Sacred Scripture Deep Dive: The Book of Sirach

30 Jun

Sara and Justin Kraft

Sacred Scripture Deep Dive: The Book of Sirach

Scripture
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The book of Sirach is the fifth book of Wisdom literature which we have discussed (See previous posts on Proverbs, Song of Songs, Ecclesiastes, and Wisdom). It is unique in that it does not attempt to tie its authorship to the authority of Solomon. Rather, it explicitly names the author.

“I have written in this book—I, Yeshua Ben Eleazar Ben Sira—as they poured forth from my heart’s understanding.”

(Sirach 50:27)

Yeshua [Jesus] Ben Sira was a second century B.C. temple Jew from Jerusalem living in the period of Hellenization (see post Sacred Scripture Deep Dive: The Book of Wisdom). He was a witness to the upheaval caused by the clash of cultures being also very well-traveled.

“I have seen much in my travels, and learned more than I could ever say.”

(Sirach 34:12)

The book is almost assuredly written to give strength to the many Jews who were struggling to determine if their ancient traditions were of more value than the Greek philosophies which were overtaking them. The primary thesis of the book is that real wisdom is found in the traditions of Israel which are rooted in God rather than the new and pagan philosophies of the Greeks. The opening lines make this clear.

“Empty and false are the hopes of the senseless, and dreams give wings to fools.

Like one grasping at shadows or chasing the wind, so anyone who believes in dreams.

What is seen in dreams is a reflection, the likeness of a face looking at itself.

How can the unclean produce what is clean?

How can the false produce what is true?

Divination, omens, and dreams are unreal; what you already expect, the mind fantasizes.

Unless they are specially sent by the Most High, do not fix your heart on them.”

(Sirach 1:1-6)

Sirach then sets out to provide practical advice for every circumstance in life.

The Role of the Book of Sirach

The book of Sirach was originally written in Hebrew in approximately 175 B.C. and then translated into Greek by the author’s grandson in approximately 117 B.C. We know this because his grandson also wrote a forward (which is not considered part of scripture) to accompany the text. In this forward, we learn that his grandson moved to Alexandria and was inspired to translate his grandfather’s writings to support the Jewish community there.

The topics of the book are wide ranging but mostly deal with upright conduct. As such, the book was commonly used by the early Christian church to catechize new members in the way of moral conduct. Sometimes, one will even see amended titles to Sirach with the designation “Liber Ecclesiasticus,” meaning “Church Book,” because of its frequent use in the early church.

Some Wisdom from the book of Sirach

Sirach contains advice for a wide range of topics. These topics include trusting in God, responsibilities of children toward parents, choosing friends, and dealing with vices such as loose speech. The following examples can be of as much benefit to us today as for those of the past. Please enjoy the fruit of meditation on them in the upcoming weeks.