“Hold the physician in honor, for he is essential to you, and God it was who established his profession. From God the doctor has his wisdom, … his knowledge makes the doctor distinguished, … He endows men with the knowledge to glory in his mighty works, Through which the doctor eases pain and the druggist prepares his medicines; Thus God’s creative work continues without cease in its efficacy on the surface of the earth. Offer your sweet-smelling oblation and petition, a rich offering according to your means. Then give the doctor his place lest he leave; for you need him too. There are times that give him an advantage, and he too beseeches God that his diagnosis may be correct and his treatment bring about a cure. He who is a sinner toward his Maker will be defiant toward the doctor.” Sirach 38
