If Syrian paganism showed the influence of the Greek at his worst on Jewish morals, Ben Sirach and Wisdom of Solomon are indications of the influence of Greek thought at its best on Jewish thinkers. Together with the Bible books of Proverbs, Job and Ecclesiastes, they form a group called "Wisdom Literature." A large part of both books is devoted to the value of wisdom, but it is that wisdom the beginning of which is the fear of the Lord. Ecclesiasticus. The Wisdom of Jesus (Greek for Joshua), Ben Sirach or Ecclesiasticus is a commentary on the times. It was written about B.C.E. 180, in Judea, before the persecution began under Antiochus, the Syrian who was so little Greek and so largely pagan. It urges obedience to the Law and Commandments and gives copious rules of conduct in every relation of life. Ben Sirach was a Jewish scribe. Some of his sayings are edited and some are original. Here are a few quotations: Woe to the sinner that goeth two ways. Wine and music rejoice the heart, and the love of wisdom is above both. The knowledge of wickedness is not wisdom and the prudence of sinners is not counsel. They (the laboring class) maintain the fabric of the world; and in the handiwork of their craft is their prayer. He that sacrificeth of a thing wrongfully gotten, his offering is made a mockery. As one that slayeth his neighbor is he that taketh away his living. As God's mercy is great, so is His correction also. Before man is life and death, and whatsoever he liketh shall be given to him. There is a shame that bringeth sin, and there is a shame that is glory and grace. A slip on the pavement is better than a slip with the tongue. Depart from wrong and it shall turn aside from thee. He that keepeth the law bringeth offerings enough. He that requiteth a good turn offereth fine flour. If thou come to serve the Lord prepare for adversity. Let not reverence of any man cause thee to fall. Hide not thy wisdom in its beauty. Rejoice not over the death of thy greatest enemy but remember that we die all. Forsake not an old friend, for the new is not comparable to him. Unto the slave that is wise shall they that are free do service. The bee is little among such as fly; but her fruit is the chief of sweet things. Judge none blessed before his death. The rich man hath done wrong yet he threateneth withal. The poor man is wronged and he must entreat also. Blessed is he whose conscience has not condemned him. He that despiseth small things by small things shall he fall. Wisdom that is hid and treasure that is hoarded, what profit is there in both? He that setteth a trap shall be taken therein. He that revengeth shall find vengeance from the Lord.