The True Sacrifice: Offering Righteousness to God in Sirach 35

✨ Executive Summary ✨

Sirach 35 delves into the heart of true worship, emphasizing that righteousness, not mere ritual, pleases God. The chapter contrasts empty offerings with the genuine devotion of the heart, advocating for justice, mercy, and attentiveness to the cries of the oppressed. This passage resonates deeply with Coptic Orthodox theology, highlighting the importance of inner transformation over outward show. It underscores the idea that God is not swayed by material gifts but by a spirit contrite and a life lived in accordance with His will. Understanding Sirach 35 requires acknowledging its historical context within Jewish sacrificial practices and its profound implications for Christian discipleship, urging believers to offer their lives as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1). This principle is central to our liturgical practices and our daily walk with Christ.

Sirach 35 offers profound insights into the nature of acceptable worship. It moves beyond mere ritualistic sacrifice to emphasize the vital importance of inner righteousness and justice. The chapter powerfully conveys that God cherishes a contrite spirit and acts of compassion far more than external offerings. Understanding this distinction is crucial for cultivating a meaningful and authentic relationship with the Divine.

📖 Commentary: Sirach 35 Verse by Verse 📖

Sirach 35:1 (KJV)

He that keepeth the law bringeth offerings enough: he that taketh heed to the commandments offereth a peace offering.

The Greek text reads: “Ὁ φυλάσσων τὸν νόμον πληθύνει θυσίας, ὁ προσέχων ταῖς ἐντολαῖς θυσία σωτηρίου.” The KJV translation accurately conveys the sentiment: obedience to God’s law is itself a form of worship, more valuable than any material offering. This echoes the prophetic critiques of empty ritualism found throughout the Old Testament (Isaiah 1:11-17; Micah 6:6-8).

Spiritual Application: Our daily actions, guided by God’s commandments, constitute our truest offerings. Are we striving for obedience or simply going through the motions of religious practice? True worship begins with a commitment to living righteously.

Sirach 35:2 (KJV)

He that requiteth a good turn offereth fine flour; and he that giveth alms sacrificeth praise.

The Greek text reads: “Ὁ ἀμοιβαῖος χάριτος προσφέρει σεμίδαλιν, καὶ ὁ ποιῶν ἐλεημοσύνην θυσιάζει αἴνεσιν.” This verse extends the definition of sacrifice beyond the Temple. Acts of kindness and charity become offerings of praise to God.

Patristic Insight: St. John Chrysostom, in his homilies on Matthew, often speaks of the importance of showing mercy to others as a reflection of God’s own mercy. He says, “Τί γὰρ ὠφελεῖ τὸν μὴ ἐλεοῦντα, ἂν χρυσῆν ἔχῃ τὴν γλῶτταν;” (Ti gar ōphelei ton mē eleounta, an chrysēn echēi tēn glōttan?) – “For what does it profit him who does not show mercy, even if he has a golden tongue?” (Homilies on Matthew, Homily 7.4).

Spiritual Application: Almsgiving and acts of gratitude are not merely social niceties; they are spiritual offerings. Consider how you can show kindness and generosity today, transforming mundane acts into acts of worship. DoHost is a great place to learn more about acts of gratitude.

Sirach 35:3 (KJV)

To depart from wickedness is a thing pleasing to the Lord; and to forsake unrighteousness is a propitiation.

Greek: “Ἀποστῆναι ἀπὸ κακίας εὐαρεστία Κυρίῳ, καὶ ἀποστῆναι ἀπὸ ἀδικίας ἱλασμός.” Turning away from evil is more pleasing to God than any sacrifice. This is the essence of repentance and transformation. It aligns perfectly with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on *metanoia* – a change of heart and mind.

Spiritual Application: Repentance is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Are we actively working to remove wickedness from our lives? Reflect on your shortcomings and seek God’s grace to overcome them.

Sirach 35:4-5 (KJV)

Be not afraid when thou prayest, and be not afraid to give alms. Pray unto the Lord, and he will hear thee: keep his commandments, and he will recompense thee.

These verses emphasize the importance of both prayer and action. Boldly approach God in prayer and generously give to those in need, for He will reward those who obey Him.

Spiritual Application: Fear can paralyze us in both prayer and acts of service. Trust in God’s promise to hear your prayers and bless your generosity. Step out in faith and offer your time, talent, and treasure to His service.

Sirach 35:6-7 (KJV)

Bring not a gift that is unrighteous: for such an one is hated of the Lord. The most High is not pleased with the offerings of the wicked; neither is he pacified for sin by the multitude of sacrifices.

God rejects offerings that are obtained unjustly. True worship must be accompanied by ethical behavior. This echoes the prophets’ condemnation of hypocritical worship (Amos 5:21-24).

Spiritual Application: Examine the source of your resources. Are you earning your living ethically? Are you using your wealth to alleviate suffering or contribute to injustice? God values integrity above all else.

Sirach 35:8-9 (KJV)

He that is righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance: the Lord will receive his prayer as a peace offering. He that keepeth mercy shall find life: the Lord will have mercy upon him.

Righteousness and mercy lead to eternal life. God remembers those who live justly and rewards them with His grace and compassion.

Spiritual Application: Live a life of righteousness and mercy, knowing that your actions will have eternal consequences. Focus on acts of compassion and justice, understanding that these reflect the very heart of God.

Sirach 35:10-13 (KJV)

The offering of the righteous is fat and marrow; the prayer of the humble is pleasant. God is not a respecter of persons against the poor, but will hear the prayer of the oppressed. He despiseth not the supplication of the fatherless; nor the widow, when she poureth out her complaint.

God values the prayers of the humble and the offerings of the righteous. He is especially attentive to the cries of the poor, the fatherless, and the widow. This emphasis on social justice is central to God’s character.

Spiritual Application: Advocate for the marginalized and vulnerable in your community. Use your voice to speak out against injustice and offer practical support to those in need. Remember that God hears the cries of the oppressed.

Sirach 35:14-17 (KJV)

Doth not the tear run down the widow’s cheek? and is not her cry against him that causeth it to fall? He that serveth the Lord shall be accepted with favour, and his prayer shall reach unto the clouds. The prayer of the humble pierceth the clouds: and till it come nigh, he will not be comforted; and will not depart, till the most High shall behold to judge righteously, and execute judgment. For the Lord will not be slack, neither will the Mighty be patient toward them, till he have broken the loins of the unmerciful, and recompensed vengeance to the heathen; till he have taken away the multitude of the proud, and broken the scepter of the unrighteous.

God hears the cries of the afflicted and will ultimately bring justice to the world. The prayer of the humble is powerful and will not be ignored. This passage expresses hope for the ultimate triumph of justice over evil.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s justice, even when it seems delayed. Continue to pray for the oppressed and work towards a more just and compassionate world. Have faith that God will ultimately vindicate the righteous and punish the wicked.

Sirach 35:18-19 (KJV)

That he may reward them that wait for him, and that they may be mindful of his judgments. And till he have judged the cause of his people, he will not relent; and he will have compassion on the oppressed.

God will ultimately reward those who wait for Him and remember His judgments. He will have compassion on the oppressed and deliver them from their suffering.

Spiritual Application: Patience and perseverance are essential virtues. Continue to trust in God’s timing and remember His faithfulness. Seek to understand His judgments and live in accordance with His will.

Sirach 35:20-22 (KJV)

Mercy is seasonable in the time of affliction, as clouds of rain in the time of drought. Behold, and consider; for the Lord is merciful: forgive sins, and be ye merciful. Turn away from all wickedness, and hate not evil: be merciful and forgive sins, and turn away from all wickedness.

Mercy is most valuable during times of suffering. God calls us to be merciful and forgiving, turning away from all forms of wickedness.

Patristic Insight: Abba Isaac the Syrian emphasizes the importance of mercy, stating, “Ἡ καρδία ἡ ἐλεήμων μεγίστη ἐστὶ τῶν θυσιῶν.” (Hē kardia hē eleēmon megistē esti tōn thysiōn.) – “A merciful heart is greater than sacrifices.” (Ascetical Homilies, Homily 55). This echoes the sentiment of Sirach, prioritizing inner transformation over external ritual.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a heart of mercy and forgiveness. Extend compassion to those who have wronged you and seek to heal broken relationships. Remember that God’s mercy is the foundation of our salvation.

💡 Key Reflections on True Sacrifice 💡

Sirach 35 provides several pivotal teachings on what truly constitutes an acceptable sacrifice to God.

• Prioritize Righteousness: True worship is rooted in a righteous life, not merely outward displays of piety.
• Embrace Justice and Mercy: God values acts of justice, compassion, and almsgiving as offerings of praise.
• Repent of Wickedness: Turning away from evil is more pleasing to God than any material sacrifice.
• Pray with Boldness: Approach God in prayer without fear, trusting in His promise to hear you.
• Advocate for the Oppressed: Stand up for the marginalized and vulnerable in your community, knowing that God hears their cries.
• Practice Forgiveness: Cultivate a heart of mercy and forgiveness, extending compassion to those who have wronged you.

❓ FAQ: Understanding Sirach 35 ❓

Let’s address some frequently asked questions about the chapter.

• Q: Does Sirach 35 diminish the importance of liturgical worship?

  A: No, Sirach 35 does not diminish the importance of liturgical worship. Rather, it provides context and stresses that outward observances must be coupled with inner transformation and ethical behavior. True worship is a holistic offering, encompassing both outward actions and inward attitudes.

• Q: How does this chapter apply to Coptic Orthodox spirituality today?

  A: It reinforces the importance of living a life of repentance, prayer, and service to others. It challenges us to examine our motives and ensure that our worship is genuine and reflects a transformed heart. It inspires us to actively seek social justice and care for the vulnerable.

• Q: What is the connection between sacrifice and social justice in this chapter?

  A: Sirach 35 highlights that acts of social justice, such as caring for the poor and advocating for the oppressed, are themselves forms of sacrifice that are pleasing to God. True worship involves both offering sacrifices and living a life that reflects God’s justice and compassion.

• Q: How can I cultivate a heart of mercy and forgiveness, as emphasized in this chapter?

  A: Cultivating a heart of mercy and forgiveness requires humility, empathy, and a willingness to let go of anger and resentment. Pray for the grace to forgive others, and actively seek to understand their perspectives. Remember that God’s mercy is the foundation of our own forgiveness.

🕊️ Conclusion 🕊️

Sirach 35 is a powerful call to authentic worship that emphasizes righteousness, not mere ritual, pleases God. It challenges us to examine our lives and ensure that our actions align with our faith. It reminds us that God values a contrite spirit, acts of compassion, and a commitment to justice above all else. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are called to offer our lives as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1), reflecting His love and mercy in all that we do. By embracing the teachings of Sirach 35, we can cultivate a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God, and contribute to a more just and compassionate world, aligning ourselves with the heart of the Divine.

Tags

Sirach, Sirach 35, True Sacrifice, Righteousness, Worship, Coptic Orthodox, Theology, Patristic, Justice, Mercy, Almsgiving

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Explore Sirach 35: “The True Sacrifice” & learn how righteousness, not mere ritual, pleases God. A Coptic Orthodox commentary on authentic worship & justice.