Sirach 31:19 - How sufficient to a well-mannered man is a very little, And he does not breathe hard upon his bed.
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What does "Sirach 31:19" mean?
This verse from Sirach 31:19 (part of the book of Ecclesiasticus in the Apocrypha) praises the virtues of moderation and self-control, especially in regards to food and drink. Let's break down the meaning:
"How sufficient to a well-mannered man is a very little..." This emphasizes that a person of good character and restraint doesn't need much to be satisfied. They don't crave excesses or large portions. They find contentment in simple things and modest amounts.
"...And he does not breathe hard upon his bed." This is a metaphorical way of saying that someone who eats and drinks in moderation will sleep soundly and peacefully. "Breathing hard" implies labored breathing, restlessness, and discomfort. Overindulgence in food or drink often leads to indigestion, tossing and turning, and a generally poor night's sleep. Someone who practices temperance, on the other hand, enjoys a restful sleep.
In essence, the verse suggests:
Moderation is a virtue: A truly well-mannered person is content with little and doesn't give in to excessive desires.
Self-control leads to well-being: Temperance in eating and drinking promotes physical comfort and good health, resulting in peaceful rest.
A simple life is a good life: The verse values a life free from the burdens of overindulgence and the associated negative consequences.
The verse encourages readers to cultivate habits of self-restraint and to find satisfaction in simple things, promising a more peaceful and fulfilling life as a result. It connects moral character to practical benefits like good health and restful sleep.
Sirach 31:19 - How sufficient to a well-mannered man is a very little, And he does not breathe hard upon his bed.
What does "Sirach 31:19" mean?
This verse from Sirach 31:19 (part of the book of Ecclesiasticus in the Apocrypha) praises the virtues of moderation and self-control, especially in regards to food and drink. Let's break down the meaning:
"How sufficient to a well-mannered man is a very little..." This emphasizes that a person of good character and restraint doesn't need much to be satisfied. They don't crave excesses or large portions. They find contentment in simple things and modest amounts.
"...And he does not breathe hard upon his bed." This is a metaphorical way of saying that someone who eats and drinks in moderation will sleep soundly and peacefully. "Breathing hard" implies labored breathing, restlessness, and discomfort. Overindulgence in food or drink often leads to indigestion, tossing and turning, and a generally poor night's sleep. Someone who practices temperance, on the other hand, enjoys a restful sleep.
In essence, the verse suggests:
Moderation is a virtue: A truly well-mannered person is content with little and doesn't give in to excessive desires.
Self-control leads to well-being: Temperance in eating and drinking promotes physical comfort and good health, resulting in peaceful rest.
A simple life is a good life: The verse values a life free from the burdens of overindulgence and the associated negative consequences.
The verse encourages readers to cultivate habits of self-restraint and to find satisfaction in simple things, promising a more peaceful and fulfilling life as a result. It connects moral character to practical benefits like good health and restful sleep.