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20 None of their sins are hidden from him; he is aware of them all.[a] 22 When we give to the poor, the Lord considers it as precious as a valuable ring. Human kindness is as precious to him as life itself. 23 Later he will judge the wicked and punish them; they will get what they deserve. 24 But the Lord will allow those who repent to return to him. He always gives encouragement to those who are losing hope.

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Footnotes

  1. Sirach 17:20 Some manuscripts add verse 21: But the Lord is gracious and knows his creatures; so he has spared them rather than abandon them.

20 Their iniquities are not hidden from him,
    and all their sins are before the Lord.[a]
22 One’s almsgiving is like a signet ring with the Lord,[b]
    and he will keep a person’s kindness like the apple of his eye.[c](A)
23 Afterward he will rise up and repay them,
    and he will bring their recompense on their heads.(B)
24 Yet to those who repent he grants a return,
    and he encourages those who are losing hope.(C)

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Footnotes

  1. 17.20 Other ancient authorities add as 17.21: But the Lord, who is gracious and knows how they are formed, has neither left them nor abandoned them but has spared them.
  2. 17.22 Gk him
  3. 17.22 Other ancient authorities add apportioning repentance to his sons and daughters

20 But to the penitent he hath given the way of justice, and he hath strengthened them that were fainting in patience, and hath appointed to them the lot of truth.

21 Turn to the Lord, and forsake thy sins:

22 Make thy prayer before the face of the Lord, and offend less.

23 Return to the Lord, and turn away from thy injustice, and greatly hate abomination.

24 And know the justices and judgments of God, and stand firm in the lot set before thee, and in prayer to the most high God.

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