Sirach 20:6 - There is one that keeps silence, for he has no answer to make; And there is that keeps silence, as knowing his time.
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What does "Sirach 20:6" mean?
Sirach 20:6 speaks about two distinct reasons why someone might remain silent. It highlights the importance of discerning the reason behind the silence. Let's break it down:
"There is one that keeps silence, for he has no answer to make..."
This refers to someone who is silent because they are ignorant, confused, or lack the knowledge or wit to respond appropriately. They are quiet because they simply don't know what to say. They might feel embarrassed, overwhelmed, or unsure. It's a silence born out of intellectual deficiency or a lack of relevant information.
This could also imply someone caught in a lie or wrongdoing, who keeps silent to avoid further implicating themselves.
"And there is that keeps silence, as knowing his time."
This refers to someone who is silent deliberately and strategically. They do have something to say, but they are choosing to remain quiet because they are waiting for the right opportunity, moment, or context. They are patient, observant, and understand the power of timing.
This type of silence is born out of wisdom, prudence, and self-control. The person understands that speaking at the wrong time could be detrimental, counterproductive, or even dangerous. They might be waiting for a more receptive audience, for the facts to become clearer, or for a better chance to influence the situation.
They might also be silent to protect themselves or others from harm.
In summary, the verse contrasts two types of silence:
Ignorant or Incompetent Silence: Silence born from lack of knowledge or ability.
Strategic or Wise Silence: Silence born from deliberate choice, patience, and understanding of timing.
The verse encourages listeners to discern the reason behind someone's silence before judging them. Silence is not always a sign of ignorance; sometimes, it is a sign of wisdom and self-control. The context surrounding the silence provides the clues to correctly interpret it.
Sirach 20:6 - There is one that keeps silence, for he has no answer to make; And there is that keeps silence, as knowing his time.
What does "Sirach 20:6" mean?
Sirach 20:6 speaks about two distinct reasons why someone might remain silent. It highlights the importance of discerning the reason behind the silence. Let's break it down:
"There is one that keeps silence, for he has no answer to make..."
This refers to someone who is silent because they are ignorant, confused, or lack the knowledge or wit to respond appropriately. They are quiet because they simply don't know what to say. They might feel embarrassed, overwhelmed, or unsure. It's a silence born out of intellectual deficiency or a lack of relevant information.
This could also imply someone caught in a lie or wrongdoing, who keeps silent to avoid further implicating themselves.
"And there is that keeps silence, as knowing his time."
This refers to someone who is silent deliberately and strategically. They do have something to say, but they are choosing to remain quiet because they are waiting for the right opportunity, moment, or context. They are patient, observant, and understand the power of timing.
This type of silence is born out of wisdom, prudence, and self-control. The person understands that speaking at the wrong time could be detrimental, counterproductive, or even dangerous. They might be waiting for a more receptive audience, for the facts to become clearer, or for a better chance to influence the situation.
They might also be silent to protect themselves or others from harm.
In summary, the verse contrasts two types of silence:
Ignorant or Incompetent Silence: Silence born from lack of knowledge or ability.
Strategic or Wise Silence: Silence born from deliberate choice, patience, and understanding of timing.
The verse encourages listeners to discern the reason behind someone's silence before judging them. Silence is not always a sign of ignorance; sometimes, it is a sign of wisdom and self-control. The context surrounding the silence provides the clues to correctly interpret it.