Sirach 41:17 - Be ashamed of whoredom before father and mother: And of a lie before a prince and a mighty man;

Generated Verse: Sirach 41:17

What does "Sirach 41:17" mean?


Sirach 41:17 essentially advises that certain actions are so shameful that they should evoke a sense of remorse and discretion even in the presence of authority figures or respected family members. Let's break it down:

"Be ashamed of whoredom before father and mother:" This highlights the importance of upholding family honor and avoiding actions that would bring disgrace. "Whoredom" in this context refers to sexual immorality, infidelity, or promiscuity. The verse suggests that such behavior should be particularly shameful to someone when they're around their parents, as it violates the trust and respect inherent in that relationship. It is not just about fearing punishment, but about feeling genuine shame for actions that betray familial values.

"And of a lie before a prince and a mighty man:" This part addresses honesty and integrity in the presence of those in power. Lying to a "prince" or "mighty man" (i.e., a ruler or person of significant authority) is considered a particularly egregious offense. This is because:
It undermines the foundation of trust necessary for effective governance and leadership.
It carries a higher risk of severe consequences if discovered.
It suggests a lack of respect for the authority and position of the person being deceived.

In summary, the verse emphasizes the importance of behaving with morality and integrity in all situations, but specifically highlighting the need for shame in contexts where family honor and the respect for authority are paramount. It's a call for responsible behavior and a recognition of the social consequences of certain actions.

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