Wisdom of Jesus ben Sirach, Part 33 summary
Part 33 of 117 · 2 min to read the part
In The Justice and Mercy of God, the speaker values reverence above numerous children and recalls groups destroyed for pride, sin, and stubbornness. The teaching then joins divine mercy with judgment according to conduct, rejecting the thought that anyone can hide among creation's multitudes or keep a heart unknown to God.
What happens
- The speaker warns against delighting in ungodly children and values one person who fears God above a thousand such children.
- Examples of destroyed giants, Lot's community, and stubborn soldiers show that strength and numbers do not protect sinners.
- God both forgives and punishes, judging people by their deeds and recognizing acts of mercy.
- The speaker rejects claims that individuals can hide from God, whose gaze shakes creation and who knows every heart.
- The teaching closes by linking empty and foolish thoughts with a lack of understanding.
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In this part
The key line
“For mercy and wrath both belong to God.”The speaker
This statement joins the warnings about punishment to the assurance of forgiveness. Neither mercy nor judgment cancels the other.
Quick check
Why are the ancient giants destroyed?
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