1 Honor the physician with the honor due him, according to your need of him, for the Lord created him.
2 for the Lord created him; and he returned him to the power of the earth.
3 When the dead is at rest, let his remembrance rest, and be comforted for him when his spirit is departed.
4 The Lord created medicines from the earth, and a sensible person will not despise them.
5 The Lord has created medicines out of the earth, and a sensible man will not despise them.
6 By his knowledge the Lord has distinguished them,
and he has appointed the different seasons and feasts.
7 With such doth he heal a man, and taketh away his pain; and of such doth the apothecary make a confection; and of his works there is no end; and from him is peace over all the earth.
8 To physicians also, because the Lord created them,
for their gift of healing comes from the Most High,
and they are rewarded by the king.
9 My son, in your sickness do not be negligent, but pray to the Lord, and he will heal you.
10 Leave off from sin, and order thine hands aright, and cleanse thy heart from all wickedness.
11 My son, in your sickness do not be negligent, but pray to the Lord, and he will heal you.
12 Then give the physician his place, for the Lord created him; let him not leave you, for there is need of him.
13 The man who sins before his Maker, let him fall into the hands of the physician.
14 For they too were created by the Most High; and what can a man do to deserve them?
15 He who sins before his Maker, let him fall into the hands of the physician.
16 My son, let tears fall down over the dead, and begin to lament, as if thou hadst suffered great harm thyself; and then cover his body according to the custom, and neglect not his burial.
17 Be kind to a father whose children have forsaken him,
and do not despise a mother when she is old.
18 For of the Most High cometh healing, and he shall receive honour of the king.
19 In his works the doctor glories, and the apothecary prepares his medicines.
20 Do not disregard the discourse of the wise, but acquaint yourself with their proverbs;
21 Remember that his fate will be like yours; tomorrow he will die.
22 Remember my judgment, for thine also shall be so; yesterday for me, and today for thee.
23 When the dead is at rest, let his remembrance rest, and be comforted for him when his spirit is departed.
24 The wisdom of a scribe comes by his time of leisure, and he who is less in action will receive wisdom.
25 When you have been successful, let your neighbor share in the glory, but when you are brought low, do not be afraid of him.
26 The skill of the physician lifts up his head, and in the presence of great men he is admired.
27 When he kneads the dough, he will give it to his servants to eat.
28 The smith also sitting by the anvil, and considering the iron work, the vapor of the fire wasteth his flesh, and he fighteth with the heat of the furnace.
29 So they will not be concerned about any disgrace.
30 So do not despise the discourse of the wise, but acquaint yourself with their proverbs; for from them you will acquire discipline and the power to serve princes.
31 All these rely on their hands,
and each is skillful in his own work.
32 Without these, a city cannot be inhabited, and wherever they exist, they will not go hungry.
33 From the woman came the beginning of sin,
and because of her we all die.
34 But they will maintain the fabric of the world, and their concern is for the exercise of their skill.
35 So it is with every craftsman and master of the arts, who is skilled by the Lord; his skill will be commended.
The True Meaning of Sirach 38
The Book of Sirach, also known as Ecclesiasticus, was written by a Jewish scribe named Jesus ben Sira around 200-175 BC. He was a wise teacher who sought to provide guidance and instruction to his fellow Jews during a time of political and social upheaval. Ben Sira addresses the role of the physician and the importance of honoring those who possess specialized knowledge and skills in this chapter. He reminds us that healing ultimately comes from God, but that we must also do our part in caring for our physical and spiritual well-being. The chapter also touches on the significance of mourning and the comfort that can be found in the rituals of death. As we delve into this passage, we find that Ben Sira’s words echo the teachings of other biblical figures, such as the wise King Solomon, who wrote, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). We will also be reminded of the importance of seeking guidance from those who have been entrusted with specialized knowledge, as the apostle James instructs us to “call the elders of the church to pray over you” (James 5:14).
Sirach 38:1-3
Physicians should be honored for their services because the Lord created them, their gift of healing comes from the Most High, and the king rewards them. The skill of physicians makes them distinguished, and in the presence of the great they are admired. These verses emphasize the importance of honoring physicians. The text acknowledges that physicians are a gift from God as they possess the ability to heal, a skill bestowed upon them by the Most High. This recognition of physicians as instruments of God’s healing power echoes the biblical teachings on the value of medicine and caring for the sick.
The act of honoring physicians is not only a sign of gratitude for their services but also an acknowledgment of the divine source of their healing abilities. This verse reminds us that the healing profession is noble and deserves respect. Throughout the Bible, we see instances of Jesus showing compassion for the sick and healing them, often through miraculous means. Jesus states in Luke 5:31-32, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” This further reinforces the idea that healing is a sacred task that aligns with God’s will. The societal recognition and value placed on physicians’ work is underscored by the king rewarding them. The woman with the issue of blood sought healing from Jesus in Matthew 9:20-22, as those with the gift of healing were highly esteemed in biblical times. Jesus commended her faith and healed her, demonstrating the honor accorded to those who heal others.
The distinction and admiration afforded to physicians in the presence of the great highlight the significance of their role in society. This serves as a reminder that healing is not only a physical act but also a spiritual and communal one, reflecting God’s love and care for His people. James 5:14-15 encourages us to call on the elders of the church to pray over the sick and anoint them with oil, illustrating the connection between faith, healing, and community support. Sirach 38:1-3 underscores the importance of giving due respect and honor to physicians, recognizing their God-given ability to heal and the valuable service they provide to the community. It aligns with the biblical teachings on the value of healing, compassion for the sick, and the interconnectedness of faith and physical well-being.
Sirach 38:4-8
The passage in Sirach 38:4-8 can be broken down into several key sections. “The Lord created medicines from the earth, and a sensible person will not hesitate to use them.”
Here, the verse emphasizes the importance of acknowledging that God has provided medicinal plants and treatments through the earth for the benefit of humankind. This verse highlights the wisdom in utilizing these resources for healing purposes. It promotes the idea that seeking medical treatment is not contradictory to faith, but rather a wise and responsible approach to caring for one’s health. This can be seen as a reminder that God’s provision can come in various forms, including through the advancements of medical science. God used mud to heal a blind man in John 9:6, as an example of using natural elements for healing in the Bible.
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“Was not water made sweet with a tree in order that its power might be known?”
This verse refers to the story in Exodus 15:25 where Moses made bitter water sweet by throwing a piece of wood (tree) into it, which symbolized God’s ability to heal and transform even the most bitter circumstances into something good. This serves as a reminder of God’s power to bring about healing and restoration in situations where it seems impossible. It also signifies the importance of recognizing and acknowledging God’s hand in the healing process, whether it be through natural means or miraculous intervention. -
“He gave skill to human beings that he might be glorified in his marvelous works.”
This part of the verse emphasizes that God is the ultimate source of wisdom and knowledge, including the skills and abilities that humans possess. It points to the idea that human intelligence and talents are gifts from God meant to be used for His glory and the benefit of others. This aligns with the biblical concept that all talents and abilities come from God, and believers are called to use them for the service of others and to bring honor to Him. This can be seen in passages like 1 Peter 4:10-11, which speaks about using our gifts to serve others and bring glory to God. Sirach 38:4-8 highlights the importance of recognizing God’s provision of medicinal resources, acknowledging His power to bring healing, and using our skills and abilities for His glory. It reinforces the idea that seeking medical treatment and utilizing God-given talents are not contradictory to faith but are in fact ways to honor and glorify Him. It serves as a reminder of God’s presence in the healing process and the need for humility in acknowledging His role in all aspects of our lives.
Sirach 38:9-15
Several important sections in Sirach 38:9-15 shed light on the importance of various skills and professions in society and the value of seeking the Lord’s guidance in all endeavors.
Starting with verse 9, the focus is on the skill of the artisan, emphasizing the beauty and utility of their craftsmanship. Artisans, who possess the ability to create with their hands, are praised for their work and acknowledged as essential members of society. This highlights the biblical notion that God has endowed individuals with unique talents and skills to contribute to the world around them. This verse underscores the value of labor and the importance of recognizing and appreciating the efforts of those who use their talents to create and build.
Moving on to verse 10, we see a shift in emphasis towards the physician. The reference to physicians speaks to the importance of healthcare and the role of healing in society. The ability to restore health and alleviate suffering is viewed as a noble endeavor, echoing the biblical principle of caring for the sick and brokenhearted. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of healing miracles performed by Jesus, showcasing the compassionate nature of God and the significance of physical well-being. The apothecary or pharmacist, who plays a crucial role in providing remedies and treatments for various ailments, becomes the focus in verse 11. This highlights the importance of pharmacology and the use of medicinal plants and substances for healing purposes. The mention of the apothecary underscores the significance of using wisdom and knowledge to address health issues, reflecting the biblical theme of seeking wisdom and understanding in all aspects of life.
Verse 12 introduces the idea of the blacksmith, who works with fire and iron to produce tools and implements. The blacksmith’s role in shaping and forging metals underscores the importance of craftsmanship and industry in society. This references the biblical significance of metalworking, seen in the construction of the tabernacle in Exodus and the forging of weapons in various battles throughout the Old Testament. The blacksmith symbolizes the transformative power of hard work and dedication in creating useful objects from raw materials.
Next, in verse 13, we encounter the potter, who molds clay into vessels for various purposes. The imagery of the potter shaping and forming clay reflects the biblical metaphor of God as the potter and humanity as the clay, highlighting the idea of divine craftsmanship and molding. God shapes and guides individuals according to His purposes and plans, just as the potter creates vessels for specific uses. This verse underscores the concept of surrendering to God’s will and allowing Him to mold our lives for His glory.
Finally, verse 14 mentions the weaver, who skillfully works with threads to create fabric and textiles. The weaver’s ability to intertwine different strands to form a cohesive whole highlights the importance of unity and collaboration in society. This verse echoes the biblical theme of unity among believers, seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 12 that describe the church as a body with different parts working together for a common purpose. Christians are called to work together in harmony to fulfill God’s purposes, just as a weaver integrates various threads to produce a beautiful tapestry. Sirach 38:9-15 emphasizes the value of hard work, craftsmanship, healing, and collaboration, providing a comprehensive view of the importance of various professions and skills in society. Each profession mentioned embodies specific qualities and attributes that contribute to the overall well-being and functionality of the community. This passage emphasizes the interconnectedness of diverse talents and the need for mutual respect and cooperation in achieving common goals by recognizing and honoring the contributions of individuals in different vocations. This message resonates with the biblical principles of stewardship, service, and unity, highlighting the importance of using our God-given gifts for the betterment of others and the glory of God.
Sirach 38:16-23
The verse in Sirach 38:16-23 focuses on the significance of various skilled individuals and their contributions to society. We break down the verse into sections. “My child, let your tears fall for the dead, and as one in great pain begin the lament.” – This part acknowledges the importance of mourning for the deceased. Grieving is a natural process that allows individuals to process their emotions and pay respects to the departed. It serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the need to cherish our loved ones while they are still with us. The act of lamenting demonstrates compassion and empathy, showing that the loss of a life is deeply felt.
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“Lay out the body with due ceremony, and do not neglect the proper burial.” – This section emphasizes the cultural and religious importance of giving proper respect to the deceased through dignified burial practices. Funerary rites in biblical times were significant events that reflected beliefs about the afterlife and the value of the deceased individual. Providing a respectful burial was seen as a way to honor the person who had passed and to show consideration for their soul’s journey beyond this life. This also ties into broader biblical themes of honoring one another and showing compassion, as seen in passages like Leviticus 19:32, which instructs people to “Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God.”
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“Mourning for the dead lasts seven days, but for the foolish and the wicked it lasts all their lives.” – This part contrasts the temporal nature of mourning for the deceased with the perpetual state of moral anguish experienced by those who live a life of foolishness and wickedness. The verse underscores the importance of living a virtuous life guided by wisdom and righteousness by highlighting the prolonged suffering of the unrighteous. The eternal consequences of leading a sinful life are a recurrent theme in the Bible, such as in Romans 6:23, which states, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
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“Do not shun the discourse of the wise, but busy yourself with their maxims; for from them you will gain discipline to do what is right, to serve before rulers.” – This section emphasizes the value of seeking wisdom from the learned and heeding their counsel. Proverbs 4:7 declares, “Get wisdom; get insight.” Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Individuals can cultivate virtues such as prudence and righteousness by engaging with the teachings of the wise, enabling them to act justly and serve effectively in positions of authority or leadership.
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“Do not disregard the discourse of the aged, for they themselves learned from their parents; from them you can learn how to think and what to say, and how to reply in times of need.” – This part underscores the intergenerational transmission of knowledge and wisdom. Passages like Proverbs 16:31 exemplify a profound respect for elders and their accumulated wisdom in biblical tradition, stating, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness. Individuals can benefit from the insights and experiences of those who have come before them by recognizing the value of learning from previous generations, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges with greater understanding and discernment. Sirach 38:16-23 illustrates the importance of honoring the deceased, seeking wisdom from the learned, and respecting the insights of elders. These timeless messages highlight the values of compassion, righteousness, and humility, which are integral to living a fulfilling and virtuous life according to biblical teachings.
Sirach 38:24-30
A passage in Sirach 38:24-30 highlights the importance of the work of skilled artisans, specifically in relation to their contributions to the community and their craftsmanship. Let’s break down this verse step by step to gain a deeper understanding of its significance. Verse 24 states, “The wisdom of the scribe comes by opportunity of leisure; and he that hath little business shall become wise.”” This verse emphasizes the value of taking time for reflection and study. The scribe, as a learned individual skilled in reading and writing, benefits from having leisure time to deepen his understanding. This notion is relevant not only in the context of scribes in ancient times but also for anyone seeking wisdom and knowledge in any era. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of making time for learning and intellectual growth in a world filled with busyness.
Moving on to verse 25, it reads, “How can he get wisdom that holdeth the plow, and that glorieth in the goad, that driveth oxen, and is occupied in their labours, and whose talk is of bullocks?” This verse contrasts the occupations of manual laborers, like farmers, with those of scholars. It suggests that individuals engaged in physical, manual work may find it challenging to pursue wisdom and intellectual pursuits due to the demanding nature of their jobs. While manual labor is vital for sustaining life and providing resources, this verse underscores the different challenges faced by individuals in various occupations when it comes to seeking wisdom.
Verse 26 continues with the theme of the different roles within a community, stating, “He giveth his mind to make furrows, and is diligent to give the kine fodder.” This verse highlights the dedication and hard work of individuals who tend to the land and care for livestock. It sheds light on the importance of agriculture and animal husbandry in ancient societies for sustenance and livelihood. The passage emphasizes the diverse contributions that different members of a community make to its well-being by honoring the labor of these workers.
The following verses, 27-30, exalt the work of skilled artisans: “So every craftsman and workmaster, that labor eth night and day, he who cuts and graven seals, and is diligent to make great variety, and sets his heart to preserve likeness in his portraiture, will make his work notable. The smith also sitting by the anvil, and considering the iron work, the vapor of the fire wasteth his flesh, and he fighteth with the heat of the furnace.” These verses pay tribute to craftsmen, seal-cutters, portraitists, and blacksmiths who dedicate themselves to their crafts with passion and perseverance. The sacrifices they make, the physical toll their work takes on their bodies, and the commitment to excellence in their creations are all acknowledged and celebrated. These verses from Sirach 38 underscore the dignity and value of labor in all its forms in the broader context of the Bible. They remind us of the diversity of skills and gifts that individuals possess and the importance of recognizing and honoring these talents within a community. Skilled artisans are valued for their craftsmanship and dedication throughout biblical narratives, just as Bezalel and Oholiab were filled with the Spirit of God to create works of art for the tabernacle in the book of Exodus (Exodus 31:1-11).
Therefore, Sirach 38:24-30 serves as a timeless reminder of the beauty found in the work of artisans, the diligence of laborers, and the importance of pursuing wisdom amidst life’s demands. It encourages us to appreciate the unique contributions of all individuals within a community and to value both intellectual pursuits and manual labor as essential components of a well-rounded society.
Sirach 38:31-34
Verses 31-34 in Sirach 38 address the role of the wisdom of God in all aspects of life, particularly focusing on the importance of skilled workers in society. The passage emphasizes the value of those who possess skill and expertise in their craft, whether they be craftsmen, writers, or musicians. These individuals are regarded as the glory of their respective professions, and their work brings honor to them and to God. These verses highlight the significance of using one’s talents and skills for the glory of God in a deeper analysis. It underscores the idea that each individual has been endowed with unique abilities that should be used to benefit others and bring honor to God. This connects to the broader biblical message of stewardship, where believers are encouraged to be good stewards of the gifts and talents they have received from God.
The reference to the musician in verse 32 also serves as a reminder of the powerful impact that music and art can have on the human soul. Throughout the Bible, music plays a significant role in worship, prophecy, and celebration. For instance, in the Book of Psalms, music is used as a means of praising God and expressing a wide range of human emotions. Music has the ability to uplift, comfort, and inspire, and skilled musicians have the capacity to touch hearts and souls through their talents.
Furthermore, verse 33 mentions the importance of the scribe, who is responsible for recording and transmitting knowledge through writing. This emphasizes the value of education and scholarship in preserving and passing down wisdom from one generation to another. The Bible often associates the act of writing with the transmission of divine messages and teachings. For example, the prophets in the Old Testament were instructed to write down their visions and prophecies so that they could be preserved for future generations. Sirach 38:31-34 underscores the importance of skill, craftsmanship, and creativity in serving God and others. It reminds believers of the value of using their talents for the greater good and for the glory of God. This passage encourages a broader appreciation for the diverse ways in which God’s wisdom is manifested in the world by recognizing and honoring the skills of individuals in various professions.
After Sirach 38
The chapter concluded with a reminder of the importance of the physician’s role in society. The reverend would summarize this chapter by highlighting the key message that the Lord has created medicines from the earth, and the wise person will not despise them.
However, the chapter also cautions that one should not rely solely on the physician, but also turn to the Lord in times of illness and distress. For it is the Lord who provides healing and comfort, and the physician is merely an instrument in His hands. We will explore the wisdom of honoring one’s parents and the importance of filial piety in the next chapter. This teaching is essential for building a strong and cohesive community, as we are called to respect and care for those who have come before us.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.