Sirach 10:20 is a proverb offering wisdom about leadership and respect. Let's break it down:
"In the midst of kindred he that rules them has honor":
"Kindred" refers to family, clan, or a close-knit community.
"He that rules them" refers to a leader or someone in a position of authority within that family or community.
"Has honor" means that the leader is respected and held in high esteem by the people they lead.
This part suggests that a leader who governs well within their own community earns the respect of their people. It highlights the importance of leadership within the family or local context.
"And in the eyes of the Lord those who fear him.":
"In the eyes of the Lord" means that God values or approves of something.
"Those who fear him" refers to people who are devout and respectful towards God, obeying his commandments.
This part emphasizes that religious piety is valued by God. Those who show reverence and obedience to God are favored in His eyes.
Connecting the Two Parts:
The verse connects earthly leadership with divine favor. While the first part focuses on the respect a leader earns within their community, the second part shifts the focus to God's judgment. It suggests that both good governance within a community and religious piety are valued. In essence, it implies that leading well and fearing God are both virtues that are pleasing to God.
In summary, Sirach 10:20 is saying:
A leader who governs their family or community well earns the respect of their people.
Those who fear and revere God are valued by Him.
Ideally, a good leader should also be a God-fearing person, combining earthly authority with spiritual devotion.
Sirach 10:20 is a proverb offering wisdom about leadership and respect. Let's break it down:
"In the midst of kindred he that rules them has honor":
"Kindred" refers to family, clan, or a close-knit community.
"He that rules them" refers to a leader or someone in a position of authority within that family or community.
"Has honor" means that the leader is respected and held in high esteem by the people they lead.
This part suggests that a leader who governs well within their own community earns the respect of their people. It highlights the importance of leadership within the family or local context.
"And in the eyes of the Lord those who fear him.":
"In the eyes of the Lord" means that God values or approves of something.
"Those who fear him" refers to people who are devout and respectful towards God, obeying his commandments.
This part emphasizes that religious piety is valued by God. Those who show reverence and obedience to God are favored in His eyes.
Connecting the Two Parts:
The verse connects earthly leadership with divine favor. While the first part focuses on the respect a leader earns within their community, the second part shifts the focus to God's judgment. It suggests that both good governance within a community and religious piety are valued. In essence, it implies that leading well and fearing God are both virtues that are pleasing to God.
In summary, Sirach 10:20 is saying:
A leader who governs their family or community well earns the respect of their people.
Those who fear and revere God are valued by Him.
Ideally, a good leader should also be a God-fearing person, combining earthly authority with spiritual devotion.