Bogoslovska smotra, Vol. 82 No. 3, 2012.
Prethodno priopćenje
Ben Sira and Morals
Goran Kühner
orcid.org/0000-0002-5502-9180
; Papinski biblijski institut, Rim, Italija
Sažetak
The Ecclesiasticus/Ben Sira is a typical example of Jewish wisdom literature, respecting religious tradition but not fearing to contribute something new to that tradition. The aim of the Book is to bring its readers closer to the wisdom that is the fruit of divine Wisdom which is always with Him and which He gives to those who fear him. The Ben Sira contains considerable practical advice and more than likely represents the »wisdom« Ben Sira gained in school. We do not come across moral theology in the strict sense in the Book of Ben Sira – practical or theoretical. What Ben Sira presents are moral principles which fall more into the sphere of ethics. His practical advice is based on life experience. Ben Sira is particularly interested in behaviour during certain aspects of life and it is important to be able to deal with life in all situations it may bring and this requires a correct moral life. Moral life is based on the fact that the »fear of God« is the beginning of wisdom. The fear of God is not to be identified as God’s terror, suffering, stress or horror. It is an attitude that makes man aware that he is God’s creation. In that way man can better utilise earthly goods and hope for a happy end. Ben Sira relates wealth to wisdom and the fear of God. In that way he shows his pedagogical dimension which endeavours to change the priorities of his students.
Ključne riječi
Ecclesiasticus/Ben Sira; Law; morals; fear of God; wealth and poverty
Hrčak ID:
90436
URI
Datum izdavanja:
8.11.2012.
Posjeta: 1.977 *