Sirach 4:31 - Let not your hand be stretched out to receive, and closed when you should repay.
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What does "Sirach 4:31" mean?
This verse from Sirach 4:31 ("Let not your hand be stretched out to receive, and closed when you should repay.") is about financial integrity and the importance of fulfilling obligations. Let's break down the meaning:
"Let not your hand be stretched out to receive...": This part warns against eagerly accepting help, gifts, or loans from others. It suggests that you should be cautious and thoughtful about accepting things you might need to repay. It hints at not being greedy or constantly seeking handouts.
"...and closed when you should repay.": This is the core of the message. It condemns the act of being reluctant or unwilling to pay back what you owe. Closing your hand signifies holding onto your possessions tightly and refusing to give back what's due.
In essence, the verse teaches the following:
Be responsible with borrowing/receiving: Don't be quick to take things from others unless you are confident you can and will repay.
Fulfill your obligations: When you borrow or receive something with the understanding that you will repay, you must honor that commitment.
Be honest and honorable: It's a matter of integrity. Your word should be your bond. Don't be a borrower who avoids paying back what they owe.
Avoid stinginess and greed: Don't be generous in asking for help but stingy in returning it.
Practical implications:
This verse has practical applications in various areas of life, including:
Finances: Paying back loans, debts, and IOUs promptly.
Favors: Returning favors or acts of kindness when appropriate.
Trust and Relationships: Maintaining trust by upholding your promises and agreements.
The verse emphasizes the importance of fairness, responsibility, and integrity in our dealings with others, particularly in financial matters. It warns against the hypocrisy of being quick to receive but slow to repay.
Sirach 4:31 - Let not your hand be stretched out to receive, and closed when you should repay.
What does "Sirach 4:31" mean?
This verse from Sirach 4:31 ("Let not your hand be stretched out to receive, and closed when you should repay.") is about financial integrity and the importance of fulfilling obligations. Let's break down the meaning:
"Let not your hand be stretched out to receive...": This part warns against eagerly accepting help, gifts, or loans from others. It suggests that you should be cautious and thoughtful about accepting things you might need to repay. It hints at not being greedy or constantly seeking handouts.
"...and closed when you should repay.": This is the core of the message. It condemns the act of being reluctant or unwilling to pay back what you owe. Closing your hand signifies holding onto your possessions tightly and refusing to give back what's due.
In essence, the verse teaches the following:
Be responsible with borrowing/receiving: Don't be quick to take things from others unless you are confident you can and will repay.
Fulfill your obligations: When you borrow or receive something with the understanding that you will repay, you must honor that commitment.
Be honest and honorable: It's a matter of integrity. Your word should be your bond. Don't be a borrower who avoids paying back what they owe.
Avoid stinginess and greed: Don't be generous in asking for help but stingy in returning it.
Practical implications:
This verse has practical applications in various areas of life, including:
Finances: Paying back loans, debts, and IOUs promptly.
Favors: Returning favors or acts of kindness when appropriate.
Trust and Relationships: Maintaining trust by upholding your promises and agreements.
The verse emphasizes the importance of fairness, responsibility, and integrity in our dealings with others, particularly in financial matters. It warns against the hypocrisy of being quick to receive but slow to repay.