Sirach 3:17 - My son, go on with your business in meekness; So will you be beloved of an acceptable man.
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What does "Sirach 3:17" mean?
Sirach 3:17, "My son, go on with your business in meekness; So will you be beloved of an acceptable man," is a piece of wisdom literature focused on humility and its practical benefits. Let's break it down:
"My son, go on with your business...": This is a common way of addressing a student or younger person, offering guidance. "Business" here refers to your everyday affairs, your work, your dealings with others – your entire conduct of life.
"...in meekness...": This is the key part. "Meekness" isn't weakness. It's more akin to humility, gentleness, and a lack of arrogance or excessive pride. It's about approaching your affairs with a modest and teachable spirit, not lording your position or knowledge over others. It suggests being considerate, polite, and respectful, even when you are in a position of power or authority.
"...So will you be beloved of an acceptable man.": This explains the reward of meekness. The phrase "acceptable man" likely refers to someone who is respected, virtuous, and discerning – someone whose approval you would value. More broadly, it could also be interpreted as being well-regarded by most people.
In essence, the verse is saying:
If you conduct yourself with humility and gentleness in your daily life, you will earn the respect and affection of good people, including those whose opinions matter.
Further Considerations:
Practical Wisdom: The verse emphasizes the practical benefits of humility. It's not just about being morally good, but also about being successful and well-liked.
Social Harmony: Meekness contributes to social harmony. It reduces conflict and encourages cooperation.
Leadership: Ironically, meekness can make you a better leader. People are more likely to follow someone who is humble and considerate than someone who is arrogant and demanding.
Cultural Context: It's worth considering the cultural context of Sirach (also known as Ecclesiasticus), which was written in the Hellenistic period (2nd century BC). This was a time when social status and honor were highly valued, so the advice to cultivate a reputation for humility would have been particularly relevant.
In conclusion, Sirach 3:17 advises us to practice humility in all our dealings, as it leads to being valued and respected by others, especially those whose approval we should seek. It highlights the practical benefits of being humble, showing that it's not just a virtue, but a path to success and good relationships.
Sirach 3:17 - My son, go on with your business in meekness; So will you be beloved of an acceptable man.
What does "Sirach 3:17" mean?
Sirach 3:17, "My son, go on with your business in meekness; So will you be beloved of an acceptable man," is a piece of wisdom literature focused on humility and its practical benefits. Let's break it down:
"My son, go on with your business...": This is a common way of addressing a student or younger person, offering guidance. "Business" here refers to your everyday affairs, your work, your dealings with others – your entire conduct of life.
"...in meekness...": This is the key part. "Meekness" isn't weakness. It's more akin to humility, gentleness, and a lack of arrogance or excessive pride. It's about approaching your affairs with a modest and teachable spirit, not lording your position or knowledge over others. It suggests being considerate, polite, and respectful, even when you are in a position of power or authority.
"...So will you be beloved of an acceptable man.": This explains the reward of meekness. The phrase "acceptable man" likely refers to someone who is respected, virtuous, and discerning – someone whose approval you would value. More broadly, it could also be interpreted as being well-regarded by most people.
In essence, the verse is saying:
If you conduct yourself with humility and gentleness in your daily life, you will earn the respect and affection of good people, including those whose opinions matter.
Further Considerations:
Practical Wisdom: The verse emphasizes the practical benefits of humility. It's not just about being morally good, but also about being successful and well-liked.
Social Harmony: Meekness contributes to social harmony. It reduces conflict and encourages cooperation.
Leadership: Ironically, meekness can make you a better leader. People are more likely to follow someone who is humble and considerate than someone who is arrogant and demanding.
Cultural Context: It's worth considering the cultural context of Sirach (also known as Ecclesiasticus), which was written in the Hellenistic period (2nd century BC). This was a time when social status and honor were highly valued, so the advice to cultivate a reputation for humility would have been particularly relevant.
In conclusion, Sirach 3:17 advises us to practice humility in all our dealings, as it leads to being valued and respected by others, especially those whose approval we should seek. It highlights the practical benefits of being humble, showing that it's not just a virtue, but a path to success and good relationships.