Wisdom of Sirach

Overview

It is generally accepted that the author of Sirach was a teacher and scribe in the second century BC. He was well-versed in the Scriptures and wrote to help those who wanted to make progress in both knowing the Scriptures and doing them. References and allusions to other parts of the Old Testament abound. Sirach is also a practical guide, often similar in style to James in the New Testament. The original time of writing is estimated to be between 190 BC and 180 BC — after Malachi of the Old Testament and before the New Testament.

The Hebrew Manuscripts

Sirach was originally written in Hebrew. Over time, however, the Hebrew copies fell into disuse. In modern times, Sirach had generally only been found in Greek, Syriac, and Latin manuscripts. Practically no Hebrew existed.

From 1896 AD to 1982 AD, significant Hebrew manuscripts for some parts of Sirach were identified. The translation of Sirach in the UPDV uses those Hebrew manuscripts in many cases instead of the Greek and other manuscripts.

Chapter and Verse Numbering

The historical chapter and verse numbering has generally been followed. This allows easier comparison to other versions and use of reference works.

Title and Alternate Names

The book's title "Wisdom of Sirach" is sometimes referred to as Sirach, Wisdom of Sirach, Ben-Sira, Wisdom of Ben-Sira, or Ecclesiasticus. The dash is sometimes omitted in Ben-Sira.

Source Text

This translation of Sirach was not derived from the ASV, which was the starting point for the rest of the UPDV (except First Maccabees).