A note on the translation of Ecclesiastes



We read in one of the most interesting books of the Old Testament “Whoever sins in the eyes of his maker, let him come before a doctor”. (Ecclesiasticus, 38:15). This is meant as a curse and it is used by many religious as a justification for medicine.
 

Let us consider that in ancient times there was no such profession as a doctor, just a priest (Leviticus).  Earlier Ecclesiasticus mentions a “druggist”. In ancient times and still in parts of Africa the shaman or druggist (chemist) practices the belief that the solution to any health problem is to be found within a days walk of their village in the form of herbs.


Jesus was much more critical of the medical profession and said “Physician, heal thy self”. Surgeons emerged in Greek and Roman times in an age of military aggression and domestic peace. Our Lord adopted a more cautious and critical approach in his Divine Word.

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