The King James Version Bible

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.