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Wisdom 11:5-7
New Catholic Bible
Wisdom 11:5-7
New Catholic Bible
5 The very means that had served to punish their enemies
became a benefit for them in their need.[a]
6 Instead of the spring of an ever-flowing river[b]
befouled by blood mingled with water
7 as a rebuke for the decree to slaughter infants,
you gave them abundant water unexpectedly,
Footnotes
- Wisdom 11:5 The very means . . . their need: the theme of this part of the Book (which can be better understood by reviewing the texts indicated by the cross-references) as well as the principle of interpretation for all that follows: God utilizes the same elements (water, fire, etc.) as a blessing for his people and as a malediction for his enemies. Each element, and even its natural properties, can be transformed at the will of God to save or to judge.
- Wisdom 11:6 Ever-flowing river: i.e., the Nile (see Ex 7:14f). The author contrasts the first plague of Egypt (see Ex 7:17-24) with the water drawn from a rock at Horeb (see Ex 17:5-7; Num 20:8-11).
