SirachChapter 42
Sirach Chapter 42: Meaning
Sirach lists things not to be ashamed of, warns about daughters, then praises God's creation.
Summary
This chapter begins with a list of things people should NOT be ashamed of. Ben Sira says you should not be embarrassed to follow God's law, to be honest in business, to discipline children, or to correct foolish people. Being fair and accurate, like using proper weights and writing things down, is wise, not shameful.
Then Ben Sira talks about daughters. He says a father worries about his daughter at every stage of life, when she is young and unmarried, when she is married, and if she is unable to have children. He says a father must keep a close watch so she does not bring shame to the family. Some of his words about women reflect the attitudes of his time and culture.
The chapter ends with a beautiful section about God's creation. Ben Sira says God made the sun, which is full of his glory. God knows everything, even secret thoughts. Nothing is hidden from him. All of creation works together perfectly, and everything God made is good. He calls readers to stop and marvel at how great God is.
Historical Context
Ben Sira wrote around 180 BC. In ancient Jewish society, a family's honor was tied closely to the behavior of all its members, especially women. This explains why Ben Sira worried so much about daughters, it reflects the culture of his time, not a timeless rule about women.
The section about God's creation shows that Jewish teachers used the natural world to praise God. Looking at the sky, the sun, and the sea reminded people that God is powerful and wise beyond understanding.
Chapter Outline
1
Things You Should Not Be Ashamed OfVerse 1-8
2
A Father's Worry Over His DaughterVerse 9-14
3
God's Works Are Full of GloryVerse 15-26
Key Verses
What This Means Today
Never be ashamed to do the right thing, even if others make fun of you for it.
Being honest in business — using fair measures and keeping good records — is the wise thing to do.
God sees everything, including our thoughts, so we should try to think and act with integrity.
When you look at the world around you — the sun, the sky, the sea — you can see how amazing God is.
Family members affect each other, so the choices we make matter to the people we love.
Continue Exploring
Read Sirach 42 in the Bible reader, explore the full book, or dive into individual verse meanings.