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Book of Sirach / Ecclesiasticus
Dating
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Setting: Jerusalem during Hellenistic period, written by Joshua ben Sira
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Reference point: Similar to Proverbs/Ecclesiastes, combining Hebrew wisdom with Greek cultural responses
Signifcance
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Bridge between biblical and rabbinic wisdom
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Preserves Second Temple period Torah understanding
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Emphasizes practical application of Torah
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Details proper conduct for Torah-observant life
Discovery
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Original Hebrew fragments found in Cairo Geniza (1896)
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Additional fragments found at Masada (1964)
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Dead Sea Scrolls fragments (Qumran)
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Complete Greek text in Septuagint
Transmission
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Through Jewish communities until medieval period
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Via Greek-speaking diaspora
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Through early believing communities
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Included in Catholic/Orthodox canons
Language / Translation
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Original language: Hebrew
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Translated to Greek by author's grandson (132 BCE)
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Multiple recensions exist
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Available in Syriac, Latin, Arabic versions
Genre
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Wisdom literature
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Ethical instruction
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Torah commentary
Content
The text provides comprehensive wisdom teachings grounded in Torah observance, covering:
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Fear of YHWH as the foundation of wisdom
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Proper conduct in family and community
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Business ethics and social relationships
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Prayer and Temple worship
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Historical praise of righteous ancestors
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Practical application of Torah principles
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Warnings against assimilation to foreign customs
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Instructions for raising children in Torah
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Guidelines for leadership and teaching
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Proper speech and behavior
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Marriage and family relationships
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Celebration of YHWH's creation and wisdom
Commentary
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