The King James Version Bible

Sirach 40:9-22

  1. Death, and bloodshed, strife, and sword, calamities, famine, tribulation, and the scourge;

  2. These things are created for the wicked, and for their sakes came the flood.

  3. All things that are of the earth shall turn to the earth again: and that which is of the waters doth return into the sea.

  4. All bribery and injustice shall be blotted out: but true dealing shall endure for ever.

  5. The goods of the unjust shall be dried up like a river, and shall vanish with noise, like a great thunder in rain.

  6. While he openeth his hand he shall rejoice: so shall transgressors come to nought.

  7. The children of the ungodly shall not bring forth many branches: but are as unclean roots upon a hard rock.

  8. The weed growing upon every water and bank of a river shall be pulled up before all grass.

  9. Bountifulness is as a most fruitful garden, and mercifulness endureth for ever.

  10. To labour, and to be content with that a man hath, is a sweet life: but he that findeth a treasure is above them both.

  11. Children and the building of a city continue a man's name: but a blameless wife is counted above them both.

  12. Wine and musick rejoice the heart: but the love of wisdom is above them both.

  13. The pipe and the psaltery make sweet melody: but a pleasant tongue is above them both.

  14. Thine eye desireth favour and beauty: but more than both corn while it is green.