Sirach 20:1-15
-
1 There is a reproof that is not comely: again, some man holdeth his tongue, and he is wise.
-
2 It is much better to reprove, than to be angry secretly: and he that confesseth his fault shall be preserved from hurt.
-
3 How good is it, when thou art reproved, to shew repentance! for so shalt thou escape wilful sin.
-
4 As is the lust of an eunuch to deflower a virgin; so is he that executeth judgment with violence.
-
5 There is one that keepeth silence, and is found wise: and another by much babbling becometh hateful.
-
6 Some man holdeth his tongue, because he hath not to answer: and some keepeth silence, knowing his time.
-
7 A wise man will hold his tongue till he see opportunity: but a babbler and a fool will regard no time.
-
8 He that useth many words shall be abhorred; and he that taketh to himself authority therein shall be hated.
-
9 There is a sinner that hath good success in evil things; and there is a gain that turneth to loss.
-
10 There is a gift that shall not profit thee; and there is a gift whose recompence is double.
-
11 There is an abasement because of glory; and there is that lifteth up his head from a low estate.
-
12 There is that buyeth much for a little, and repayeth it sevenfold.
-
13 A wise man by his words maketh him beloved: but the graces of fools shall be poured out.
-
14 The gift of a fool shall do thee no good when thou hast it; neither yet of the envious for his necessity: for he looketh to receive many things for one.
-
15 He giveth little, and upbraideth much; he openeth his mouth like a crier; to day he lendeth, and to morrow will he ask it again: such an one is to be hated of God and man.