The ancient wisdom of Ben Sira, a text also known as Sirach or the Wisdom of Jesus son of Sirach, tackles this very human struggle. It's a book brimming with practical advice and profound insights, and this passage from chapter 15 is no exception.
"Far is she from scorners; And liars shall not remember her." What’s "she" here? Wisdom! Ben Sira paints wisdom as something elusive to those who revel in mockery and deceit. It's as if wisdom itself recoils from negativity. It’s a beautiful image, isn’t it?
Then comes a rather blunt statement: "Praise is not comely in the mouth of the wicked; For it was not apportioned him of God." Ouch. Ben Sira doesn't mince words. Praise from someone whose heart is impure, whose actions are questionable, rings hollow. It lacks authenticity because it's not rooted in genuine connection with the Divine. The text is very clear that those of a wicked nature are not apportioned praise from God.
But there's hope! The text continues, "By the mouth of the wise shall praise be spoken; And he that mastereth her shall learn it." The inverse is also true! Wisdom finds its voice in those who are wise, and those who strive to master wisdom will, in turn, learn how to offer genuine praise. It's a virtuous cycle.
Now, here's where it gets really interesting, and where the text directly confronts our inner battles. "Say not, My transgression was of God; For that which he hateth he made not." In other words, don't blame God for your mistakes! This is a powerful statement against determinism, the idea that our actions are predetermined. Ben Sira is adamant: God doesn't create evil. We do.
He doubles down: "Lest thou say, He it was that made me stumble; For there is no need of men of violence." Again, the responsibility falls squarely on us. We can't pass the buck to some divine puppeteer. There's no preordained need for violence or wickedness. The choice is ours.
The chapter concludes with a stark reminder: "Wickedness and an abomination the Lord hateth; And will not let it befall them that fear him." God detests wickedness, but those who fear (or, perhaps more accurately, revere) God will be shielded from its ultimate consequences. This isn't a guarantee of a trouble-free life, but rather a promise of divine protection and guidance.
So, what’s the takeaway? Ben Sira challenges us to own our choices. To not blame external forces – especially not God – for our transgressions. Wisdom is attainable, but it requires effort, a commitment to righteousness, and a willingness to take responsibility for our actions. It's a message that resonates just as powerfully today as it did centuries ago. Perhaps even more so. Are we truly free, or are we simply puppets of fate? Ben Sira's answer is clear: The choice, ultimately, is yours.