] The disposition of a liar brings disgrace, |
| + | and his shame is ever with him. |
| + | |
| + | [27] He who speaks wisely will advance himself, |
| + | and a sensible man will please great men. |
| + | [28] Whoever cultivates the soil will heap up his harvest, |
| + | and whoever pleases great men will atone for injustice. |
| + | [29] Presents and gifts blind the eyes of the wise; |
| + | like a muzzle on the mouth they avert reproofs. |
| + | [30] Hidden wisdom and unseen treasure, |
| + | what advantage is there in either of them? |
| + | [31] Better is the man who hides his folly |
| + | than the man who hides his wisdom. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 21== |
| + | [1] Have you sinned, my son? Do so no more, |
| + | but pray about your former sins. |
| + | [2] Flee from sin as from a snake; |
| + | for if you approach sin, it will bite you. |
| + | Its teeth are lion's teeth, |
| + | and destroy the souls of men. |
| + | [3] All lawlessness is like a two-edged sword; |
| + | there is no healing for its wound. |
| + | |
| + | [4] Terror and violence will lay waste riches; |
| + | thus the house of the proud will be laid waste. |
| + | [5] The prayer of a poor man goes from his lips to the ears of God, |
| + | and his judgment comes speedily. |
| + | [6] Whoever hates reproof walks in the steps of the sinner, |
| + | but he that fears the Lord will repent in his heart. |
| + | [7] He who is mighty in speech is known from afar; |
| + | but the sensible man, when he slips, is aware of it. |
| + | |
| + | [8] A man who builds his house with other people's money |
| + | is like one who gathers stones for his burial mound. |
| + | [9] An assembly of the wicked is like tow gathered together, |
| + | and their end is a flame of fire. |
| + | [10] The way of sinners is smoothly paved with stones, |
| + | but at its end is the pit of Hades. |
| + | |
| + | [11] Whoever keeps the law controls his thoughts, |
| + | and wisdom is the fulfilment of the fear of the Lord. |
| + | [12] He who is not clever cannot be taught, |
| + | but there is a cleverness which increases bitterness. |
| + | [13] The knowledge of a wise man will increase like a flood, |
| + | and his counsel like a flowing spring. |
| + | [14] The mind of a fool is like a broken jar; |
| + | it will hold no knowledge. |
| + | |
| + | [15] When a man of understanding hears a wise saying, |
| + | he will praise it and add to it; |
| + | when a reveler hears it, he dislikes it |
| + | and casts it behind his back. |
| + | [16] A fool's narration is like a burden on a journey, |
| + | but delight will be found in the speech of the intelligent. |
| + | [17] The utterance of a sensible man will be sought in the assembly, |
| + | and they will ponder his words in their minds. |
| + | |
| + | [18] Like a house that has vanished, so is wisdom to a fool; |
| + | and the knowledge of the ignorant is unexamined talk. |
| + | [19] To a senseless man education is fetters on his feet, |
| + | and like manacles on his right hand. |
| + | [20] A fool raises his voice when he laughs, |
| + | but a clever man smiles quietly. |
| + | [21] To a sensible man education is like a golden ornament, |
| + | and like a bracelet on the right arm. |
| + | |
| + | [22] The foot of a fool rushes into a house, |
| + | but a man of experience stands respectfully before it. |
| + | [23] A boor peers into the house from the door, |
| + | but a cultivated man remains outside. |
| + | [24] It is ill-mannered for a man to listen at a door, |
| + | and a discreet man is grieved by the disgrace. |
| + | [25] The lips of strangers will speak of these things, |
| + | but the words of the prudent will be weighed in the balance. |
| + | [26] The mind of fools is in their mouth, |
| + | but the mouth of wise men is in their mind. |
| + | [27] When an ungodly man curses his adversary, |
| + | he curses his own soul. |
| + | [28] A whisperer defiles his own soul |
| + | and is hated in his neighborhood. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 22== |
| + | [1] The indolent may be compared to a filthy stone, |
| + | and every one hisses at his disgrace. |
| + | [2] The indolent may be compared to the filth of dunghills; |
| + | any one that picks it up will shake it off his hand. |
| + | |
| + | [3] It is a disgrace to be the father of an undisciplined son, |
| + | and the birth of a daughter is a loss. |
| + | [4] A sensible daughter obtains her husband, |
| + | but one who acts shamefully brings grief to her father. |
| + | [5] An impudent daughter disgraces father and husband, |
| + | and will be despised by both. |
| + | [6] Like music in mourning is a tale told at the wrong time, |
| + | but chastising and discipline are wisdom at all times. |
| + | |
| + | [7] He who teaches a fool is like one who glues potsherds together, |
| + | or who rouses a sleeper from deep slumber. |
| + | [8] He who tells a story to a fool tells it to a drowsy man; |
| + | and at the end he will say, "What is it?" |
| + | [11] Weep for the dead, for he lacks the light; |
| + | and weep for the fool, for he lacks intelligence; |
| + | weep less bitterly for the dead, for he has attained rest; |
| + | but the life of the fool is worse than death. |
| + | [12] Mourning for the dead lasts seven days, |
| + | but for a fool or an ungodly man it lasts all his life. |
| + | |
| + | [13] Do not talk much with a foolish man, |
| + | and do not visit an unintelligent man; |
| + | guard yourself from him to escape trouble, |
| + | and you will not be soiled when he shakes himself off; |
| + | avoid him and you will find rest, |
| + | and you will never be wearied by his madness. |
| + | [14] What is heavier than lead? |
| + | And what is its name except "Fool"? |
| + | [15] Sand, salt, and a piece of iron |
| + | are easier to bear than a stupid man. |
| + | |
| + | [16] A wooden beam firmly bonded into a building |
| + | will not be torn loose by an earthquake; |
| + | so the mind firmly fixed on a reasonable counsel |
| + | will not be afraid in a crisis. |
| + | [17] A mind settled on an intelligent thought |
| + | is like the stucco decoration on the wall of a colonnade. |
| + | [18] Fences set on a high place |
| + | will not stand firm against the wind; |
| + | so a timid heart with a fool's purpose |
| + | will not stand firm against any fear. |
| + | |
| + | [19] A man who pricks an eye will make tears fall, |
| + | and one who pricks the heart makes it show feeling. |
| + | [20] One who throws a stone at birds scares them away, |
| + | and one who reviles a friend will break off the friendship. |
| + | [21] Even if you have drawn your sword against a friend, |
| + | do not despair, for a renewal of friendship is possible. |
| + | [22] If you have opened your mouth against your friend, |
| + | do not worry, for reconciliation is possible; |
| + | but as for reviling, arrogance, disclosure |
| + | of secrets, or a treacherous blow -- |
| + | in these cases any friend will flee. |
| + | |
| + | [23] Gain the trust of your neighbor in his poverty, |
| + | that you may rejoice with him in his prosperity; |
| + | stand by him in time of affliction, |
| + | that you may share with him in his inheritance. |
| + | [24] The vapor and smoke of the furnace precede the fire; |
| + | so insults precede bloodshed. |
| + | [25] I will not be ashamed to protect a friend, |
| + | and I will not hide from him; |
| + | [26] but if some harm should happen to me because of him, |
| + | whoever hears of it will beware of him. |
| + | |
| + | [27] O that a guard were set over my mouth, |
| + | and a seal of prudence upon my lips, |
| + | that it may keep me from falling, |
| + | so that my tongue may not destroy me! |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 23== |
| + | [1] O Lord, Father and Ruler of my life, |
| + | do not abandon me to their counsel, |
| + | and let me not fall because of them! |
| + | [2] O that whips were set over my thoughts, |
| + | and the discipline of wisdom over my mind! |
| + | That they may not spare me in my errors, |
| + | and that it may not pass by my sins; |
| + | [3] in order that my mistakes may not be multiplied, |
| + | and my sins may not abound; |
| + | then I will not fall before my adversaries, |
| + | and my enemy will not rejoice over me. |
| + | [4] O Lord, Father and God of my life, |
| + | do not give me haughty eyes, |
| + | [5] and remove from me evil desire. |
| + | [6] Let neither gluttony nor lust overcome me, |
| + | and do not surrender me to a shameless soul. |
| + | |
| + | [7] Listen, my children, to instruction concerning speech; |
| + | the one who observes it will never be caught. |
| + | [8] The sinner is overtaken through his lips, |
| + | the reviler and the arrogant are tripped by them. |
| + | [9] Do not accustom your mouth to oaths, |
| + | and do not habitually utter the name of the Holy One; |
| + | [10] for as a servant who is continually examined under torture |
| + | will not lack bruises, |
| + | so also the man who always swears and utters the Name |
| + | will not be cleansed from sin. |
| + | [11] A man who swears many oaths will be filled with iniquity, |
| + | and the scourge will not leave his house; |
| + | if he offends, his sin remains on him, |
| + | and if he disregards it, he sins doubly; |
| + | if he has sworn needlessly, he will not be justified, |
| + | for his house will be filled with calamities. |
| + | |
| + | [12] There is an utterance which is comparable to death; |
| + | may it never be found in the inheritance of Jacob! |
| + | For all these errors will be far from the godly, |
| + | and they will not wallow in sins. |
| + | [13] Do not accustom your mouth to lewd vulgarity, |
| + | for it involves sinful speech. |
| + | [14] Remember your father and mother |
| + | when you sit among great men; |
| + | lest you be forgetful in their presence, |
| + | and be deemed a fool on account of your habits; |
| + | then you will wish that you had never been born, |
| + | and you will curse the day of your birth. |
| + | [15] A man accustomed to use insulting words |
| + | will never become disciplined all his days. |
| + | |
| + | [16] Two sorts of men multiply sins, |
| + | and a third incurs wrath. |
| + | The soul heated like a burning fire |
| + | will not be quenched until it is consumed; |
| + | a man who commits fornication with his near of kin |
| + | will never cease until the fire burns him up. |
| + | [17] To a fornicator all bread tastes sweet; |
| + | he will never cease until he dies. |
| + | [18] A man who breaks his marriage vows |
| + | says to himself, "Who sees me? |
| + | Darkness surrounds me, and the walls hide me, |
| + | and no one sees me. Why should I fear? |
| + | The Most High will not take notice of my sins." |
| + | [19] His fear is confined to the eyes of men, |
| + | and he does not realize that the eyes of the Lord |
| + | are ten thousand times brighter than the sun; |
| + | they look upon all the ways of men, |
| + | and perceive even the hidden places. |
| + | [20] Before the universe was created, it was known to him; |
| + | so it was also after it was finished. |
| + | [21] This man will be punished in the streets of the city, |
| + | and where he least suspects it, he will be seized. |
| + | [22] So it is with a woman who leaves her husband |
| + | and provides an heir by a stranger. |
| + | [23] For first of all, she has disobeyed the law of the Most High; |
| + | second, she has committed an offense against her husband; |
| + | and third, she has committed adultery through harlotry |
| + | and brought forth children by another man. |
| + | [24] She herself will be brought before the assembly, |
| + | and punishment will fall on her children. |
| + | [25] Her children will not take root, |
| + | and her branches will not bear fruit. |
| + | [26] She will leave her memory for a curse, |
| + | and her disgrace will not be blotted out. |
| + | [27] Those who survive her will recognize |
| + | that nothing is better than the fear of the Lord, |
| + | and nothing sweeter than to heed the commandments of the Lord. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 24== |
| + | [1] Wisdom will praise herself, |
| + | and will glory in the midst of her people. |
| + | [2] In the assembly of the Most High she will open her mouth, |
| + | and in the presence of his host she will glory: |
| + | [3] "I came forth from the mouth of the Most High, |
| + | and covered the earth like a mist. |
| + | [4] I dwelt in high places, |
| + | and my throne was in a pillar of cloud. |
| + | [5] Alone I have made the circuit of the vault of heaven |
| + | and have walked in the depths of the abyss. |
| + | [6] In the waves of the sea, in the whole earth, |
| + | and in every people and nation I have gotten a possession. |
| + | [7] Among all these I sought a resting place; |
| + | I sought in whose territory I might lodge. |
| + | |
| + | [8] "Then the Creator of all things gave me a commandment, |
| + | and the one who created me assigned a place for my tent. |
| + | And he said, `Make your dwelling in Jacob, |
| + | and in Israel receive your inheritance.' |
| + | [9] From eternity, in the beginning, he created me, |
| + | and for eternity I shall not cease to exist. |
| + | [10] In the holy tabernacle I ministered before him, |
| + | and so I was established in Zion. |
| + | [11] In the beloved city likewise he gave me a resting place, |
| + | and in Jerusalem was my dominion. |
| + | [12] So I took root in an honored people, |
| + | in the portion of the Lord, who is their inheritance. |
| + | |
| + | [13] "I grew tall like a cedar in Lebanon, |
| + | and like a cypress on the heights of Hermon. |
| + | [14] I grew tall like a palm tree in En-ge'di, |
| + | and like rose plants in Jericho; |
| + | like a beautiful olive tree in the field, |
| + | and like a plane tree I grew tall. |
| + | [15] Like cassia and camel's thorn I gave forth the aroma of spices, |
| + | and like choice myrrh I spread a pleasant odor, |
| + | like galbanum, onycha, and stacte, |
| + | and like the fragrance of frankincense in the tabernacle. |
| + | [16] Like a terebinth I spread out my branches, |
| + | and my branches are glorious and graceful. |
| + | [17] Like a vine I caused loveliness to bud, |
| + | and my blossoms became glorious and abundant fruit. |
| + | |
| + | [19] "Come to me, you who desire me, |
| + | and eat your fill of my produce. |
| + | [20] For the remembrance of me is sweeter than honey, |
| + | and my inheritance sweeter than the honeycomb. |
| + | [21] Those who eat me will hunger for more, |
| + | and those who drink me will thirst for more. |
| + | [22] Whoever obeys me will not be put to shame, |
| + | and those who work with my help will not sin." |
| + | |
| + | [23] All this is the book of the covenant of the Most High God, |
| + | the law which Moses commanded us |
| + | as an inheritance for the congregations of Jacob. |
| + | [25] It fills men with wisdom, like the Pishon, |
| + | and like the Tigris at the time of the first fruits. |
| + | [26] It makes them full of understanding, like the Euphrates, |
| + | and like the Jordan at harvest time. |
| + | [27] It makes instruction shine forth like light, |
| + | like the Gihon at the time of vintage. |
| + | [28] Just as the first man did not know her perfectly, |
| + | the last one has not fathomed her; |
| + | [29] for her thought is more abundant than the sea, |
| + | and her counsel deeper than the great abyss. |
| + | |
| + | [30] I went forth like a canal from a river |
| + | and like a water channel into a garden. |
| + | [31] I said, "I will water my orchard |
| + | and drench my garden plot"; |
| + | and lo, my canal became a river, |
| + | and my river became a sea. |
| + | [32] I will again make instruction shine forth like the dawn, |
| + | and I will make it shine afar; |
| + | [33] I will again pour out teaching like prophecy, |
| + | and leave it to all future generations. |
| + | [34] Observe that I have not labored for myself alone, |
| + | but for all who seek instruction. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 25== |
| + | [1] My soul takes pleasure in three things, |
| + | and they are beautiful in the sight of the Lord and of men; |
| + | agreement between brothers, friendship between neighbors, |
| + | and a wife and a husband who live in harmony. |
| + | [2] My soul hates three kinds of men, |
| + | and I am greatly offended at their life: |
| + | a beggar who is proud, a rich man who is a liar, |
| + | and an adulterous old man who lacks good sense. |
| + | |
| + | [3] You have gathered nothing in your youth; |
| + | how then can you find anything in your old age? |
| + | [4] What an attractive thing is judgment in gray-haired men, |
| + | and for the aged to possess good counsel! |
| + | [5] How attractive is wisdom in the aged, |
| + | and understanding and counsel in honorable men! |
| + | [6] Rich experience is the crown of the aged, |
| + | and their boast is the fear of the Lord. |
| + | |
| + | [7] With nine thoughts I have gladdened my heart, |
| + | and a tenth I shall tell with my tongue: |
| + | a man rejoicing in his children; |
| + | a man who lives to see the downfall of his foes; |
| + | [8] happy is he who lives with an intelligent wife, |
| + | and he who has not made a slip with his tongue, |
| + | and he who has not served a man inferior to himself; |
| + | [9] happy is he who has gained good sense, |
| + | and he who speaks to attentive listeners. |
| + | [10] How great is he who has gained wisdom! |
| + | But there is no one superior to him who fears the Lord. |
| + | [11] The fear of the Lord surpasses everything; |
| + | to whom shall be likened the one who holds it fast? |
| + | |
| + | [13] Any wound, but not a wound of the heart! |
| + | Any wickedness, but not the wickedness of a wife! |
| + | [14] Any attack, but not an attack from those who hate! |
| + | And any vengeance, but not the vengeance of enemies! |
| + | [15] There is no venom worse than a snake's venom, |
| + | and no wrath worse than an enemy's wrath. |
| + | |
| + | [16] I would rather dwell with a lion and a dragon |
| + | than dwell with an evil wife. |
| + | [17] The wickedness of a wife changes her appearance, |
| + | and darkens her face like that of a bear. |
| + | [18] Her husband takes his meals among the neighbors, |
| + | and he cannot help sighing bitterly. |
| + | [19] Any iniquity is insignificant compared to a wife's iniquity; |
| + | may a sinner's lot befall her! |
| + | [20] A sandy ascent for the feet of the aged -- |
| + | such is a garrulous wife for a quiet husband. |
| + | [21] Do not be ensnared by a woman's beauty, |
| + | and do not desire a woman for her possessions. |
| + | [22] There is wrath and impudence and great disgrace |
| + | when a wife supports her husband. |
| + | [23] A dejected mind, a gloomy face, |
| + | and a wounded heart are caused by an evil wife. |
| + | Drooping hands and weak knees |
| + | are caused by the wife who does not make her husband happy. |
| + | [24] From a woman sin had its beginning, |
| + | and because of her we all die. |
| + | [25] Allow no outlet to water, |
| + | and no boldness of speech in an evil wife. |
| + | [26] If she does not go as you direct, |
| + | separate her from yourself. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 26== |
| + | [1] Happy is the husband of a good wife; |
| + | the number of his days will be doubled. |
| + | [2] A loyal wife rejoices her husband, |
| + | and he will complete his years in peace. |
| + | [3] A good wife is a great blessing; |
| + | she will be granted among the blessings of |
| + | the man who fears the Lord. |
| + | [4] Whether rich or poor, his heart is glad, |
| + | and at all times his face is cheerful. |
| + | [5] Of three things my heart is afraid, |
| + | and of a fourth I am frightened: |
| + | The slander of a city, the gathering of a mob, |
| + | and false accusation -- all these are worse than death. |
| + | [6] There is grief of heart and sorrow |
| + | when a wife is envious of a rival, and a tongue-lashing |
| + | makes it known to all. |
| + | [7] An evil wife is an ox yoke which chafes; |
| + | taking hold of her is like grasping a scorpion. |
| + | [8] There is great anger when a wife is drunken; |
| + | she will not hide her shame. |
| + | [9] A wife's harlotry shows in her lustful eyes, |
| + | and she is known by her eyelids. |
| + | [10] Keep strict watch over a headstrong daughter, |
| + | lest, when she finds liberty, she use it to her hurt. |
| + | [11] Be on guard against her impudent eye, |
| + | and do not wonder if she sins against you. |
| + | [12] As a thirsty wayfarer opens his mouth |
| + | and drinks from any water near him, |
| + | so will she sit in front of every post |
| + | and open her quiver to the arrow. |
| + | |
| + | [13] A wife's charm delights her husband, |
| + | and her skill puts fat on his bones. |
| + | [14] A silent wife is a gift of the Lord, |
| + | and there is nothing so precious as a disciplined soul. |
| + | [15] A modest wife adds charm to charm, |
| + | and no balance can weigh the value of a chaste soul. |
| + | [16] Like the sun rising in the heights of the Lord, |
| + | so is the beauty of a good wife in her well-ordered home. |
| + | [17] Like the shining lamp on the holy lampstand, |
| + | so is a beautiful face on a stately figure. |
| + | [18] Like pillars of gold on a base of silver, |
| + | so are beautiful feet with a steadfast heart. |
| + | |
| + | [28] At two things my heart is grieved, |
| + | and because of a third anger comes over me: |
| + | a warrior in want through poverty, |
| + | and intelligent men who are treated contemptuously; |
| + | a man who turns back from righteousness to sin -- |
| + | the Lord will prepare him for the sword! |
| + | |
| + | [29] A merchant can hardly keep from wrongdoing, |
| + | and a tradesman will not be declared innocent of sin. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 27== |
| + | [1] Many have committed sin for a trifle, |
| + | and whoever seeks to get rich will avert his eyes. |
| + | [2] As a stake is driven firmly into a fissure between stones, |
| + | so sin is wedged in between selling and buying. |
| + | [3] If a man is not steadfast and zealous in the fear of the Lord, |
| + | his house will be quickly overthrown. |
| + | |
| + | [4] When a sieve is shaken, the refuse remains; |
| + | so a man's filth remains in his thoughts. |
| + | [5] The kiln tests the potter's vessels; |
| + | so the test of a man is in his reasoning. |
| + | [6] The fruit discloses the cultivation of a tree; |
| + | so the expression of a thought discloses the |
| + | cultivation of a man's mind. |
| + | [7] Do not praise a man before you hear him reason, |
| + | for this is the test of men. |
| + | |
| + | [8] If you pursue justice, you will attain it |
| + | and wear it as a glorious robe. |
| + | [9] Birds flock with their kind; |
| + | so truth returns to those who practice it. |
| + | [10] A lion lies in wait for prey; |
| + | so does sin for the workers of iniquity. |
| + | |
| + | [11] The talk of the godly man is always wise, |
| + | but the fool changes like the moon. |
| + | [12] Among stupid people watch for a chance to leave, |
| + | but among thoughtful people stay on. |
| + | [13] The talk of fools is offensive, |
| + | and their laughter is wantonly sinful. |
| + | [14] The talk of men given to swearing makes one's |
| + | hair stand on end, |
| + | and their quarrels make a man stop his ears. |
| + | [15] The strife of the proud leads to bloodshed, |
| + | and their abuse is grievous to hear. |
| + | |
| + | [16] Whoever betrays secrets destroys confidence, |
| + | and he will never find a congenial friend. |
| + | [17] Love your friend and keep faith with him; |
| + | but if you betray his secrets, do not run after him. |
| + | [18] For as a man destroys his enemy, |
| + | so you have destroyed the friendship of your neighbor. |
| + | [19] And as you allow a bird to escape from your hand, |
| + | so you have let your neighbor go, and will |
| + | not catch him again. |
| + | [20] Do not go after him, for he is too far off, |
| + | and has escaped like a gazelle from a snare. |
| + | [21] For a wound may be bandaged, |
| + | and there is reconciliation after abuse, |
| + | but whoever has betrayed secrets is without hope. |
| + | |
| + | [22] Whoever winks his eye plans evil deeds, |
| + | and no one can keep him from them. |
| + | [23] In your presence his mouth is all sweetness, |
| + | and he admires your words; |
| + | but later he will twist his speech |
| + | and with your own words he will give offense. |
| + | [24] I have hated many things, but none to be compared to him; |
| + | even the Lord will hate him. |
| + | [25] Whoever throws a stone straight up throws it on his own head; |
| + | and a treacherous blow opens up wounds. |
| + | [26] He who digs a pit will fall into it, |
| + | and he who sets a snare will be caught in it. |
| + | [27] If a man does evil, it will roll back upon him, |
| + | and he will not know where it came from. |
| + | [28] Mockery and abuse issue from the proud man, |
| + | but vengeance lies in wait for him like a lion. |
| + | [29] Those who rejoice in the fall of the godly |
| + | will be caught in a snare, |
| + | and pain will consume them before their death. |
| + | |
| + | [30] Anger and wrath, these also are abominations, |
| + | and the sinful man will possess them. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 28== |
| + | [1] He that takes vengeance will suffer vengeance from the Lord, |
| + | and he will firmly establish his sins. |
| + | [2] Forgive your neighbor the wrong he has done, |
| + | and then your sins will be pardoned when you pray. |
| + | [3] Does a man harbor anger against another, |
| + | and yet seek for healing from the Lord? |
| + | [4] Does he have no mercy toward a man like himself, |
| + | and yet pray for his own sins? |
| + | [5] If he himself, being flesh, maintains wrath, |
| + | who will make expiation for his sins? |
| + | [6] Remember the end of your life, and cease from enmity, |
| + | remember destruction and death, and be true |
| + | to the commandments. |
| + | [7] Remember the commandments, and do not be angry |
| + | with your neighbor; |
| + | remember the covenant of the Most High, and |
| + | overlook ignorance. |
| + | |
| + | [8] Refrain from strife, and you will lessen sins; |
| + | for a man given to anger will kindle strife, |
| + | [9] and a sinful man will disturb friends |
| + | and inject enmity among those who are at peace. |
| + | [10] In proportion to the fuel for the fire, so will be the burning, |
| + | and in proportion to the obstinacy of strife |
| + | will be the burning; |
| + | in proportion to the strength of the man will be his anger, |
| + | and in proportion to his wealth he will heighten his wrath. |
| + | [11] A hasty quarrel kindles fire, |
| + | and urgent strife sheds blood. |
| + | [12] If you blow on a spark, it will glow; |
| + | if you spit on it, it will be put out; |
| + | and both come out of your mouth. |
| + | |
| + | [13] Curse the whisperer and deceiver, |
| + | for he has destroyed many who were at peace. |
| + | [14] Slander has shaken many, |
| + | and scattered them from nation to nation, |
| + | and destroyed strong cities, |
| + | and overturned the houses of great men. |
| + | [15] Slander has driven away courageous women, |
| + | and deprived them of the fruit of their toil. |
| + | [16] Whoever pays heed to slander will not find rest, |
| + | nor will he settle down in peace. |
| + | [17] The blow of a whip raises a welt, |
| + | but a blow of the tongue crushes the bones. |
| + | [18] Many have fallen by the edge of the sword, |
| + | but not so many as have fallen because of the tongue. |
| + | [19] Happy is the man who is protected from it, |
| + | who has not been exposed to its anger, |
| + | who has not borne its yoke, |
| + | and has not been bound with its fetters; |
| + | [20] for its yoke is a yoke of iron, |
| + | and its fetters are fetters of bronze; |
| + | [21] its death is an evil death, |
| + | and Hades is preferable to it. |
| + | [22] It will not be master over the godly, |
| + | and they will not be burned in its flame. |
| + | [23] Those who forsake the Lord will fall into its power; |
| + | it will burn among them and will not be put out. |
| + | It will be sent out against them like a lion; |
| + | like a leopard it will mangle them. |
| + | [24] See that you fence in your property with thorns, |
| + | lock up your silver and gold, |
| + | [25] make balances and scales for your words, |
| + | and make a door and a bolt for your mouth. |
| + | [26] Beware lest you err with your tongue, |
| + | lest you fall before him who lies in wait. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 29== |
| + | [1] He that shows mercy will lend to his neighbor, |
| + | and he that strengthens him with his hand |
| + | keeps the commandments. |
| + | [2] Lend to your neighbor in the time of his need; |
| + | and in turn, repay your neighbor promptly. |
| + | [3] Confirm your word and keep faith with him, |
| + | and on every occasion you will find what you need. |
| + | [4] Many persons regard a loan as a windfall, |
| + | and cause trouble to those who help them. |
| + | [5] A man will kiss another's hands until he gets a loan, |
| + | and will lower his voice in speaking of his neighbor's money; |
| + | but at the time for repayment he will delay, |
| + | and will pay in words of unconcern, |
| + | and will find fault with the time. |
| + | [6] If the lender exert pressure, he will hardly get back half, |
| + | and will regard that as a windfall. |
| + | If he does not, the borrower has robbed him of his money, |
| + | and he has needlessly made him his enemy; |
| + | he will repay him with curses and reproaches, |
| + | and instead of glory will repay him with dishonor. |
| + | [7] Because of such wickedness, therefore, many |
| + | have refused to lend; |
| + | they have been afraid of being defrauded needlessly. |
| + | |
| + | [8] Nevertheless, be patient with a man in humble circumstances, |
| + | and do not make him wait for your alms. |
| + | [9] Help a poor man for the commandment's sake, |
| + | and because of his need do not send him away empty. |
| + | [10] Lose your silver for the sake of a brother or a friend, |
| + | and do not let it rust under a stone and be lost. |
| + | [11] Lay up your treasure according to the commandments |
| + | of the Most High, |
| + | and it will profit you more than gold. |
| + | [12] Store up almsgiving in your treasury, |
| + | and it will rescue you from all affliction; |
| + | [13] more than a mighty shield and more than a heavy spear, |
| + | it will fight on your behalf against your enemy. |
| + | |
| + | [14] A good man will be surety for his neighbor, |
| + | but a man who has lost his sense of shame will fail him. |
| + | [15] Do not forget all the kindness of your surety, |
| + | for he has given his life for you. |
| + | [16] A sinner will overthrow the prosperity of his surety, |
| + | [17] and one who does not feel grateful will abandon his rescuer. |
| + | [18] Being surety has ruined many men who were prosperous, |
| + | and has shaken them like a wave of the sea; |
| + | it has driven men of power into exile, |
| + | and they have wandered among foreign nations. |
| + | [19] The sinner who has fallen into suretyship |
| + | and pursues gain will fall into lawsuits. |
| + | [20] Assist your neighbor according to your ability, |
| + | but take heed to yourself lest you fall. |
| + | |
| + | [21] The essentials for life are water and bread |
| + | and clothing and a house to cover one's nakedness. |
| + | [22] Better is the life of a poor man under the shelter of his roof |
| + | than sumptuous food in another man's house. |
| + | [23] Be content with little or much. |
| + | [24] It is a miserable life to go from house to house, |
| + | and where you are a stranger you may not open your mouth; |
| + | [25] you will play the host and provide drink without being thanked, |
| + | and besides this you will hear bitter words: |
| + | [26] "Come here, stranger, prepare the table, |
| + | and if you have anything at hand, let me have it to eat." |
| + | [27] "Give place, stranger, to an honored person; |
| + | my brother has come to stay with me; I need my house." |
| + | [28] These things are hard to bear for a man who has feeling: |
| + | scolding about lodging and the reproach of the moneylender. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 30== |
| + | [1] He who loves his son will whip him often, |
| + | in order that he may rejoice at the way he turns out. |
| + | [2] He who disciplines his son will profit by him, |
| + | and will boast of him among acquaintances. |
| + | [3] He who teaches his son will make his enemies envious, |
| + | and will glory in him in the presence of friends. |
| + | [4] The father may die, and yet he is not dead, |
| + | for he has left behind him one like himself; |
| + | [5] while alive he saw and rejoiced, |
| + | and when he died he was not grieved; |
| + | [6] he has left behind him an avenger against his enemies, |
| + | and one to repay the kindness of his friends. |
| + | |
| + | [7] He who spoils his son will bind up his wounds, |
| + | and his feelings will be troubled at every cry. |
| + | [8] A horse that is untamed turns out to be stubborn, |
| + | and a son unrestrained turns out to be wilful. |
| + | [9] Pamper a child, and he will frighten you; |
| + | play with him, and he will give you grief. |
| + | [10] Do not laugh with him, lest you have sorrow with him, |
| + | and in the end you will gnash your teeth. |
| + | [11] Give him no authority in his youth, |
| + | and do not ignore his errors. |
| + | [12] Bow down his neck in his youth, |
| + | and beat his sides while he is young, |
| + | lest he become stubborn and disobey you, |
| + | and you have sorrow of soul from him. |
| + | [13] Discipline your son and take pains with him, |
| + | that you may not be offended by his shamelessness. |
| + | |
| + | [14] Better off is a poor man who is well and strong in constitution |
| + | than a rich man who is severely afflicted in body. |
| + | [15] Health and soundness are better than all gold, |
| + | and a robust body than countless riches. |
| + | [16] There is no wealth better than health of body, |
| + | and there is no gladness above joy of heart. |
| + | [17] Death is better than a miserable life, |
| + | and eternal rest than chronic sickness. |
| + | |
| + | [18] Good things poured out upon a mouth that is closed |
| + | are like offerings of food placed upon a grave. |
| + | [19] Of what use to an idol is an offering of fruit? |
| + | For it can neither eat nor smell. |
| + | So is he who is afflicted by the Lord; |
| + | [20] he sees with his eyes and groans, |
| + | like a eunuch who embraces a maiden and groans. |
| + | |
| + | [21] Do not give yourself over to sorrow, |
| + | and do not afflict yourself deliberately. |
| + | [22] Gladness of heart is the life of man, |
| + | and the rejoicing of a man is length of days. |
| + | [23] Delight your soul and comfort your heart, |
| + | and remove sorrow far from you, |
| + | for sorrow has destroyed many, and there is no profit in it. |
| + | [24] Jealousy and anger shorten life, |
| + | and anxiety brings on old age too soon. |
| + | [25] A man of cheerful and good heart |
| + | will give heed to the food he eats. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 31== |
| + | [1] Wakefulness over wealth wastes away one's flesh, |
| + | and anxiety about it removes sleep. |
| + | [2] Wakeful anxiety prevents slumber, |
| + | and a severe illness carries off sleep. |
| + | [3] The rich man toils as his wealth accumulates, |
| + | and when he rests he fills himself with his dainties. |
| + | [4] The poor man toils as his livelihood diminishes, |
| + | and when he rests he becomes needy. |
| + | |
| + | [5] He who loves gold will not be justified, |
| + | and he who pursues money will be led astray by it. |
| + | [6] Many have come to ruin because of gold, |
| + | and their destruction has met them face to face. |
| + | [7] It is a stumbling block to those who are devoted to it, |
| + | and every fool will be taken captive by it. |
| + | [8] Blessed is the rich man who is found blameless, |
| + | and who does not go after gold. |
| + | [9] Who is he? And we will call him blessed, |
| + | for he has done wonderful things among his people. |
| + | [10] Who has been tested by it and been found perfect? |
| + | Let it be for him a ground for boasting. |
| + | Who has had the power to transgress and did not transgress, |
| + | and to do evil and did not do it? |
| + | [11] His prosperity will be established, |
| + | and the assembly will relate his acts of charity. |
| + | |
| + | [12] Are you seated at the table of a great man? |
| + | Do not be greedy at it, |
| + | and do not say, "There is certainly much upon it!" |
| + | [13] Remember that a greedy eye is a bad thing. |
| + | What has been created more greedy than the eye? |
| + | Therefore it sheds tears from every face. |
| + | [14] Do not reach out your hand for everything you see, |
| + | and do not crowd your neighbor at the dish. |
| + | [15] Judge your neighbor's feelings by your own, |
| + | and in every matter be thoughtful. |
| + | [16] Eat like a human being what is set before you, |
| + | and do not chew greedily, lest you be hated. |
| + | [17] Be the first to stop eating, for the sake of good manners, |
| + | and do not be insatiable, lest you give offense. |
| + | [18] If you are seated among many persons, |
| + | do not reach out your hand before they do. |
| + | |
| + | [19] How ample a little is for a well-disciplined man! |
| + | He does not breathe heavily upon his bed. |
| + | [20] Healthy sleep depends on moderate eating; |
| + | he rises early, and feels fit. |
| + | The distress of sleeplessness and of nausea |
| + | and colic are with the glutton. |
| + | [21] If you are overstuffed with food, |
| + | get up in the middle of the meal, and you will have relief. |
| + | [22] Listen to me, my son, and do not disregard me, |
| + | and in the end you will appreciate my words. |
| + | In all your work be industrious, |
| + | and no sickness will overtake you. |
| + | |
| + | [23] Men will praise the one who is liberal with food, |
| + | and their testimony to his excellence is trustworthy. |
| + | [24] The city will complain of the one who is niggardly with food, |
| + | and their testimony to his niggardliness is accurate. |
| + | |
| + | [25] Do not aim to be valiant over wine, |
| + | for wine has destroyed many. |
| + | [26] Fire and water prove the temper of steel, |
| + | so wine tests hearts in the strife of the proud. |
| + | [27] Wine is like life to men, |
| + | if you drink it in moderation. |
| + | What is life to a man who is without wine? |
| + | It has been created to make men glad. |
| + | [28] Wine drunk in season and temperately |
| + | is rejoicing of heart and gladness of soul. |
| + | [29] Wine drunk to excess is bitterness of soul, |
| + | with provocation and stumbling. |
| + | [30] Drunkenness increases the anger of a fool to his injury, |
| + | reducing his strength and adding wounds. |
| + | [31] Do not reprove your neighbor at a banquet of wine, |
| + | and do not despise him in his merrymaking; |
| + | speak no word of reproach to him, |
| + | and do not afflict him by making demands of him. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 32== |
| + | [1] If they make you master of the feast, do not exalt yourself; |
| + | be among them as one of them; |
| + | take good care of them and then be seated; |
| + | [2] when you have fulfilled your duties, take your place, |
| + | that you may be merry on their account |
| + | and receive a wreath for your excellent leadership. |
| + | |
| + | [3] Speak, you who are older, for it is fitting that you should, |
| + | but with accurate knowledge, and do not interrupt the music. |
| + | [4] Where there is entertainment, do not pour out talk; |
| + | do not display your cleverness out of season. |
| + | [5] A ruby seal in a setting of gold |
| + | is a concert of music at a banquet of wine. |
| + | [6] A seal of emerald in a rich setting of gold |
| + | is the melody of music with good wine. |
| + | |
| + | [7] Speak, young man, if there is need of you, |
| + | but no more than twice, and only if asked. |
| + | [8] Speak concisely, say much in few words; |
| + | be as one who knows and yet holds his tongue. |
| + | [9] Among the great do not act as their equal; |
| + | and when another is speaking, do not babble. |
| + | |
| + | [10] Lightning speeds before the thunder, |
| + | and approval precedes a modest man. |
| + | [11] Leave in good time and do not be the last; |
| + | go home quickly and do not linger. |
| + | [12] Amuse yourself there, and do what you have in mind, |
| + | but do not sin through proud speech. |
| + | [13] And for these things bless him who made you |
| + | and satisfies you with his good gifts. |
| + | |
| + | [14] He who fears the Lord will accept his discipline, |
| + | and those who rise early to seek him will find favor. |
| + | [15] He who seeks the law will be filled with it, |
| + | but the hypocrite will stumble at it. |
| + | [16] Those who fear the Lord will form true judgments, |
| + | and like a light they will kindle righteous deeds. |
| + | [17] A sinful man will shun reproof, |
| + | and will find a decision according to his liking. |
| + | |
| + | [18] A man of judgment will not overlook an idea, |
| + | and an insolent and proud man will not cower in fear. |
| + | [19] Do nothing without deliberation; |
| + | and when you have acted, do not regret it. |
| + | [20] Do not go on a path full of hazards, |
| + | and do not stumble over stony ground. |
| + | [21] Do not be overconfident on a smooth way, |
| + | [22] and give good heed to your paths. |
| + | [23] Guard yourself in every act, |
| + | for this is the keeping of the commandments. |
| + | |
| + | [24] He who believes the law gives heed to the commandments, |
| + | and he who trusts the Lord will not suffer loss. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 33== |
| + | [1] No evil will befall the man who fears the Lord, |
| + | but in trial he will deliver him again and again. |
| + | [2] A wise man will not hate the law, |
| + | but he who is hypocritical about it is like a boat in a storm. |
| + | [3] A man of understanding will trust in the law; |
| + | for him the law is as dependable as an inquiry |
| + | by means of Urim. |
| + | |
| + | [4] Prepare what to say, and thus you will be heard; |
| + | bind together your instruction, and make your answer. |
| + | [5] The heart of a fool is like a cart wheel, |
| + | and his thoughts like a turning axle. |
| + | [6] A stallion is like a mocking friend; |
| + | he neighs under every one who sits on him. |
| + | [7] Why is any day better than another, |
| + | when all the daylight in the year is from the sun? |
| + | [8] By the Lord's decision they were distinguished, |
| + | and he appointed the different seasons and feasts; |
| + | [9] some of them he exalted and hallowed, |
| + | and some of them he made ordinary days. |
| + | [10] All men are from the ground, |
| + | and Adam was created of the dust. |
| + | [11] In the fulness of his knowledge the Lord distinguished them |
| + | and appointed their different ways; |
| + | [12] some of them he blessed and exalted, |
| + | and some of them he made holy and brought near to himself; |
| + | but some of them he cursed and brought low, |
| + | and he turned them out of their place. |
| + | [13] As clay in the hand of the potter -- |
| + | for all his ways are as he pleases -- |
| + | so men are in the hand of him who made them, |
| + | to give them as he decides. |
| + | |
| + | [14] Good is the opposite of evil, |
| + | and life the opposite of death; |
| + | so the sinner is the opposite of the godly. |
| + | [15] Look upon all the works of the Most High; |
| + | they likewise are in pairs, one the opposite of the other. |
| + | |
| + | [16] I was the last on watch; |
| + | I was like one who gleans after the grape-gatherers; |
| + | by the blessing of the Lord I excelled, |
| + | and like a grape-gatherer I filled my wine press. |
| + | [17] Consider that I have not labored for myself alone, |
| + | but for all who seek instruction. |
| + | [18] Hear me, you who are great among the people, |
| + | and you leaders of the congregation, hearken. |
| + | |
| + | [19] To son or wife, to brother or friend, |
| + | do not give power over yourself, as long as you live; |
| + | and do not give your property to another, |
| + | lest you change your mind and must ask for it. |
| + | [20] While you are still alive and have breath in you, |
| + | do not let any one take your place. |
| + | [21] For it is better that your children should ask from you |
| + | than that you should look to the hand of you sons. |
| + | [22] Excel in all that you do; |
| + | bring no stain upon your honor. |
| + | [23] At the time when you end the days of your life, |
| + | in the hour of death, distribute your inheritance. |
| + | |
| + | [24] Fodder and a stick and burdens for an ass; |
| + | bread and discipline and work for a servant. |
| + | [25] Set your slave to work, and you will find rest; |
| + | leave his hands idle, and he will seek liberty. |
| + | [26] Yoke and thong will bow the neck, |
| + | and for a wicked servant there are racks and tortures. |
| + | [27] Put him to work, that he may not be idle, |
| + | for idleness teaches much evil. |
| + | [28] Set him to work, as is fitting for him, |
| + | and if he does not obey, make his fetters heavy. |
| + | [29] Do not act immoderately toward anybody, |
| + | and do nothing without discretion. |
| + | |
| + | [30] If you have a servant, let him be as yourself, |
| + | because you have bought him with blood. |
| + | [31] If you have a servant, treat him as a brother, |
| + | for as your own soul you will need him. |
| + | If you ill-treat him, and he leaves and runs away, |
| + | which way will you go to seek him? |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 34== |
| + | [1] A man of no understanding has vain and false hopes, |
| + | and dreams give wings to fools. |
| + | [2] As one who catches at a shadow and pursues the wind, |
| + | so is he who gives heed to dreams. |
| + | [3] The vision of dreams is this against that, |
| + | the likeness of a face confronting a face. |
| + | [4] From an unclean thing what will be made clean? |
| + | And from something false what will be true? |
| + | [5] Divinations and omens and dreams are folly, |
| + | and like a woman in travail the mind has fancies. |
| + | [6] Unless they are sent from the Most High as a visitation, |
| + | do not give your mind to them. |
| + | [7] For dreams have deceived many, |
| + | and those who put their hope in them have failed. |
| + | [8] Without such deceptions the law will be fulfilled, |
| + | and wisdom is made perfect in truthful lips. |
| + | |
| + | [9] An educated man knows many things, |
| + | and one with much experience will speak with understanding. |
| + | [10] He that is inexperienced knows few things, |
| + | but he that has traveled acquires much cleverness. |
| + | [11] I have seen many things in my travels, |
| + | and I understand more than I can express. |
| + | [12] I have often been in danger of death, |
| + | but have escaped because of these experiences. |
| + | |
| + | [13] The spirit of those who fear the Lord will live, |
| + | for their hope is in him who saves them. |
| + | [14] He who fears the Lord will not be timid, |
| + | nor play the coward, for he is his hope. |
| + | [15] Blessed is the soul of the man who fears the Lord! |
| + | To whom does he look? And who is his support? |
| + | [16] The eyes of the Lord are upon those who love him, |
| + | a mighty protection and strong support, |
| + | a shelter from the hot wind and a shade from noonday sun, |
| + | a guard against stumbling and a defense against falling. |
| + | [17] He lifts up the soul and gives light to the eyes; |
| + | he grants healing, life, and blessing. |
| + | |
| + | [18] If one sacrifices from what has been wrongfully obtained, the |
| + | offering is blemished; the gifts of the lawless are not acceptable. |
| + | [19] The Most High is not pleased with the offerings of the ungodly; |
| + | and he is not propitiated for sins by a multitude |
| + | of sacrifices. |
| + | [20] Like one who kills a son before his father's eyes |
| + | is the man who offers a sacrifice from the |
| + | property of the poor. |
| + | [21] The bread of the needy is the life of the poor; |
| + | whoever deprives them of it is a man of blood. |
| + | [22] To take away a neighbor's living is to murder him; |
| + | to deprive an employee of his wages is to shed blood. |
| + | |
| + | [23] When one builds and another tears down, |
| + | what do they gain but toil? |
| + | [24] When one prays and another curses, |
| + | to whose voice will the Lord listen? |
| + | [25] If a man washes after touching a dead body, |
| + | and touches it again, |
| + | what has he gained by his washing? |
| + | [26] So if a man fasts for his sins, |
| + | and goes again and does the same things, |
| + | who will listen to his prayer? |
| + | And what has he gained by humbling himself? |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 35== |
| + | [1] He who keeps the law makes many offerings; |
| + | he who heeds the commandments sacrifices a peace offering. |
| + | [2] He who returns a kindness offers fine flour, |
| + | and he who gives alms sacrifices a thank offering. |
| + | [3] To keep from wickedness is pleasing to the Lord, |
| + | and to forsake unrighteousness is atonement. |
| + | [4] Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed, |
| + | [5] for all these things are to be done because |
| + | of the commandment. |
| + | [6] The offering of a righteous man anoints the altar, |
| + | and its pleasing odor rises before the Most High. |
| + | [7] The sacrifice of a righteous man is acceptable, |
| + | and the memory of it will not be forgotten. |
| + | [8] Glorify the Lord generously, |
| + | and do not stint the first fruits of your hands. |
| + | [9] With every gift show a cheerful face, |
| + | and dedicate your tithe with gladness. |
| + | [10] Give to the Most High as he has given, |
| + | and as generously as your hand has found. |
| + | [11] For the Lord is the one who repays, |
| + | and he will repay you sevenfold. |
| + | [12] Do not offer him a bribe, for he will not accept it; |
| + | and do not trust to an unrighteous sacrifice; |
| + | for the Lord is the judge, |
| + | and with him is no partiality. |
| + | [13] He will not show partiality in the case of a poor man; |
| + | and he will listen to the prayer of one who is wronged. |
| + | [14] He will not ignore the supplication of the fatherless, |
| + | nor the widow when she pours out her story. |
| + | [15] Do not the tears of the widow run down her cheek |
| + | as she cries out against him who has caused them to fall? |
| + | [16] He whose service is pleasing to the Lord will be accepted, |
| + | and his prayer will reach to the clouds. |
| + | [17] The prayer of the humble pierces the clouds, |
| + | and he will not be consoled until it reaches the Lord; |
| + | he will not desist until the Most High visits him, |
| + | and does justice for the righteous, and executes judgment. |
| + | [18] And the Lord will not delay, |
| + | neither will he be patient with them, |
| + | till he crushes the loins of the unmerciful |
| + | and repays vengeance on the nations; |
| + | till he takes away the multitude of the insolent, |
| + | and breaks the scepters of the unrighteous; |
| + | [19] till he repays the man according to his deeds, |
| + | and the works of men according to their devices; |
| + | till he judges the case of his people |
| + | and makes them rejoice in his mercy. |
| + | [20] Mercy is as welcome when he afflicts them |
| + | as clouds of rain in the time of drought. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 36== |
| + | [1] Have mercy upon us, O Lord, the God of all, and look upon us, |
| + | [2] and cause the fear of thee to fall upon all the nations. |
| + | [3] Lift up thy hand against foreign nations |
| + | and let them see thy might. |
| + | [4] As in us thou hast been sanctified before them, |
| + | so in them be thou magnified before us; |
| + | [5] and let them know thee, as we have known |
| + | that there is not God but thee, O Lord. |
| + | [6] Show signs anew, and work further wonders; |
| + | make thy hand and thy right arm glorious. |
| + | [7] Rouse thy anger and pour out thy wrath; |
| + | destroy the adversary and wipe out the enemy. |
| + | [8] Hasten the day, and remember the appointed time, |
| + | and let people recount thy mighty deeds. |
| + | [9] Let him who survives be consumed in the fiery wrath, |
| + | and may those who harm thy people meet destruction. |
| + | [10] Crush the heads of the rulers of the enemy, |
| + | who say, "There is no one but ourselves." |
| + | [11] Gather all the tribes of Jacob, |
| + | and give them their inheritance, as at the beginning. |
| + | [12] Have mercy, O Lord, upon the people called by thy name, |
| + | upon Israel, whom thou hast likened to a first-born son. |
| + | [13] Have pity on the city of thy sanctuary, |
| + | Jerusalem, the place of thy rest. |
| + | [14] Fill Zion with the celebration of thy wondrous deeds, |
| + | and thy temple with thy glory. |
| + | [15] Bear witness to those whom thou didst create in the beginning, |
| + | and fulfil the prophecies spoken in thy name. |
| + | [16] Reward those who wait for thee, |
| + | and let thy prophets be found trustworthy. |
| + | [17] Hearken, O Lord, to the prayer of thy servants, |
| + | according to the blessing of Aaron for thy people, |
| + | and all who are on the earth will know |
| + | that thou art the Lord, the God of the ages. |
| + | |
| + | [18] The stomach will take any food, |
| + | yet one food is better than another. |
| + | [19] As the palate tastes the kinds of game, |
| + | so an intelligent mind detects false words. |
| + | [20] A perverse mind will cause grief, |
| + | but a man of experience will pay him back. |
| + | [21] A woman will accept any man, |
| + | but one daughter is better than another. |
| + | [22] A woman's beauty gladdens the countenance, |
| + | and surpasses every human desire. |
| + | [23] If kindness and humility mark her speech, |
| + | her husband is not like other men. |
| + | [24] He who acquires a wife gets his best possession, |
| + | a helper fit for him and a pillar of support. |
| + | [25] Where there is no fence, the property will be plundered; |
| + | and where there is no wife, a man will wander about and sigh. |
| + | [26] For who will trust a nimble robber |
| + | that skips from city to city? |
| + | So who will trust a man that has no home, |
| + | and lodges wherever night finds him? |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 37== |
| + | [1] Every friend will say, "I too am a friend"; |
| + | but some friends are friends only in name. |
| + | [2] Is it not a grief to the death |
| + | when a companion and friend turns to enmity? |
| + | [3] O evil imagination, why were you formed |
| + | to cover the land with deceit? |
| + | [4] Some companions rejoice in the happiness of a friend, |
| + | but in time of trouble are against him. |
| + | [5] Some companions help a friend for their stomach's sake, |
| + | and in the face of battle take up the shield. |
| + | [6] Do not forget a friend in your heart, |
| + | and be not unmindful of him in your wealth. |
| + | |
| + | [7] Every counselor praises counsel, |
| + | but some give counsel in their own interest. |
| + | [8] Be wary of a counselor, |
| + | and learn first what is his interest -- |
| + | for he will take thought for himself -- |
| + | lest he cast the lot against you |
| + | [9] and tell you, "Your way is good," |
| + | and then stand aloof to see what will happen to you. |
| + | [10] Do not consult the one who looks at you suspiciously; |
| + | hide your counsel from those who are jealous of you. |
| + | [11] Do not consult with a woman about her rival |
| + | or with a coward about war, |
| + | with a merchant about barter |
| + | or with a buyer about selling, |
| + | with a grudging man about gratitude |
| + | or with a merciless man about kindness, |
| + | with an idler about any work |
| + | or with a man hired for a year about completing his work, |
| + | with a lazy servant about a big task -- |
| + | pay no attention to these in any matter of counsel. |
| + | [12] But stay constantly with a godly man |
| + | whom you know to be a keeper of the commandments, |
| + | whose soul is in accord with your soul, |
| + | and who will sorrow with you if you fail. |
| + | [13] And establish the counsel of your own heart, |
| + | for no one is more faithful to you than it is. |
| + | [14] For a man's soul sometimes keeps him better informed |
| + | than seven watchmen sitting high on a watchtower. |
| + | [15] And besides all this pray to the Most High |
| + | that he may direct your way in truth. |
| + | |
| + | [16] Reason is the beginning of every work, |
| + | and counsel precedes every undertaking. |
| + | [17] As a clue to changes of heart |
| + | [18] four turns of fortune appear, |
| + | good and evil, life and death; |
| + | and it is the tongue that continually rules them. |
| + | [19] A man may be shrewd and the teacher of many, |
| + | and yet be unprofitable to himself. |
| + | [20] A man skilled in words may be hated; |
| + | he will be destitute of all food, |
| + | [21] for grace was not given him by the Lord, |
| + | since he is lacking in all wisdom. |
| + | [22] A man may be wise to his own advantage, |
| + | and the fruits of his understanding may be |
| + | trustworthy on his lips. |
| + | [23] A wise man will instruct his own people, |
| + | and the fruits of his understanding will be trustworthy. |
| + | [24] A wise man will have praise heaped upon him, |
| + | and all who see him will call him happy. |
| + | [25] The life of a man is numbered by days, |
| + | but the days of Israel are without number. |
| + | [26] He who is wise among his people will inherit confidence, |
| + | and his name will live for ever. |
| + | |
| + | [27] My son, test your soul while you live; |
| + | see what is bad for it and do not give it that. |
| + | [28] For not everything is good for every one, |
| + | and not every person enjoys everything. |
| + | [29] Do not have an insatiable appetite for any luxury, |
| + | and do not give yourself up to food; |
| + | [30] for overeating brings sickness, |
| + | and gluttony leads to nausea. |
| + | [31] Many have died of gluttony, |
| + | but he who is careful to avoid it prolongs his life. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 38== |
| + | [1] Honor the physician with the honor due him, |
| + | according to your need of |
| + | him, for the Lord created him; |
| + | [2] for healing comes from the Most High, |
| + | and he will receive a gift from the king. |
| + | [3] The skill of the physician lifts up his head, |
| + | and in the presence of great men he is admired. |
| + | [4] The Lord created medicines from the earth, |
| + | and a sensible man will not despise them. |
| + | [5] Was not water made sweet with a tree |
| + | in order that his power might be known? |
| + | [6] And he gave skill to men |
| + | that he might be glorified in his marvelous works. |
| + | [7] By them he heals and takes away pain; |
| + | [8] the pharmacist makes of them a compound. |
| + | His works will never be finished; |
| + | and from him health is upon the face of the earth. |
| + | |
| + | [9] My son, when you are sick do not be negligent, |
| + | but pray to the Lord, and he will heal you. |
| + | [10] Give up your faults and direct your hands aright, |
| + | and cleanse your heart from all sin. |
| + | [11] Offer a sweet-smelling sacrifice, and a memorial |
| + | portion of fine flour, |
| + | and pour oil on your offering, as much as you can afford. |
| + | [12] And give the physician his place, for the Lord created him; |
| + | let him not leave you, for there is need of him. |
| + | [13] There is a time when success lies in the hands of physicians, |
| + | [14] for they too will pray to the Lord |
| + | that he should grant them success in diagnosis |
| + | and in healing, for the sake of preserving life. |
| + | [15] He who sins before his Maker, |
| + | may he fall into the care of a physician. |
| + | |
| + | [16] My son, let your tears fall for the dead, |
| + | and as one who is suffering grievously begin the lament. |
| + | Lay out his body with the honor due him, |
| + | and do not neglect his burial. |
| + | [17] Let your weeping be bitter and your wailing fervent; |
| + | observe the mourning according to his merit, |
| + | for one day, or two, to avoid criticism; |
| + | then be comforted for your sorrow. |
| + | [18] For sorrow results in death, |
| + | and sorrow of heart saps one's strength. |
| + | [19] In calamity sorrow continues, |
| + | and the life of the poor man weighs down his heart. |
| + | [20] Do not give your heart to sorrow; |
| + | drive it away, remembering the end of life. |
| + | [21] Do not forget, there is no coming back; |
| + | you do the dead no good, and you injure yourself. |
| + | [22] "Remember my doom, for yours is like it: |
| + | yesterday it was mine, and today it is yours." |
| + | [23] When the dead is at rest, let his remembrance cease, |
| + | and be comforted for him when his spirit is departed. |
| + | |
| + | [24] The wisdom of the scribe depends on the opportunity of leisure; |
| + | and he who has little business may become wise. |
| + | [25] How can he become wise who handles the plow, |
| + | and who glories in the shaft of a goad, |
| + | who drives oxen and is occupied with their work, |
| + | and whose talk is about bulls? |
| + | [26] He sets his heart on plowing furrows, |
| + | and he is careful about fodder for the heifers. |
| + | [27] So too is every craftsman and master workman |
| + | who labors by night as well as by day; |
| + | those who cut the signets of seals, |
| + | each is diligent in making a great variety; |
| + | he sets his heart on painting a lifelike image, |
| + | and he is careful to finish his work. |
| + | [28] So too is the smith sitting by the anvil, |
| + | intent upon his handiwork in iron; |
| + | the breath of the fire melts his flesh, |
| + | and he wastes away in the heat of the furnace; |
| + | he inclines his ear to the sound of the hammer, |
| + | and his eyes are on the pattern of the object. |
| + | He sets his heart on finishing his handiwork, |
| + | and he is careful to complete its decoration. |
| + | [29] So too is the potter sitting at his work |
| + | and turning the wheel with his feet; |
| + | he is always deeply concerned over his work, |
| + | and all his output is by number. |
| + | [30] He moulds the clay with his arm |
| + | and makes it pliable with his feet; |
| + | he sets his heart to finish the glazing, |
| + | and he is careful to clean the furnace. |
| + | |
| + | [31] All these rely upon their hands, |
| + | and each is skilful in his own work. |
| + | [32] Without them a city cannot be established, |
| + | and men can neither sojourn nor live there. |
| + | [33] Yet they are not sought out for the council of the people, |
| + | nor do they attain eminence in the public assembly. |
| + | They do not sit in the judge's seat, |
| + | nor do they understand the sentence of judgment; |
| + | they cannot expound discipline or judgment, |
| + | and they are not found using proverbs. |
| + | [34] But they keep stable the fabric of the world, |
| + | and their prayer is in the practice of their trade. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 39== |
| + | [1] On the other hand he who devotes himself |
| + | to the study of the law of the Most High |
| + | will seek out the wisdom of all the ancients, |
| + | and will be concerned with prophecies; |
| + | [2] he will preserve the discourse of notable men |
| + | and penetrate the subtleties of parables; |
| + | [3] he will seek out the hidden meanings of proverbs |
| + | and be at home with the obscurities of parables. |
| + | [4] He will serve among great men |
| + | and appear before rulers; |
| + | he will travel through the lands of foreign nations, |
| + | for he tests the good and the evil among men. |
| + | [5] He will set his heart to rise early |
| + | to seek the Lord who made him, |
| + | and will make supplication before the Most High; |
| + | he will open his mouth in prayer |
| + | and make supplication for his sins. |
| + | |
| + | [6] If the great Lord is willing, |
| + | he will be filled with the spirit of understanding; |
| + | he will pour forth words of wisdom |
| + | and give thanks to the Lord in prayer. |
| + | [7] He will direct his counsel and knowledge aright, |
| + | and meditate on his secrets. |
| + | [8] He will reveal instruction in his teaching, |
| + | and will glory in the law of the Lord's covenant. |
| + | [9] Many will praise his understanding, |
| + | and it will never be blotted out; |
| + | his memory will not disappear, |
| + | and his name will live through all generations. |
| + | [10] Nations will declare his wisdom, |
| + | and the congregation will proclaim his praise; |
| + | [11] if he lives long, he will leave a name greater than a thousand, |
| + | and if he goes to rest, it is enough for him. |
| + | [12] I have yet more to say, which I have thought upon, |
| + | and I am filled, like the moon at the full. |
| + | [13] Listen to me, O you holy sons, |
| + | and bud like a rose growing by a stream of water; |
| + | [14] send forth fragrance like frankincense, |
| + | and put forth blossoms like a lily. |
| + | Scatter the fragrance, and sing a hymn of praise; |
| + | bless the Lord for all his works; |
| + | [15] ascribe majesty to his name |
| + | and give thanks to him with praise, |
| + | with songs on your lips, and with lyres; |
| + | and this you shall say in thanksgiving: |
| + | [16] "All things are the works of the Lord, for they are very good, |
| + | and whatever he commands will be done in his time." |
| + | |
| + | [17] No one can say, "What is this?" "Why is that?" |
| + | for in God's time all things will be sought after. |
| + | At his word the waters stood in a heap, |
| + | and the reservoirs of water at the word of his mouth. |
| + | [18] At his command whatever pleases him is done, |
| + | and none can limit his saving power. |
| + | [19] The works of all flesh are before him, |
| + | and nothing can be hid from his eyes. |
| + | [20] From everlasting to everlasting he beholds them, |
| + | and nothing is marvelous to him. |
| + | [21] No one can say, "What is this?" "Why is that?" |
| + | for everything has been created for its use. |
| + | [22] His blessing covers the dry land like a river, |
| + | and drenches it like a flood. |
| + | [23] The nations will incur his wrath, |
| + | just as he turns fresh water into salt. |
| + | [24] To the holy his ways are straight, |
| + | just as they are obstacles to the wicked. |
| + | [25] From the beginning good things were created for good people, |
| + | just as evil things for sinners. |
| + | [26] Basic to all the needs of man's life |
| + | are water and fire and iron and salt |
| + | and wheat flour and milk and honey, |
| + | the blood of the grape, and oil and clothing. |
| + | [27] All these are for good to the godly, |
| + | just as they turn into evils for sinners. |
| + | |
| + | [28] There are winds that have been created for vengeance, |
| + | and in their anger they scourge heavily; |
| + | in the time of consummation they will pour out their strength |
| + | and calm the anger of their Maker. |
| + | [29] Fire and hail and famine and pestilence, |
| + | all these have been created for vengeance; |
| + | [30] the teeth of wild beasts, and scorpions and vipers, |
| + | and the sword that punishes the ungodly with destruction; |
| + | [31] they will rejoice in his commands, |
| + | and be made ready on earth for their service, |
| + | and when their times come they will not transgress his word. |
| + | [32] Therefore from the beginning I have been convinced, |
| + | and have thought this out and left it in writing: |
| + | [33] The works of the Lord are all good, |
| + | and he will supply every need in its hour. |
| + | [34] And no one can say, "This is worse than that," |
| + | for all things will prove good in their season. |
| + | [35] So now sing praise with all your heart and voice, |
| + | and bless the name of the Lord. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 40== |
| + | [1] Much labor was created for every man, |
| + | and a heavy yoke is upon the sons of Adam, |
| + | from the day they come forth from their mother's womb |
| + | till the day they return to the mother of all. |
| + | [2] Their perplexities and fear of heart -- |
| + | their anxious thought is the day of death, |
| + | [3] from the man who sits on a splendid throne |
| + | to the one who is humbled in dust and ashes, |
| + | [4] from the man who wears purple and a crown |
| + | to the one who is clothed in burlap; |
| + | [5] there is anger and envy and trouble and unrest, |
| + | and fear of death, and fury and strife. |
| + | And when one rests upon his bed, |
| + | his sleep at night confuses his mind. |
| + | [6] He gets little or no rest, |
| + | and afterward in his sleep, as though he were on watch, |
| + | he is troubled by the visions of his mind |
| + | like one who has escaped from the battle-front; |
| + | [7] at the moment of his rescue he wakes up, |
| + | and wonders that his fear came to nothing. |
| + | [8] With all flesh, both man and beast, |
| + | and upon sinners seven times more, |
| + | [9] are death and bloodshed and strife and sword, |
| + | calamities, famine and affliction and plague. |
| + | [10] All these were created for the wicked, |
| + | and on their account the flood came. |
| + | [11] All things that are from the earth turn back to the earth, |
| + | and what is from the waters returns to the sea. |
| + | |
| + | [12] All bribery and injustice will be blotted out, |
| + | but good faith will stand for ever. |
| + | [13] The wealth of the unjust will dry up like a torrent, |
| + | and crash like a loud clap of thunder in a rain. |
| + | [14] A generous man will be made glad; |
| + | likewise transgressors will utterly fail. |
| + | [15] The children of the ungodly will not put forth many branches; |
| + | they are unhealthy roots upon sheer rock. |
| + | [16] The reeds by any water or river bank |
| + | will be plucked up before any grass. |
| + | [17] Kindness is like a garden of blessings, |
| + | and almsgiving endures for ever. |
| + | [18] Life is sweet for the self-reliant and the worker, |
| + | but he who finds treasure is better off than both. |
| + | [19] Children and the building of a city establish a man's name, |
| + | but a blameless wife is accounted better than both. |
| + | [20] Wine and music gladden the heart, |
| + | but the love of wisdom is better than both. |
| + | [21] The flute and the harp make pleasant melody, |
| + | but a pleasant voice is better than both. |
| + | [22] The eye desires grace and beauty, |
| + | but the green shoots of grain more than both. |
| + | [23] A friend or a companion never meets one amiss, |
| + | but a wife with her husband is better than both. |
| + | [24] Brothers and help are for a time of trouble, |
| + | but almsgiving rescues better than both. |
| + | [25] Gold and silver make the foot stand sure, |
| + | but good counsel is esteemed more than both. |
| + | [26] Riches and strength lift up the heart, |
| + | but the fear of the Lord is better than both. |
| + | There is no loss in the fear of the Lord, |
| + | and with it there is no need to seek for help. |
| + | [27] The fear of the Lord is like a garden of blessing, |
| + | and covers a man better than any glory. |
| + | |
| + | [28] My son, do not lead the life of a beggar; |
| + | it is better to die than to beg. |
| + | [29] When a man looks to the table of another, |
| + | his existence cannot be considered as life. |
| + | He pollutes himself with another man's food, |
| + | but a man who is intelligent and well instructed |
| + | guards against that. |
| + | [30] In the mouth of the shameless begging is sweet, |
| + | but in his stomach a fire is kindled. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 41== |
| + | [1] O death, how bitter is the reminder of you |
| + | to one who lives at peace among his possessions, |
| + | to a man without distractions, who is prosperous in everything, |
| + | and who still has the vigor to enjoy his food! |
| + | [2] O death, how welcome is your sentence |
| + | to one who is in need and is failing in strength, |
| + | very old and distracted over everything; |
| + | to one who is contrary, and has lost his patience! |
| + | [3] Do not fear the sentence of death; |
| + | remember your former days and the end of life; |
| + | this is the decree from the Lord for all flesh, |
| + | [4] and how can you reject the good pleasure of the Most High? |
| + | Whether life is for ten or a hundred or a thousand years, |
| + | there is no inquiry about it in Hades. |
| + | [5] The children of sinners are abominable children, |
| + | and they frequent the haunts of the ungodly. |
| + | [6] The inheritance of the children of sinners will perish, |
| + | and on their posterity will be a perpetual reproach. |
| + | [7] Children will blame an ungodly father, |
| + | for they suffer reproach because of him. |
| + | [8] Woe to you, ungodly men, |
| + | who have forsaken the law of the Most High God! |
| + | [9] When you are born, you are born to a curse; |
| + | and when you die, a curse is your lot. |
| + | [10] Whatever is from the dust returns to dust; |
| + | so the ungodly go from curse to destruction. |
| + | |
| + | [11] The mourning of men is about their bodies, |
| + | but the evil name of sinners will be blotted out. |
| + | [12] Have regard for your name, since it will remain for |
| + | you longer than a thousand great stores of gold. |
| + | [13] The days of a good life are numbered, |
| + | but a good name endures for ever. |
| + | |
| + | [14] My children, observe instruction and be at peace; |
| + | hidden wisdom and unseen treasure, |
| + | what advantage is there in either of them? |
| + | [15] Better is the man who hides his folly |
| + | than the man who hides his wisdom. |
| + | [16] Therefore show respect for my words: |
| + | For it is good to retain every kind of shame, |
| + | and not everything is confidently esteemed by every one. |
| + | |
| + | [17] Be ashamed of immorality, before your father or mother; |
| + | and of a lie, before a prince or a ruler; |
| + | [18] of a transgression, before a judge or magistrate; |
| + | and of iniquity, before a congregation or the people; |
| + | of unjust dealing, before your partner or friend; |
| + | [19] and of theft, in the place where you live. |
| + | Be ashamed before the truth of God and his covenant. |
| + | Be ashamed of selfish behavior at meals, |
| + | of surliness in receiving and giving, |
| + | [20] and of silence, before those who greet you; |
| + | of looking at a woman who is a harlot, |
| + | [21] and of rejecting the appeal of a kinsman; |
| + | of taking away some one's portion or gift, |
| + | and of gazing at another man's wife; |
| + | [22] of meddling with his maidservant -- |
| + | and do not approach her bed; |
| + | of abusive words, before friends -- |
| + | and do not upbraid after making a gift; |
| + | [23] of repeating and telling what you hear, |
| + | and of revealing secrets. |
| + | Then you will show proper shame, |
| + | and will find favor with every man. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 42== |
| + | [1] Of the following things do not be ashamed, |
| + | and do not let partiality lead you to sin: |
| + | [2] of the law of the Most High and his covenant, |
| + | and of rendering judgment to acquit the ungodly; |
| + | [3] of keeping accounts with a partner or with |
| + | traveling companions, |
| + | and of dividing the inheritance of friends; |
| + | [4] of accuracy with scales and weights, |
| + | and of acquiring much or little; |
| + | [5] of profit from dealing with merchants, |
| + | and of much discipline of children, |
| + | and of whipping a wicked servant severely. |
| + | [6] Where there is an evil wife, a seal is a good thing; |
| + | and where there are many hands, lock things up. |
| + | [7] Whatever you deal out, let it be by number and weight, |
| + | and make a record of all that you give out or take in. |
| + | [8] Do not be ashamed to instruct the stupid or foolish |
| + | or the aged man who quarrels with the young. |
| + | Then you will be truly instructed, |
| + | and will be approved before all men. |
| + | |
| + | [9] A daughter keeps her father secretly wakeful, |
| + | and worry over her robs him of sleep; |
| + | when she is young, lest she do not marry, |
| + | or if married, lest she be hated; |
| + | [10] while a virgin, lest she be defiled |
| + | or become pregnant in her father's house; |
| + | or having a husband, lest she prove unfaithful, |
| + | or, though married, lest she be barren. |
| + | [11] Keep strict watch over a headstrong daughter, |
| + | lest she make you a laughingstock to your enemies, |
| + | a byword in the city and notorious among the people, |
| + | and put you to shame before the great multitude. |
| + | |
| + | [12] Do not look upon any one for beauty, |
| + | and do not sit in the midst of women; |
| + | [13] for from garments comes the moth, |
| + | and from a woman comes woman's wickedness. |
| + | [14] Better is the wickedness of a man than a woman who does good; |
| + | and it is a woman who brings shame and disgrace. |
| + | |
| + | [15] I will now call to mind the works of the Lord, |
| + | and will declare what I have seen. |
| + | By the words of the Lord his works are done. |
| + | [16] The sun looks down on everything with its light, |
| + | and the work of the Lord is full of his glory. |
| + | [17] The Lord has not enabled his holy ones |
| + | to recount all his marvelous works, |
| + | which the Lord the Almighty has established |
| + | that the universe may stand firm in his glory. |
| + | [18] He searches out the abyss, and the hearts of men, |
| + | and considers their crafty devices. |
| + | For the Most High knows all that may be known, |
| + | and he looks into the signs of the age. |
| + | [19] He declares what has been and what is to be, |
| + | and he reveals the tracks of hidden things. |
| + | [20] No thought escapes him, |
| + | and not one word is hidden from him. |
| + | [21] He has ordained the splendors of his wisdom, |
| + | and he is from everlasting and to everlasting. |
| + | Nothing can be added or taken away, |
| + | and he needs no one to be his counselor. |
| + | [22] How greatly to be desired are all his works, |
| + | and how sparkling they are to see! |
| + | [23] All these things live and remain for ever |
| + | for every need, and are all obedient. |
| + | [24] All things are twofold, one opposite the other, |
| + | and he has made nothing incomplete. |
| + | [25] One confirms the good things of the other, |
| + | and who can have enough of beholding his glory? |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 43== |
| + | [1] The pride of the heavenly heights is the clear firmament, |
| + | the appearance of heaven in a spectacle of glory. |
| + | [2] The sun, when it appears, making proclamation as it goes forth, |
| + | is a marvelous instrument, the work of the Most High. |
| + | [3] At noon it parches the land; |
| + | and who can withstand its burning heat? |
| + | [4] A man tending a furnace works in burning heat, |
| + | but the sun burns the mountains three times as much; |
| + | it breathes out fiery vapors, |
| + | and with bright beams it blinds the eyes. |
| + | [5] Great is the Lord who made it; |
| + | and at his command it hastens on its course. |
| + | |
| + | [6] He made the moon also, to serve in its season |
| + | to mark the times and to be an everlasting sign. |
| + | [7] From the moon comes the sign for feast days, |
| + | a light that wanes when it has reached the full. |
| + | [8] The month is named for the moon, |
| + | increasing marvelously in its phases, |
| + | an instrument of the hosts on high |
| + | shining forth in the firmament of heaven. |
| + | |
| + | [9] The glory of the stars is the beauty of heaven, |
| + | a gleaming array in the heights of the Lord. |
| + | [10] At the command of the Holy One they stand as ordered, |
| + | they never relax in their watches. |
| + | [11] Look upon the rainbow, and praise him who made it, |
| + | exceedingly beautiful in its brightness. |
| + | [12] It encircles the heaven with its glorious arc; |
| + | the hands of the Most High have stretched it out. |
| + | [13] By his command he sends the driving snow |
| + | and speeds the lightnings of his judgment. |
| + | [14] Therefore the storehouses are opened, |
| + | and the clouds fly forth like birds. |
| + | [15] In his majesty he amasses the clouds, |
| + | and the hailstones are broken in pieces. |
| + | [16] At his appearing the mountains are shaken; |
| + | at his will the south wind blows. |
| + | [17] The voice of his thunder rebukes the earth; |
| + | so do the tempest from the north and the whirlwind. |
| + | He scatters the snow like birds flying down, |
| + | and its descent is like locusts alighting. |
| + | [18] The eye marvels at the beauty of its whiteness, |
| + | and the mind is amazed at its falling. |
| + | [19] He pours the hoarfrost upon the earth like salt, |
| + | and when it freezes, it becomes pointed thorns. |
| + | [20] The cold north wind blows, |
| + | and ice freezes over the water; |
| + | it rests upon every pool of water, |
| + | and the water puts it on like a breastplate. |
| + | [21] He consumes the mountains and burns up the wilderness, |
| + | and withers the tender grass like fire. |
| + | [22] A mist quickly heals all things; |
| + | when the dew appears, it refreshes from the heat. |
| + | |
| + | [23] By his counsel he stilled the great deep |
| + | and planted islands in it. |
| + | [24] Those who sail the sea tell of its dangers, |
| + | and we marvel at what we hear. |
| + | [25] for in it are strange and marvelous works, |
| + | all kinds of living things, and huge creatures of the sea. |
| + | [26] Because of him his messenger finds the way, |
| + | and by his word all things hold together. |
| + | |
| + | [27] Though we speak much we cannot reach the end, |
| + | and the sum of our words is: "He is the all." |
| + | [28] Where shall we find strength to praise him? |
| + | For he is greater than all his works. |
| + | [29] Terrible is the Lord and very great, |
| + | and marvelous is his power. |
| + | [30] When you praise the Lord, exalt him as much as you can; |
| + | for he will surpass even that. |
| + | When you exalt him, put forth all your strength, |
| + | and do not grow weary, for you cannot praise him enough. |
| + | [31] Who has seen him and can describe him? |
| + | Or who can extol him as he is? |
| + | [32] Many things greater than these lie hidden, |
| + | for we have seen but few of his works. |
| + | [33] For the Lord has made all things, |
| + | and to the godly he has granted wisdom. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 44== |
| + | [1] Let us now praise famous men, |
| + | and our fathers in their generations. |
| + | [2] The Lord apportioned to them great glory, |
| + | his majesty from the beginning. |
| + | [3] There were those who ruled in their kingdoms, |
| + | and were men renowned for their power, |
| + | giving counsel by their understanding, |
| + | and proclaiming prophecies; |
| + | [4] leaders of the people in their deliberations |
| + | and in understanding of learning for the people, |
| + | wise in their words of instruction; |
| + | [5] those who composed musical tunes, |
| + | and set forth verses in writing; |
| + | [6] rich men furnished with resources, |
| + | living peaceably in their habitations -- |
| + | [7] all these were honored in their generations, |
| + | and were the glory of their times. |
| + | [8] There are some of them who have left a name, |
| + | so that men declare their praise. |
| + | [9] And there are some who have no memorial, |
| + | who have perished as though they had not lived; |
| + | they have become as though they had not been born, |
| + | and so have their children after them. |
| + | [10] But these were men of mercy, |
| + | whose righteous deeds have not been forgotten; |
| + | [11] their prosperity will remain with their descendants, |
| + | and their inheritance to their children's children. |
| + | [12] Their descendants stand by the covenants; |
| + | their children also, for their sake. |
| + | [13] Their posterity will continue for ever, |
| + | and their glory will not be blotted out. |
| + | [14] Their bodies were buried in peace, |
| + | and their name lives to all generations. |
| + | [15] Peoples will declare their wisdom, |
| + | and the congregation proclaims their praise. |
| + | |
| + | [16] Enoch pleased the Lord, and was taken up; |
| + | he was an example of repentance to all generations. |
| + | |
| + | [17] Noah was found perfect and righteous; |
| + | in the time of wrath he was taken in exchange; |
| + | therefore a remnant was left to the earth |
| + | when the flood came. |
| + | [18] Everlasting covenants were made with him |
| + | that all flesh should not be blotted out by a flood. |
| + | |
| + | [19] Abraham was the great father of a multitude of nations, |
| + | and no one has been found like him in glory; |
| + | [20] he kept the law of the Most High, |
| + | and was taken into covenant with him; |
| + | he established the covenant in his flesh, |
| + | and when he was tested he was found faithful. |
| + | [21] Therefore the Lord assured him by an oath |
| + | that the nations would be blessed through his posterity; |
| + | that he would multiply him like the dust of the earth, |
| + | and exalt his posterity like the stars, |
| + | and cause them to inherit from sea to sea |
| + | and from the River to the ends of the earth. |
| + | [22] To Isaac also he gave the same assurance |
| + | for the sake of Abraham his father. |
| + | |
| + | [23] The blessing of all men and the covenant |
| + | he made to rest upon the head of Jacob; |
| + | he acknowledged him with his blessings, |
| + | and gave him his inheritance; |
| + | he determined his portions, |
| + | and distributed them among twelve tribes. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 45== |
| + | [1] From his descendants the Lord brought forth a man of mercy, |
| + | who found favor in the sight of all flesh |
| + | and was beloved by God and man, |
| + | Moses, whose memory is blessed. |
| + | [2] He made him equal in glory to the holy ones, |
| + | and made him great in the fears of his enemies. |
| + | [3] By his words he caused signs to cease; |
| + | the Lord glorified him in the presence of kings. |
| + | He gave him commands for his people, |
| + | and showed him part of his glory. |
| + | [4] He sanctified him through faithfulness and meekness; |
| + | he chose him out of all mankind. |
| + | [5] He made him hear his voice, |
| + | and led him into the thick darkness, |
| + | and gave him the commandments face to face, |
| + | the law of life and knowledge, |
| + | to teach Jacob the covenant, |
| + | and Israel his judgments. |
| + | |
| + | [6] He exalted Aaron, the brother of Moses, |
| + | a holy man like him, of the tribe of Levi. |
| + | [7] He made an everlasting covenant with him, |
| + | and gave him the priesthood of the people. |
| + | He blessed him with splendid vestments, |
| + | and put a glorious robe upon him. |
| + | [8] He clothed him with superb perfection, |
| + | and strengthened him with the symbols of authority, |
| + | the linen breeches, the long robe, and the ephod. |
| + | [9] And he encircled him with pomegranates, |
| + | with very many golden bells round about, |
| + | to send forth a sound as he walked, |
| + | to make their ringing heard in the temple |
| + | as a reminder to the sons of his people; |
| + | [10] with a holy garment, of gold and blue |
| + | and purple, the work of an embroiderer; |
| + | with the oracle of judgment, Urim and Thummim; |
| + | [11] with twisted scarlet, the work of a craftsman; |
| + | with precious stones engraved like signets, |
| + | in a setting of gold, the work of a jeweler, |
| + | for a reminder, in engraved letters, |
| + | according to the number of the tribes of Israel; |
| + | [12] with a gold crown upon his turban, |
| + | inscribed like a signet with "Holiness," |
| + | a distinction to be prized, the work of an expert, |
| + | the delight of the eyes, richly adorned. |
| + | [13] Before his time there never were such beautiful things. |
| + | No outsider ever put them on, |
| + | but only his sons |
| + | and his descendants perpetually. |
| + | [14] His sacrifices shall be wholly burned |
| + | twice every day continually. |
| + | [15] Moses ordained him, |
| + | and anointed him with holy oil; |
| + | it was an everlasting covenant for him |
| + | and for his descendants all the days of heaven, |
| + | to minister to the Lord and serve as priest |
| + | and bless his people in his name. |
| + | [16] He chose him out of all the living |
| + | to offer sacrifice to the Lord, |
| + | incense and a pleasing odor as a memorial portion, |
| + | to make atonement for the people. |
| + | [17] In his commandments he gave him |
| + | authority and statutes and judgments, |
| + | to teach Jacob the testimonies, |
| + | and to enlighten Israel with his law. |
| + | [18] Outsiders conspired against him, |
| + | and envied him in the wilderness, |
| + | Dathan and Abiram and their men |
| + | and the company of Korah, in wrath and anger. |
| + | [19] The Lord saw it and was not pleased, |
| + | and in the wrath of his anger they were destroyed; |
| + | he wrought wonders against them |
| + | to consume them in flaming fire. |
| + | [20] He added glory to Aaron |
| + | and gave him a heritage; |
| + | he allotted to him the first of the first fruits, |
| + | he prepared bread of first fruits in abundance; |
| + | [21] for they eat the sacrifices to the Lord, |
| + | which he gave to him and his descendants. |
| + | [22] But in the land of the people he has no inheritance, |
| + | and he has no portion among the people; |
| + | for the Lord himself is his portion and inheritance. |
| + | |
| + | [23] Phinehas the son of Eleazar is the third in glory, |
| + | for he was zealous in the fear of the Lord, |
| + | and stood fast, when the people turned away, |
| + | in the ready goodness of his soul, |
| + | and made atonement for Israel. |
| + | [24] Therefore a covenant of peace was established with him, |
| + | that he should be leader of the sanctuary and of his people, |
| + | that he and his descendants should have |
| + | the dignity of the priesthood for ever. |
| + | [25] A covenant was also established with David, |
| + | the son of Jesse, of the tribe of Judah: |
| + | the heritage of the king is from son to son only; |
| + | so the heritage of Aaron is for his descendants. |
| + | [26] May the Lord grant you wisdom in your heart |
| + | to judge his people in righteousness, |
| + | so that their prosperity may not vanish, |
| + | and that their glory may endure throughout their generations. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 46== |
| + | [1] Joshua the son of Nun was mighty in war, |
| + | and was the successor of Moses in prophesying. |
| + | He became, in accordance with his name, |
| + | a great savior of God's elect, |
| + | to take vengeance on the enemies that rose against them, |
| + | so that he might give Israel its inheritance. |
| + | [2] How glorious he was when he lifted his hands |
| + | and stretched out his sword against the cities! |
| + | [3] Who before him ever stood so firm? |
| + | For he waged the wars of the Lord. |
| + | [4] Was not the sun held back by his hand? |
| + | And did not one day become as long as two? |
| + | [5] He called upon the Most High, the Mighty One, |
| + | when enemies pressed him on every side, |
| + | [6] and the great Lord answered him |
| + | with hailstones of mighty power. |
| + | He hurled down war upon that nation, |
| + | and at the descent of Beth-horon he destroyed |
| + | those who resisted, |
| + | so that the nations might know his armament, |
| + | that he was fighting in the sight of the Lord; |
| + | for he wholly followed the Mighty One. |
| + | [7] And in the days of Moses he did a loyal deed, |
| + | he and Caleb the son of Jephunneh: |
| + | they withstood the congregation, |
| + | restrained the people from sin, |
| + | and stilled their wicked murmuring. |
| + | [8] And these two alone were preserved |
| + | out of six hundred thousand people on foot, |
| + | to bring them into their inheritance, |
| + | into a land flowing with milk and honey. |
| + | [9] And the Lord gave Caleb strength, |
| + | which remained with him to old age, |
| + | so that he went up to the hill country, |
| + | and his children obtained it for an inheritance; |
| + | [10] so that all the sons of Israel might see |
| + | that it is good to follow the Lord. |
| + | |
| + | [11] The judges also, with their respective names, |
| + | those whose hearts did not fall into idolatry |
| + | and who did not turn away from the Lord -- |
| + | may their memory be blessed! |
| + | [12] May their bones revive from where they lie, |
| + | and may the name of those who have been honored |
| + | live again in their sons! |
| + | |
| + | [13] Samuel, beloved by his Lord, |
| + | a prophet of the Lord, established the kingdom |
| + | and anointed rulers over his people. |
| + | [14] By the law of the Lord he judged the congregation, |
| + | and the Lord watched over Jacob. |
| + | [15] By his faithfulness he was proved to be a prophet, |
| + | and by his words he became known as a trustworthy seer. |
| + | [16] He called upon the Lord, the Mighty One, |
| + | when his enemies pressed him on every side, |
| + | and he offered in sacrifice a sucking lamb. |
| + | [17] Then the Lord thundered from heaven, |
| + | and made his voice heard with a mighty sound; |
| + | [18] and he wiped out the leaders of the people of Tyre |
| + | and all the rulers of the Philistines. |
| + | [19] Before the time of his eternal sleep, |
| + | Samuel called men to witness before the Lord and his anointed: |
| + | "I have not taken any one's property, |
| + | not so much as a pair of shoes." |
| + | And no man accused him. |
| + | [20] Even after he had fallen asleep he prophesied |
| + | and revealed to the king his death, |
| + | and lifted up his voice out of the earth in prophecy, |
| + | to blot out the wickedness of the people. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 47== |
| + | [1] And after him Nathan rose up |
| + | to prophesy in the days of David. |
| + | [2] As the fat is selected from the peace offering, |
| + | so David was selected from the sons of Israel. |
| + | [3] He played with lions as with young goats, |
| + | and with bears as with lambs of the flock. |
| + | [4] In his youth did he not kill a giant, |
| + | and take away reproach from the people, |
| + | when he lifted his hand with a stone in the sling |
| + | and struck down the boasting of Goliath? |
| + | [5] For he appealed to the Lord, the Most High, |
| + | and he gave him strength in his right hand |
| + | to slay a man mighty in war, |
| + | to exalt the power of his people. |
| + | [6] So they glorified him for his ten thousands, |
| + | and praised him for the blessings of the Lord, |
| + | when the glorious diadem was bestowed upon him. |
| + | [7] For he wiped out his enemies on every side, |
| + | and annihilated his adversaries the Philistines; |
| + | he crushed their power even to this day. |
| + | [8] In all that he did he gave thanks |
| + | to the Holy One, the Most High, with ascriptions of glory; |
| + | he sang praise with all his heart, |
| + | and he loved his Maker. |
| + | [9] He placed singers before the altar, |
| + | to make sweet melody with their voices. |
| + | [10] He gave beauty to the feasts, |
| + | and arranged their times throughout the year, |
| + | while they praised God's holy name, |
| + | and the sanctuary resounded from early morning. |
| + | [11] The Lord took away his sins, |
| + | and exalted his power for ever; |
| + | he gave him the covenant of kings |
| + | and a throne of glory in Israel. |
| + | |
| + | [12] After him rose up a wise son |
| + | who fared amply because of him; |
| + | [13] Solomon reigned in days of peace, |
| + | and God gave him rest on every side, |
| + | that he might build a house for his name |
| + | and prepare a sanctuary to stand for ever. |
| + | [14] How wise you became in your youth! |
| + | You overflowed like a river with understanding. |
| + | [15] Your soul covered the earth, |
| + | and you filled it with parables and riddles. |
| + | [16] Your name reached to far-off islands, |
| + | and you were loved for your peace. |
| + | [17] For your songs and proverbs and parables, |
| + | and for your interpretations, the countries marveled at you. |
| + | [18] In the name of the Lord God, |
| + | who is called the God of Israel, |
| + | you gathered gold like tin |
| + | and amassed silver like lead. |
| + | [19] But you laid your loins beside women, |
| + | and through your body you were brought into subjection. |
| + | [20] You put stain upon your honor, |
| + | and defiled your posterity, |
| + | so that you brought wrath upon your children |
| + | and they were grieved at your folly, |
| + | [21] so that the sovereignty was divided |
| + | and a disobedient kingdom arose out of Ephraim. |
| + | [22] But the Lord will never give up his mercy, |
| + | nor cause any of his works to perish; |
| + | he will never blot out the descendants of his chosen one, |
| + | nor destroy the posterity of him who loved him; |
| + | so he gave a remnant to Jacob, |
| + | and to David a root of his stock. |
| + | |
| + | [23] Solomon rested with his fathers, |
| + | and left behind him one of his sons, |
| + | ample in folly and lacking in understanding, |
| + | Rehoboam, whose policy caused the people to revolt. |
| + | Also Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who caused Israel to sin |
| + | and gave to Ephraim a sinful way. |
| + | [24] Their sins became exceedingly many, |
| + | so as to remove them from their land. |
| + | [25] For they sought out every sort of wickedness, |
| + | till vengeance came upon them. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 48== |
| + | [1] Then the prophet Elijah arose like a fire, |
| + | and his word burned like a torch. |
| + | [2] He brought a famine upon them, |
| + | and by his zeal he made them few in number. |
| + | [3] By the word of the Lord he shut up the heavens, |
| + | and also three times brought down fire. |
| + | [4] How glorious you were, O Elijah, in your wondrous deeds! |
| + | And who has the right to boast which you have? |
| + | [5] You who raised a corpse from death |
| + | and from Hades, by the word of the Most High; |
| + | [6] who brought kings down to destruction, |
| + | and famous men from their beds; |
| + | [7] who heard rebuke at Sinai |
| + | and judgments of vengeance at Horeb; |
| + | [8] who anointed kings to inflict retribution, |
| + | and prophets to succeed you. |
| + | [9] You who were taken up by a whirlwind of fire, |
| + | in a chariot with horses of fire; |
| + | [10] you who are ready at the appointed time, it is written, |
| + | to calm the wrath of God before it breaks out in fury, |
| + | to turn the heart of the father to the son, |
| + | and to restore the tribes of Jacob. |
| + | [11] Blessed are those who saw you, |
| + | and those who have been adorned in love; |
| + | for we also shall surely live. |
| + | |
| + | [12] It was Elijah who was covered by the whirlwind, |
| + | and Elisha was filled with his spirit; |
| + | in all his days he did not tremble before any ruler, |
| + | and no one brought him into subjection. |
| + | [13] Nothing was too hard for him, |
| + | and when he was dead his body prophesied. |
| + | [14] As in his life he did wonders, |
| + | so in death his deeds were marvelous. |
| + | |
| + | [15] For all this the people did not repent, |
| + | and they did not forsake their sins, |
| + | till they were carried away captive from their land |
| + | and were scattered over all the earth; |
| + | the people were left very few in number, |
| + | but with rulers from the house of David. |
| + | [16] Some of them did what was pleasing to God, |
| + | but others multiplied sins. |
| + | |
| + | [17] Hezekiah fortified his city, |
| + | and brought water into the midst of it; |
| + | he tunneled the sheer rock with iron |
| + | and built pools for water. |
| + | [18] In his days Sennacherib came up, |
| + | and sent the Rabshakeh; |
| + | he lifted up his hand against Zion |
| + | and made great boasts in his arrogance. |
| + | [19] Then their hearts were shaken and their hands trembled, |
| + | and they were in anguish, like women in travail. |
| + | [20] But they called upon the Lord who is merciful, |
| + | spreading forth their hands toward him; |
| + | and the Holy One quickly heard them from heaven, |
| + | and delivered them by the hand of Isaiah. |
| + | [21] The Lord smote the camp of the Assyrians, |
| + | and his angel wiped them out. |
| + | [22] For Hezekiah did what was pleasing to the Lord, |
| + | and he held strongly to the ways of David his father, |
| + | which Isaiah the prophet commanded, |
| + | who was great and faithful in his vision. |
| + | [23] In his days the sun went backward, |
| + | and he lengthened the life of the king. |
| + | [24] By the spirit of might he saw the last things, |
| + | and comforted those who mourned in Zion. |
| + | [25] He revealed what was to occur to the end of time, |
| + | and the hidden things before they came to pass. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 49== |
| + | [1] The memory of Josiah is like a blending of incense |
| + | prepared by the art of the perfumer; |
| + | it is sweet as honey to every mouth, |
| + | and like music at a banquet of wine. |
| + | [2] He was led aright in converting the people, |
| + | and took away the abominations of iniquity. |
| + | [3] He set his heart upon the Lord; |
| + | in the days of wicked men he strengthened godliness. |
| + | |
| + | [4] Except David and Hezekiah and Josiah |
| + | they all sinned greatly, |
| + | for they forsook the law of the Most High; |
| + | the kings of Judah came to an end; |
| + | [5] for they gave their power to others, |
| + | and their glory to a foreign nation, |
| + | [6] who set fire to the chosen city of the sanctuary, |
| + | and made her streets desolate, |
| + | according to the word of Jeremiah. |
| + | [7] For they had afflicted him; |
| + | yet he had been consecrated in the womb as prophet, |
| + | to pluck up and afflict and destroy, |
| + | and likewise to build and to plant. |
| + | |
| + | [8] It was Ezekiel who saw the vision of glory |
| + | which God showed him above the chariot of the cherubim. |
| + | [9] For God remembered his enemies with storm, |
| + | and did good to those who directed their ways aright. |
| + | |
| + | [10] May the bones of the twelve prophets |
| + | revive from where they lie, |
| + | for they comforted the people of Jacob |
| + | and delivered them with confident hope. |
| + | |
| + | [11] How shall we magnify Zerubbabel? |
| + | He was like a signet on the right hand, |
| + | [12] and so was Jeshua the son of Jozadak; |
| + | in their days they built the house |
| + | and raised a temple holy to the Lord, |
| + | prepared for everlasting glory. |
| + | [13] The memory of Nehemiah also is lasting; |
| + | he raised for us the walls that had fallen, |
| + | and set up the gates and bars |
| + | and rebuilt our ruined houses. |
| + | |
| + | [14] No one like Enoch has been created on earth, |
| + | for he was taken up from the earth. |
| + | [15] And no man like Joseph has been born, |
| + | and his bones are cared for. |
| + | [16] Shem and Seth were honored among men, |
| + | and Adam above every living being in the creation. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 50== |
| + | [1] The leader of his brethren and the pride of his people |
| + | was Simon the high priest, son of Onias, |
| + | who in his life repaired the house, |
| + | and in his time fortified the temple. |
| + | [2] He laid the foundations for the high double walls, |
| + | the high retaining walls for the temple enclosure. |
| + | [3] In his days a cistern for water was quarried out, |
| + | a reservoir like the sea in circumference. |
| + | [4] He considered how to save his people from ruin, |
| + | and fortified the city to withstand a seige. |
| + | [5] How glorious he was when the people gathered round him |
| + | as he came out of the inner sanctuary! |
| + | [6] Like the morning star among the clouds, |
| + | like the moon when it is full; |
| + | [7] like the sun shining upon the temple of the Most High, |
| + | and like the rainbow gleaming in glorious clouds; |
| + | [8] like roses in the days of the first fruits, |
| + | like lilies by a spring of water, |
| + | like a green shoot on Lebanon on a summer day; |
| + | [9] like fire and incense in the censer, |
| + | like a vessel of hammered gold |
| + | adorned with all kinds of precious stones; |
| + | [10] like an olive tree putting forth its fruit, |
| + | and like a cypress towering in the clouds. |
| + | [11] When he put on his glorious robe |
| + | and clothed himself with superb perfection |
| + | and went up to the holy altar, |
| + | he made the court of the sanctuary glorious. |
| + | [12] And when he received the portions from the |
| + | hands of the priests, |
| + | as he stood by the hearth of the altar |
| + | with a garland of brethren around him, |
| + | he was like a young cedar on Lebanon; |
| + | and they surrounded him like the trunks of palm trees, |
| + | [13] all the sons of Aaron in their splendor |
| + | with the Lord's offering in their hands, |
| + | before the whole congregation of Israel. |
| + | [14] Finishing the service at the altars, |
| + | and arranging the offering to the Most High, the Almighty, |
| + | [15] he reached out his hand to the cup |
| + | and poured a libation of the blood of the grape; |
| + | he poured it out at the foot of the altar, |
| + | a pleasing odor to the Most High, the King of all. |
| + | [16] Then the sons of Aaron shouted, |
| + | they sounded the trumpets of hammered work, |
| + | they made a great noise to be heard |
| + | for remembrance before the Most High. |
| + | [17] Then all the people together made haste |
| + | and fell to the ground upon their faces |
| + | to worship their Lord, |
| + | the Almighty, God Most High. |
| + | [18] And the singers praised him with their voices |
| + | in sweet and full-toned melody. |
| + | [19] And the people besought the Lord Most High |
| + | in prayer before him who is merciful, |
| + | till the order of worship of the Lord was ended; |
| + | so they completed his service. |
| + | [20] Then Simon came down, and lifted up his hands |
| + | over the whole congregation of the sons of Israel, |
| + | to pronounce the blessing of the Lord with his lips, |
| + | and to glory in his name; |
| + | [21] and they bowed down in worship a second time, |
| + | to receive the blessing from the Most High. |
| + | |
| + | [22] And now bless the God of all, |
| + | who in every way does great things; |
| + | who exalts our days from birth, |
| + | and deals with us according to his mercy. |
| + | [23] May he give us gladness of heart, |
| + | and grant that peace may be in our days in Israel, |
| + | as in the days of old. |
| + | [24] May he entrust to us his mercy! |
| + | And let him deliver us in our days! |
| + | |
| + | [25] With two nations my soul is vexed, |
| + | and the third is no nation: |
| + | [26] Those who live on Mount Seir, and the Philistines, |
| + | and the foolish people that dwell in Shechem. |
| + | |
| + | [27] Instruction in understanding and knowledge |
| + | I have written in this book, |
| + | Jesus the son of Sirach, son of Eleazar, of Jerusalem, |
| + | who out of his heart poured forth wisdom. |
| + | [28] Blessed is he who concerns himself with these things, |
| + | and he who lays them to heart will become wise. |
| + | [29] For if he does them, he will be strong for all things, |
| + | for the light of the Lord is his path. |
| + | |
| + | ==Sirach 51== |
| + | [1] I will give thanks to thee, O Lord and King, |
| + | and will praise thee as God my Savior. |
| + | I give thanks to thy name, |
| + | [2] for thou hast been my protector and helper |
| + | and hast delivered my body from destruction |
| + | and from the snare of a slanderous tongue, |
| + | from lips that utter lies. |
| + | Before those who stood by |
| + | thou wast my helper, |
| + | [3] and didst deliver me, |
| + | in the greatness of thy mercy and of thy name, |
| + | from the gnashings of teeth about to devour me, |
| + | from the hand of those who sought my life, |
| + | from the many afflictions that I endured, |
| + | [4] from choking fire on every side |
| + | and from the midst of fire which I did not kindle, |
| + | [5] from the depths of the belly of Hades, |
| + | from an unclean tongue and lying words -- |
| + | [6] the slander of an unrighteous tongue to the king. |
| + | My soul drew near to death, |
| + | and my life was very near to Hades beneath. |
| + | [7] They surrounded me on every side, |
| + | and there was no one to help me; |
| + | I looked for the assistance of men, |
| + | and there was none. |
| + | [8] Then I remembered thy mercy, O Lord, |
| + | and thy work from of old, |
| + | that thou dost deliver those who wait for thee |
| + | and dost save them from the hand of their enemies. |
| + | [9] And I sent up my supplication from the earth, |
| + | and prayed for deliverance from death. |
| + | [10] I appealed to the Lord, the Father of my lord, |
| + | not to forsake me in the days of affliction, |
| + | at the time when there is no help against the proud. |
| + | [11] I will praise thy name continually, |
| + | and will sing praise with thanksgiving. |
| + | My prayer was heard, |
| + | [12] for thou didst save me from destruction |
| + | and rescue me from an evil plight. |
| + | Therefore I will give thanks to thee and praise thee, |
| + | and I will bless the name of the Lord. |
| + | |
| + | [13] While I was still young, before I went on my travels, |
| + | I sought wisdom openly in my prayer. |
| + | [14] Before the temple I asked for her, |
| + | and I will search for her to the last. |
| + | [15] From blossom to ripening grape |
| + | my heart delighted in her; |
| + | my foot entered upon the straight path; |
| + | from my youth I followed her steps. |
| + | [16] I inclined my ear a little and received her, |
| + | and I found for myself much instruction. |
| + | [17] I made progress therein; |
| + | to him who gives wisdom I will give glory. |
| + | [18] For I resolved to live according to wisdom, |
| + | and I was zealous for the good; |
| + | and I shall never be put to shame. |
| + | [19] My soul grappled with wisdom, |
| + | and in my conduct I was strict; |
| + | I spread out my hands to the heavens, |
| + | and lamented my ignorance of her. |
| + | [20] I directed my soul to her, |
| + | and through purification I found her. |
| + | I gained understanding with her from the first, |
| + | therefore I will not be forsaken. |
| + | [21] My heart was stirred to seek her, |
| + | therefore I have gained a good possession. |
| + | [22] The Lord gave me a tongue as my reward, |
| + | and I will praise him with it. |
| + | |
| + | [23] Draw near to me, you who are untaught, |
| + | and lodge in my school. |
| + | [24] Why do you say you are lacking in these things, |
| + | and why are your souls very thirsty? |
| + | [25] I opened my mouth and said, |
| + | Get these things for yourselves without money. |
| + | [26] Put your neck under the yoke, |
| + | and let your souls receive instruction; |
| + | it is to be found close by. |
| + | [27] See with your eyes that I have labored little |
| + | and found myself much rest. |
| + | [28] Get instruction with a large sum of silver, |
| + | and you will gain by it much gold. |
| + | [29] May your soul rejoice in his mercy, |
| + | and may you not be put to shame when you praise him. |
| + | [30] Do your work before the appointed time, |
| + | and in God's time he will give you your reward. |
| + | |
| + | |
| | | |
| [[Category: Apocrypha]] | | [[Category: Apocrypha]] |