Ben Sira, also known as Ecclesiasticus, is a book of wisdom literature, a collection of ethical teachings and practical advice. It's not part of the Hebrew Bible as defined by rabbinic tradition, but it’s considered canonical in some Christian denominations, and it offers incredible insights into Jewish thought during the Second Temple period.
And chapter 15? It's all about choice.
"For God created man from the beginning," Ben Sira tells us, "and put him into the hand of him that would spoil him; and gave him into the hand of his inclination." Now, that first line might seem a little…harsh. Who is this "him that would spoil him?" Some interpretations suggest this refers to the yetzer hara, the "evil inclination" within us. It's that little voice whispering temptations, urging us to take the easy way out, to indulge in desires that might not be good for us. God, it seems, knowingly placed us in a situation where we would face temptation.
But here's the crucial part: "If thou choose, thou mayest keep the commandment; and it is understanding to do his will. If thou trust in him, thou shalt even live." We have the power to choose. We are not simply victims of our inclinations. We can choose to follow God's will, to embrace understanding, and to live a life of meaning.
Think about it. "Fire and water are poured out before thee: Upon whichsoever thou choosest stretch forth thy hands." Ben Sira presents us with stark choices, elemental forces. Fire can purify, but it can also destroy. Water can sustain life, but it can also drown. The choice is ours. We decide what we embrace, what we allow to shape us.
And the consequences are significant. "Death and life are before a man: That which he shall choose shall be given him." This isn't just about physical life and death. It's about the quality of our lives, the kind of people we become. Do we choose a path that leads to spiritual fulfillment, to connection with something larger than ourselves? Or do we choose a path of selfishness and destruction?
Ultimately, Ben Sira reminds us of the immensity of God's wisdom: "The wisdom of the Lord aboundeth: He is mighty in power, and beholdeth all." God sees our choices, understands the struggles we face. But He doesn't force us. He gives us the freedom to choose, the responsibility to shape our own destinies.
So, what do you choose? What path will you walk? Ben Sira suggests that the power, and the consequences, are truly in your hands. It’s a challenging thought, isn't it? To realize that we are not just passengers on this journey, but active participants, constantly making choices that define who we are. And maybe, just maybe, that's the most beautiful and terrifying gift of all.