Sirach 12:15 - For a while he will abide with you, And if you give way, he will not hold out.

Generated Verse: Sirach 12:15

What does "Sirach 12:15" mean?


The verse from Sirach 12:15, "For a while he will abide with you, And if you give way, he will not hold out," refers to the untrustworthy friend or enemy. Let's break it down:

"For a while he will abide with you...": This indicates that the person will stay close and appear friendly for a limited time. They may even seem supportive and helpful.

"...And if you give way, he will not hold out.": This is the key part. "Giving way" likely refers to succumbing to pressure, revealing vulnerabilities, lowering your guard, or trusting them completely. "He will not hold out" means they will exploit your weakness or trust for their own benefit. They won't hesitate to take advantage of you once they see an opportunity.

In simpler terms: The verse warns that a deceitful person might stay around you for a while, acting like a friend. However, if you show weakness, trust them too much, or let your guard down, they will quickly betray you and won't hesitate to take advantage of the situation.

Context within Sirach 12: This verse is part of a larger passage in Sirach 12 that warns against showing kindness indiscriminately, especially to those who might be untrustworthy. The chapter emphasizes the importance of discerning true friends from potential enemies who may be feigning friendship for personal gain. It warns not to trust enemies too readily, as their wickedness will eventually surface.

Therefore, the verse is a cautionary message about being wary of those who might seem friendly but have ulterior motives. It advises vigilance and prudence in relationships, urging readers not to be naive or overly trusting.

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