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Document Details :

Title: The Wisdom of Words in the Wisdom of Ben Sira
Author(s): REYMOND, Eric D.
Journal: Biblica
Volume: 95    Issue: 2   Date: 2014   
Pages: 224-246
DOI: 10.2143/BIB.95.2.3186111

Abstract :
This article explores the problems posed by language due to its imprecision, the disparity between what one says (or means to say) and what is interpreted. Ben Sira warns his readers of the dangers posed by the changing contexts of an utterance. Sensitivity to context reflects other aspects of Ben Sira's teaching, such as his awareness of people's differing perspectives. In addition, Ben Sira is concerned that his readers be aware of the multiple meanings behind words due to the polysemous nature of the words themselves, their morphology, and/or how they are used.


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