【Sirach】Chapter 1 Next Chapter >>

1:1 All wisdom comes from the LORD and with him it remains forever.

1:2 The sand of the seashore, the drops of rain, the days of eternity: who can number these?

1:3 Heaven’s height, earth’s breadth, the depths of the abyss: who can explore these?

1:4 Before all things else wisdom was created; and prudent understanding, from eternity.

1:5 To whom has wisdom’s root been revealed? Who knows her subtleties?

1:6 There is but one, wise and truly awe-inspiring, seated upon his throne:

1:7 It is the LORD; he created her, has seen her and taken note of her.

1:8 He has poured her forth upon all his works, upon every living thing according to his bounty; he has lavished her upon his friends.

1:9 Fear of the LORD is glory and splendor, gladness and a festive crown.

1:10 Fear of the LORD warms the heart, giving gladness and joy and length of days.

1:11 He who fears the LORD will have a happy end; even on the day of his death he will be blessed.

1:12 The beginning of wisdom is fear of the LORD, which is formed with the faithful in the womb.

1:13 With devoted men was she created from of old, and with their children her beneficence abides.

1:14 Fullness of wisdom is fear of the LORD; she inebriates men with her fruits.

1:15 Her entire house she fills with choice foods, her granaries with her harvest.

1:16 Wisdom’s garland is fear of the LORD, with blossoms of peace and perfect health.

1:17 Knowledge and full understanding she showers down; she heightens the glory of those who possess her.

1:18 The root of wisdom is fear of the LORD; her branches are length of days.

1:19 One cannot justify unjust anger; anger plunges a man to his downfall.

1:20 A patient man need stand firm but for a time, and then contentment comes back to him.

1:21 For a while he holds back his words, then the lips of many herald his wisdom.

1:22 Among wisdom’s treasures is the paragon of prudence; but fear of the LORD is an abomination to the sinner.

1:23 If you desire wisdom, keep the commandments, and the LORD will bestow her upon you;

1:24 For fear of the LORD is wisdom and culture; loyal humility is his delight.

1:25 Be not faithless to the fear of the LORD, nor approach it with duplicity of heart.

1:26 Play not the hypocrite before men; over your lips keep watch.

1:27 Exalt not yourself lest you fall and bring upon you dishonor;

1:28 For then the LORD will reveal your secrets and publicly cast you down,

1:29 Because you approached the fear of the LORD with your heart full of guile.

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