Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 38:5-19 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

5. Was not bitter water made sweet with wood?

6. The benefits of these things is recognized by men, and the Most High has given this knowledge to men, so that he may be honored in his wonders.

7. By these things, he will cure or mitigate their suffering, and the pharmacist will make soothing ointments, and he will form healing medicines, and there will be no end to his works.

8. For the peace of God is upon the surface of the earth.

9. Son, in your infirmity, you should not neglect yourself, but pray to the Lord, and he will cure you.

10. Turn away from sin, and direct your hands, and cleanse your heart from every offense.

11. Give a sweet offering, and a memorial of fine flour, and fatten your oblation, but also give a place to the physician.

12. For the Lord created him. And so, do not let him depart from you, for his works are necessary.

13. For there is a time when you may fall into their hands.

14. Truly, they will beseech the Lord, so that he may direct their treatments and cures, for the sake of their way of life.

15. He who sins in the sight of the One who made him will fall into the hands of the physician.

16. Son, shed tears over the dead, and begin to weep, as if you had suffered dreadfully. And according to judgment, cover his body, and you should not neglect his burial.

17. And though you will sink down into bitterness, bear his mourning for one day, and then be consoled in your sadness.

18. And carry out his mourning, according to his merit, for one or two days because of this loss.

19. Yet sadness hastens death and overwhelms strength, and the sorrow of the heart bows down the neck.

Read complete chapter Sirach 38