There is a time when success lies in the hands of physicians: Instead of in the hands of physicians, the Greek says “in their hands” (see the Revised Standard Version footnote). Good News Translation has a good model for this verse, but another approach is suggested by New English Bible, which reads “There may come a time when your recovery is in their hands.” Another possible model is:

• There may come a time when your recovery depends on the doctor.

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.