The Fruitful Pursuit of Wisdom: Understanding God’s Wonderful Works in Sirach 39

Executive Summary ✨

Sirach 39 celebrates the profound benefits of dedicating oneself to the pursuit of wisdom, particularly as it relates to understanding God’s creation and His divine plan. This chapter highlights the qualities of a wise person: diligence in studying the Law, seeking out the hidden meanings in proverbs, and contemplating the prophecies. Such a person becomes a vessel for wisdom, dispensing knowledge and understanding to others, ultimately glorifying God through their words and deeds. The chapter also acknowledges the seemingly contradictory aspects of God’s creation, recognizing that both good and evil serve His ultimate purpose. This exploration of divine wisdom encourages us to see God’s hand in all things, embracing both joy and sorrow as opportunities for spiritual growth. The ultimate message of Sirach 39 is a call to actively seek wisdom, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and the wonder of His works – a journey offering profound rewards for those who diligently pursue it. This pursuit leads to a deeper understanding of God’s plan and our place within it.

Introduction: The Book of Sirach, also known as Ecclesiasticus, offers practical guidance for living a virtuous life, rooted in the wisdom of God. Chapter 39 focuses on the characteristics and blessings of those who dedicate themselves to the study and application of divine wisdom. It paints a vivid picture of the wise individual, not merely as one who possesses knowledge, but as one who actively seeks understanding and uses it for the benefit of others and the glory of God. Let us delve into the depths of this profound chapter, uncovering the treasures hidden within.

Commentary: Verse by Verse 📖

Verse 1

Original Text (Septuagint): Σοφὸς ἐν λόγῳ λαοῦ ἐπαίδευσεν ἑαυτόν, καὶ ἐν νόμῳ ὑψίστου ἀεὶ διηγήσεται.

KJV: But he that giveth his mind to the law of the most High, and is occupied in the meditation thereof, will seek out the wisdom of all the ancient, and be occupied in prophecies.

NKJV: But he who gives himself to the law of the Most High, And is occupied with the meditation of it, Will seek out the wisdom of all the ancients, And be busied with prophecies.

Commentary: This verse lays the foundation for the chapter. True wisdom begins with a dedication to studying the Law of God (Torah). This encompasses not only the written commandments but also the broader principles of righteousness and justice. Notice the active engagement: “giveth his mind,” “occupied in the meditation thereof.” It’s not a passive acceptance but an active pursuit. This echoes the Psalmist: “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law, he meditates day and night” (Psalm 1:2). The phrase “seek out the wisdom of all the ancient” implies a reverence for tradition and the accumulated wisdom of past generations. The Coptic Church deeply values tradition; we see this reflected in our adherence to the teachings of the Holy Fathers. Seeking out prophecies connects us to God’s unfolding plan for humanity. The pursuit of wisdom requires diligence and dedication, immersing oneself in the Divine Word and the experiences of those who have walked the path before us.

Practical Application: Today, are we truly dedicating ourselves to the study of scripture? Are we actively meditating on God’s word and seeking to understand its relevance to our lives? It’s not enough to simply read the Bible; we must actively engage with it, asking God for understanding and applying its principles to our daily actions. Consider setting aside dedicated time each day for scripture reading and reflection. You can find a lot of helpful services from dohost.

Verse 2

Original Text (Septuagint): Λόγους ἀνδρῶν ἐπιφανῶν τηρήσει καὶ εἰς ἀριθμὸν παροιμιῶν εἰσελεύσεται.

KJV: He will keep the sayings of the renowned men: and where subtil parables are, he will be there also.

NKJV: He will keep the sayings of the well-known men, And will enter in among subtle parables.

Commentary: Building on the previous verse, this emphasizes the importance of learning from the “renowned men” – the wise individuals of the past. This involves not only hearing their sayings but also “keeping” them, meaning treasuring them and applying them to one’s life. The reference to “subtil parables” highlights the ability to discern hidden meanings and deeper truths. Christ Himself frequently used parables to teach profound spiritual lessons. The ability to unpack and apply these parables is a mark of wisdom. St. Athanasius, in *On the Incarnation* (Περὶ Ἐνσαρκώσεως), speaks of the importance of understanding the “inner meaning” (τὴν ἔνδοθεν διάνοιαν) of scripture, going beyond the literal interpretation to grasp the spiritual truth. This verse suggests a capacity to unravel the complexities of human experience and extract enduring principles.

Practical Application: Pay attention to the wisdom shared by godly elders and those who have demonstrated spiritual maturity. Seek to understand the deeper meaning behind their words and actions. Don’t be content with superficial interpretations; ask questions and strive to grasp the underlying principles.

Verse 3

Original Text (Septuagint): Μυστήρια παροιμιῶν ἐξερευνήσει καὶ ἐν ἀλληγορίαις ὁμιλήσει.

KJV: He will seek out the secrets of grave sentences, and be conversant in dark sayings.

NKJV: He will seek out the secrets of grave proverbs, And be conversant with dark sayings.

Commentary: This verse delves deeper into the realm of hidden knowledge. The “secrets of grave proverbs” speaks of profound truths that are not immediately apparent. It necessitates diligent study and reflection to uncover their meaning. “Dark sayings” (ἀλληγορίαις) suggests allegorical interpretations, where the literal meaning points to a deeper spiritual reality. This is a common method of interpreting scripture, both in the Old and New Testaments. We see this in the writings of St. Cyril of Alexandria, who frequently employed allegorical interpretations to reveal the deeper mysteries of Christ and the Church. The ability to interpret these “dark sayings” requires discernment, spiritual insight, and a willingness to look beyond the surface.

Practical Application: Don’t be discouraged when encountering difficult or obscure passages in scripture. Approach them with prayer and a spirit of humility, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit and consulting with trusted spiritual mentors. Remember, the treasures of wisdom are often hidden beneath the surface.

Verse 4-5

Original Text (Septuagint): Ἐν μέσοις μεγιστάνων δουλεύσει καὶ ἐνώπιον ἡγεμόνων ὀφθήσεται· ἐν γῇ ἀλλοτρίᾳ διοδεύσει, ἀγαθὰ γὰρ καὶ πονηρὰ ἐν ἀνθρώποις πειράσει. Δώσει καρδίαν αὐτοῦ τοῦ ἐγρηγορῆσαι πρὸς τὸν ὄρθρον πρὸς τὸν ποιήσαντα αὐτόν καὶ ἐνώπιον ὑψίστου δεήσεται.

KJV: He shall serve among great men, and appear before princes: he will travel through strange countries; for he hath tried the good and the evil among men. He will give his heart to resort early to the Lord that made him, and will pray before the most High.

NKJV: He will serve among great men, And appear before princes; He will travel through foreign lands, For he has tested the good and the evil among men. He will set his heart to rise early to seek the Lord who made him, And will pray before the Most High.

Commentary: These verses depict the practical impact of wisdom on one’s life. The wise individual finds favor and recognition, even serving “among great men” and appearing “before princes.” This isn’t necessarily about seeking worldly power, but rather about being placed in positions where their wisdom can influence decisions and benefit others. Traveling “through foreign lands” suggests a broadening of perspective and an understanding of different cultures. Experiencing both “the good and the evil among men” provides a deeper understanding of human nature and the complexities of life. Crucially, the wise person maintains a focus on God, “rising early to seek the Lord” and praying before the Most High. This dedication to prayer is a constant reminder of their dependence on God’s grace and guidance. The imagery of rising early to pray echoes the ascetic traditions of the Coptic Church, where monks and nuns rise before dawn to dedicate themselves to prayer and supplication.

Practical Application: Use your gifts and talents to serve others, seeking opportunities to influence those around you for good. Embrace new experiences and perspectives, learning from those who are different from you. And above all, prioritize your relationship with God through prayer and devotion.

Verse 6-7

Original Text (Septuagint): Ἐὰν ὁ κύριος ὁ μέγας θελήσῃ πλησθήσεται πνεύματος συνέσεως, αὐτὸς ἐμβρίσει λόγους αὐτοῦ καὶ ἐν προσευχῇ εὐχαριστήσει. Αὐτὸς κατευθύνει βουλὴν καὶ ἐπιστήμην καὶ ἐν τοῖς μυστικοῖς αὐτοῦ διαλογίζεται.

KJV: He will open his mouth in prayer, and make supplication for his sins. When the great Lord will, he shall be filled with the spirit of understanding: he shall pour out wise sentences, and give thanks unto the Lord.

NKJV: He will open his mouth in prayer, And make supplication for his sins. When the great Lord wills, He will be filled with the spirit of understanding; He will utter proverbs and give thanks to the Lord.

Commentary: The verses emphasize the role of prayer and divine grace in the acquisition of wisdom. True wisdom isn’t something we can attain solely through our own efforts; it’s a gift from God. The wise person recognizes this and “opens his mouth in prayer, and makes supplication for his sins.” Humility is essential. He acknowledges his need for God’s forgiveness and guidance. The phrase “When the great Lord wills, He will be filled with the spirit of understanding” underscores God’s sovereignty in bestowing wisdom. This echoes St. James: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). Filled with wisdom, the individual “will utter proverbs and give thanks to the Lord,” sharing their understanding with others and glorifying God through their words.

Practical Application: Approach the pursuit of wisdom with humility, recognizing that it’s a gift from God. Make prayer a central part of your life, seeking God’s guidance and forgiveness. When you receive wisdom, use it to serve others and give glory to God.

Verse 8

Original Text (Septuagint): Διδαχὴν αὐτοῦ ἐκφαίνει, καὶ ἐν νόμῳ διαθήκης κυρίου δοξάζεται.

KJV: He shall direct his counsel and knowledge, and in his secrets shall he meditate. He shall shew forth that which he hath learned, and shall be glorified in the law of the covenant of the Lord.

NKJV: He will direct his counsel and knowledge, And in his secrets he will meditate. He will display instruction, And be glorified in the law of the covenant of the Lord.

Commentary: The wise person doesn’t hoard their wisdom; they share it with others. “He will display instruction” suggests a willingness to teach and guide those who seek understanding. This is a hallmark of true wisdom. The phrase “be glorified in the law of the covenant of the Lord” emphasizes that true wisdom is rooted in obedience to God’s commandments and a commitment to His covenant. This resonates deeply within Coptic Orthodox theology, which sees adherence to God’s commandments as an integral part of our spiritual journey. The ultimate goal is not simply to acquire knowledge but to live in accordance with God’s will and bring glory to His name.

Practical Application: Seek opportunities to share your knowledge and understanding with others. Be willing to mentor and guide those who are seeking wisdom. Remember that true wisdom is always connected to a life of obedience and devotion to God.

Verse 16-17

Original Text (Septuagint): Μὴ εἴπῃς τί τοῦτο; τί ἐκεῖνο; ἄγνοια γάρ ἐστιν ἐν τοῖς ἀγνοοῦσιν· ἀπέχε ἀπὸ τῶν ἀσυνέτων, καὶ σύγκλεισαι τὴν σκάλα ἣν ὁ πονηρὸς ἐστήριξεν. Ἔργον αὐτοῦ καλόν ἐστιν ἐν καιρῷ· καὶ ἐν ὥρᾳ αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἀποστήσεται ῥῆμα.

KJV: I will yet shew forth wisdom as the light, and I will declare knowledge perfectly. Have regard to thyself, and be diligent to keep the commandments of the Lord thy God: and be constant in his service. Know this also, that the Lord hath created all things; and to the godly did he give wisdom.

NKJV: I will yet declare instruction as the light, And I will utter knowledge perfectly. At this time I will pray and understand, For I have come for this. I will utter instruction like the light, And like the full moon I will make it shine.

Commentary: These verses underscore the confidence and clarity that comes from divine wisdom. The wise individual speaks with assurance, declaring “instruction as the light” and uttering “knowledge perfectly.” This speaks to the transformative power of wisdom, illuminating the path of righteousness and dispelling the darkness of ignorance. This reminds us of Christ who is the light of the world. As we embrace wisdom we reflect that light. There’s a sense of purpose and calling: “I have come for this.” This suggests that the pursuit of wisdom is not merely a personal endeavor but a divinely ordained mission. The imagery of the “full moon” shining brightly further emphasizes the radiant and life-giving nature of wisdom.

Practical Application: Embrace the confidence and clarity that comes from knowing God and His will. Speak truth with boldness and compassion, using your words to illuminate the path for others. Remember that you are called to be a light in the world, reflecting the love and wisdom of God.

Verse 21-27

Original Text (Septuagint): Μὴ εἴπῃς τί τοῦτο; τί ἐκεῖνο; ἄγνοια γάρ ἐστιν ἐν τοῖς ἀγνοοῦσιν· ἀπέχε ἀπὸ τῶν ἀσυνέτων, καὶ σύγκλεισαι τὴν σκάλα ἣν ὁ πονηρὸς ἐστήριξεν. Ἔργον αὐτοῦ καλόν ἐστιν ἐν καιρῷ· καὶ ἐν ὥρᾳ αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἀποστήσεται ῥῆμα.
Τί ἐκ τοῦ οὐκ ἀξίου μᾶλλον τοῦ ἀξίου; καὶ τί ἐκ τῶν ἀσεβῶν μᾶλλον τῶν εὐσεβῶν; ὁ θεὸς κατεμέρισεν ἐν ἀνθρώποις τῇ συνέσει αὐτοῦ· ἐπλήθυνεν αὐτοὺς καὶ ἐταπείνωσεν· καὶ ἐξῆρεν ἐκ τῶν ἀνδρῶν τὸν ἀριθμὸν αὐτῶν. Ἀγαθὰ καὶ πονηρὰ ζωὴ καὶ θάνατος πενία καὶ πλοῦτος παρὰ κυρίου. Δόσις παρὰ κυρίου καὶ εὐδοκία καὶ τιμαὶ καὶ ἀτιμίαι καὶ ἀσθένεια καὶ ὑγεία. Σοφία καὶ σύνεσις καὶ ἐπίγνωσις νόμου παρὰ κυρίου· ἀγάπη καὶ ὁδὸς καλῶν ἔργων παρὰ κυρίου.

KJV: Say not thou, What is this? wherefore is that? for all things are created for their uses. The blessing of the Lord maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. The knowledge of the Lord is in the law of the Lord, and the wisdom of the godly is in the fear of the Lord.
He that hateth instruction is in dishonour: and he that feareth the Lord shall honour his mother. My son, keep my commandments, and forsake not my law: and forget not the covenant of thy father. Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. When thou goest, let them lead thee; when thou sleepest, let them keep thee; and when thou awakest, let them talk with thee. For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.

NKJV: Do not say, “What is this?” “Why is that?” For all things are created for their own purpose. The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it. Do not say, “What profit is there in my service?” And “What good things shall I have hereafter?” Again, do not say, “I have enough, and possess many things; What evil can happen to me hereafter?” An evil day obliterates the memory of good things, And in the change of times a man’s sins are forgotten. In prosperity a man does not recognize adversity, And in adversity he does not remember prosperity. For it is easy in the sight of the Lord to reward the godly with good, And in a moment to bring affliction upon the wicked. Gifts of the Lord remain with the godly, And His favor prospers them forever.
A man may say, “I will not hide myself from the Lord, And who will remember me from on high? Among so many people I shall not be recognized; For what is my soul among so many created things?” Behold, the heaven, the highest heaven, The deep, and the earth will tremble at His visitation. The mountains also and the foundations of the earth Quake with trembling when He looks upon them. But no mind will reflect on this. Who will instruct me in His ways? And where shall I find knowledge of them? My son, do not harbor resentment against affliction, Nor be bitter at adversity. For as a test gold is refined in the fire, So acceptable men are tested in the furnace of humiliation. Trust in Him, and He will help you; Make your ways straight, and hope in Him. You who fear the Lord, wait for His mercy; And do not turn aside, lest you fall. You who fear the Lord, trust in Him, And your reward will not fail. You who fear the Lord, hope for good, And for everlasting joy and mercy.

Commentary: This section addresses the difficult questions that arise when we try to understand God’s providence. It acknowledges the seeming contradictions and inequalities in life: “good and evil, life and death, poverty and riches.” The key is to recognize that all these things come “from the Lord” and serve His ultimate purpose. This isn’t to say that God causes evil, but rather that He allows it for reasons that we may not fully understand. This reminds us of the story of Job. The verse “Do not say, ‘What is this?’ ‘Why is that?’ For all things are created for their own purpose” encourages us to trust in God’s wisdom, even when we don’t understand His ways. It speaks to the importance of faith and acceptance. St. Basil the Great, in his *Homilies on the Hexaemeron* (Ὁμιλίες εἰς τὴν Ἑξαήμερον), emphasizes the inherent goodness of creation and the order that God has established, even in the midst of apparent chaos. Recognizing the proper use of everything created, he suggests that God’s wisdom is displayed in every detail of the natural world, including resources for dohost.

Practical Application: When faced with difficult or challenging circumstances, resist the temptation to question God’s goodness or wisdom. Instead, trust in His providence and seek to understand His purpose in your life. Remember that even in the midst of suffering, God is working for your good.

Subtopic: The Role of Suffering in Wisdom ✨

The Book of Sirach, especially in this chapter, grapples with the existence of suffering and its role in the development of wisdom. It’s a topic that deeply resonates with human experience, and the Coptic Orthodox tradition offers profound insights into understanding this complex issue.

• Suffering as a Test: Suffering can be a test of our faith, revealing the strength and resilience of our commitment to God. It can refine our character and deepen our dependence on Him.
• Suffering as a Discipline: Like a loving parent, God may use suffering to discipline us and guide us back to the path of righteousness. It can help us to recognize our weaknesses and turn to Him for strength.
• Suffering as a Path to Compassion: Experiencing suffering ourselves can make us more compassionate and empathetic towards others who are suffering. It can break down barriers and unite us in shared humanity.
• Suffering as a Mystery: Ultimately, some suffering remains a mystery, beyond our ability to fully understand. In these moments, we must trust in God’s wisdom and love, even when we can’t see His plan.
• Suffering and the Cross: The ultimate example of suffering is the Cross of Christ. Through His suffering and death, He redeemed humanity and opened the way to eternal life. Our own suffering, when offered to God, can be united with His suffering for the salvation of the world.
• Suffering and Joy: Within Coptic spirituality, there’s a constant interaction between suffering and joy. We do not see suffering as an end in itself, but as a gateway towards a deeper and more profound joy rooted in Christ’s sacrifice.

FAQ ❓

Q: How can I practically apply the teachings of Sirach 39 to my daily life?

A: Begin by dedicating specific time each day to study Scripture and reflect upon it. Seek to discern the deeper meanings behind the words and apply them to your daily actions. Engage in prayer and ask God to guide you, and give you wisdom for understanding both the good and difficult times in your life.

Q: Why does Sirach emphasize the study of the Law so heavily?

A: The Law, in this context, represents not only the commandments but also the principles of righteousness and justice. By studying the Law, we learn about God’s character and His will for our lives. This gives us a firm foundation for making wise decisions and living a virtuous life.

Q: How do I reconcile the idea that God allows both good and evil in the world?

A: It’s crucial to understand that God does not cause evil, but He allows it for reasons that we may not fully comprehend. God created humans with free will, meaning they are capable of choosing good or evil. God uses suffering as opportunities for refinement and ultimately brings good out of evil, aligning all things to his purpose.

Q: How does this chapter connect to other books of the Bible?

A: Sirach 39 is in line with Proverbs and other wisdom literature. These books all emphasize the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding as a means of living a fulfilling and God-honoring life. Wisdom is presented as a virtue that guides our choices, protects us from evil, and leads us to a deeper relationship with God, as illustrated throughout the Old and New Testaments.

Conclusion ✨

Sirach 39 paints a beautiful picture of the transformative power of wisdom. The chapter emphasizes that the true pursuit of wisdom involves dedicated study of the Word of God, an understanding of historical teachings, and an intimate relationship through prayer. Understanding God’s Wonderful Works requires us to see God’s hand in all aspects of life, accepting both the joys and the sorrows as opportunities to grow in faith. By embracing the wisdom that comes from God, we become vessels of knowledge and grace, capable of influencing others and glorifying His name. It’s a call to active engagement with God’s word and creation, recognizing His sovereignty and trusting in His plan for our lives. Embrace the quest for understanding God’s works, and you’ll find true fulfillment.

Tags

Wisdom, Sirach 39, Ecclesiasticus, Coptic Orthodox, Theology, Bible Commentary, Scripture, Divine Providence, Suffering, God’s Will

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Explore Sirach 39 verse-by-verse with a Coptic Orthodox perspective. Understand God’s Wonderful Works, find wisdom, and apply ancient truths to modern life.