The book Of The Bible Sirach

The book Of The Bible Sirach

Sirach is a collection of Jewish wisdom sayings and poems written around 180 BCE. Joshua Ben Sira was a teacher in the wisdom tradition. The context of the writing was Hellenistic Judaism with a strong influence of Greek culture. Sirach is not negative to Greek culture, but seeks to merge Jewish beliefs, practical advice, and Greek perspectives about moral living. Sirach draws readily from the Jewish scriptures. Wisdom, in the author’s view, is synonymous with fear of the Lord and sometimes identified with adherence to Mosaic law.

The passage from Sirach that speaks of honor of one’s parents is read during the liturgy every year on the Feast of the Holy Family (3.2-6, 12-14). On the Second Sun day of the Year, a passage about Wisdom coming from God’s mouth is read each year (24.1-4, 8-12). Also, passages from Sirach are read consecutively on Monday of the Seventh Week through Saturday of the Eighth Week of Year I.