Ben Sira

Ben Sira, also called Ben Sirach, Jesus ben Sira, Joshua ben Sira, or Sirach was a Hellenistic Jewish scribe, sage, and allegorist from Seleucid-controlled Jerusalem of the Second Temple period. He is the author of the Book of Sirach, also known as "Ecclesiasticus".

Quotes

Come to me, all you that need instruction, and learn in my school.| Why do you admit that you are ignorant and do nothing about it? | Here is what I say: It costs nothing to be wise.

I sought wisdom openly in my prayer.

Before the temple I asked for her,

and I will search for her to the last.

From blossom to ripening grape

my heart delighted in her;

my foot entered upon the straight path;

from my youth I followed her steps.

I inclined my ear a little and received her,

and I found for myself much instruction.

I made progress therein;

to him who gives wisdom I will give glory.

For I resolved to live according to wisdom,

and I was zealous for the good;

and I shall never be put to shame.

My soul grappled with wisdom,

and in my conduct I was strict;

I spread out my hands to the heavens,

and lamented my ignorance of her.

I directed my soul to her,

and through purification I found her.

I gained understanding with her from the first,

therefore I will not be forsaken.

My heart was stirred to seek her,

therefore I have gained a good possession.

The Lord gave me a tongue as my reward,

and I will praise him with it.

Whereas many great teachings have been given to us through the law and the prophets and the others that followed them, on account of which we should praise Israel for instruction and wisdom; and since it is necessary not only that the readers themselves should acquire understanding but also that those who love learning should be able to help the outsiders by both speaking and writing, my grandfather Jesus, after devoting himself especially to the reading of the law and the prophets and the other books of our fathers, and after acquiring considerable proficiency in them, was himself also led to write something pertaining to instruction and wisdom, in order that, by becoming conversant with this also, those who love learning should make even greater progress in living according to the law.

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Ben Sira