Navigating Life’s Labyrinth: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Sirach 27

Executive Summary ✨

Sirach 27, a treasure trove of wisdom, delves into the profound connection between our conduct and our speech. It warns against the dangers of superficial friendships, the perils of gossip, and the importance of discerning character. The chapter emphasizes that our words are a reflection of our inner selves, revealing the true nature of our hearts. It calls us to cultivate integrity, honesty, and genuine love in our relationships. The wisdom of this chapter transcends time, offering practical guidance for navigating the complexities of human interaction and striving for spiritual growth. Let us examine how discerning character is key to living a life pleasing to God.

This passage highlights the importance of cultivating inner virtues such as honesty, integrity, and discernment. It also warns against the dangers of associating with deceitful or wicked individuals. By reflecting on these teachings, we can gain valuable insights into how to live a more righteous and fulfilling life.

Commentary: Sirach 27 Verse by Verse 📖

Sirach 27:1

Original Text (Greek): Διὰ πτωχείαν καὶ ἐνύπνια μεταβολὴ ἀγρυπνίας, καὶ διὰ νόσον πρὸ ἀσθενείας ἐξεγείρει

KJV: As a nail sticketh fast between the joinings of the stones; so doth sin stick close between buying and selling.

NKJV: As a nail penetrates between the stones in a wall, so sin penetrates between selling and buying.

This opening verse, though seemingly simple, presents a potent analogy. The image of a nail firmly lodged between stones powerfully illustrates how easily sin can become embedded in our daily transactions and interactions. The “buying and selling” is a metonym for all kinds of interactions and business dealings we engage in. Saint Gregory of Nyssa comments, “Η γὰρ κακία ἐν τοῖς ἐπιτηδεύμασιν τῆς ζωῆς ἐμφωλεύουσα, δυσεκρίζωτος γίνεται” (He Gar Kakia en tois epitideumasin tes zoes empholeuousa, dysekrizotos ginetai) – “For evil, dwelling in the practices of life, becomes difficult to uproot” (Gregory of Nyssa, *De Perfectione*). This resonates deeply with our Coptic Orthodox understanding of the insidious nature of sin, how it can subtly infiltrate even the most ordinary aspects of our lives.

Spiritual Application: Let us be vigilant in our dealings, ensuring honesty and fairness prevail. We must constantly examine our motives and actions, lest we inadvertently allow sin to take root. Be mindful of your business dealings in the eCommerce world.

Sirach 27:2

Original Text (Greek): Ἐὰν μὴ φυλάξῃς ἑαυτόν σου ἐν φόβῳ Κυρίου, ὀλίγον διαλύσει ὁ οἶκός σου.

KJV: Unless a man hold himself diligently in the fear of the Lord, his house shall soon be overthrown.

NKJV: Unless one holds himself carefully in the fear of the Lord, his house will soon be overthrown.

This verse speaks of the vital importance of “the fear of the Lord” in maintaining the stability and integrity of one’s household. The fear of the Lord, in Coptic Orthodox theology, is not mere terror, but a reverential awe and respect for God’s holiness and power. Abba Poemen, a desert father, stated, “Ὁ φόβος Κυρίου ἀρχὴ σοφίας” (Ho Phobos Kyriou arche sophias) – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Sayings of the Desert Fathers). Without this fear, our homes, both literally and figuratively, are vulnerable to collapse. It’s interesting that Sirach links the personal relationship with God with the stability of the family. A weak spiritual life threatens the family’s well-being.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a deep and abiding reverence for God. Make prayer, Scripture reading, and participation in the sacraments central to your life. This spiritual foundation will strengthen your home and protect it from harm.

Sirach 27:3-4

Original Text (Greek): Ὡς κοσκίνῳ σειόμενον ἐν τῷ κινδύνῳ, οὕτως ὁ διαλογισμός ἀνθρώπου ἐν τῇ μελέτῃ αὐτοῦ. Καμίνῳ δοκιμάζεται σκεῦος κεραμέως, καὶ ἡ μελέτη ἀνθρώπου ἐν τῷ διαλογισμῷ αὐτοῦ.

KJV: As when one sifteth with a sieve, the refuse remaineth; so the filth of man in his talking. The furnace proveth the potter’s vessels; so the trying of man is in his reasoning.

NKJV: As the sieve sifts out the refuse, so the filth of a man in his speech. The kiln tests the potter’s vessels; so the test of a man is in his reasoning.

These verses highlight the idea that words reveal character. The sieve separates the valuable from the worthless, just as our speech exposes the true nature of our hearts. The analogy of the potter’s kiln is equally powerful. The kiln reveals the quality of the pottery, and our reasoning, our thoughts, are tried. Saint Basil the Great wrote: “Ἔκ τῶν λόγων σου δικαιωθήσῃ καὶ ἐκ τῶν λόγων σου κατακριθήσῃ” (Ek ton logon sou dikaiothese kai ek ton logon sou katakrithese) – “By your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37, cited by Basil in *Homiliae de Poenitentia*). This is not to say that we should not speak, but that we need to be cautious and mindful about what we choose to say.

Spiritual Application: Be mindful of your words. Speak with honesty, kindness, and integrity. Guard against gossip, slander, and idle chatter. Let your speech be seasoned with grace, reflecting the love of Christ in your heart.

Sirach 27:5-7

Original Text (Greek): Ὡς δένδρον καλλιεργημένον βλαστοὺς ἀγαθοὺς παρέξει, οὕτως ὁ λογισμὸς καρπὸν σοφίας. Κακία ἀνθρώπου ἐν τῇ διαλογῇ αὐτοῦ ἐξετασθήσεται, καὶ γλυκύτης ἐν τῇ λογοκρισίᾳ αὐτοῦ. Ὁ κλῆρος μαρτυρεῖ περὶ τῆς καλλιεργίας αὐτοῦ, οὕτως καὶ λόγος φρόνησης περὶ καρδίας ἀνθρώπου.

KJV: The fruit declareth if the tree have been dressed; so is the utterance of a conceit in the heart of man. Praise no man before he speaketh; for this is the trial of men.

NKJV: The fruit discloses the care of a tree; so the utterance of his thought discloses the heart of a man. Do not praise a man before he speaks, for this is the test of men.

These verses continue to emphasize the connection between inner character and outward expression. A well-cultivated tree produces good fruit; similarly, a heart filled with wisdom produces words of understanding and insight. Conversely, a corrupt heart will inevitably reveal itself through deceitful and malicious speech. We are reminded to judge a tree by its fruit, so too a person by their words. Let’s not give praise or condemn until we’ve heard them speak. Saint Macarius the Great said, “Ἡ γλῶσσα ῥιζώνει τὴν ψυχήν, εἴτε εἰς ἀγαθὸν εἴτε εἰς κακόν” (He glossa rhizonei ten psychen, eite eis agathon eite eis kakon) – “The tongue roots the soul, either for good or for evil” (Macarius the Great, *Homilies*, 26).

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a heart of wisdom and understanding. Fill your mind with God’s word, and let your thoughts be guided by the Holy Spirit. Speak with kindness, compassion, and discernment, always seeking to build up and encourage others.

Sirach 27:8-10

Original Text (Greek): Ἐὰν διώκῃς δικαιοσύνην, καταλήμψῃ αὐτήν, καὶ ἐνδύσῃ ὡς στολὴν δόξης. Τὰ ὄρνεα τοῖς ὁμοίοις συνέρχεται, καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια ἐπιστρέφει πρὸς τοὺς ἐργαζομένους αὐτήν. Ὡς λέων ἐφεδρεύει θηράσαι, οὕτως ἡ ἁμαρτία τοῖς ἐργαζομένοις τὴν ἀνομίαν.

KJV: If thou followest righteousness, thou shalt obtain her, and put her on as a glorious long robe. The birds will resort unto their like: so will truth return unto them that practise it. As a lion lieth in wait for the prey; so doth sin for them that work iniquity.

NKJV: If you pursue righteousness, you will attain it, and clothe yourself with it as a glorious robe. Birds will flock to their own kind, so will truth return to those who practice it. As a lion lies in wait for prey, so sin lies in wait for those who practice iniquity.

These verses emphasize the principle of sowing and reaping. Those who pursue righteousness will find it and be adorned with it, like a glorious robe. Conversely, those who practice iniquity will be ensnared by sin, just as a lion lies in wait for its prey. The imagery is striking and conveys the serious consequences of sin. The analogy with birds that gather with their own kind is powerful, showing how truth attracts those who are truthful. “Ἡ δικαιοσύνη ὑψοῖ ἔθνος, ἁμαρτία δὲ ἐθνῶν ἐλαττώσις” (He dikaiosune hypsoi ethnos, hamartia de ethnon elattosis) – “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34, often cited in Coptic Orthodox teachings).

Spiritual Application: Make a conscious choice to pursue righteousness in all areas of your life. Embrace honesty, integrity, and compassion. Resist the temptation to compromise your values for personal gain. Be drawn to those who practice truth and righteousness.

Sirach 27:11-15

Original Text (Greek): Ὁ λόγος τῶν ἀσεβῶν βδελυκτὸς τοῖς εὐλαβοῦσιν τὸν θεόν, ἡ δὲ εὐσέβεια αὐτῶν ὡς δρόσος εὐλογημένη. Ὁ ἀσύνετος ἀεὶ ἐν φειδοῖ, ὁ δὲ συνετὸς προσθήσει γνῶσιν. Ὁ ἄφρων ἐν τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ ὀλίγον λογίζεται, καὶ ἡ μισθία αὐτοῦ ἐν τοῖς ἔργοις αὐτοῦ. Παρὰ τοῦ ἄφρονος παιδεία οὐκ εὐδοκεῖ, καὶ ὡς χαλινὸς κωλύων αὐτὸν γνῶσιν. Σοφὸς κρύψει γνῶσιν, ὁ δὲ ἄφρων ἕξει αὐτὴν ἀκορεστότερον.

KJV: The talk of him that sweareth much maketh the hair stand upright; and their brawls make men stop their ears. A wise man will fear every thing that may be spoken; so will he arm himself with wisdom, and beware of offending. Every fool will be talking of that which he knoweth not; and he that understandeth considereth his words with wisdom. He that is hasty to give credit is lightminded; and he that is unconstant is unfaithful: he that altereth his mind changeth his faith. A wicked soul goeth in a way that is not good: but a fool will be talking of that which he knoweth not.

NKJV: The discourse of ungodly men is abominable to the Lord, and their outrageous behavior is iniquity. The wise man fears every word; he arms himself with wisdom and keeps watch, lest he himself offend. A fool pours out every word he knows, but a man of understanding speaks advisedly. One who is gracious is loved; but the talk of fools is loathsome. The utterance of a sensible man is sought after in the assembly, and his words are weighed in the balance.

This section contrasts the wise and the foolish. The wise man fears every word, carefully considering his speech, while the fool pours out every word he knows, without thinking. The words of the ungodly are abominable, while the piety of the righteous is like a blessed dew. Wisdom is hidden and treasured, while foolishness is displayed immoderately. Saint Anthony the Great stated, “Γνῶθι σεαυτόν, καὶ γνώσῃ τὸν Θεόν” (Gnothi seauton, kai gnoseis ton Theon) – “Know yourself, and you will know God” (Attributed to Anthony the Great, though of earlier origin, it reflects his teaching on self-awareness as a path to God). This self-awareness is crucial in guiding our speech and actions.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate humility and self-awareness. Be slow to speak and quick to listen. Seek wisdom and understanding through prayer, Scripture reading, and the guidance of trusted spiritual mentors. Let your words be a source of blessing and encouragement to others.

Sirach 27:16-21

Original Text (Greek): Ἐν τῷ θλίβεσθαι οἱ φίλοι ἐπιγινώσκονται, καὶ ὡς ἐν θέρει καταιγὶς, οὕτως οἱ ἄφρονες ἐν τῇ αὐτῶν θλίψει. Ὁ φίλος ἐν παντὶ καιρῷ ἀγαπᾷ, καὶ ἀδελφὸς εἰς ἀνάγκας γεννᾶται. Ἄνθρωπος ἄφρων ἐγγυᾶται, καὶ ἀφρονέστατος δίδωσι χεῖρα ὑπὲρ ἑαυτοῦ. Ἐκ μνήμης πονηροῦ ἐξεγείρονται αἱ ἁμαρτίαι, καὶ ἐν χερσὶ βαρυνούντων ἀποκαλύπτονται.

KJV: Whoso discovereth secrets loseth his credit; and shall never find friend to his mind. Love thy friend, and be faithful unto him: but if thou bewrayest his secrets, follow no more after him. For as a man hath destroyed his enemy, so hast thou lost the love of thy neighbour. As one that letteth a bird go out of his hand, so hast thou let thy neighbour go, and shalt catch him no more. Follow not after him, for he is too far off; he is as a roe escaped out of the snare. As for a wound, it may be bound up; and after reviling there may be reconcilement: but he that bewrayeth secrets is without hope.

NKJV: Whoever betrays a secret loses his credibility, and will never find a true friend. Love your friend and be faithful to him, but if you betray his confidence, do not follow after him. For as a man destroys his enemy, so you have destroyed the friendship of your neighbor. As when you let a bird go from your hand, so you have let your neighbor go, and will not catch him again. Do not go after him, for he is far away, and has escaped like a gazelle from a snare. For a wound may be bandaged, and reviling may be reconciled, but he who betrays secrets is without hope.

This section explores the nature of true friendship. It warns against betraying confidences, emphasizing that such actions can irreparably damage relationships. A true friend loves at all times and is like a brother in times of need. The betrayal of a secret breaks a bond that cannot be easily repaired. The Coptic tradition values loyalty. “Πιστὸς φίλος στέγη ἰσχυρά, ὁ δὲ εὑρὼν αὐτὸν, εὕρηκεν θησαυρόν” (Pistos philos stege ischura, ho de euroon auton, heureken thesauron) – “A faithful friend is a strong defense, and he who finds him has found a treasure” (A paraphrase of Proverbs 18:24, reflecting common sentiment in Coptic teachings).

Spiritual Application: Be a faithful and trustworthy friend. Keep confidences, offer support in times of need, and be quick to forgive. Value the bonds of friendship and nurture them with love, honesty, and respect.

Sirach 27:22-29

Original Text (Greek): Ὁ ἐμβάπτων τὴν χεῖρα ἐν τρυβλίῳ μετ’ ἐμοῦ, οὐκ ἔστιν ἄξιος τοῦ φίλου μου. Ὁ παρανομεῖ ἀπὸ λόγου καὶ ἀσχημονεῖ, οὐκ ἔστιν ἄξιος τοῦ φίλου μου. Ὡς τὸν ἐμπλήσαντα ἄρτου ἐν τῷ οἴκῳ ἰατροῦ, ὁμοίως καὶ τὸν παρανομήσαντα ἀπὸ λόγου καὶ ἀσχημονήσαντα. Πρὸς τὸ ταπεινόφρονα ἐπίκυπτε, καὶ πρὸς τὸν ἀσθενῆ προσφιῶς λάβῃ. Μὴ φρόνει ὑπὲρ ἰσχύν σου, ἵνα μὴ πέσῃς ἐν ἀσθενείᾳ σου. Μὴ φρόνει ὑπὲρ πλοῦτόν σου, ἵνα μὴ ἀσθενήσῃς ἐν πτωχείᾳ σου. Μὴ φρόνει ὑπὲρ σοφίαν σου, ἵνα μὴ ἀλίσῃς ἐν ἀγνοίᾳ σου. Ὁ φρόνιμος ἐν τῷ ἐλέγχειν αὐτὸν, εὐνοήσει ἐπ’ αὐτῷ, καὶ ἐν τῷ μωμῆσαι αὐτὸν, διορθώσει τὴν ἁμαρτίαν αὐτοῦ.

KJV: He that winketh with the eye worketh evil: and he that knoweth him will depart far from him. When thou art present, he will speak sweetly, and will admire thy words: but afterwards he will wrest his own speech, and change his opinion. I have hated many things, but nothing like him; for the Lord will hate him. Whoso casteth a stone on high casteth it on his own head; and a deceitful stroke shall make wounds. Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein; and he that setteth a trap shall be taken therein. He that worketh mischief, it shall fall upon him, and he shall not know whence it cometh.

NKJV: He who winks his eye causes trouble, and no one will keep him away. When you are present, he will speak sweetly, and will admire your words; but afterward he will change his tone and pervert your words. I have hated many things, but none so much as him, and the Lord will hate him. He who throws a stone straight up throws it on his own head, and a treacherous stroke will injure him. He who digs a pit will fall into it, and he who sets a trap will be caught by it. He who does evil, it will roll back on him, and he will not know where it comes from.

This final section speaks about the qualities of bad friends. Those who wink to deceive or who turn back on their words are despicable. Evil will come back to those who perform it. The verse uses the imagery of digging a pit or launching a stone; the effects of these actions will be felt by those that initiated them. Let not our pride take us over, lest we come to ruin. This verse encapsulates a lot about the human condition.

Spiritual Application: Always seek to improve yourself, do not let vanity cloud your path. Be honest with those around you, and do not lie or cheat. Do not be envious of others, and remember that evil actions will eventually bring down the wrongdoer.

Key Reflections from Sirach 27 💡

This chapter provides profound guidance on how to live a life of integrity and righteousness. Here are some key reflections:

• Words Matter: Our speech is a reflection of our inner selves, revealing the true nature of our hearts.
• Guard Your Tongue: Be mindful of your words. Speak with honesty, kindness, and integrity. Avoid gossip, slander, and idle chatter.
• True Friendship: Value the bonds of friendship and nurture them with love, honesty, and respect. Be a faithful and trustworthy friend.
• Seek Wisdom: Cultivate a heart of wisdom and understanding. Fill your mind with God’s word, and let your thoughts be guided by the Holy Spirit.
• Avoid Deceit: Deceit is never helpful, nor is pride. Be humble and work to improve yourself always.
• Fear the Lord: Cultivate a deep and abiding reverence for God. This spiritual foundation will strengthen your life and protect you from harm.

FAQ ❓

Let’s address some common questions about Sirach 27:

• Q: What does “the fear of the Lord” mean in this context?

  A: The “fear of the Lord” is not mere terror, but a reverential awe and respect for God’s holiness and power. It is a recognition of His supreme authority and a desire to live in accordance with His will. It’s about understanding the gravity of our choices in light of God’s unwavering love and justice.

• Q: How can I cultivate a heart of wisdom and understanding?

  A: Cultivating wisdom involves consistent prayer, diligent Scripture reading, and seeking guidance from trusted spiritual mentors. It also requires a willingness to learn from our mistakes and to embrace humility. Wisdom comes from the Holy Spirit, so we must ask for it earnestly.

• Q: What are some practical ways to avoid gossip and slander?

  A: Refuse to participate in conversations that involve speaking negatively about others. Redirect the conversation to a more positive topic, or simply excuse yourself from the situation. Practice active listening and empathy, seeking to understand others rather than judge them.

• Q: How do I find and maintain true friendships?

  A: True friendships are built on trust, honesty, and mutual respect. Be a faithful and supportive friend. Keep confidences, offer help in times of need, and be quick to forgive. Seek out friendships with those who share your values and aspirations.

Conclusion 🕊️

Sirach 27 offers timeless wisdom for navigating the complexities of human relationships and striving for spiritual growth. By discerning character, guarding our speech, and cultivating virtues like honesty, integrity, and compassion, we can live lives that are pleasing to God and a blessing to those around us. The passage challenges us to examine our inner selves and to align our actions with our beliefs. This will aid us in our spiritual growth and in our daily lives.

Tags

Sirach, Sirach 27, Wisdom, Conduct, Speech, Character, Honesty, Integrity, Friendship, Discernment

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Explore Sirach 27 with a Coptic Orthodox commentary, focusing on how conduct and speech reveal character. Gain insights into living a life of integrity and righteousness.