Sirach 51:10-20

Listen to Sirach 51:10-20
10 I called out to the Lord, the father of my master: "Don't desert me in the time of my distress, when I am helpless before the arrogant.
11 I will praise your name continually, and I will sing thanksgiving hymns." My prayer was heard,
12 because you saved me from destruction and you rescued me from an evil time. For this, I will give thanks, praise you, and bless the Lord's name.

Search for Wisdom

13 When I was still young, before I had traveled, I sought Wisdom openly in my prayer.
14 In front of the temple, I asked for her, and I will search for her until I die.
15 From the first blossom to the ripening of the grape clusters, my heart delighted in her; I walked in straight paths; I chased her down from my youth.
16 I paid a little attention, and I received her and found much instruction for myself.
17 I made progress with her; I will give glory to the one who gives me Wisdom.
18 I made up my mind to put Wisdom into practice; I sought the good, and I will never be ashamed.
19 My whole being grappled with her, and I was brought to perfection in my performance of the Law. I spread out my hands toward heaven, and I kept in mind my ignorance of her.
20 I directed my whole being toward her, and in purity I found her. I had a heart for her from the beginning. For this reason I will never be abandoned.

Footnotes 4

  • [a] Heb I cried out to the Lord, You are my father.
  • [b] Between 51:12 and 13, Heb adds a long doxology.
  • [c] Some Gk manuscripts I mourned because of
  • [d] or I acquired a heart with her
Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible