Sirach 50:21

Verse 21. Office, λειτουργιαν αυτου, “his service.” Bible.—The people prayed for king Ptolemy, to whom they were subject; though the high priest possessed almost sovereign power. The Egyptian monarch was present, ( Calmet.) and at the end of the sacrifice expressed his resolution to go into the inmost recesses of the temple, from which the people endeavoured to dissuade him. Finding their efforts to be in vain, “they all (addressing themselves to God) said with one accord.” 3 Maccabees 2. Grabe substitutes, “wherefore the high priest, Simon, kneeling down before the temple, and stretching forth his hand with solemnity, made this prayer.”