Ben Sira 51:7-17

7 They surrounded me on every side, and there was no one to help me; I looked for human assistance, and there was none.
8 Then I remembered your mercy, O Lord, and your kindness from of old, for you rescue those who wait for you and save them from the hand of their enemies.
9 And I sent up my prayer from the earth, and begged for rescue from death.
10 I cried out, "Lord, you are my Father; do not forsake me in the days of trouble, when there is no help against the proud.
11 I will praise your name continually, and will sing hymns of thanksgiving." My prayer was heard,
12 for you saved me from destruction and rescued me in time of trouble. For this reason I thank you and praise you, and I bless the name of the Lord. [Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to the God of praises,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to the guardian of Israel,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to him who formed all things,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to the redeemer of Israel,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to him who gathers the dispersed of Israel,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to him who rebuilt his city and his sanctuary,] [for his mercy endures forever; ] [Give thanks to him who makes a horn to sprout for the house of David,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to him who has chosen the sons of Zadok to be priests,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to the shield of Abraham,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to the rock of Isaac,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to the mighty one of Jacob,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to him who has chosen Zion,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [Give thanks to the King of the kings of kings,] [for his mercy endures forever;] [He has raised up a horn for his people,] [praise for all his loyal ones.] [For the children of Israel, the people close to him.] [Praise the Lord!]
13 While I was still young, before I went on my travels, I sought wisdom openly in my prayer.
14 Before the temple I asked for her, and I will search for her until the end.
15 From the first blossom to the ripening grape my heart delighted in her; my foot walked on the straight path; from my youth I followed her steps.
16 I inclined my ear a little and received her, and I found for myself much instruction.
17 I made progress in her; to him who gives wisdom I will give glory.

Footnotes 2

  • [a]. Other ancient authorities read [work]
  • [b]. Heb: Gk [the Father of my lord]
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.