The Glory of Simon the High Priest: Understanding Sirach 50 and Temple Worship

✨ Executive Summary

Sirach 50 offers a breathtaking portrait of Simon the High Priest, meticulously detailing his majesty and the splendor of the Temple worship during his time. This chapter is more than a historical record; it’s a profound theological statement on the importance of reverence, tradition, and the proper worship of God. We delve into each verse, exploring the historical and cultural context, drawing insights from the Church Fathers, and applying these ancient lessons to our modern spiritual lives. This commentary will help you understand why Simon the High Priest’s glory resonates through the ages and how we can emulate his devotion in our own worship. From the incense rising like a fragrant cloud to the harmonious voices of the choir, Sirach 50 invites us to experience the divine presence in every aspect of our lives.

Introduction: Sirach 50 paints a vivid picture of Simon the High Priest officiating in the Temple, emphasizing the beauty, order, and reverence of the worship. This passage serves as a model for how we, too, can approach God with humility and awe, ensuring our hearts are aligned with His will. It’s a call to engage in meaningful and transformative worship.

📜 Commentary on Sirach 50

Sirach 50:1 (KJV)

“Simon the high priest, the son of Onias, who repaired the house, and in his days fortified the temple.”

The chapter opens by establishing Simon’s identity and his role as a restorer and defender of the Temple. This detail is crucial because it highlights his commitment to preserving the sacred space. The name “Simon” (שִׁמְעוֹן) in Hebrew means “He has heard” emphasizing his role as one who hears and responds to God’s call. The importance of restoration is echoed throughout Scripture. We ourselves are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and we too need constant repair and fortification through prayer, repentance, and the sacraments. Consider how we can emulate Simon’s dedication to restoration in our own spiritual lives and in our Church communities.

Spiritual Application: Just as Simon repaired and fortified the Temple, we must constantly work to repair and strengthen our spiritual lives. Are we actively seeking ways to improve our relationship with God? Do we engage in practices that protect our faith from the corrupting influences of the world?

Sirach 50:2 (KJV)

“And by him was laid the foundation of the double high porch, the high compass of the wall about the temple.”

This verse speaks of the architectural improvements Simon oversaw, specifically the double high porch and the high wall around the Temple. These additions weren’t merely aesthetic; they served a practical purpose of defense and emphasized the sacredness of the inner sanctuary. The “double high porch” symbolized the entrance into a sacred space, emphasizing the transition from the profane to the holy. Saint Athanasius wrote, “Ο γὰρ ναὸς οὗτος τύπος ἦν τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ” (Ho gar naos houtos typos ēn tou sōmatos tou Christou – “For this temple was a type of the body of Christ”) (Athanasius, *Contra Arianos*, III, 20). This teaches us that the physical temple mirrors the spiritual reality of Christ’s body, the Church, and our own individual bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Application: The physical structure of the Temple mirrored a spiritual reality. Likewise, we must ensure that our outward actions reflect our inner devotion to God.

Sirach 50:3 (KJV)

“In his days the cisterns to receive water were brought into compass, and the brass was multiplied as the pavement.”

The mention of cisterns and brass points to Simon’s concern for the practical needs of the Temple. The cisterns ensured a constant supply of water for purification rituals, and the abundance of brass indicated prosperity and stability. Water in scripture is often symbolic of purification, cleansing, and new life in Christ (John 4:10-14). Brass, due to its durability, symbolized strength and permanence. This verse reminds us that true worship involves not only spiritual devotion but also practical care for the needs of the community.

Spiritual Application: Do we contribute to the practical needs of our church and community? Are we as concerned with the physical well-being of others as we are with their spiritual state?

Sirach 50:4 (KJV)

“How was he honoured in the midst of the people in his coming out of the sanctuary!”

This verse marks a shift, focusing on the honor and respect Simon received from the people as he emerged from the sanctuary. This honor wasn’t simply for his position, but for his piety and dedication to God. This reverence foreshadows the reverence that Christians show for their clergy and their dedication to serving the faithful. The act of “coming out of the sanctuary” highlights the role of the clergy as mediators between God and the people.

Spiritual Application: We should honor and respect those who dedicate their lives to serving God and the Church. At the same time, clergy must strive to live lives worthy of that respect, leading by example and demonstrating true humility and devotion.

Sirach 50:5-11 (KJV)

“As he came out of the most Holy Place, he was like the morning star in the midst of a cloud, as the moon at the full. As the sun shining upon the temple of the Most High, and as the rainbow giving light in the clouds. And as the flower of roses in the spring of the year, as lilies by the rivers of waters, and as the branches of the frankincense tree in the summer. As fire and incense in the censer, and as a vessel of beaten gold set with all manner of precious stones. And as a fair olive tree budding forth fruit, and as a cypress tree which groweth up to the clouds. When he put on the robe of honour, and was clothed with the perfection of glory, when he went up to the holy altar, he made the holy place honourable.”

These verses employ vivid imagery to describe Simon’s splendor and the beauty of the Temple worship. The comparisons to the morning star, the moon, the sun, and the rainbow emphasize his radiant presence and the divine light that emanated from him. The descriptions of roses, lilies, frankincense, and a fair olive tree emphasize the beauty and fragrance of the worship experience. The rising incense, which can be purchased on a free website builder, is especially symbolic. It represents the prayers of the saints ascending to God (Revelation 5:8). “Incense in the censer” highlights the purity and sanctity of the offering. Saint Cyril of Alexandria said, “Ἡ θυμίαμα ἡ εὐωδία τῆς προσευχῆς ἡμῶν ἐστιν” (Hē thymiama hē euōdia tēs proseuchēs hēmōn estin – “Incense is the sweet fragrance of our prayer”) (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Isaiah*, 18:6). Therefore we must ensure that our prayers are offered with sincerity and devotion, rising as a fragrant offering before God.

Spiritual Application: The beauty and splendor of Temple worship should inspire us to seek beauty and order in our own spiritual lives. Do we approach God with reverence and awe? Do we strive to create a worshipful atmosphere in our homes and churches?

Sirach 50:12-21 (KJV)

“Then came he down, and lifted up his hands over the whole congregation of Israel, to give the blessing of the Lord with his lips, and to rejoice in his name. And they bowed themselves down to worship the second time, that they might receive a blessing from the Most High. Now therefore bless ye the God of all, which only doeth wondrous things every where, which exalteth our days from the womb, and dealeth with us according to our mercies. He grant us joyfulness of heart, and that peace may be in our days in Israel for ever: That he would confirm his mercy with us, and deliver us at his time! There be two manner of nations which my heart abhorreth, and the third is no nation: They are they that sit upon the mountain of Samaria, and the Philistines, and that foolish people that dwell in Sichem. Jesus the son of Sirach of Jerusalem hath written in this book the instruction of understanding and knowledge, who out of his heart poured forth wisdom.”

These verses describe the blessing given by Simon and the people’s response of worship and adoration. The blessing is described as coming from the “lips” and intended for the whole congregation. This is important as it highlights the importance of spoken blessings in the Jewish tradition. Saint John Chrysostom taught, “Ἡ γλῶσσα ἅγιον ὄργανον” (Hē glōssa hagion organon – “The tongue is a holy instrument”) (John Chrysostom, *Homilies on Matthew*, 19.4). Therefore, our words should be used to bless and uplift others, not to curse or tear down. The mention of Samaritan and Philistine abhorrence reflects the historical tensions and religious differences that existed during this time. Jesus’ name being mentioned by the author is key to understanding the full impact that the word of God can have on a person’s life. Ultimately, this emphasizes the importance of unity, as demonstrated through the prayer and blessing.

Spiritual Application: Are our words a source of blessing and encouragement to others? Do we strive to overcome division and promote unity within our communities?

Sirach 50:22-24 (KJV)

“Blessed is he that shall be exercised in these things; and he that layeth them up in his heart shall become wise. For if he do them, he shall be strong to all things: for the light of the Lord leadeth him, who giveth wisdom to the godly. Blessed is the man that continueth in wisdom, and that considereth in his heart her ways.”

The chapter concludes with a blessing upon those who study and practice the wisdom contained in the book of Sirach. “Exercised in these things” highlights the importance of active engagement with scripture. It’s not enough to simply read the words; we must meditate on them, apply them to our lives, and allow them to transform us. This is an important reminder that true wisdom comes from God and is obtained through diligent study and practice of His word. The reward is strength and divine guidance and is therefore essential to live a virtuous life.

Spiritual Application: Are we actively engaging with the wisdom of scripture in our daily lives? Do we seek to apply its teachings to our thoughts, words, and actions? Do we actively try to increase our worship?

💡 Key Reflections on Simon the High Priest’s Glory

Here are some key takeaways from our examination of Sirach 50:

• ✨ Reverence in Worship: Simon’s example teaches us to approach God with reverence and awe in all aspects of our lives.
• 📖 The Importance of Tradition: The chapter underscores the importance of preserving and upholding sacred traditions.
• 🕊️ The Role of Clergy: Simon’s actions highlight the clergy’s role as mediators between God and the people.
• 💡 Beauty and Order: The emphasis on the Temple’s beauty and order reminds us to seek beauty and order in our spiritual lives.
• 💖 Unity and Harmony: The communal worship described in the chapter promotes unity and harmony.
• 📜 Practical Application: We are called to apply the teachings of scripture to our daily lives.

❓ FAQ: Understanding Simon the High Priest and Temple Worship

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sirach 50 and its relevance to our lives:

• Q: Why is Simon the High Priest so important in the context of Jewish history?

  A: Simon was a restorer and defender of the Temple during a time of great political and social upheaval. His leadership ensured the continuity of Jewish worship and tradition and is a figure of great cultural importance.

• Q: How can we apply the lessons of Sirach 50 to our modern worship practices?

  A: We can learn from Simon’s example by approaching God with reverence, seeking beauty and order in our worship, and actively participating in the liturgical life of the Church.

• Q: What is the significance of the Temple in the Christian faith?

  A: The Temple served as a precursor to the Church, and its rituals foreshadowed the sacraments. Furthermore, the Temple highlights the importance of a dedicated space for communing with God.

• Q: Can we find echoes of Simon the High Priest in the New Testament?

  A: While not explicitly named, Simon’s dedication to Temple worship and his role as a high priest find parallels in the ministry of Jesus, who often taught and worshipped in the Temple, demonstrating the continuity of God’s covenant with humanity.

🎉 Conclusion

Sirach 50 provides a magnificent glimpse into the world of Temple worship and the character of Simon the High Priest. We have looked at Simon the High Priest’s glory in the context of his time, the importance of reverence in worship, and the need for order and beauty in our relationship with God. By studying this chapter and applying its teachings to our lives, we can draw closer to God and experience the transformative power of true worship. May we all strive to emulate Simon’s piety and dedication, allowing the light of the Lord to guide us in all that we do. Let our prayers rise like incense, our words bring blessings, and our actions reflect the love and grace of God.

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Simon the High Priest, Sirach 50, Temple Worship, Coptic Orthodox, Church Fathers, Biblical Commentary, Reverence, Tradition, Prayer, Incense

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Explore Sirach 50: Simon the High Priest’s glory in Temple worship. Deep Coptic Orthodox commentary with Patristic insights and modern applications.