Sirach 13:21 - A rich man when he is shaken is held up of his friends; But one of low degree being down is thrust away also by his friends.
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What does "Sirach 13:21" mean?
This verse from Sirach 13:21 speaks to the conditional and often self-serving nature of friendship, particularly as influenced by social status and wealth. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"A rich man when he is shaken is held up of his friends;" This means that when a wealthy person faces hardship, misfortune, or a setback, their friends will rally around them and offer support. They will help him weather the storm. The implication is that this support isn't purely altruistic. Friends may offer help to stay in good graces, hoping to maintain access to the rich man's resources, influence, or social standing, expecting future benefits in return.
"But one of low degree being down is thrust away also by his friends." This contrasts sharply with the first part. A poor or less influential person who is struggling will likely be abandoned or even rejected by their friends. When a person of low status falls on hard times, they are abandoned. This emphasizes how those with no apparent benefits to offer are discarded when they are vulnerable.
In essence, the verse highlights a harsh reality:
Friendship is often transactional, especially for those with power or wealth.
People are more likely to be supportive of those who can benefit them.
Those in need who lack resources or status are often left to fend for themselves.
It is better to rely on God and be of good character and integrity than rely on fickle and temporary friendships.
The verse serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers to be discerning about the motives of those around them and to not place too much faith in the loyalty of people whose friendship might be contingent on their own success and standing. It also hints at the social inequalities and biases present in society.
Sirach 13:21 - A rich man when he is shaken is held up of his friends; But one of low degree being down is thrust away also by his friends.
What does "Sirach 13:21" mean?
This verse from Sirach 13:21 speaks to the conditional and often self-serving nature of friendship, particularly as influenced by social status and wealth. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"A rich man when he is shaken is held up of his friends;" This means that when a wealthy person faces hardship, misfortune, or a setback, their friends will rally around them and offer support. They will help him weather the storm. The implication is that this support isn't purely altruistic. Friends may offer help to stay in good graces, hoping to maintain access to the rich man's resources, influence, or social standing, expecting future benefits in return.
"But one of low degree being down is thrust away also by his friends." This contrasts sharply with the first part. A poor or less influential person who is struggling will likely be abandoned or even rejected by their friends. When a person of low status falls on hard times, they are abandoned. This emphasizes how those with no apparent benefits to offer are discarded when they are vulnerable.
In essence, the verse highlights a harsh reality:
Friendship is often transactional, especially for those with power or wealth.
People are more likely to be supportive of those who can benefit them.
Those in need who lack resources or status are often left to fend for themselves.
It is better to rely on God and be of good character and integrity than rely on fickle and temporary friendships.
The verse serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers to be discerning about the motives of those around them and to not place too much faith in the loyalty of people whose friendship might be contingent on their own success and standing. It also hints at the social inequalities and biases present in society.