And besides all this pray to the Most High that he may direct your way in truth: And besides all this is rendered “Above all” by Good News Translation, and Contemporary English Version says “But the most important thing is.” Besides seeking the advice of godly people and trusting our own judgment, we should pray for guidance, because God can be counted on for the best advice. “He will show you the right thing to do” (Good News Translation). The Most High refers to God’s supreme majesty, not to his height or size (see 4.10).

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Sirach. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.