Ben Sira, in his wisdom, speaks directly to that feeling. He warns us about the allure of riches, the way gold and rubies can become gilded cages.
"Many are there that have been given in pledge to gold; And that trusted on rubies. And they found not how to escape from evil; Neither to save themselves in the day of wrath." It's a stark image, isn’t it? Like pawning your soul for a fleeting moment of perceived security.
He goes on: "For it is a stumblingblock to the fool; And whoso is simple is enticed thereby." The yetzer hara, that inner voice of temptation, whispers promises of happiness through wealth. But Ben Sira reminds us that true fulfillment lies elsewhere.
But then, a glimmer of hope. A path less traveled. "Blessed is the man that hath been found perfect; And that hath not gone aside after mammon." Mammon. The Aramaic word for money, often used to personify greed itself. To resist its pull, to remain "perfect," whole, is a true blessing.
And then comes the key question, repeated for emphasis: "Who is he? and we will call him blessed: For he hath done wonderously among his people. Who is he? that we may cleave unto him; And he shall have peace, and he shall have glory."
Who is this person who can resist the siren song of wealth? The one who chooses integrity over riches? Ben Sira doesn't give us a name. Instead, he invites us to recognize the qualities in those around us, those who act with tzedakah – righteousness and justice – those who prioritize community and connection over personal gain.
To "cleave" unto him – the Hebrew suggests a deep, almost mystical connection. To learn from him, to emulate his actions. And what awaits such a person? Not just earthly riches, but true peace and lasting glory. "For when as the peace of his life multiplieth, I will be a glory unto thee." The meaning here is a little unclear, and some translations differ. It could mean that God will be glorified through this person's righteous life, or it could mean that the person themselves will be glorified. Either way, the message is clear: living a life of integrity is its own reward.
So, the next time you find yourself chasing that shiny object, remember Ben Sira's words. Ask yourself: what am I really seeking? And is this pursuit leading me closer to, or further away from, true peace and lasting glory? Perhaps the greatest wealth lies not in what we accumulate, but in the kind of person we become.