Ben Sira 1:17-27

17 and fills our homes and our barns ¹ with all that our hearts can desire.

18 To fear the Lord is the flower of Wisdom that blossoms with peace and good health. ^[a]

19 She sends knowledge and understanding like the rain, and increases the honor of those who receive her.

20 To fear the Lord is the root of Wisdom; ² her branches are long life.

22 There is no excuse for unjustified anger; it can bring about your downfall.

23 Wait and be patient, and later you will be glad you did.

24 Keep quiet until the right time to speak, and you will gain a reputation for good sense.

25 Wisdom has a treasury of wise sayings, but sinners have nothing but contempt for godliness.

26 If you want to be wise, keep the Lord's commands, and he will give you Wisdom in abundance.

27 Fearing the Lord is Wisdom and an education in itself. He is pleased by loyalty and humility.

Cross References

• 1. 1.17Wisdom 7.11.
• 2. 1.20Proverbs 3.16; 4.10.

Footnotes

• [a]. [Some manuscripts add:] He saw her and recognized her value [(see 1.9).]
• [b]. [Some manuscripts add verse 21:] Honoring the Lord takes sin away; where the fear of the Lord is found, it turns away anger.