Sirach 41:21 - And of turning away your face from a kinsman; Of taking away a portion or a gift; And of gazing upon a woman that has a husband;

Generated Verse: Sirach 41:21

What does "Sirach 41:21" mean?


This verse from Sirach 41:21 outlines actions that are considered shameful or dishonorable and should be avoided. Let's break down each part:

"And of turning away your face from a kinsman": This refers to ignoring or neglecting a relative in need. It suggests a lack of familial loyalty and compassion. Turning your back on a family member implies a rejection of their needs and a breaking of the bonds of kinship. In ancient societies, family ties were crucial for survival and support, so neglecting a relative was a serious offense.

"Of taking away a portion or a gift": This condemns the act of reneging on a promised gift or taking back something that has already been given. It highlights the importance of keeping one's word and maintaining integrity in dealings with others. To take back a gift is seen as petty, dishonest, and potentially harmful to the recipient, who may have been relying on it.

"And of gazing upon a woman that has a husband": This cautions against lustful or inappropriate attention towards a married woman. It underscores the importance of respecting the sanctity of marriage and avoiding actions that could lead to adultery or create discord within a family. "Gazing" here implies more than just a casual glance; it suggests a lingering, lustful look that could be construed as a violation of the marriage bond.

In summary, this verse condemns actions that undermine family relationships, trust, and marital fidelity. It emphasizes the importance of loyalty, honesty, and respect within the community. It's about upholding social order and preventing behaviors that could lead to conflict and disruption.