This verse from Sirach 19:27 describes a type of manipulative and deceitful person. Let's break it down:
"Bowing down his face, and making as if he were deaf of one ear:" This refers to someone who feigns humility or pretends to be hard of hearing. They might do this to appear harmless, unassuming, or even pitiable. The bending of the face suggests a false modesty or a posture meant to disarm suspicion. The feigned deafness is a way to control the conversation or to misunderstand intentionally, gaining an advantage.
"Where he is not known, he will be beforehand with you." This means that in situations where this person is not known or their true nature is not apparent, they will try to get ahead of you or outmaneuver you. They will use their deceitful tactics to gain an advantage before you realize their true intentions.
In essence, the verse warns against those who present a false image of themselves, especially humility or vulnerability, because they are likely scheming to take advantage of you. They are particularly dangerous in unfamiliar situations where you don't know their reputation or character. They will be quick to act and manipulate before you can assess the situation properly.
Here's a simpler paraphrase:
"Be wary of people who act humble or pretend to be clueless, especially in new situations. They're likely trying to trick you and gain an advantage before you realize what they're up to."
The verse serves as a warning to be observant and cautious, not to take appearances at face value, and to be especially careful when dealing with people you don't know well in unfamiliar settings.
This verse from Sirach 19:27 describes a type of manipulative and deceitful person. Let's break it down:
"Bowing down his face, and making as if he were deaf of one ear:" This refers to someone who feigns humility or pretends to be hard of hearing. They might do this to appear harmless, unassuming, or even pitiable. The bending of the face suggests a false modesty or a posture meant to disarm suspicion. The feigned deafness is a way to control the conversation or to misunderstand intentionally, gaining an advantage.
"Where he is not known, he will be beforehand with you." This means that in situations where this person is not known or their true nature is not apparent, they will try to get ahead of you or outmaneuver you. They will use their deceitful tactics to gain an advantage before you realize their true intentions.
In essence, the verse warns against those who present a false image of themselves, especially humility or vulnerability, because they are likely scheming to take advantage of you. They are particularly dangerous in unfamiliar situations where you don't know their reputation or character. They will be quick to act and manipulate before you can assess the situation properly.
Here's a simpler paraphrase:
"Be wary of people who act humble or pretend to be clueless, especially in new situations. They're likely trying to trick you and gain an advantage before you realize what they're up to."
The verse serves as a warning to be observant and cautious, not to take appearances at face value, and to be especially careful when dealing with people you don't know well in unfamiliar settings.