Ben Sira 39:8-18

8 He will demonstrate his learning in what he teaches, and his pride will be in the Lord's Law and covenant.
9 He will be widely praised for his wisdom, and it will never be lost, because people for generations to come will remember him.
10 The Gentiles will talk about his wisdom, and he will be praised aloud in the assembly.
11 If he lives to old age, he will die famous, but if he is laid to rest before he is famous, he will be content.
12 Like the moon, I am full - full of more ideas to be discussed.
13 Listen to me, you devout children of mine, and blossom like a rosebush on a stream bank.
14 Bloom like a sweet-smelling lily, and send your fragrance into the air like incense. Sing the Lord's praises, and thank him for all that he has done.
15 Proclaim his glory in grateful praise! To the music of the harp, sing this song:
16 All that the Lord has done is very good; all that he commands is sooner or later done.
17 No one should ask why things are as they are; these questions will be answered at the right time. He commanded, and the water piled up high, great walls of water arose when he spoke.
18 Whatever he commands is promptly done; there are no limits to his power to save.

Footnotes 2

  • [a]. his learning . . . teaches; [or] the wisdom of what he has been taught.
  • [b]. if he is . . . content; [Greek unclear.]
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.