Sirach 6:8 (from the New American Bible Revised Edition) reads: "Some friends are friends when it suits them, but they will not stand by you in adversity."
This verse warns about fair-weather friends. It means:
"For there is a friend that is so for his own occasion;": This refers to someone who acts like a friend only when it benefits them or when things are going well for both of you. They are friends "for the occasion," meaning their friendship is situational or conditional.
"And he will not continue in the day of your affliction.": This means that when you are facing difficulties, hardship, or suffering ("the day of your affliction"), this type of friend will abandon you or be nowhere to be found. They are not loyal or supportive when you need them most.
In essence, the verse is a cautionary statement about the importance of discerning true friends from those whose friendship is superficial and self-serving. It suggests that genuine friendship is tested and proven during times of adversity.
Sirach 6:8 (from the New American Bible Revised Edition) reads: "Some friends are friends when it suits them, but they will not stand by you in adversity."
This verse warns about fair-weather friends. It means:
"For there is a friend that is so for his own occasion;": This refers to someone who acts like a friend only when it benefits them or when things are going well for both of you. They are friends "for the occasion," meaning their friendship is situational or conditional.
"And he will not continue in the day of your affliction.": This means that when you are facing difficulties, hardship, or suffering ("the day of your affliction"), this type of friend will abandon you or be nowhere to be found. They are not loyal or supportive when you need them most.
In essence, the verse is a cautionary statement about the importance of discerning true friends from those whose friendship is superficial and self-serving. It suggests that genuine friendship is tested and proven during times of adversity.