Wisdom 9:14-18
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
14 For the deliberations of mortals are timid,
and uncertain our plans.
15 [a]For the corruptible body burdens the soul
and the earthly tent weighs down the mind with its many concerns.(A)
16 Scarcely can we guess the things on earth,
and only with difficulty grasp what is at hand;
but things in heaven, who can search them out?(B)
17 Or who can know your counsel, unless you give Wisdom
and send your holy spirit from on high?(C)
18 [b]Thus were the paths of those on earth made straight,
and people learned what pleases you,
and were saved by Wisdom.(D)
Footnotes
- 9:15–17 Although the expressions in v. 15 draw on the language of Plato concerning the human condition, the conclusion is very biblical: God remains a mystery (Jb 38–39; Eccl 8:17; Is 40:12–14; Rom 11:33–34). The plight of humankind is clearly one of ignorance, unless the “holy spirit” is sent from God.
- 9:18 An announcement of the next section.
Scripture texts, prefaces, introductions, footnotes and cross references used in this work are taken from the New American Bible, revised edition © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, DC All Rights Reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.