Sirach

SIRACH

It's title is Ecclesiasitcus in the Latin.

The Wisdom of Jesus (Iesous) Son of Sirach ​​ -Iesous is the Greek

A Prologue made by an uncertain Author

This Jesus was the son of Sirach, and grandchild to Jesus of the same name with him: this man therefore lived in the latter times, after the people had been led away captive, and called home a again, and almost after all the prophets. Now his grandfather Jesus, as he himself witnesseth, was a man of great diligence and wisdom among the Hebrews, who did not only gather the grave and short sentences of wise men, that had been before him, but himself also uttered some of his own, full of much understanding and wisdom. When as therefore the first Jesus died, leaving this book almost perfected, Sirach his son receiving it after him left it to his own son Jesus, who, having gotten it into his hands, compiled it all orderly into one volume, and called it Wisdom, intituling it both by his own name, his father’s name, and his grandfather’s; alluring the hearer by the very name of Wisdom to have a greater love to the study of this book. It containeth therefore wise sayings, dark sentences, and parables, and certain particular ancient godly stories of men that pleased God; also his prayer and song; moreover, what benefits God had vouchsafed his people, and what plagues he had heaped upon their enemies. This Jesus did imitate Solomon, and was no less famous for wisdom and learning, both being indeed a man of great learning, and so reputed also.

From the Septuagint with (NRSV in parenthesis)

The Prologue

Sirach 1:1 ​​ Whereas many and great things have been delivered unto us by the law and the prophets, and by others (other books) that have followed their steps, for the which things Israel ought to be commended for learning and wisdom; and whereof not only the readers must needs become skilful themselves, but also they that desire to learn be able to profit them which are without, both by speaking and writing: my grandfather Jesus, when he had much given himself to the reading of the law, and the prophets, and other books of our fathers, and had gotten therein good judgment, was drawn on also himself to write something pertaining to learning and wisdom; to the intent that those which are desirous to learn, and are addicted to these things, might profit much more in living according to the law.

Wherefore let me intreat you to read it with favour and attention, and to pardon us, wherein we may seem to come short of some words, which we have laboured to interpret. For the same things uttered in Hebrew, and translated into another tongue, have not the same force in them: and not only these things, but the law itself, and the prophets, and the rest of the books, have no small difference, when they are spoken in their own language. For in the eight and thirtieth year coming into Egypt, when Euergetes was king, and continuing there some time, I found a book of no small learning: therefore I thought it most necessary for me to bestow some diligence and travail to interpret it; using great watchfulness and skill in that space to bring the book to an end, and set it forth for them also, which in a strange country are willing to learn, being prepared before in manners to live after the law.

In Praise of Wisdom

Sirach

All wisdom cometh from Yahweh, and is with Him for ever.

Proverbs 2:6 ​​ For Yahweh giveth wisdom: out of His mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

​​ 1:2 ​​ Who can number the sand of the sea, and the drops of rain, and the days of eternity?

​​ 1:3 ​​ Who can find out the height of heaven (the sky), and the breadth of the earth, and the deep (depths of the abyss), and wisdom?

​​ 1:4 ​​ Wisdom hath been created before all things, and the understanding of prudence from everlasting.

​​ 1:5 ​​ The word of God Most High is the fountain (source) of wisdom; and her ways are everlasting commandments.

​​ 1:6 ​​ To whom hath the root of wisdom been revealed? or who hath known her wise counsels?

​​ 1:7 ​​ Unto whom hath the knowledge of wisdom been made manifest? and who hath understood her great experience?

​​ 1:8 ​​ There is one wise and greatly to be feared, Yahweh sitting upon His throne.

​​ 1:9 ​​ He created her, and saw her, and numbered her, and poured her out upon all His works. ​​ (Prov 8:22-31)

​​ 1:10 ​​ She is with all flesh according to His gift, and He hath given her to them that love Him.

Fear of Yahweh is True Wisdom

​​ 1:11 ​​ The fear of Yahweh is honour (exultation), and glory, and gladness, and a crown of rejoicing.

​​ 1:12 ​​ The fear of Yahweh maketh a merry heart, and giveth joy, and gladness, and a long life.

​​ 1:13 ​​ Whoso feareth Yahweh, it shall go well with him at the last, and he shall find favour in the day of his death.

​​ 1:14 ​​ To fear Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom: and it was created with the faithful in the womb.

Psalm 111:10 ​​ The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments: His praise endureth for ever.

Proverbs 9:10 ​​ The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy (set-apart) is understanding.

​​ 1:15 ​​ She hath built an everlasting foundation with men, and she shall continue with their seed.

​​ 1:16 ​​ To fear Yahweh is fulness of wisdom, and filleth men with her fruits.

​​ 1:17 ​​ She filleth all their (her- wisdom's) house with things desirable, and the garners with her increase.

Wisdom of Solomon 7:11 ​​ All good things together came to me with her, and innumerable riches in her hands.

​​ 1:18 ​​ The fear of Yahweh is a crown of wisdom, making peace and perfect health to flourish; both which are the gifts of God: and it enlargeth their rejoicing that love Him.

​​ 1:19 ​​ Wisdom raineth down skill and knowledge of understanding standing, and exalteth them to honour that hold her fast.

​​ 1:20 ​​ The root of wisdom is to fear Yahweh, and the branches thereof are long life.

Proverbs 3:16 ​​ Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.

4:10 ​​ Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.

​​ 1:21 ​​ The fear of Yahweh driveth away sins: and where it is present, it turneth away wrath (anger).

​​ 1:22 ​​ A furious man cannot be justified; for the sway of his fury shall be his destruction.

​​ 1:23 ​​ A patient man will tear for a time, and afterward joy shall spring up unto him.

​​ 1:24 ​​ He will hide his words for a time, and the lips of many shall declare his wisdom.

​​ 1:25 ​​ The parables of knowledge are in the treasures of wisdom: but godliness is an abomination to a sinner.

​​ 1:26 ​​ If you desire wisdom, keep the commandments, and Yahweh shall give her unto you.

​​ 1:27 ​​ For the fear of Yahweh is wisdom and instruction: and faith and meekness are His delight.

​​ 1:28 ​​ Distrust not the fear of Yahweh when you art poor: and come not unto Him with a double heart (divided mind).

​​ 1:29 ​​ Be not an hypocrite in the sight of men, and take good heed what you speakest.

​​ 1:30 ​​ Exalt not yourself, lest you fall, and bring dishonour upon your soul, and so God discover your secrets, and cast you down in the midst of the congregation, because you camest not in truth to the fear of Yahweh, but your heart is full of deceit.

Duties toward Yahweh

Sirach 2:1 ​​ My son, if you come to serve Yahweh, prepare your soul for temptation (testing, trials).

​​ 2:2 ​​ Set your heart aright, and constantly endure, and make not haste in time of trouble.

​​ 2:3 ​​ Cleave unto Him, and depart not away, that you mayest be increased (prosperous) at your last end.

​​ 2:4 ​​ Whatsoever is brought upon you take cheerfully, and be patient when you art changed to a low estate.

​​ 2:5 ​​ For gold is tried in the fire, and acceptable men in the furnace of adversity.

Wisdom 3:5 ​​ And having been a little chastised, they shall be greatly rewarded: for God proved them, and found them worthy for Himself.

3:6 ​​ As gold in the furnace hath He tried them, and received them as a burnt offering.

1Peter 1:7 ​​ That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Yahshua Christ:

​​ 2:6 ​​ Believe in Him, and He will help you; order your way aright, and trust in Him.

​​ 2:7 ​​ Ye that fear Yahweh, wait for His mercy; and go not aside, lest you fall.

​​ 2:8 ​​ Ye that fear Yahweh, believe (trust in) Him; and your reward shall not fail.

​​ 2:9 ​​ Ye that fear Yahweh, hope for good, and for everlasting joy and mercy.

​​ 2:10 ​​ Look at the generations of old, and see; did ever any trust in Yahweh, and was confounded (disappointed)? or did any abide in His fear, and was forsaken? or whom did He ever despise, that called upon Him?

​​ 2:11 ​​ For Yahweh is full of compassion and mercy, longsuffering, and very pitiful, and forgiveth sins, and saveth in time of affliction.

​​ 2:12 ​​ Woe be to fearful hearts, and faint hands, and the sinner that goeth two ways!

Those that go to 'church' on sungod day and then go out and do dirty deeds during the week.

​​ 2:13 ​​ Woe unto him that is fainthearted! for he believeth (trusts) not; therefore shall he not be defended.

​​ 2:14 ​​ Woe unto you that have lost patience! and what will you do when Yahweh shall visit you?

​​ 2:15 ​​ They that fear Yahweh will not disobey His Word; and they that love Him will keep His ways.

​​ 2:16 ​​ They that fear Yahweh will seek that which is well, pleasing unto Him; and they that love Him shall be filled with the law.

Wisdom 6:18 ​​ And love is the keeping of her laws; and the giving heed unto her laws is the assurance of incorruption;

John 14:15 ​​ If ye love Me, keep My commandments.

14:21 ​​ He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him.

14:23 ​​ Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him.

​​ 2:17 ​​ They that fear Yahweh will prepare their hearts, and humble their souls in His sight,

​​ 2:18 ​​ Saying, We will fall into the hands of Yahweh, and not into the hands of men: for as His majesty is, so is His mercy.

Duties Toward Parents

Exodus 20:12 ​​ Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which Yahweh thy God giveth thee.

Sirach 3:1 ​​ Hear me your father, O children, and do thereafter, that you may be safe.

​​ 3:2 ​​ For Yahweh hath given the father honour over the children, and hath confirmed the authority (right) of the mother over the sons.

​​ 3:3 ​​ Whoso honoureth his father maketh an atonement for his sins:

​​ 3:4 ​​ And he that honoureth (respects) his mother is as one that layeth up treasure.

​​ 3:5 ​​ Whoso honoureth his father shall have joy of his own children; and when he maketh his prayer, he shall be heard.

​​ 3:6 ​​ He that honoureth his father shall have a long life; and he that is obedient unto Yahweh shall be a comfort to his mother.

​​ 3:7 ​​ He that feareth Yahweh will honour his father, and will do service unto his parents, as to his masters.

​​ 3:8 ​​ Honour your father and mother both in word and deed, that a blessing may come upon you from them.

​​ 3:9 ​​ For the blessing of the father establisheth (strengthens) the houses of children; but the curse of the mother rooteth out foundations.

​​ 3:10 ​​ Glory not in the dishonour(ing) of your father; for your father's dishonour is no glory unto you.

​​ 3:11 ​​ For the glory of a man is from the honour of his father; and a mother in dishonour is a reproach to the children (and it is a disgrace for children not to respect their mother).

​​ 3:12 ​​ My son, help your father in his age, and grieve him not as long as he liveth.

​​ 3:13 ​​ And if his understanding fail, have patience with him; and despise him not when you art in your full strength (because you have all your faculties).

​​ 3:14 ​​ For the relieving of your (For kindness to a) father shall not be forgotten: and instead of sins it shall be added to build you up.

​​ 3:15 ​​ In the day of your affliction it shall be remembered; your sins also shall melt away, as the ice in the fair warm weather.

​​ 3:16 ​​ He that forsaketh his father is as a blasphemer; and he that angereth his mother is cursed: of (by) God.

Humility

​​ 3:17 ​​ My son, go on with your business in meekness (humility); so shalt you be beloved of him that is approved (by those whom God accepts).

​​ 3:18 ​​ The greater you art, the more humble yourself, and you shalt find favour before Yahweh.

Philippians 2:3 ​​ Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

​​ 3:19 ​​ Many are in high place, and of renown: but mysteries are revealed unto the meek.

​​ 3:20 ​​ For the power of Yahweh is great, and He is honoured of the lowly.

​​ 3:21 ​​ Seek not out things that are too hard for you, neither search the things that are above your strength.

​​ 3:22 ​​ But what is commanded you, think thereupon with reverence, for it is not needful for you to see with your eyes the things that are in secret.

Deuteronomy 29:29 ​​ The secret things belong unto Yahweh our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

​​ 3:23 ​​ Be not curious in unnecessary matters: for more things are shewed unto you than men understand.

​​ 3:24 ​​ For many are deceived by their own vain opinion; and an evil suspicion hath overthrown their judgment.

​​ 3:25 ​​ Without eyes you shalt want light: profess not the knowledge therefore that you hast not (without knowledge there is no wisdom).

​​ 3:26 ​​ A stubborn heart (mind) shall fare evil (badly) at the last; and he that loveth danger shall perish therein.

​​ 3:27 ​​ An obstinate heart (stubborn mind) shall be laden with sorrows; and the wicked man shall heap sin upon sin.

​​ 3:28 ​​ In the punishment of the proud there is no remedy; for the plant of wickedness hath taken root in him.

​​ 3:29 ​​ The heart of the prudent will understand a parable; and an attentive ear is the desire of a wise man.

Alms for the Poor

​​ 3:30 ​​ Water will quench a flaming fire; and alms maketh an atonement for sins.

​​ 3:31 ​​ And he that requiteth good turns is mindful of that which may come hereafter (Those who repay favors give thought to the future); and when he falleth, he shall find a stay.

Duties Toward the Poor and the Oppressed

Sirach 4:1 ​​ My son, defraud not the poor of his living, and make not the needy eyes to wait long.

​​ 4:2 ​​ Make not an hungry soul sorrowful; neither provoke a man in his distress.

​​ 4:3 ​​ Add not more trouble to an heart that is vexed; and defer not to give to him that is in need.

​​ 4:4 ​​ Reject not the supplication of the afflicted; neither turn away your face from a poor man.

​​ 4:5 ​​ Turn not away your eye from the needy, and give him none occasion to curse you:

​​ 4:6 ​​ For if he curse you in the bitterness of his soul, his prayer shall be heard of Him that made him.

​​ 4:7 ​​ Get yourself the love of the congregation, and bow your head to a great man.

​​ 4:8 ​​ Let it not grieve you to bow down your ear to the poor, and give him a friendly answer with meekness.

​​ 4:9 ​​ Deliver him that suffereth wrong from the hand of the oppressor; and be not fainthearted when you sittest in judgment.

​​ 4:10 ​​ Be as a father unto the fatherless, and instead of an husband unto their mother: so shalt you be as the son of the Most High, and He shall love you more than your mother doth.

The Rewards of Wisdom

​​ 4:11 ​​ Wisdom exalteth (teaches) her children, and layeth hold of them that seek her.

​​ 4:12 ​​ He that loveth her loveth life; and they that seek to her early shall be filled with joy.

​​ 4:13 ​​ He that holdeth her fast shall inherit glory; and wheresoever she entereth, Yahweh will bless.

​​ 4:14 ​​ They that serve her shall minister to the Holy One: and them that love her Yahweh doth love.

​​ 4:15 ​​ Whoso giveth ear unto her shall judge the nations: and he that attendeth unto her shall dwell securely.

​​ 4:16 ​​ If a man commit himself unto her, he shall inherit her; and his generation shall hold her in possession.

​​ 4:17 ​​ For at the first she will walk with him by crooked ways, and bring fear and dread upon him, and torment him with her discipline, until she may trust his soul, and try him by her laws.

​​ 4:18 ​​ Then will she return the straight way unto him, and comfort him, and shew him her secrets.

​​ 4:19 ​​ But if he go wrong, she will forsake him, and give him over to his own ruin.

​​ 4:20 ​​ Observe the opportunity, and beware of evil; and be not ashamed when it concerneth your soul (and do not be ashamed to be yourself).

​​ 4:21 ​​ For there is a shame that bringeth (leads to) sin; and there is a shame which is glory and grace (favor).

​​ 4:22 ​​ Accept no person against your soul (Do not show partiality, to your own harm, or deference), and let not the reverence of any man cause you to fall.

​​ 4:23 ​​ And refrain not to speak, when there is occasion to do good, and hide not your wisdom in her beauty.

​​ 4:24 ​​ For by speech wisdom shall be known: and learning by the word of the tongue.

​​ 4:25 ​​ In no wise speak against the truth; but be abashed (ashamed) of the error of your ignorance.

2Timothy 2:15 ​​ Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

​​ 4:26 ​​ Be not ashamed to confess your sins; and force not the course of the river.

​​ 4:27 ​​ Make not yourself an underling to a foolish man; neither accept the person of (or show partiality to) the mighty.

​​ 4:28 ​​ Strive for the truth unto death, and Yahweh shall fight for you.

​​ 4:29 ​​ Be not hasty in your tongue, and in your deeds slack and remiss.

​​ 4:30 ​​ Be not as a lion in your house, nor frantick among your servants.

​​ 4:31 ​​ Let not your hand be stretched out to receive, and shut when you shouldest repay.

Acts 20:35 ​​ I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Prince Yahshua, how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Precepts for Everyday Living

Sirach 5:1 ​​ Set your heart upon your goods; and say not, I have enough for my life.

​​ 5:2 ​​ Follow not your own mind and your strength, to walk in the ways of your heart:

​​ 5:3 ​​ And say not, Who shall control me for my works? for Yahweh will surely revenge your pride (punish you).

​​ 5:4 ​​ Say not, I have sinned, and what harm hath happened unto me? for Yahweh is longsuffering, He will in no wise let you go.

Ecclesiastes 8:11 ​​ Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of Adam is fully set in them to do evil.

​​ 5:5 ​​ Concerning propitiation, be not without fear to add sin unto sin (Do not be so confident of forgiveness that you add sin to sin.):

​​ 5:6 ​​ And say not His mercy is great; he will be pacified for the multitude of my sins: for mercy and wrath come from Him, and His indignation resteth upon sinners.

​​ 5:7 ​​ Make no tarrying to turn (back) to Yahweh, and put not off from day to day: for suddenly shall the wrath of Yahweh come forth, and in your security you shalt be destroyed, and perish in the day of vengeance.

​​ 5:8 ​​ Set not your heart upon goods unjustly gotten (dishonest wealth), for they shall not profit you in the day of calamity.

​​ 5:9 ​​ Winnow not with every wind, and go not into every way: for so doth the sinner that hath a double tongue (so it is with a double-tongued sinner.- see 6:1).

Ephesians 4:14 ​​ That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

​​ 5:10 ​​ Be stedfast in your understanding; and let your word be the same (consistent).

​​ 5:11 ​​ Be swift to hear; and let your life be sincere (but be deliberate in answering); and with patience give answer.

Think before you respond.

​​ 5:12 ​​ If you hast understanding, answer your neighbour; if not, lay your hand upon your mouth.

​​ 5:13 ​​ Honour and shame is in talk (come from speaking): and the tongue of man is his fall.

​​ 5:14 ​​ Be not called a whisperer (Do not be called double-tongued), and lie not in wait with your tongue: for a foul shame is upon the thief, and an evil condemnation upon the double tongue.

​​ 5:15 ​​ Be not ignorant of any thing in a great matter or a small.

Sirach 6:1 ​​ Instead of a friend become not an enemy; for thereby you shalt inherit an ill name, shame, and reproach: even so shall a sinner that hath a double tongue.

​​ 6:2 ​​ Extol not yourself in the counsel of your own heart (Do not fall into the grip of passion); that your soul be not torn in pieces as a bull straying alone.

​​ 6:3 ​​ You shalt eat up your leaves, and lose your fruit, and leave yourself as a dry tree.

NRSV has: Your leaves will be devoured and your fruit destroyed, and you will be left like a withered tree.

​​ 6:4 ​​ A wicked soul (Evil passion) shall destroy him that hath it, and shall make him to be laughed to scorn of his enemies.

Friendship, False and True

​​ 6:5 ​​ Sweet language (Pleasant speech) will multiply friends: and a fairspeaking tongue will increase kind greetings.

​​ 6:6 ​​ Be in peace with many (Let those who are friendly with you be many): nevertheless have but one counsellor of (adviser in) a thousand.

​​ 6:7 ​​ If you wouldest get (gain) a friend, prove him first and be not hasty to credit him.

​​ 6:8 ​​ For some man is a friend for his own occasion (For there are friends who are such when it suits them), and will not abide (stand by you) in the day of your trouble.

​​ 6:9 ​​ And there is a friend, who being turned to enmity, and strife will discover your reproach (and tell of the quarrel to your disgrace).

​​ 6:10 ​​ Again, some friend is a companion at the table, and will not continue (stand by you) in the day of your affliction.

​​ 6:11 ​​ But in your prosperity he will be as yourself (they become your second self), and will be bold over your servants.

​​ 6:12 ​​ If you be brought low, he will be against you, and will hide himself from your face.

​​ 6:13 ​​ Separate yourself from your enemies, and take heed (be on guard) of your friends.

​​ 6:14 ​​ A faithful friend is a strong defence: and he that hath found such an one hath found a treasure.

​​ 6:15 ​​ Nothing doth countervail a faithful friend, and his excellency is invaluable.

​​ 6:16 ​​ A faithful friend is the medicine of life; and they that fear Yahweh shall find him.

​​ 6:17 ​​ Whoso feareth Yahweh shall direct his friendship aright: for as he is, so shall his neighbour be also.

Neighbor in the Hebrew means one of like racial kindred that is by you.

Blessings of Wisdom

​​ 6:18 ​​ My son, gather instruction (choose discipline) from your youth up: so shalt you find wisdom till your old age.

​​ 6:19 ​​ Come unto her as one that ploweth and soweth, and wait for her good fruits: for you shalt not toil much in labouring about her, but you shalt eat of her fruits right soon.

James 5:7 ​​ Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Prince Yahshua. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the land, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

5:8 ​​ Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Prince draweth nigh.

​​ 6:20 ​​ She is very unpleasant to the unlearned: he that is without understanding (fools) will not remain with her.

​​ 6:21 ​​ She will lie upon him as a mighty stone of trial (She will be like a heavy stone to test them); and he will cast her from him ere it be long (and they will not delay in casting her aside).

​​ 6:22 ​​ For wisdom is according to her name, and she is not manifest unto many.

​​ 6:23 ​​ Give ear, my son, receive my advice, and refuse not my counsel,

​​ 6:24 ​​ And put your feet into her fetters, and your neck into her chain (collar).

​​ 6:25 ​​ Bow down your shoulder, and bear her, and be not grieved with (and do not fret under) her bonds.

​​ 6:26 ​​ Come unto her with your whole heart, and keep her ways with all your power.

​​ 6:27 ​​ Search, and seek, and she shall be made known unto you: and when you hast got hold of her, let her not go.

​​ 6:28 ​​ For at the last you shalt find her rest (the rest she gives), and that shall be turned to your joy.

​​ 6:29 ​​ Then shall her fetters be a strong defence for you, and her chains (collar) a robe of glory.

​​ 6:30 ​​ For there is a golden ornament upon her, and her bands are purple lace.

A sign of royalty.

​​ 6:31 ​​ You shalt put her on as a robe of honour, and shalt put her about you as a crown of joy.

Proverbs 4:9 ​​ She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.

1Peter 5:4 ​​ And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

​​ 6:32 ​​ My son, if you wilt, you shalt be taught: and if you wilt apply your mind, you shalt be prudent.

​​ 6:33 ​​ If you love to hear (listen), you shalt receive understanding: and if you bow your ear, you shalt be wise,

​​ 6:34 ​​ Stand in the multitude (company) of the elders; and cleave unto him that is wise.

​​ 6:35 ​​ Be willing to hear every godly discourse; and let not the parables of understanding escape you.

​​ 6:36 ​​ And if you seest a man of understanding, get you betimes unto him, and let your foot wear (wear-out) the steps of his door.

​​ 6:37 ​​ Let your mind be upon the ordinances of Yahweh and meditate continually in His commandments: He shall establish your heart (It is He who will give insight to your mind), and give you wisdom at your owns desire.

Joshua 1:8 ​​ This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shalt meditate therein day and night, that you mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shalt make your way prosperous, and then you shalt have good success.

Psalm 1:2 ​​ But his delight is in the law of Yahweh; and in His law doth he meditate day and night.

Miscellaneous Advice

Sirach 7:1 ​​ Do no evil, so shall no harm come unto you.

​​ 7:2 ​​ Depart from the unjust, and iniquity shall turn away from you.

​​ 7:3 ​​ My son, sow not upon the furrows of unrighteousness (injustice), and you shalt not reap them sevenfold.

​​ 7:4 ​​ Seek not of Yahweh preeminence, neither of the king the seat of honour.

​​ 7:5 ​​ justify not yourself before Yahweh; and boast not of your wisdom before the king.

​​ 7:6 ​​ Seek not to be judge, being not able to take away iniquity (or you may be unable to root out injustice); lest at any time you fear the person of the mighty (be partial to the powerful), an stumblingblock in the way of your uprightness (and so mar your integrity).

​​ 7:7 ​​ Offend not against the multitude of a city (the public), and then you shalt not cast yourself down (disgrace yourself) among the people.

​​ 7:8 ​​ Bind not one sin upon another (Do not commit a sin twice); for in one you shalt not be unpunished.

​​ 7:9 ​​ Say not, God will look upon the multitude of my oblations, and when I offer to the Most High God, He will accept it.

​​ 7:10 ​​ Be not fainthearted when you makest your prayer, and neglect not to give alms.

​​ 7:11 ​​ Laugh no man to scorn in the bitterness of his soul (Do not ridicule a person who is embittered in spirit): for there is One which humbleth and exalteth.

This person may be being tested by Yahweh.

​​ 7:12 ​​ Devise not a lie against your brother; neither do the like to your friend.

​​ 7:13 ​​ Use not to make any manner of lie: for the custom (habit) thereof is not good.

​​ 7:14 ​​ Use not many words (Do not babble) in a multitude of elders, and make not much babbling (repeating) when you prayest.

​​ 7:15 ​​ Hate not laborious work, neither husbandry, which the Most High hath ordained.

​​ 7:16 ​​ Number not yourself among the multitude of sinners, but remember that wrath will not tarry long (retribution does not delay).

​​ 7:17 ​​ Humble yourself greatly: for the vengeance (punishment) of the ungodly is fire and worms.

In the Hebrew it reads: “ for the expectation of mortals is worms.”

Relations with Others

​​ 7:18 ​​ Change not a friend for any good by no means; neither a faithful brother for the gold of Ophir.

​​ 7:19 ​​ Forego not (Do not dismiss) a wise and good woman: for her grace (charm) is above gold.

​​ 7:20 ​​ Whereas your servant worketh truly, entreat him not evil. nor the hireling that bestoweth himself wholly for you.

​​ 7:21 ​​ Let your soul love a good servant, and defraud him not of liberty.

Exodus 21:2 ​​ If you buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.  ​​​​ (Deut 15:12-15)

​​ 7:22 ​​ Hast you cattle? have an eye to them: and if they be for your profit, keep them with you.

​​ 7:23 ​​ Hast you children? instruct them, and bow down their neck (make them obedient) from their youth.

​​ 7:24 ​​ Hast you daughters? have a care of their body (be concerned for their chastity), and shew not yourself cheerful (too indulgent) toward them.

​​ 7:25 ​​ Marry your daughter, and so shalt you have performed a weighty matter (completed a great task): but give her to a man of understanding.

​​ 7:26 ​​ Hast you a wife after your mind (who pleases you)? forsake (divorce) her not: but give not (do not trust) yourself over to a light woman (one whom you detest).

​​ 7:27 ​​ Honour your father with your whole heart, and forget not the sorrows (birth pains) of your mother. ​​ (Exo 20:12)

​​ 7:28 ​​ Remember that you wast begotten of them; and how canst you recompense them the things that they have done for you?

​​ 7:29 ​​ Fear Yahweh with all your soul, and reverence His priests.

When the priesthood and it's sacrificial rituals expired when Christ died, Christ Yahshua became our High Priest and Mediator. Melchizedek (Melchisedec).

​​ 7:30 ​​ Love Him that made you with all your strength, and forsake not His ministers.

There are no more priests over men. We have watchmen and ministers, servants, teachers. Christ is the only Priest over men. No man can mediate men to the Father but The Son.

​​ 7:31 ​​ Fear Yahweh, and honour the priest; and give him his portion, as it is commanded you; the firstfruits, and the trespass offering, and the gift of the shoulders, and the sacrifice of sanctification, and the firstfruits of the holy things.

Again, these things (v 31) expired at the cross.

​​ 7:32 ​​ And stretch your hand unto the poor, that your blessing may be perfected.

​​ 7:33 ​​ A gift hath grace in the sight of every man living; and for the dead detain it not (do not withhold kindness even from the dead).

​​ 7:34 ​​ Fail not to be with them that weep, and mourn with them that mourn.

​​ 7:35 ​​ Be not slow to visit the sick: for that (such deeds) shall make you to be beloved.

​​ 7:36 ​​ Whatsoever you takest in hand (In all that you do), remember the end (of your life), and you shalt never do amiss (and then you will never sin).

Prudence and Common Sense

Sirach 8:1 ​​ Strive not with a mighty man' lest you fall into his hands.

​​ 8:2 ​​ Be not at variance with a rich man, lest he overweigh you: for gold hath destroyed many, and perverted the hearts of kings.

​​ 8:3 ​​ Strive not with a man that is full of tongue, and heap not wood upon his fire.

​​ 8:4 ​​ Jest not with a rude man (Do not make fun of one who is ill-bred), lest your ancestors be disgraced (insulted).

​​ 8:5 ​​ Reproach not a man that turneth from sin, but remember that we are all worthy of punishment.

​​ 8:6 ​​ Dishonour not a man in his old age: for even some of us wax old.

​​ 8:7 ​​ Rejoice not over your greatest enemy being dead, but remember that we die all.

​​ 8:8 ​​ Despise not the discourse of the wise, but acquaint yourself with their proverbs: for of them you shalt learn instruction, and how to serve great men with ease.

​​ 8:9 ​​ Miss not the discourse of the elders: for they also learned of their fathers, and of them you shalt learn understanding, and to give answer as need requireth.

​​ 8:10 ​​ Kindle not the coals of a sinner, lest you be burnt with the flame of his fire.

​​ 8:11 ​​ Rise not up in anger at the presence of an injurious person (Do not let the insolent bring you to your feet), lest he lie in wait to entrap you in your words

​​ 8:12 ​​ Lend not unto him that is mightier than yourself; for if you lendest him, count it but lost.

​​ 8:13 ​​ Be not surety above your power (means): for if you be surety, take care to pay it.

​​ 8:14 ​​ Go not to law with a judge; for they will judge for him according to his honour.

​​ 8:15 ​​ Travel not by the way with a bold fellow (reckless), lest he become grievous unto you: for he will do according to his own will, and you shalt perish with him through his folly.

​​ 8:16 ​​ Strive not with an angry man, and go not with him into a solitary place: for blood is as nothing in his sight, and where there is no help, he will overthrow you.

​​ 8:17 ​​ Consult not with a fool; for he cannot keep counsel.

​​ 8:18 ​​ Do no secret thing before a stranger; for you knowest not what he will bring forth.

​​ 8:19 ​​ Open not your heart to every man, lest he requite you with a shrewd turn.

Advice Concerning Women

Sirach 9:1 ​​ Be not jealous over the wife of your bosom, and teach her not an evil lesson against yourself.  ​​​​ (Num 5:12-15)

​​ 9:2 ​​ Give not your soul unto a woman to set her foot upon your substance.

​​ 9:3 ​​ Meet not with an harlot, lest you fall into her snares.

​​ 9:4 ​​ Use not much the company of a woman that is a singer, lest you be taken with her attempts.

​​ 9:5 ​​ Gaze not on a maid (virgin), that you fall not by those things that are precious in her (or you may stumble and incur penalties for her).

​​ 9:6 ​​ Give not your soul unto harlots, that you lose not your inheritance.

​​ 9:7 ​​ Look not round about you in the streets of the city, neither wander you in the solitary place (deserted sections) thereof.

​​ 9:8 ​​ Turn away your eye from a beautiful woman, and look not upon another's beauty; for many have been deceived by the beauty of a woman; for herewith love is kindled as a fire.

​​ 9:9 ​​ Sit not at all with another man's wife, nor sit down with her in your arms, and spend not your money with her at the wine; lest your heart incline unto her, and so through your desire you fall into destruction.

Choice of Friends

​​ 9:10 ​​ Forsake not an old friend; for the new is not comparable to him: a new friend is as new wine; when it is old, you shalt drink it with pleasure.

​​ 9:11 ​​ Envy not the glory (success) of a sinner: for you knowest not what shall be his end.

​​ 9:12 ​​ Delight not in the thing that the ungodly have pleasure in; but remember they shall not go unpunished unto their grave.

​​ 9:13 ​​ Keep you far from the man that hath power to kill; so shalt you not doubt the fear of death: and if you come unto him, make no fault, lest he take away your life presently: remember that you goest in the midst of snares, and that you walkest upon the battlements of the city.

​​ 9:14 ​​ As near as you canst, guess at your neighbour, and consult with the wise.

​​ 9:15 ​​ Let your talk be with the wise, and all your communication in the law of the Most High.

​​ 9:16 ​​ And let just men eat and drink with you; and let your glorying be in the fear of Yahweh.

Concerning Rulers

​​ 9:17 ​​ For the hand of the artificer the work shall be commended: and the wise ruler of the people for his speech.

​​ 9:18 ​​ A man of an ill tongue is dangerous in his city; and he that is rash in his talk shall be hated.

Concerning Rulers continued...

Sirach 10:1 ​​ A wise judge will instruct his people; and the government of a prudent man is well ordered.

​​ 10:2 ​​ As the judge of the people is himself, so are his officers; and what manner of man the ruler of the city is, such are all they that dwell therein.

​​ 10:3 ​​ An unwise king destroyeth his people; but through the prudence of them which are in authority the city shall be inhabited.

​​ 10:4 ​​ The power of the earth is in the hand of Yahweh, and in due time He will set over it one that is profitable.

​​ 10:5 ​​ In the hand of God is the prosperity of man: and upon the person of the scribe shall he lay his honour (and it is he who confers honor upon the lawgiver).

The Sin of Pride

​​ 10:6 ​​ Bear not hatred to your neighbour for every wrong; and do nothing at all by injurious practices.

​​ 10:7 ​​ Pride is hateful before God and man: and by both doth one commit iniquity.

​​ 10:8 ​​ Because of unrighteous dealings, injuries, and riches got by deceit, the kingdom is translated from one people to another.

​​ 10:9 ​​ Why is earth and ashes proud? There is not a more wicked thing than a covetous man: for such an one setteth his own soul to sale; because while he liveth he casteth away his bowels.

​​ 10:10 ​​ The physician cutteth off a long disease; and he that is to day a king to morrow shall die.

​​ 10:11 ​​ For when a man is dead, he shall inherit creeping things (maggots), beasts (vermin), and worms.

​​ 10:12 ​​ The beginning of pride is when one departeth from God, and his heart is turned away from his Maker.

​​ 10:13 ​​ For pride is the beginning of sin, and he that hath it shall pour out abomination: and therefore Yahweh brought upon them strange calamities, and overthrew them utterly.

​​ 10:14 ​​ Yahweh hath cast down the thrones of proud princes, and set up the meek in their stead.

1Samuel 2:8 ​​ He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are Yahweh's, and He hath set the world upon them.

Luke 1:52 ​​ He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.

​​ 10:15 ​​ Yahweh hath plucked up the roots of the proud nations, and planted the lowly in their place.

​​ 10:16 ​​ Yahweh overthrew countries of the heathen, and destroyed them to the foundations of the earth.

​​ 10:17 ​​ He took some of them away, and destroyed them, and hath made their memorial to cease from the earth.

​​ 10:18 ​​ Pride was not made for men, nor furious anger for them that are born of a woman.

Persons Deserving Honor

​​ 10:19 ​​ They that fear Yahweh are a sure seed, and they that love Him an honourable plant: they that regard not the law are a dishonourable seed; they that transgress the commandments are a deceivable seed.

​​ 10:20 ​​ Among brethren he that is chief is honourably; so are they that fear Yahweh (are worthy of honor) in his eyes.

​​ 10:21 ​​ The fear of Yahweh goeth before the obtaining of authority: but roughness and pride is the losing thereof.

​​ 10:22 ​​ Whether he be rich, noble, or poor, their glory is the fear of Yahweh.

​​ 10:23 ​​ It is not meet to despise the poor man that hath understanding; neither is it convenient to magnify a sinful man.

​​ 10:24 ​​ Great men, and judges, and potentates, shall be honoured; yet is there none of them greater than he that feareth Yahweh.

​​ 10:25 ​​ Unto the servant that is wise shall they that are free do service: and he that hath knowledge will not grudge when he is reformed.

Concerning Humility

​​ 10:26 ​​ Be not overwise in doing your business; and boast not yourself in the time of your distress.

​​ 10:27 ​​ Better is he that laboureth, and aboundeth in all things, than he that boasteth himself, and wanteth bread.

​​ 10:28 ​​ My son, glorify your soul in meekness, and give it honour according to the dignity thereof.

​​ 10:29 ​​ Who will justify him that sinneth against his own soul (Who will acquit those who condemn themselves)? and who will honour him that dishonoureth his own life?

​​ 10:30 ​​ The poor man is honoured for his skill, and the rich man is honoured for his riches.

​​ 10:31 ​​ He that is honoured in poverty, how much more in riches? and he that is dishonourable in riches, how much more in poverty?

The Deceptiveness of Appearances

Sirach 11:1 ​​ Wisdom lifteth up the head of him that is of low degree, and maketh him to sit among great men.

​​ 11:2 ​​ Commend not a man for his beauty; neither abhor a man for his outward appearance.

​​ 11:3 ​​ The bee is little among such as fly; but her fruit is the chief of sweet things.

​​ 11:4 ​​ Boast not of your clothing and raiment, and exalt not yourself in the day of honour: for the works of Yahweh are wonderful, and His works among men are hidden.

​​ 11:5 ​​ Many kings have sat down upon the ground; and one that was never thought of hath worn the crown.

​​ 11:6 ​​ Many mighty men have been greatly disgraced; and the honourable delivered into other men's hands.

Deliberation and Caution

​​ 11:7 ​​ Blame not before you hast examined the truth: understand first, and then rebuke.

​​ 11:8 ​​ Answer not before you hast heard the cause: neither interrupt men in the midst of their talk.

​​ 11:9 ​​ Strive not in a matter that concerneth you not; and sit not in judgment with sinners.

​​ 11:10 ​​ My son, meddle not with many matters: for if you meddle much, you shalt not be innocent; and if you follow after, you shalt not obtain, neither shalt you escape by fleeing.

​​ 11:11 ​​ There is one that laboureth, and taketh pains, and maketh haste, and is so much the more behind.

​​ 11:12 ​​ Again, there is another that is slow, and hath need of help, wanting ability, and full of poverty; yet the eye of Yahweh looked upon him for good, and set him up from his low estate,

​​ 11:13 ​​ And lifted up his head from misery; so that many that saw from him is peace over all the

​​ 11:14 ​​ Prosperity and adversity, life and death, poverty and riches, come of Yahweh.

​​ 11:15 ​​ Wisdom, knowledge, and understanding of the law, are of Yahweh: love, and the way of good works, are from Him.

​​ 11:16 ​​ Error and darkness had their beginning together with sinners: and evil shall wax old with them that glory therein.

​​ 11:17 ​​ The gift of Yahweh remaineth with the godly, and His favour bringeth prosperity for ever.

​​ 11:18 ​​ There is that waxeth rich by his wariness and pinching, and this his the portion of his reward:

​​ 11:19 ​​ Whereas he saith, I have found rest, and now will eat continually of my goods; and yet he knoweth not what time shall come upon him, and that he must leave those things to others, and die.

Psalm 49:10 ​​ For he seeth that wise men die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their wealth to others.  ​​​​ (Luke 12:16-21)

​​ 11:20 ​​ Be stedfast in your covenant, and be conversant therein, and wax old in your work.

​​ 11:21 ​​ Marvel not at the works of sinners; but trust in Yahweh, and abide in your labour: for it is an easy thing in the sight of Yahweh on the sudden to make a poor man rich.

​​ 11:22 ​​ The blessing of Yahweh is in the reward of the godly, and suddenly he maketh his blessing flourish.

​​ 11:23 ​​ Say not, What profit is there of my service? and what good things shall I have hereafter?

​​ 11:24 ​​ Again, say not, I have enough, and possess many things, and what evil shall I have hereafter?

​​ 11:25 ​​ In the day of prosperity there is a forgetfulness of affliction: and in the day of affliction there is no more remembrance of prosperity.

​​ 11:26 ​​ For it is an easy thing unto Yahweh in the day of death to reward a man according to his ways.

​​ 11:27 ​​ The affliction of an hour maketh a man forget pleasure: and in his end his deeds shall be discovered.

​​ 11:28 ​​ Judge none blessed before his death: for a man shall be known in his children.

Care in Choosing Friends

​​ 11:29 ​​ Bring not every man into your house: for the deceitful man hath many trains (for many are the tricks of the crafty).

​​ 11:30 ​​ Like as a partridge taken and kept in a cage, so is the heart (mind) of the proud; and like as a spy, watcheth he for your fall:

​​ 11:31 ​​ For he lieth in wait, and turneth good into evil, and in things worthy praise will lay blame upon you.

​​ 11:32 ​​ Of a spark of fire a heap of coals is kindled: and a sinful man layeth wait for blood.

​​ 11:33 ​​ Take heed of a mischievous man, for he worketh wickedness; lest he bring upon you a perpetual blot.

​​ 11:34 ​​ Receive a stranger into your house, and he will disturb you, and turn you out of your own.

Sirach 12:1 ​​ When you wilt do good know to whom you doest it; so shalt you be thanked for your benefits.

​​ 12:2 ​​ Do good to the godly man, and you shalt find a recompence; and if not from him, yet from the Most High.

​​ 12:3 ​​ There can no good come to him that is always occupied in evil, nor to him that giveth no alms.

​​ 12:4 ​​ Give to the godly (devout) man, and help not a sinner.

​​ 12:5 ​​ Do well unto him that is lowly, but give not to the ungodly: hold back your bread, and give it not unto him, lest he overmaster you thereby: for else you shalt receive twice as much evil for all the good you shalt have done unto him.

​​ 12:6 ​​ For the Most High hateth sinners, and will repay vengeance unto the ungodly, and keepeth them against the mighty day of their punishment.

​​ 12:7 ​​ Give unto the good, and help not the sinner.

​​ 12:8 ​​ A friend cannot be known in prosperity: and an enemy cannot be hidden in adversity.

​​ 12:9 ​​ In the prosperity of a man enemies will be grieved: but in his adversity even a friend will depart.

​​ 12:10 ​​ Never trust your enemy: for like as iron rusteth, so is his wickedness.

​​ 12:11 ​​ Though he humble himself, and go crouching, yet take good heed and beware of him, and you shalt be unto him as if you hadst wiped a lookingglass, and you shalt know that his rust hath not been altogether wiped away.

​​ 12:12 ​​ Set him not by you, lest, when he hath overthrown you, he stand up in your place; neither let him sit at your right hand, lest he seek to take your seat, and you at the last remember my words, and be pricked therewith.

​​ 12:13 ​​ Who will pity a charmer that is bitten with a serpent, or any such as come nigh wild beasts?

​​ 12:14 ​​ So one that goeth to a sinner, and is defiled with him in his sins, who will pity?

​​ 12:15 ​​ For a while he will abide with you, but if you begin to fall, he will not tarry.

​​ 12:16 ​​ An enemy speaketh sweetly with his lips, but in his heart he imagineth how to throw you into a pit: he will weep with his eyes, but if he find opportunity, he will not be satisfied with blood.

​​ 12:17 ​​ If adversity come upon you, you shalt find him there first; and though he pretend to help you, yet shall he undermine you.

​​ 12:18 ​​ He will shake his head, and clap his hands, and whisper much, and change his countenance.

Caution Regarding Associates

Sirach 13:1 ​​ He that toucheth pitch shall be defiled therewith (gets dirty); and he that hath fellowship with a proud man shall be like unto him.

​​ 13:2 ​​ Burden not yourself above your power while you livest; and have no fellowship with one that is mightier and richer than yourself: for how agree the kettle and the earthen pot together? for if the one be smitten against the other, it shall be broken.

​​ 13:3 ​​ The rich man hath done wrong, and yet he threateneth withal (and even adds insults): the poor is wronged, and he must intreat also (and must add apologies).

​​ 13:4 ​​ If you be for his profit, he will use (exploit) you: but if you have nothing, he will forsake you.

​​ 13:5 ​​ If you have any thing (own something), he will live with you: yea, he will make you bare, and will not be sorry for it.

​​ 13:6 ​​ If he have need of you, he will deceive you, and smile upon you, and put you in hope; he will speak you fair, and say, What wantest you?

​​ 13:7 ​​ And he will shame you by his meats (delicacies), until he have drawn you dry twice or thrice, and at the last he will laugh you to scorn afterward, when he seeth you, he will forsake you, and shake his head at you.

​​ 13:8 ​​ Beware that you be not deceived and brought down in your jollity.

​​ 13:9 ​​ If you be invited of a mighty man (an influential person), withdraw yourself, and so much the more will he invite you.

​​ 13:10 ​​ Press you not upon him, lest you be put back; stand not far off, lest you be forgotten.

​​ 13:11 ​​ Affect not to be made equal unto him in talk, and believe not his many words: for with much communication will he tempt you, and smiling upon you will get out your secrets:

​​ 13:12 ​​ But cruelly he will lay up your words, and will not spare to do you hurt, and to put you in prison.

​​ 13:13 ​​ Observe, and take good heed, for you walkest in peril of your overthrowing: when you hearest these things, awake in your sleep.

​​ 13:14 ​​ Love Yahweh all your life, and call upon Him for your salvation.

​​ 13:15 ​​ Every beast loveth his like, and every man loveth his neighbour.

​​ 13:16 ​​ All flesh consorteth according to kind, and a man will cleave to his like.

​​ 13:17 ​​ What fellowship hath the wolf with the lamb? so the sinner with the godly.

​​ 13:18 ​​ What agreement is there between the hyena and a dog? and what peace between the rich and the poor?

​​ 13:19 ​​ As the wild ass is the lion's prey in the wilderness: so the rich eat up the poor.

​​ 13:20 ​​ As the proud hate humility: so doth the rich abhor the poor.

​​ 13:21 ​​ A rich man beginning to fall is held up of his friends: but a poor man being down is thrust away by his friends.

​​ 13:22 ​​ When a rich man is fallen, he hath many helpers: he speaketh things not to be spoken, and yet men justify him: the poor man slipped, and yet they rebuked him too; he spake wisely, and could have no place.

​​ 13:23 ​​ When a rich man speaketh, every man holdeth his tongue, and, look, what he saith, they extol it to the clouds: but if the poor man speak, they say, What fellow is this? and if he stumble, they will help to overthrow him.

​​ 13:24 ​​ Riches are good unto him that hath no sin, and poverty is evil in the mouth of the ungodly.

​​ 13:25 ​​ The heart of a man changeth his countenance, whether it be for good or evil: and a merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance.

​​ 13:26 ​​ A cheerful countenance is a token of a heart that is in prosperity; and the finding out of parables is a wearisome labour of the mind.

Sirach 14:1 ​​ Blessed is the man that hath not slipped with his mouth, and is not pricked with the multitude of sins.

​​ 14:2 ​​ Blessed is he whose conscience hath not condemned him, and who is not fallen from his hope in Yahweh.

Responsible Use of Wealth

​​ 14:3 ​​ Riches are not comely for a niggard (small-minded person): and what should an envious man do with money?

​​ 14:4 ​​ He that gathereth by defrauding his own soul gathereth for others, that shall spend his goods riotously.

​​ 14:5 ​​ He that is evil to himself, to whom will he be good? he shall not take pleasure in his goods.

​​ 14:6 ​​ There is none worse than he that envieth himself; and this is a recompence of his wickedness.

​​ 14:7 ​​ And if he doeth good, he doeth it unwillingly (by mistake); and at the last he will declare his wickedness.

​​ 14:8 ​​ The envious man hath a wicked eye; he turneth away his face, and despiseth men.

​​ 14:9 ​​ A covetous man's eye is not satisfied with his portion; and the iniquity of the wicked (greedy injustice) drieth up his soul.

​​ 14:10 ​​ A wicked eye envieth his bread, and he is a niggard (small-minded person) at his table.

​​ 14:11 ​​ My son, according to your ability do good to yourself, and give Yahweh His due offering.

​​ 14:12 ​​ Remember that death will not be long in coming, and that the covenant of the grave (decree of Hades) is not shewed unto you.

​​ 14:13 ​​ Do good unto your friend before you die, and according to your ability stretch out your hand and give to him.

​​ 14:14 ​​ Defraud not yourself of the good day, and let not the part of a good desire overpass you.

​​ 14:15 ​​ Shalt you not leave your travails (the fruit of your labors) unto another? and your labours to be divided by lot?

​​ 14:16 ​​ Give, and take, and sanctify your soul; for there is no seeking of dainties in the grave.

​​ 14:17 ​​ All flesh waxeth old as a garment: for the covenant from the beginning is, You shalt die the death.

Hebrews 9:27 ​​ And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

​​ 14:18 ​​ As of the green leaves on a thick tree, some fall, and some grow; so is the generation of flesh and blood, one cometh to an end, and another is born.

​​ 14:19 ​​ Every work rotteth and consumeth away, and the worker thereof shall go withal.

The Happiness of Seeking Wisdom

​​ 14:20 ​​ Blessed is the man that doth meditate good things in wisdom, and that reasoneth of holy things by his understanding.

​​ 14:21 ​​ He that considereth her ways in his heart shall also have understanding in her secrets.

​​ 14:22 ​​ Go after her as one that traceth (as a hunter), and lie in wait in her ways.

​​ 14:23 ​​ He that prieth in at her windows shall also hearken at her doors.

​​ 14:24 ​​ He that doth lodge near her house shall also fasten a pin (tent peg) in her walls.

​​ 14:25 ​​ He shall pitch his tent nigh unto her, and shall lodge in a lodging where good things are.  ​​​​ (Prov 8:32-35)

​​ 14:26 ​​ He shall set his children under her shelter, and shall lodge under her branches.

​​ 14:27 ​​ By her he shall be covered from heat, and in her glory shall he dwell.

Sirach 15:1 ​​ He that feareth Yahweh will do good, and he that hath the knowledge of the law shall obtain her.

​​ 15:2 ​​ And as a mother shall she meet him, and receive him as a wife married of a virgin.

​​ 15:3 ​​ With the bread of understanding shall she feed him, and give him the water of wisdom to drink.

​​ 15:4 ​​ He shall be stayed upon her, and shall not be moved; and shall rely upon her, and shall not be confounded.

​​ 15:5 ​​ She shall exalt him above his neighbours, and in the midst of the congregation shall she open his mouth.

​​ 15:6 ​​ He shall find joy and a crown of gladness, and she shall cause him to inherit an everlasting name.

​​ 15:7 ​​ But foolish men shall not attain unto her, and sinners shall not see her.

​​ 15:8 ​​ For she is far from pride, and men that are liars cannot remember her.

​​ 15:9 ​​ Praise is not seemly in the mouth of a sinner, for it was not sent him of Yahweh.

​​ 15:10 ​​ For praise shall be uttered in wisdom, and Yahweh will prosper it.

Freedom of Choice

​​ 15:11 ​​ Say not you, It is through Yahweh that I fell away: for you oughtest not to do the things that He hateth.

​​ 15:12 ​​ Say not you, He hath caused me to err: for He hath no need of the sinful man.

​​ 15:13 ​​ Yahweh hateth all abomination; and they that fear God love it not.

​​ 15:14 ​​ He himself made man from the beginning, and left him in the hand of his counsel (own free choice);

​​ 15:15 ​​ If you wilt, to keep the commandments, and to perform acceptable faithfulness.

​​ 15:16 ​​ He hath set fire and water before you: stretch forth your hand unto whether you wilt.

​​ 15:17 ​​ Before man is life and death; and whether him liketh shall be given him.

​​ 15:18 ​​ For the wisdom of Yahweh is great, and He is mighty in power, and beholdeth all things:

​​ 15:19 ​​ And His eyes are upon them that fear Him, and He knoweth every work of man.

​​ 15:20 ​​ He hath commanded no man to do wickedly, neither hath He given any man licence to sin.

Yahweh's Punishment of Sinners

Sirach 16:1 ​​ Desire not a multitude of unprofitable (worthless) children, neither delight in ungodly sons.

​​ 16:2 ​​ Though they multiply, rejoice not in them, except (unless) the fear of Yahweh be with them.

​​ 16:3 ​​ Trust not you in their life, neither respect their multitude: for one that is just is better than a thousand; and better it is to die without children, than to have them that are ungodly.

​​ 16:4 ​​ For by one that hath understanding shall the city be replenished: but the kindred of the wicked shall speedily become desolate.

​​ 16:5 ​​ Many such things have I seen with mine eyes, and mine ear hath heard greater things than these.

​​ 16:6 ​​ In the congregation of the ungodly shall a fire be kindled; and in a rebellious nation wrath is set on fire.

​​ 16:7 ​​ He was not pacified toward the old giants, who fell away in the strength of their foolishness.

Genesis 6:4 The Nephilim were on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of Elohim came in to the daughters of men and they bore children to them. Those were the mighty men who were of old, the men of name.

Wisdom 14:6 ​​ For in the old time also, when the proud giants perished, the hope of the world governed by Thy hand escaped in a weak vessel, and left to all ages a seed of generation.

3Maccabees 2:4 ​​ It was Thou who didst destroy the former workers of unrighteousness, among whom were the giants, who trusted in their strength and hardihood, by covering them with a measureless flood.

​​ 16:8 ​​ Neither spared He the place where Lot sojourned, but abhorred them for their pride.

​​ 16:9 ​​ He pitied not the people of perdition (on the doomed nation), who were taken away in their sins:

Other ancient authorities add, 'All these things He did to the hard-hearted nations, and by the multitude of His holy ones He was not appeased.'

​​ 16:10 ​​ Nor the six hundred thousand footmen, who were gathered together in the hardness of their hearts.

Also added, 'Chastising, showing mercy, striking, healing, Yahweh persisted in mercy and discipline.'

​​ 16:11 ​​ And if there be one stiffnecked among the people, it is marvel if he escape unpunished: for mercy and wrath are with Him; He is mighty to forgive, and to pour out displeasure (wrath).

​​ 16:12 ​​ As His mercy is great, so is His correction also: He judgeth a man according to his works

​​ 16:13 ​​ The sinner shall not escape with his spoils: and the patience of the godly shall not be frustrate.

​​ 16:14 ​​ Make way for every work of mercy: for every man shall find according to his works.

​​ 16:15 ​​ Yahweh hardened Pharaoh, that he should not know Him, that His powerful works might be known to the world.

​​ 16:16 ​​ His mercy is manifest to every creature; and He hath separated His light from the darkness with an adamant.

​​ 16:17 ​​ Say not you, I will hide myself from Yahweh: shall any remember me from above? I shall not be remembered among so many people: for what is my soul among such an infinite number of creatures?

​​ 16:18 ​​ Behold, the heaven (sky), and the heaven (sky) of heavens (skies), the deep, and the earth (land), and all that therein is, shall be moved when He shall visit.

Also added, 'The whole world past and present is in His will.'

​​ 16:19 ​​ The mountains also and foundations of the earth be shaken with trembling, when Yahweh looketh upon them.

​​ 16:20 ​​ No heart can think upon (No mind of man can grasp) these things worthily: and who is able to conceive His ways?

​​ 16:21 ​​ It is a tempest which no man can see: for the most part of His works are hid.

Other manuscripts add, 'If I sin, no eye can see me, and if I am disloyal all in secret, who is to know?

​​ 16:22 ​​ Who can declare the works of His justice? or who can endure them? for His covenant (decree) is afar off, and the trial of all things is in the end.

Also added, 'And a scrutiny for all comes at the end.'

​​ 16:23 ​​ He that wanteth (is devoid of) understanding will think upon vain things: and a foolish man erring imagineth follies.

Yahweh's Wisdom Seen in Creation

​​ 16:24 ​​ My son, hearken unto me, and learn knowledge, and mark my words with your heart.

​​ 16:25 ​​ I will shew forth doctrine in weight, and declare His knowledge exactly.

​​ 16:26 ​​ The works of Yahweh are done in judgment from the beginning: and from the time He made them He disposed the parts thereof.

​​ 16:27 ​​ He garnished His works for ever (in an eternal order), and in His hand are the chief of them unto all generations: they neither labour, nor are weary, nor cease from their works.

​​ 16:28 ​​ None of them hindereth another, and they shall never disobey His word.

​​ 16:29 ​​ After this Yahweh looked upon the earth, and filled it with His blessings.

​​ 16:30 ​​ With all manner of living things hath He covered the face thereof; and they shall return into it again.

​​ 

Sirach 17:1 ​​ Yahweh created man of the earth, and turned him into it again.

Ecclesiastes 3:20 ​​ All go to one place; all were formed of the dust, and all will return to dust.

​​ 17:2 ​​ He gave them few days, and a short time, and power (authority) also over the things therein.

​​ 17:3 ​​ He endued them with strength by themselves, and made them according to His image, ​​ (Gen 1:26-28; 2:7)

​​ 17:4 ​​ And put the fear of man upon all flesh, and gave him dominion over beasts and fowls.

​​ 17:5 ​​ They received the use of the five operations (faculties) of Yahweh, and in the sixth place He imparted them understanding (the gift of mind), and in the seventh speech (reason), an interpreter of the cogitations thereof (of one's faculties).

​​ 17:6 ​​ Counsel, and a tongue, and eyes, ears, and a heart, gave He them to understand.

​​ 17:7 ​​ Withal He filled them with the knowledge of understanding, and shewed them good and evil.

Genesis 2:17 ​​ But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you shalt not eat of it: for in the day that you eatest thereof you shalt surely die.

​​ 17:8 ​​ He set His eye upon their hearts (He put the fear of Him inot their hearts), that He might shew them the greatness of His works.

​​ 17:9 ​​ He gave them to glory in His marvellous acts for ever, that they might declare His works with understanding.

​​ 17:10 ​​ And the elect (Chosen ones) shall praise His holy name.

​​ 17:11 ​​ Beside this He gave them knowledge, and the law of life for an heritage.

Other ancient authorities add, 'so that they may know that they who are alive now are mortal.'

​​ 17:12 ​​ He made an everlasting covenant with them, and shewed them His judgments.

​​ 17:13 ​​ Their eyes saw the majesty of His glory, and their ears heard His glorious voice.

​​ 17:14 ​​ And He said unto them, Beware of all unrighteousness; and He gave every man commandment concerning his neighbour.

​​ 17:15 ​​ Their ways are ever before Him, and shall not be hid from His eyes.

​​ 17:16 ​​ Every man from his youth is given to evil; neither could they make to themselves fleshy hearts for stony.

​​ 17:17 ​​ For in the division of the nations of the whole earth He set a ruler over every people; but Israel is Yahweh's portion:

​​ 17:18 ​​ Whom, being His firstborn, He nourisheth with discipline, and giving him the light of His love doth not forsake him.

​​ 17:19 ​​ Therefore all their works are as the sun before Him, and His eyes are continually upon their ways.

​​ 17:20 ​​ None of their unrighteous deeds are hid from Him, but all their sins are before Yahweh

​​ 17:21 ​​ But Yahweh being gracious and knowing His workmanship, neither left nor forsook them, but spared them.

​​ 17:22 ​​ The alms of a man is as a signet with Him, and He will keep the good deeds of man as the apple (daughter) of the eye, and give repentance to his sons and daughters.

​​ 17:23 ​​ Afterwards He will rise up and reward (repay) them, and render their recompence upon their heads.

​​ 17:24 ​​ But unto them that repent, He granted them return, and comforted those that failed in patience.

A Call to Repentance

​​ 17:25 ​​ Return unto Yahweh, and forsake your sins, make your prayer before His face, and offend less.

​​ 17:26 ​​ Turn again to the Most High, and turn away from iniquity: for He will lead you out of darkness into the light of health, and hate you abomination vehemently.

Jeremiah 3:12 ​​ Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, you backsliding Israel, saith Yahweh; and I will not cause Mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, saith Yahweh, and I will not keep anger for ever.

​​ 17:27 ​​ Who shall praise the Most High in the grave, instead of them which live and give thanks?

​​ 17:28 ​​ Thanksgiving perisheth from the dead, as from one that is not: the living and sound in heart shall praise Yahweh.

Psalm 6:5 ​​ For in death there is no remembrance of You: in the grave who shall give You thanks?

Isaiah 38:18 ​​ For the grave cannot praise You, death can not celebrate You: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for Your truth.

Baruch 2:17 ​​ Open thine eyes, and behold; for the dead that are in the graves, whose souls are taken from their bodies, will give unto Yahweh neither praise nor righteousness:

2:18 ​​ But the soul that is greatly vexed, which goeth stooping and feeble, and the eyes that fail, and the hungry soul, will give You praise and righteousness, O Yahweh.

​​ 17:29 ​​ How great is the lovingkindness (mercy) of Yahweh our God, and His compassion (forgiveness) unto such as turn (return) unto Him in holiness!

​​ 17:30 ​​ For all things cannot be in men, because the son of man is not immortal.

​​ 17:31 ​​ What is brighter than the sun? yet the light thereof faileth (Yet it can be eclipsed); and flesh and blood will imagine (devise) evil.

​​ 17:32 ​​ He vieweth the power of the height of heaven; and all men are but earth and ashes.

The Majesty of Yahweh

Sirach 18:1 ​​ He that liveth for ever Hath created all things in general.

​​ 18:2 ​​ Yahweh only is righteous (just), and there is none other but he,

​​ 18:3 ​​ Who governeth the world with the palm of His hand, and all things obey His will: for He is the King of all, by His power dividing holy things among them from profane.

​​ 18:4 ​​ To whom hath He given power to declare His works? and who shall find out His noble acts?

​​ 18:5 ​​ Who shall number (measure) the strength of His majesty? and who shall also tell out His mercies?

​​ 18:6 ​​ As for the wondrous works of Yahweh, there may nothing be taken from them, neither may any thing be put unto them, neither can the ground of them be found out.

​​ 18:7 ​​ When a man hath done (finished), then he beginneth; and when he leaveth off, then he shall be doubtful (perplexed).

​​ 18:8 ​​ What is man, and whereto serveth he? what is his good, and what is his evil?

​​ 18:9 ​​ The number of a man's days at the most are an hundred years.

Other ancient authorities add, 'but the death of each one is beyond the calculation of all.'

​​ 18:10 ​​ As a drop of water unto the sea, and a gravelstone in comparison of the sand; so are a thousand years to the days of eternity.

​​ 18:11 ​​ Therefore is God patient with them, and poureth forth His mercy upon them.

​​ 18:12 ​​ He saw and perceived their end to be evil; therefore He multiplied His compassion (grants them forgiveness all the more).

​​ 18:13 ​​ The mercy (compassion) of man is toward his neighbour; but the mercy (compassion) of Yahweh is upon all flesh: He reproveth, and nurtureth, and teacheth and bringeth again, as a shepherd his flock.

​​ 18:14 ​​ He hath mercy (compassion) on them that receive discipline, and that diligently seek after His judgments.

The Right Spirit in Giving Alms

​​ 18:15 ​​ My son, blemish not your good deeds, neither use uncomfortable words when you givest any thing.

​​ 18:16 ​​ Shall not the dew asswage the heat? so is a word better than a gift.

​​ 18:17 ​​ Lo, is not a word better than a gift? but both are with a gracious man.

​​ 18:18 ​​ A fool will upbraid churlishly (A fool is ungracious and abusive), and a gift of the envious (of a grudging giver) consumeth the eyes (makes the eyes dim).

The Need of Reflection and Self-control

​​ 18:19 ​​ Learn before you speak, and use physick or ever you be sick (and before you fall ill, take care of your health).

​​ 18:20 ​​ Before judgment examine yourself, and in the day of visitation you shalt find mercy (forgiveness).

​​ 18:21 ​​ Humble yourself before you be sick, and in the time of sins shew repentance.

​​ 18:22 ​​ Let nothing hinder you to pay your vow in due time, and defer not until death to be justified.

​​ 18:23 ​​ Before you prayest, prepare yourself; and be not as one that tempteth Yahweh.

​​ 18:24 ​​ Think upon the wrath that shall be at the end, and the time of vengeance, when He shall turn away His face.

​​ 18:25 ​​ When you hast enough (plenty), remember the time of hunger: and when you art rich, think upon poverty and need.

​​ 18:26 ​​ From the morning until the evening the time is changed (conditions change), and all things are soon done before Yahweh.

​​ 18:27 ​​ A wise man will fear in every thing, and in the day of sinning he will beware of offence: but a fool will not observe time.

​​ 18:28 ​​ Every man of understanding knoweth wisdom, and will give praise unto him that found her.

​​ 18:29 ​​ They that were of understanding in sayings became also wise themselves, and poured forth exquisite parables.

Other ancient authorities add, 'Better is confidence in the one Soveriegn than clinging with a dead heart to a dead one.'

​​ 18:30 ​​ Go not after your lusts, but refrain yourself from your appetites.

​​ 18:31 ​​ If you givest your soul the desires that please her, she will make you a laughingstock to your enemies that malign you.

​​ 18:32 ​​ Take not pleasure in much good cheer, neither be tied to the expense thereof.

​​ 18:33 ​​ Be not made a beggar by banqueting upon borrowing, when you hast nothing in your purse: for you shalt lie in wait for your own life, and be talked on.

Other authorities add, 'for you will be plotting against your own life.'

Sirach 19:1 ​​ A labouring man that is given to drunkenness shall not be rich: and he that contemneth (despises) small things shall fall (will fail) by little and little.

​​ 19:2 ​​ Wine and women will make men of understanding to fall away: and he that cleaveth to harlots will become impudent (is reckless).

​​ 19:3 ​​ Moths and worms shall have him to heritage, and a bold man shall be taken away.

Against Loose Talk

​​ 19:4 ​​ He that is hasty to give credit is lightminded (One who trusts others too quickly has a shallow mind); and he that sinneth shall offend against his own soul.

​​ 19:5 ​​ Whoso taketh pleasure in wickedness shall be condemned: but he that resisteth pleasures crowneth his life.

​​ 19:6 ​​ He that can rule his tongue shall live without strife; and he that hateth babbling shall have less evil.

​​ 19:7 ​​ Rehearse not unto another (Never repeat a conversation) that which is told unto you, and you shalt fare never the worse.

​​ 19:8 ​​ Whether it be to friend or foe, talk not of other men's lives; and if you canst without offence, reveal them not.

​​ 19:9 ​​ For he heard and observed you, and when time cometh he will hate you.

​​ 19:10 ​​ If you hast heard a word, let it die with you; and be bold (brave), it will not burst you.

​​ 19:11 ​​ A fool travaileth with a word, as a woman in labour of a child.

​​ 19:12 ​​ As an arrow that sticketh in a man's thigh, so is a word (gossip) within a fool's belly.

​​ 19:13 ​​ Admonish (Question) a friend, it may be he hath not done it: and if he have done it, that he do it no more.

​​ 19:14 ​​ Admonish (Question) your friend, it may be he hath not said it: and if he have, that he speak it not again.

​​ 19:15 ​​ Admonish (Question) a friend: for many times it is a slander, and believe not every tale.

​​ 19:16 ​​ There is one that slippeth in his speech, but not from his heart; and who is he that hath not offended with his tongue?

​​ 19:17 ​​ Admonish (Question) your neighbour before you threaten him; and not being angry, give place to the law of the Most High.

Other ancient authorities add, 'and do not be angry.'

​​ 19:18 ​​ The fear of Yahweh is the first step to be accepted of Him, and wisdom obtaineth His love.

​​ 19:19 ​​ The knowledge of the commandments of Yahweh is the doctrine of life (life-giving discipline): and they that do things that please Him shall receive the fruit of the tree of immortality.

​​ 19:20 ​​ The fear of Yahweh is all wisdom; and in all wisdom is the performance (fulfillment) of the law, and the knowledge of His omnipotency.

​​ 19:21 ​​ If a servant say to his master, I will not do as it pleaseth you; though afterward he do it, he angereth him that nourisheth him.

​​ 19:22 ​​ The knowledge of wickedness is not wisdom, neither at any time the counsel of sinners prudence.

​​ 19:23 ​​ There is a wickedness, and the same an abomination; and there is a fool wanting in wisdom.

​​ 19:24 ​​ He that hath small understanding, and feareth God, is better than one that hath much wisdom, and transgresseth the law of the Most High.

​​ 19:25 ​​ There is an exquisite subtilty (cleverness), and the same is unjust; and there is one that turneth aside to make judgment appear (abuse favors to gain a verdict); and there is a wise man that justifieth in judgment.

​​ 19:26 ​​ There is a wicked man that hangeth down his head sadly; but inwardly he is full of deceit,

​​ 19:27 ​​ Casting down his countenance, and making as if he heard not: where he is not known, he will do you a mischief before you be aware.

​​ 19:28 ​​ And if for want of power he be hindered from sinning, yet when he findeth opportunity he will do evil.

​​ 19:29 ​​ A man may be known by his look, and one that hath understanding by his countenance, when you meetest him.

​​ 19:30 ​​ A man's attire, and excessive laughter, and gait, shew what he is.

Silence and Speech

Sirach 20:1 ​​ There is a reproof that is not comely: again, some man holdeth his tongue, and he is wise.

​​ 20:2 ​​ It is much better to reprove, than to be angry secretly: and he that confesseth his fault shall be preserved from hurt.

​​ 20:3 ​​ How good is it, when you art reproved, to shew repentance! for so shalt you escape wilful sin.

​​ 20:4 ​​ As is the lust of an eunuch to deflower a virgin; so is he that executeth judgment with violence.

​​ 20:5 ​​ There is one that keepeth silence, and is found wise: and another by much babbling becometh hateful.

​​ 20:6 ​​ Some man holdeth his tongue, because he hath not to answer: and some keepeth silence, knowing his time (when to speak).

​​ 20:7 ​​ A wise man will hold his tongue till he see opportunity: but a babbler and a fool will regard no time.

​​ 20:8 ​​ He that useth many words shall be abhorred; and he that taketh to himself authority therein shall be hated.

Other ancient authorities add, 'How good it is to show repentance when you are reproved, for so you will escape deliberate sin!'

Paradoxes

​​ 20:9 ​​ There is a sinner that hath good success in evil things; and there is a gain that turneth to loss.

​​ 20:10 ​​ There is a gift that shall not profit you; and there is a gift whose recompence is double.

​​ 20:11 ​​ There is an abasement (losses) because of glory; and there is that lifteth up his head from a low estate (humble circumstances).

​​ 20:12 ​​ There is that buyeth much for a little, and repayeth it sevenfold.

​​ 20:13 ​​ A wise man by his words maketh him beloved: but the graces of fools shall be poured out.

The wise make themselves beloved by only few words, but the courtesies of fools are wasted.

​​ 20:14 ​​ The gift of a fool shall do you no good when you hast it; neither yet of the envious for his necessity: for he looketh to receive many things for one (for he looks for recompense sevenfold). (Grk: he has many eyes instead of one)

​​ 20:15 ​​ He giveth little, and upbraideth much; he openeth his mouth like a crier (town crier); to day he lendeth, and to morrow will he ask it again: such an one is to be hated of God and man.

​​ 20:16 ​​ The fool saith, I have no friends, I have no thank for all my good deeds, and they that eat my bread speak evil of me (are evil-tongued).

​​ 20:17 ​​ How oft, and of how many shall he be laughed to scorn! for he knoweth not aright what it is to have; and it is all one unto him as if he had it not (for he has not honestly received what he has, and what he does not have is unimportant to him).

Inappropriate Speech

​​ 20:18 ​​ To slip upon a pavement is better than to slip with the tongue: so the fall of the wicked shall come speedily.

​​ 20:19 ​​ An unseasonable tale will always be in the mouth of the unwise.

A coarse person is like an inappropriate story, continually on the lips of the ignorant.

​​ 20:20 ​​ A wise sentence shall be rejected when it cometh out of a fool's mouth; for he will not speak it in due season (at the proper time).

​​ 20:21 ​​ There is that is hindered from sinning through want: and when he taketh rest, he shall not be troubled.

​​ 20:22 ​​ There is that destroyeth his own soul through bashfulness, and by accepting of persons overthroweth himself.

​​ 20:23 ​​ There is that for bashfulness promiseth to his friend, and maketh him his enemy for nothing.

Lying

​​ 20:24 ​​ A lie is a foul blot in a man, yet it is continually in the mouth of the untaught.

​​ 20:25 ​​ A thief is better than a man that is accustomed to lie (a habitual liar): but they both shall have destruction to heritage.

​​ 20:26 ​​ The disposition of a liar is dishonourable, and his shame is ever with him.

Proverbial Sayings

​​ 20:27 ​​ A wise man shall promote himself to honour with his words: and he that hath understanding will please great men.

​​ 20:28 ​​ He that tilleth his land shall increase his heap: and he that pleaseth great men shall get pardon for iniquity.

​​ 20:29 ​​ Presents and gifts blind the eyes of the wise, and stop up his mouth that he cannot reprove.

​​ 20:30 ​​ Wisdom that is hid, and treasure that is hoarded up, what profit is in them both?

​​ 20:31 ​​ Better is he that hideth his folly than a man that hideth his wisdom.

​​ 20:32 ​​ Necessary patience in seeking Yahweh is better than he that leadeth his life without a guide.

Various Sins

Sirach 21:1 ​​ My son, hast you sinned? do so no more, but ask pardon for your former sins.

John 5:14 ​​ Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.

8:11 ​​ She said, No man, Prince. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

​​ 21:2 ​​ Flee from sin as from the face of a serpent: for if you comest too near it, it will bite you: the teeth thereof are as the teeth of a lion, slaying the souls of men.

​​ 21:3 ​​ All iniquity (lawlessness) is as a two edged sword, the wounds whereof cannot be healed.

​​ 21:4 ​​ To terrify and do wrong will waste riches: thus the house of proud men shall be made desolate (uprooted).

​​ 21:5 ​​ A prayer out of a poor man's mouth reacheth to the ears of God, and his judgment cometh speedily.

​​ 21:6 ​​ He that hateth to be reproved is in the way of sinners: but he that feareth Yahweh will repent from his heart.

Proverbs 12:1 ​​ Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

​​ 21:7 ​​ An eloquent man is known far and near; but a man of understanding knoweth when he slippeth.

​​ 21:8 ​​ He that buildeth his house with other men's money is like one that gathereth himself stones for the tomb of his burial.

​​ 21:9 ​​ The congregation of the wicked is like tow (kindling wood) wrapped together: and the end of them is a flame of fire to destroy them.

​​ 21:10 ​​ The way of sinners is made plain (paved) with stones, but at the end thereof is the pit of hell.

Wisdom and Foolishness

​​ 21:11 ​​ He that keepeth the law of Yahweh getteth the understanding thereof (controls his thoughts): and the perfection (fulfillment) of the fear of Yahweh is wisdom.

​​ 21:12 ​​ He that is not wise (clever) will not be taught: but there is a wisdom (cleverness) which multiplieth bitterness.

​​ 21:13 ​​ The knowledge of a wise man shall abound like a flood: and his counsel is like a pure fountain of life.

​​ 21:14 ​​ The inner parts (The mind) of a fool are like a broken vessel, and he will hold no knowledge as long as he liveth.

​​ 21:15 ​​ If a skilful man hear a wise word, he will commend it, and add unto it: but as soon as one of no understanding (a fool) heareth it, it displeaseth him, and he casteth it behind his back.

​​ 21:16 ​​ The talking of a fool is like a burden in the way: but grace (delight) shall be found in the lips of the wise.

​​ 21:17 ​​ They enquire at the mouth of the wise man in the congregation, and they shall ponder his words in their heart.

​​ 21:18 ​​ As is a house that is destroyed, so is wisdom to a fool: and the knowledge of the unwise is as talk without sense.

​​ 21:19 ​​ Doctrine unto fools is as fetters on the feet, and like manacles on the right hand.

​​ 21:20 ​​ A fool lifteth up his voice with laughter; but a wise man doth scarce smile a little.

​​ 21:21 ​​ Learning is unto a wise man as an ornament of gold, and like a bracelet upon his right arm.

​​ 21:22 ​​ A foolish man's foot is soon in his neighbour's house: but a man of experience is ashamed of him.

​​ 21:23 ​​ A fool will peep in at the door into the house: but he that is well nurtured will stand without.

​​ 21:24 ​​ It is the rudeness of a man to hearken at the door: but a wise man will be grieved with the disgrace.

​​ 21:25 ​​ The lips of talkers will be telling such things as pertain not unto them: but the words of such as have understanding are weighed in the balance.

​​ 21:26 ​​ The heart of fools is in their mouth: but the mouth of the wise is in their heart.

​​ 21:27 ​​ When the ungodly curseth Satan, he curseth his own soul.

​​ 21:28 ​​ A whisperer defileth his own soul, and is hated wheresoever he dwelleth.

The Idler

Sirach 22:1 ​​ A slothful man is compared to a filthy stone, and every one will hiss him out to his disgrace.

​​ 22:2 ​​ A slothful man (idler) is compared to the filth of a dunghill: every man that takes it up will shake his hand.

Degenerate Children

​​ 22:3 ​​ An evilnurtured man is the dishonour of his father that begat him: and a foolish daughter is born to his loss.

​​ 22:4 ​​ A wise daughter shall bring an inheritance to her husband: but she that liveth dishonestly (acts shamefully) is her father's heaviness.

​​ 22:5 ​​ She that is bold (impudent) dishonoureth both her father and her husband, but they both shall despise her.

​​ 22:6 ​​ A tale out of season is as musick in mourning: but stripes and correction of wisdom are never out of time.

Wisdom and Folly

​​ 22:7 ​​ Whoso teacheth a fool is as one that glueth a potsherd together, and as he that waketh one from a sound sleep.

​​ 22:8 ​​ He that telleth a tale to a fool speaketh to one in a slumber (a drowsy man): when he hath told his tale, he will say, What is the matter (What is it)?

​​ 22:9 ​​ If children live honestly, and have wherewithal (are brought up in the good life), they shall cover the baseness of their parents (conceal the lowly birth of their parents).

​​ 22:10 ​​ But children, being haughty, through disdain and want of nurture do stain the nobility of their kindred.

​​ 22:11 ​​ Weep for the dead, for he hath lost the light: and weep for the fool, for he wanteth understanding: make little weeping for the dead, for he is at rest: but the life of the fool is worse than death.

​​ 22:12 ​​ Seven days do men mourn for him that is dead; but for a fool and an ungodly man all the days of his life.

Genesis 50:10 ​​ And they came to the threshingfloor of Atad, which is beyond Jordan, and there they mourned with a great and very sore lamentation: and he made a mourning for his father seven days.

Judith 16:24 ​​ And the house of Israel lamented her seven days: and before she died, she did distribute her goods to all them that were nearest of kindred to Manasses her husband, and to them that were the nearest of her kindred.

​​ 22:13 ​​ Talk not much with a fool, and go not to (do not visit) him that hath no understanding: beware of him, lest you have trouble, and you shalt never be defiled with his fooleries: depart (avoid) from him, and you shalt find rest, and never be disquieted with madness (and you will never be wearied by his lack of sense).

​​ 22:14 ​​ What is heavier than lead? and what is the name thereof, but a fool?

​​ 22:15 ​​ Sand, and salt, and a mass of iron, is easier to bear, than a man without understanding (a stupid person).

​​ 22:16 ​​ As timber girt (wooden beam) and bound together in a building cannot be loosed with shaking (by an earthquake): so the heart (mind) that is stablished by advised counsel shall fear at no time.

​​ 22:17 ​​ A heart settled upon a thought of understanding is as a fair plaistering on the wall of a gallery.

​​ 22:18 ​​ Pales (Fences) set on an high place will never stand against the wind: so a fearful heart (timid mind) in the imagination of a fool cannot stand against any fear.

Preservation of Friendship

​​ 22:19 ​​ He that pricketh the eye will make tears to fall: and he that pricketh the heart maketh it to shew her knowledge (makes clear its feelings).

​​ 22:20 ​​ Whoso casteth a stone at the birds frayeth (scares) them away: and he that upbraideth (reviles) his friend breaketh friendship.

​​ 22:21 ​​ Though you drewest a sword at your friend, yet despair not: for there may be a returning to favour.

​​ 22:22 ​​ If you hast opened your mouth against your friend, fear not; for there may be a reconciliation: except for upbraiding, or pride, or disclosing of secrets, or a treacherous wound: for for these things every friend will depart.

​​ 22:23 ​​ Be faithful to your neighbour in his poverty, that you mayest rejoice in his prosperity: abide stedfast unto him in the time of his trouble, that you mayest be heir with him in his heritage: for a mean estate is not always to be contemned: nor the rich that is foolish to be had in admiration.

​​ 22:24 ​​ As the vapour and smoke of a furnace goeth before the fire; so reviling (insults) before blood.

​​ 22:25 ​​ I will not be ashamed to defend a friend; neither will I hide myself from him.

​​ 22:26 ​​ And if any evil happen unto me by him, every one that heareth it will beware of him.

A Prayer for Help Against Sinning

​​ 22:27 ​​ Who shall set a watch before my mouth, and a seal of wisdom upon my lips, that I fall not suddenly by them, and that my tongue destroy me not?

Sirach 23:1 ​​ O Yahweh, Father and Governor of all my whole life, leave me not to their counsels (designs), and let me not fall by them.

​​ 23:2 ​​ Who will set scourges over my thoughts, and the discipline of wisdom over mine heart? that they spare me not for mine ignorances, and it pass not by my sins:

​​ 23:3 ​​ Lest mine ignorances increase, and my sins abound to my destruction, and I fall before mine adversaries, and mine enemy rejoice over me, whose hope is far from Your mercy.

​​ 23:4 ​​ O Yahweh, Father and God of my life, give me not a proud look, but turn away from Your servants always a haughty mind.

​​ 23:5 ​​ Turn away from me vain hopes and concupiscence, and You shalt hold him up that is desirous always to serve You.

​​ 23:6 ​​ Let not the greediness of the belly nor lust of the flesh take hold of me; and give not over me Your servant into an impudent mind (shameless passion).

Discipline of the Tongue

​​ 23:7 ​​ Hear, O you children, the discipline of the mouth: he that keepeth it shall never be taken in his lips.

​​ 23:8 ​​ The sinner shall be left in his foolishness (is overtaken throught their lips): both the evil speaker and the proud shall fall thereby.

​​ 23:9 ​​ Accustom not your mouth to swearing; neither use yourself to the naming of the Holy One.

Matthew 5:34 ​​ But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:

James 5:12 ​​ But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.

​​ 23:10 ​​ For as a servant that is continually beaten shall not be without a blue mark: so he that sweareth and nameth God continually shall not be faultless.

​​ 23:11 ​​ A man that useth much swearing shall be filled with iniquity, and the plague shall never depart from his house: if he shall offend, his sin shall be upon him: and if he acknowledge not his sin, he maketh a double offence: and if he swear in vain, he shall not be innocent, but his house shall be full of calamities.

Foul Language

​​ 23:12 ​​ There is a word that is clothed about with death (comparable to death): God grant that it be not found in the heritage of Jacob; for all such things shall be far from the godly, and they shall not wallow in their sins.

​​ 23:13 ​​ Use not your mouth to intemperate swearing (coarse, foul language), for therein is the word of sin (sinful speech).

​​ 23:14 ​​ Remember your father and your mother, when you sittest among great men. Be not forgetful before them, and so you by your custom become a fool, and wish that you hadst not been born, and curse they day of your nativity.

​​ 23:15 ​​ The man that is accustomed to opprobrious words (abusive language) will never be reformed all the days of his life.

Concerning Sexual Sins

​​ 23:16 ​​ Two sorts of men multiply sin, and the third will bring wrath: a hot mind (passion) is as a burning fire, it will never be quenched till it be consumed: a fornicator in the body of his flesh (with his near of kin) will never cease till he hath kindled a fire.

​​ 23:17 ​​ All bread is sweet to a whoremonger, he will not leave off till he die.

​​ 23:18 ​​ A man that breaketh wedlock, saying thus in his heart, Who seeth me? I am compassed about with darkness, the walls cover me, and no body seeth me; what need I to fear? the Most High will not remember my sins:

​​ 23:19 ​​ Such a man only feareth the eyes of men, and knoweth not that the eyes of Yahweh are ten thousand times brighter than the sun, beholding all the ways of men, and considering the most secret parts.

​​ 23:20 ​​ He knew all things ere ever they were created; so also after they were perfected He looked upon them all.

​​ 23:21 ​​ This man shall be punished in the streets of the city, and where he suspecteth not he shall be taken.

​​ 23:22 ​​ Thus shall it go also with the wife that leaveth her husband, and bringeth in an heir by another.

​​ 23:23 ​​ For first, she hath disobeyed the law of the Most High; and secondly, she hath trespassed against her own husband; and thirdly, she hath played the whore in adultery, and brought children by another man.

​​ 23:24 ​​ She shall be brought out into the congregation, and inquisition shall be made of her children.

​​ 23:25 ​​ Her children shall not take root, and her branches shall bring forth no fruit.

​​ 23:26 ​​ She shall leave her memory to be cursed, and her reproach shall not be blotted out.

​​ 23:27 ​​ And they that remain shall know that there is nothing better than the fear of Yahweh, and that there is nothing sweeter than to take heed unto the commandments of Yahweh.

​​ 23:28 ​​ It is great glory to follow Yahweh, and to be received of Him is long life.

The Praise of Wisdom

Sirach 24:1 ​​ Wisdom shall praise herself, and shall glory in the midst of her people.

​​ 24:2 ​​ In the congregation of the Most High shall she open her mouth, and triumph before His power.

​​ 24:3 ​​ I came out of the mouth of the Most High, and covered the earth as a cloud.

​​ 24:4 ​​ I dwelt in high places, and my throne is in a cloudy pillar. ​​ (Exo 33:9-10)

​​ 24:5 ​​ I alone compassed the circuit of heaven, and walked in the bottom of the deep.

​​ 24:6 ​​ In the waves of the sea and in all the earth, and in every people and nation, I got a possession. ​​ (Prov 8:27-31)

​​ 24:7 ​​ With all these I sought rest: and in whose inheritance shall I abide?

​​ 24:8 ​​ So the Creator of all things gave me a commandment, and He that made me caused my tabernacle to rest, and said, Let your dwelling be in Jacob, and your inheritance in Israel.

​​ 24:9 ​​ He created me from the beginning before the world, and I shall never fail.

​​ 24:10 ​​ In the holy tabernacle I served before Him; and so was I established in Sion.

​​ 24:11 ​​ Likewise in the beloved city He gave me rest, and in Jerusalem was my power.

​​ 24:12 ​​ And I took root in an honourable people, even in the portion of Yahweh's inheritance.

​​ 24:13 ​​ I was exalted like a cedar in Libanus, and as a cypress tree upon the mountains of Hermon.

​​ 24:14 ​​ I was exalted like a palm tree in En-gaddi, and as a rose plant in Jericho, as a fair olive tree in a pleasant field, and grew up as a plane tree by the water.

​​ 24:15 ​​ I gave a sweet smell like cinnamon and aspalathus, and I yielded a pleasant odour like the best myrrh, as galbanum, and onyx, and sweet storax, and as the fume of frankincense in the tabernacle.

​​ 24:16 ​​ As the turpentine tree I stretched out my branches, and my branches are the branches of honour and grace.

​​ 24:17 ​​ As the vine brought I forth pleasant savour, and my flowers are the fruit of honour and riches.

​​ 24:18 ​​ I am the mother of fair love, and fear, and knowledge, and holy hope: I therefore, being eternal, am given to all my children which are named of him.

​​ 24:19 ​​ Come unto me, all you that be desirous of me, and fill yourselves with my fruits.

​​ 24:20 ​​ For my memorial is sweeter than honey, and mine inheritance than the honeycomb.

​​ 24:21 ​​ They that eat me shall yet be hungry, and they that drink me shall yet be thirsty.

​​ 24:22 ​​ He that obeyeth me shall never be confounded, and they that work by me shall not do amiss. ​​ (Prov 8:11-21)

Wisdom and the Law

​​ 24:23 ​​ All these things are the book of the covenant of the Most High God, even the law which Moses commanded for an heritage unto the congregations of Jacob.

​​ 24:24 ​​ Faint not to be strong in Yahweh; that He may confirm you, cleave unto Him: for Yahweh Almighty is God alone, and beside Him there is no other Saviour.

​​ 24:25 ​​ He filleth all things with His wisdom, as Phison and as Tigris in the time of the new fruits.

​​ 24:26 ​​ He maketh the understanding to abound like Euphrates, and as Jordan in the time of the harvest.

​​ 24:27 ​​ He maketh the doctrine of knowledge appear as the light, and as Geon in the time of vintage.

​​ 24:28 ​​ The first man knew her not perfectly: no more shall the last find her out.

​​ 24:29 ​​ For her thoughts are more than the sea, and her counsels profounder than the great deep.

​​ 24:30 ​​ I also came out as a brook from a river, and as a conduit into a garden.

​​ 24:31 ​​ I said, I will water my best garden, and will water abundantly my garden bed: and, lo, my brook became a river, and my river became a sea.

​​ 24:32 ​​ I will yet make doctrine to shine as the morning, and will send forth her light afar off.

​​ 24:33 ​​ I will yet pour out doctrine as prophecy, and leave it to all ages for ever.

​​ 24:34 ​​ Behold that I have not laboured for myself only, but for all them that seek wisdom.

Those Who Are Worthy of Praise

Sirach 25:1 ​​ In three things I was beautified (take pleasure in), and stood up beautiful both before God and men: the unity of brethren, the love of neighbours, a man and a wife that agree together (live in harmony).

​​ 25:2 ​​ Three sorts of men my soul hateth, and I am greatly offended at their (manner of) life: a poor man (pauper) that is proud (who boasts), a rich man that is a liar, and an old adulterer that doateth.

​​ 25:3 ​​ If you hast gathered nothing in your youth, how canst you find any thing in your age?

​​ 25:4 ​​ O how comely a thing is (sound) judgment for gray hairs, and for ancient men to know (good) counsel!

​​ 25:5 ​​ O how comely is the wisdom of old men, and understanding and counsel to men of honour.

​​ 25:6 ​​ Much experience is the crown of old men, and the fear of God is their glory (boast).

​​ 25:7 ​​ There be nine things which I have judged in mine heart to be happy (blessed), and the tenth I will utter with my tongue: A man that hath joy of his children; and he that liveth to see the fall of his enemy:

​​ 25:8 ​​ Well is him that dwelleth with a wife of understanding, (and the one who does not plow with ox and ass together,) and that hath not slipped with his tongue, and that hath not served a man more unworthy than himself:

​​ 25:9 ​​ Well is him that hath found prudence (a friend- Grk. has good sense), and he that speaketh in the ears of them that will hear:

​​ 25:10 ​​ O how great is he that findeth wisdom! yet is there none above him that feareth Yahweh.

​​ 25:11 ​​ But the love of Yahweh passeth all things for illumination: he that holdeth it, whereto shall he be likened (to whom can we compare the one who has it- fear)?

​​ 25:12 ​​ The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of His love: and faith (allegiance) is the beginning of cleaving unto Him.

Some Extreme Forms of Evil

​​ 25:13 ​​ Give me any plague (wound), but the plague (wound) of the heart: and any wickedness, but the wickedness of a woman:

​​ 25:14 ​​ And any affliction, but the affliction from them that hate me: and any revenge (vengeance), but the revenge (vengeance) of enemies.

​​ 25:15 ​​ There is no head (venom) above the head (venom) of a serpent; and there is no wrath above the wrath of an enemy (a woman's).

The Evil of a Wicked Woman

​​ 25:16 ​​ I had rather dwell with a lion and a dragon, than to keep house with a wicked woman.

​​ 25:17 ​​ The wickedness of a woman changeth her face, and darkeneth her countenance like sackcloth (a bear).

​​ 25:18 ​​ Her husband shall sit among his neighbours; and when he heareth it shall sigh bitterly (her husband losses heart).

​​ 25:19 ​​ All wickedness is but little to the wickedness of a woman: let the portion of a sinner fall upon her.

​​ 25:20 ​​ As the climbing up a sandy way is to the feet of the aged, so is a wife full of words to a quiet man.

​​ 25:21 ​​ Stumble not at the beauty of a woman, and desire her not for pleasure.

​​ 25:22 ​​ A woman, if she maintain (supports- $) her husband, is full of anger, impudence, and much reproach.

​​ 25:23 ​​ A wicked woman abateth the courage, maketh an heavy countenance and a wounded heart: a woman that will not comfort her husband in distress maketh weak hands and feeble knees.

​​ 25:24 ​​ Of the woman came the beginning of sin, and through (because of) her we all die.

​​ 25:25 ​​ Give the water no passage; neither a wicked woman liberty to gad abroad.

​​ 25:26 ​​ If she go not as you wouldest have her, cut her off from your flesh, and give her a bill of divorce, and let her go.

The Joy of a Good Wife

Sirach 26:1 ​​ Blessed is the man that hath a virtuous wife, for the number of his days shall be double.

​​ 26:2 ​​ A virtuous (loyal) woman rejoiceth her husband, and he shall fulfil the years of his life in peace.

​​ 26:3 ​​ A good wife is a good portion (blessing), which shall be given in the portion of them that fear Yahweh.

​​ 26:4 ​​ Whether a man be rich or poor, if he have a good heart toward Yahweh, he shall at all times rejoice with a cheerful countenance.

The Worst of Evils: A Wicked Wife

​​ 26:5 ​​ There be three things that mine heart feareth; and for the fourth I was sore afraid: the slander of a city, the gathering together of an unruly multitude (a mob), and a false accusation: all these are worse than death.

​​ 26:6 ​​ But a grief of heart and sorrow is a woman that is jealous over another woman, and a scourge of the tongue which communicateth with all.

​​ 26:7 ​​ An evil wife is a yoke shaken to and fro: he that hath hold of her is as though he held a scorpion.

​​ 26:8 ​​ A drunken woman and a gadder abroad causeth great anger, and she will not cover her own shame.

​​ 26:9 ​​ The whoredom of a woman may be known in her haughty looks and eyelids.

​​ 26:10 ​​ If your daughter be shameless, keep her in straitly (keep strict watch), lest she abuse herself through overmuch liberty.

​​ 26:11 ​​ Watch over an impudent eye: and marvel not if she trespass against you.

​​ 26:12 ​​ She will open her mouth, as a thirsty traveller when he hath found a fountain, and drink of every water near her: by every hedge will she sit down, and open her quiver against every arrow (a sexual metaphor).

The Blessing of a Good Wife

​​ 26:13 ​​ The grace of a wife delighteth her husband, and her discretion (skill) will fatten his bones.

​​ 26:14 ​​ A silent and loving woman is a gift of Yahweh; and there is nothing so much worth as a mind well instructed (her self-discipline).

​​ 26:15 ​​ A shamefaced (modest) and faithful woman is a double grace (adds charm to charm), and her continent mind (chastity) cannot be valued.

​​ 26:16 ​​ As the sun when it ariseth in the high heaven (sky); so is the beauty of a good wife in the ordering of her house.

​​ 26:17 ​​ As the clear light is upon the holy candlestick (lampstand); so is the beauty of the face in ripe age.

​​ 26:18 ​​ As the golden pillars are upon the sockets of silver; so are the fair feet with a constant heart.

​​ 26:19 ​​ My son, keep the flower of your age sound; and give not your strength to strangers.

​​ 26:20 ​​ When you hast gotten a fruitful possession through all the field, sow it with your own seed, trusting in the goodness of your stock.

​​ 26:21 ​​ So your race (offfspring) which you leavest shall be magnified, having the confidence of their good descent.

​​ 26:22 ​​ An harlot shall be accounted as spittle; but a married woman is a tower against death to her husband.

​​ 26:23 ​​ A wicked woman (godless wife) is given as a portion to a wicked (lawless) man: but a godly woman is given to him that feareth Yahweh.

​​ 26:24 ​​ A dishonest woman contemneth shame: but an honest woman will reverence her husband.

​​ 26:25 ​​ A shameless woman shall be counted as a dog; but she that is shamefaced will fear Yahweh.

​​ 26:26 ​​ A woman that honoureth her husband shall be judged wise of all; but she that dishonoureth him in her pride shall be counted ungodly of all.

Other authorites add, 'Happy is the husband of a good wife; for the number of his years will be doubled.'

​​ 26:27 ​​ A loud crying (voiced) woman and a scold shall be sought out to drive away the enemies.

A loud-voiced and garrulous wife is like a trumpet sounding the charge, and every person like this lives in the anarchy of war.

Three Depressing Things

​​ 26:28 ​​ There be two things that grieve my heart; and the third maketh me angry: a man of war (a warrior) that suffereth poverty; and men of understanding that are not set by (treated contemptuously); and one that returneth from righteousness to sin; Yahweh prepareth such an one for the sword.

The Temptations of Commerce

​​ 26:29 ​​ A merchant shall hardly keep himself from doing wrong; and an huckster shall not be freed from sin.

The children of Cain (Jews) are merchants.

Sirach 27:1 ​​ Many have sinned for a small matter (for gain); and he that seeketh for abundance will turn his eyes away.

​​ 27:2 ​​ As a nail sticketh fast between the joinings of the stones; so doth sin stick close between buying and selling.

​​ 27:3 ​​ Unless a man hold himself diligently in the fear of Yahweh, his house shall soon be overthrown.

Tests in Life

​​ 27:4 ​​ As when one sifteth with a sieve, the refuse remaineth; so the filth of man in his talk.

​​ 27:5 ​​ The furnace proveth the potter's vessels; so the trial of man is in his reasoning (conversation).

​​ 27:6 ​​ The fruit declareth if the tree have been dressed (Its fruit discloses the cultivation of a tree); so is the utterance of a conceit in the heart of man (the cultivation of his mind).

Matthew 7:17 ​​ Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

12:33 ​​ Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit.

Luke 6:44 ​​ For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes.

​​ 27:7 ​​ Praise no man before you hearest him speak; for this is the trial of men (for this is the way people are tested).

Reward and Retrubution

​​ 27:8 ​​ If you followest righteousness, you shalt obtain her, and put her on, as a glorious long robe.

​​ 27:9 ​​ The birds will resort unto their like (with their own kind); so will truth return unto them that practise in her.

​​ 27:10 ​​ As the lion lieth in wait for the prey; so (does) sin for them that work iniquity.

Varieties of Speech

​​ 27:11 ​​ The discourse of a godly man is always with wisdom; but a fool changeth as the moon.

​​ 27:12 ​​ If you be among the indiscreet (stupid people), observe (limit) the time; but be continually among men of understanding.

​​ 27:13 ​​ The discourse of fools is irksome (offensive), and their sport (laughter) is the wantonness of sin.

​​ 27:14 ​​ The talk of him that sweareth much maketh the hair stand upright; and their brawls make one stop his ears.

​​ 27:15 ​​ The strife of the proud is bloodshedding, and their revilings are grievous to the ear.

Betraying Secrets

​​ 27:16 ​​ Whoso discovereth (betrays) secrets loseth his credit; and shall never find friend to his mind.

​​ 27:17 ​​ Love your friend, and be faithful unto him: but if you betrayest his secrets, follow no more after him.

​​ 27:18 ​​ For as a man hath destroyed his enemy; so hast you lost the love (friendship) of your neighbour.

​​ 27:19 ​​ As one that letteth a bird go out of his hand, so hast you let your neighbour go, and shalt not get him again

​​ 27:20 ​​ Follow after him no more, for he is too far off; he is as a roe (gazelle) escaped out of the snare.

​​ 27:21 ​​ As for a wound, it may be bound up; and after reviling there may be reconcilement: but he that betrayeth secrets is without hope.

Proverbs 20:19 ​​ He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.

25:9 ​​ Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and disclose not a secret to another:

Hypocrisy and Retribution

​​ 27:22 ​​ He that winketh with the eyes worketh evil: and he that knoweth him will depart from him.

​​ 27:23 ​​ When you art present, he will speak sweetly, and will admire your words: but at the last he will writhe his mouth, and slander your sayings.

​​ 27:24 ​​ I have hated many things, but nothing like him (the hypocrite); for Yahweh will hate him.

​​ 27:25 ​​ Whoso casteth a stone on high casteth it on his own head; and a deceitful stroke shall make wounds.

​​ 27:26 ​​ Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that setteth a trap shall be taken therein.

​​ 27:27 ​​ He that worketh mischief, it shall fall upon him, and he shall not know whence it cometh.

​​ 27:28 ​​ Mockery and reproach are from the proud; but vengeance, as a lion, shall lie in wait for them.

​​ 27:29 ​​ They that rejoice at the fall of the righteous shall be taken in the snare; and anguish shall consume them before they die.

Anger and Vengeance

​​ 27:30 ​​ Malice and wrath, even these are abominations; and the sinful man shall have them both.

Sirach 28:1 ​​ He that revengeth shall find vengeance from Yahweh, and He will surely keep his sins in remembrance.

​​ 28:2 ​​ Forgive your neighbour the hurt that he hath done unto you, so shall your sins also be forgiven when you prayest.

Matthew 6:14 ​​ For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

Mark 11:25 ​​ And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

​​ 28:3 ​​ One man beareth hatred against another, and doth he seek pardon from Yahweh?

​​ 28:4 ​​ He sheweth no mercy to a man, which is like himself: and doth he ask forgiveness of his own sins?

​​ 28:5 ​​ If he that is but flesh nourish hatred, who will intreat for pardon of his sins?

​​ 28:6 ​​ Remember your end, and let enmity cease; remember corruption and death, and abide in the commandments.

​​ 28:7 ​​ Remember the commandments, and bear no malice to your neighbour: remember the covenant of the Highest, and wink at ignorance (overlook faults).

​​ 28:8 ​​ Abstain from strife, and you shalt diminish your sins: for a furious man will kindle strife,

​​ 28:9 ​​ A sinful man disquieteth friends, and maketh debate among them that be at peace.

​​ 28:10 ​​ As the matter of the fire is, so it burneth: and as a man's strength is, so is his wrath; and according to his riches his anger riseth; and the stronger they are which contend, the more they will be inflamed.

​​ 28:11 ​​ An hasty contention kindleth a fire: and an hasty fighting sheddeth blood.

The Evil Tongue

​​ 28:12 ​​ If you blow the spark, it shall burn: if you spit upon it, it shall be quenched: and both these come out of your mouth.

​​ 28:13 ​​ Curse the whisperer (gossips) and doubletongued: for such have destroyed many that were at peace.

​​ 28:14 ​​ A backbiting tongue hath disquieted many, and driven them from nation to nation: strong cities hath it pulled down, and overthrown the houses of great men.

​​ 28:15 ​​ A backbiting tongue hath cast out virtuous women, and deprived them of their labours.

​​ 28:16 ​​ Whoso hearkeneth unto it shall never find rest, and never dwell quietly.

​​ 28:17 ​​ The stroke of the whip maketh marks in the flesh: but the stroke of the tongue breaketh the bones.

​​ 28:18 ​​ Many have fallen by the edge of the sword: but not so many as have fallen by the tongue.

​​ 28:19 ​​ Well is he that is defended through the venom thereof; who hath not drawn the yoke thereof, nor hath been bound in her bands.

​​ 28:20 ​​ For the yoke thereof is a yoke of iron, and the bands thereof are bands of brass.

​​ 28:21 ​​ The death thereof is an evil death, the grave were better than it.

​​ 28:22 ​​ It shall not have rule over them that fear God, neither shall they be burned with the flame thereof.

​​ 28:23 ​​ Such as forsake Yahweh shall fall into it (the power of the evil tongue); and it shall burn in them, and not be quenched; it shall be sent upon them as a lion, and devour them as a leopard.

​​ 28:24 ​​ Look that you hedge your possession about with thorns, and bind up your silver and gold,

​​ 28:25 ​​ And weigh your words in a balance, and make a door and bar for your mouth.

​​ 28:26 ​​ Beware you slide not by it (Take care not to err with your tongue), lest you fall before him that lieth in wait. ​​ (James 3:5-12)

On Lending and Borrowing

Sirach 29:1 ​​ He that is merciful will lend unto his neighbour; and he that strengtheneth his hand (by holding out a helping hand they) keepeth the commandments.

​​ 29:2 ​​ Lend to your neighbour in time of his need, and pay you your neighbour again in due season (when a loan falls due).

Exodus 22:25 ​​ If you lend money to any of My people that is poor by you, you shalt not be to him as an usurer, neither shalt you lay upon him usury.

​​ 29:3 ​​ Keep your word, and deal faithfully with him, and you shalt always find the thing that is necessary for you.

​​ 29:4 ​​ Many, when a thing was lent them, reckoned it to be found (regarded as a windfall), and put them to trouble that helped them.

​​ 29:5 ​​ Till he hath received (gets a loan), he will kiss a man's hand; and for his neighbour's money he will speak submissly: but when he should repay, he will prolong the time, and return words of grief, and complain of the time.

​​ 29:6 ​​ If he prevail (If he can pay), he (his creditor) shall hardly receive the (get back) half, and he will count as if he had found it (regard it as a windfall): if not (If he cannot pay), he (the borrower) hath deprived him (the creditor) of his money, and he hath gotten (needlessly made) him an enemy without cause: he payeth him with cursings and railings; and for honour he will pay him disgrace (with dishonor).

​​ 29:7 ​​ Many therefore have refused to lend for other men's ill dealing, fearing to be defrauded. ​​ (Lev 25:35-38)

If you borrow money from a brother....pay it back!

​​ 29:8 ​​ Yet have you patience with a man in poor estate (humble circumstances), and delay not to shew him mercy (your alms).

​​ 29:9 ​​ Help the poor for the commandment's sake, and turn him not away because of his poverty.

Matthew 22:39 ​​ And the second is like unto it, You shalt love your neighbour as yourself.

​​ 29:10 ​​ Lose your money for your brother and your friend, and let it not rust under a stone to be lost.

​​ 29:11 ​​ Lay up your treasure according to the commandments of the Most High, and it shall bring you more profit than gold.

​​ 29:12 ​​ Shut up alms in your storehouses: and it shall deliver you from all affliction.

​​ 29:13 ​​ It shall fight for you against your enemies better than a mighty shield and strong spear.

On Guaranteeing Debts

​​ 29:14 ​​ An honest man is surety for his neighbour: but he that is impudent (has lost all sense of shame) will forsake him.

​​ 29:15 ​​ Forget not the friendship of your surety, for he hath given his life for you.

​​ 29:16 ​​ A sinner will overthrow (waste) the good estate of his surety:

​​ 29:17 ​​ And he that is of an unthankful mind will leave him in danger that delivered him.

​​ 29:18 ​​ Suretiship hath undone many of good estate, and shaken them as a wave of the sea: mighty men hath it driven from their houses, so that they wandered among strange (foreign) nations.

​​ 29:19 ​​ A wicked man transgressing the commandments of Yahweh shall fall into suretiship (grief): and he that undertaketh and followeth other men's business for gain shall fall into suits (his pursuit of gain involves him in lawsuits).

​​ 29:20 ​​ Help your neighbour according to your power (ability), and beware that you yourself fall not into the same.

Home and Hospitality

​​ 29:21 ​​ The chief thing for life is water, and bread, and clothing, and an house to cover shame (assure privacy).

​​ 29:22 ​​ Better is the life of a poor man in a mean cottage, than delicate fare in another man's house.

​​ 29:23 ​​ Be it little or much, hold you contented, that you hear not the reproach of your house.

Be content with little or much, and you will hear no reproach for being a guest.

The Greek has, 'you will hear not reproach from your family.'

​​ 29:24 ​​ For it is a miserable life to go from house to house: for where you art a stranger (guest), you darest (should) not open your mouth.

​​ 29:25 ​​ You shalt entertain (you will play the host), and feast, and have no thanks (without being thanked): moreover you shalt hear bitter words (like these):

​​ 29:26 ​​ ”Come, you stranger, and furnish a table, and feed me of that you hast ready.

​​ 29:27 ​​ Give place (Be off), you stranger, to an honourable man (for an honored guest is here); my brother cometh to be lodged, and I have need of mine house.

​​ 29:28 ​​ These things are grievous to a man of understanding (It is hard for a sensible person to bear scolding about lodging); the upbraiding of houseroom, and reproaching of the lender.

Concerning Children

Sirach 30:1 ​​ He that loveth his son causeth him oft to feel the rod, that he may have joy of him in the end.

​​ 30:2 ​​ He that chastiseth (disciplines) his son shall have joy in him, and shall rejoice of him among his acquaintance.

​​ 30:3 ​​ He that teacheth his son grieveth the enemy: and before his friends he shall rejoice of him.

​​ 30:4 ​​ Though his father die, yet he is as though he were not dead: for he hath left one behind him that is like himself.

​​ 30:5 ​​ While he lived, he saw and rejoiced in him: and when he died, he was not sorrowful.

​​ 30:6 ​​ He left behind him an avenger against his enemies, and one that shall requite kindness to his friends.

​​ 30:7 ​​ He that maketh too much of (spoils) his son shall bind up his wounds; and his bowels will be troubled (suffer heartache) at every cry.

​​ 30:8 ​​ An horse not broken becometh headstrong (stubborn): and a child left to himself (an unchecked son) will be wilful (headstrong).

​​ 30:9 ​​ Cocker (Pamper) your child, and he shall make you afraid (he will terrorize you): play with him, and he will bring you to heaviness (grieve you).

​​ 30:10 ​​ Laugh not with him, lest you have sorrow with him, and lest you gnash your teeth in the end.

​​ 30:11 ​​ Give him no liberty in his youth, and wink not at his follies (and do not ignore his errors).

​​ 30:12 ​​ Bow down his neck while he is young, and beat him on the sides while he is a child, lest he wax stubborn, and be disobedient unto you, and so bring sorrow to your heart.

​​ 30:13 ​​ Chastise (Discipline) your son, and hold him to labour (make his yoke heavy), lest his lewd behaviour be an offence unto you.

​​ 30:14 ​​ Better is the poor, being sound (healthy) and strong of constitution (fit), than a rich man that is afflicted in his body.

​​ 30:15 ​​ Health and good estate of body (fitness) are above all gold, and a strong body above infinite wealth.

​​ 30:16 ​​ There is no riches above a sound body (health), and no joy above the joy of the heart.

​​ 30:16 ​​ I awaked up last of all, as one that gathereth after the grapegatherers: by the blessing of Yahweh I profited, and filled my winepress like a gatherer of grapes.

​​ 30:17 ​​ Death is better than a bitter life (life of misery) or continual sickness (and eternal sleep than chronic sickness).

​​ 30:17 ​​ Consider that I laboured not for myself only, but for all them that seek learning.

Concerning Foods

​​ 30:18 ​​ Delicates poured upon a mouth shut up are as messes of meat set upon a grave.

Good things poured out upon a mouth that is closed are like offerings of food placed upon a grave.

​​ 30:18 ​​ Hear me, O you great men of the people, and hearken with your ears, you rulers of the congregation.

​​ 30:19 ​​ What good doeth the offering unto an idol? for neither can it eat nor smell: so is he that is persecuted of (punished by) Yahweh.

​​ 30:19 ​​ Give not your son and wife, your brother and friend, power over you while you livest, and give not your goods to another: lest it repent you, and you intreat for the same again.

​​ 30:20 ​​ He seeth with his eyes and groaneth, as an eunuch that embraceth a virgin and sigheth.

​​ 30:20 ​​ As long as you livest and hast breath in you, give not yourself over to any.

​​ 30:21 ​​ Give not over your mind to heaviness (sorrow), and afflict not yourself in your own counsel (deliberately).

​​ 30:21 ​​ For better it is that your children should seek to you, than that you shouldest stand to their courtesy.

​​ 30:22 ​​ The gladness of the heart is the life of man, and the joyfulness of a man prolongeth his days.

​​ 30:22 ​​ In all your works keep to yourself the preeminence; leave not a stain in your honour.

​​ 30:23 ​​ Love your own soul (Indulge yourself), and comfort your heart, remove sorrow far from you: for sorrow hath killed many, and there is no profit therein.

​​ 30:23 ​​ At the time when you shalt end your days, and finish your life, distribute your inheritance.

​​ 30:24 ​​ Envy and wrath shorten the life, and carefulness (anxiety) bringeth age before the time.

Ecclesiastes 11:9 ​​ Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.

11:10 ​​ Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh: for childhood and youth are vanity.

​​ 30:24 ​​ Fodder, a wand, and burdens, are for the ass; and bread, correction, and work, for a servant.

​​ 30:25 ​​ If you set your servant to labour, you shalt find rest: but if you let him go idle, he shall seek liberty.

30:25 (NRSV) Those who are cheerful and merry at table will benefit from their food.

​​ 30:26 ​​ A yoke and a collar do bow the neck: so are tortures and torments for an evil servant.

​​ 30:27 ​​ Send him to labour, that he be not idle; for idleness teacheth much evil.

​​ 30:28 ​​ Set him to work, as is fit for him: if he be not obedient, put on more heavy fetters.

​​ 30:29 ​​ But be not excessive toward any; and without discretion do nothing.

​​ 30:30 ​​ If you have a servant, let him be unto you as yourself, because you hast bought him with a price.

​​ 30:31 ​​ If you have a servant, entreat him as a brother: for you hast need of him, as of your own soul: if you entreat him evil, and he run from you, which way wilt you go to seek him?

Sirach 31:1 (34 in NSRV) ​​ The hopes of a man void of understanding are vain and false: and dreams lift up fools.

​​ 31:2 ​​ Whoso regardeth dreams is like him that catcheth at a shadow, and followeth after the wind.

​​ 31:3 ​​ The vision of dreams is the resemblance of one thing to another, even as the likeness of a face to a face.

​​ 31:4 ​​ Of an unclean thing what can be cleansed? and from that thing which is false what truth can come?

​​ 31:5 ​​ Divinations, and soothsayings, and dreams, are vain: and the heart fancieth, as a woman's heart in travail.

​​ 31:6 ​​ If they be not sent from the Most High in your visitation, set not your heart upon them.

​​ 31:7 ​​ For dreams have deceived many, and they have failed that put their trust in them.

​​ 31:8 ​​ The law shall be found perfect without lies: and wisdom is perfection to a faithful mouth.

​​ 31:9 ​​ A man that hath travelled knoweth many things; and he that hath much experience will declare wisdom.

​​ 31:10 ​​ He that hath no experience knoweth little: but he that hath travelled is full of prudence.

​​ 31:11 ​​ When I travelled, I saw many things; and I understand more than I can express.

​​ 31:12 ​​ I was ofttimes in danger of death: yet I was delivered because of these things.

​​ 31:13 ​​ The spirit of those that fear Yahweh shall live; for their hope is in Him that saveth them.

​​ 31:14 ​​ Whoso feareth Yahweh shall not fear nor be afraid; for He is his hope.

​​ 31:15 ​​ Blessed is the soul of him that feareth Yahweh: to whom doth he look? and who is his strength?

​​ 31:16 ​​ For the eyes of Yahweh are upon them that love Him, He is their mighty protection and strong stay, a defence from heat, and a cover from the sun at noon, a preservation from stumbling, and an help from falling.

​​ 31:17 ​​ He raiseth up the soul, and lighteneth the eyes: He giveth health, life, and blessing.

​​ 31:18 ​​ He that sacrificeth of a thing wrongfully gotten, his offering is ridiculous; and the gifts of unjust men are not accepted.

​​ 31:19 ​​ The Most High is not pleased with the offerings of the wicked; neither is He pacified for sin by the multitude of sacrifices.

​​ 31:20 ​​ Whoso bringeth an offering of the goods of the poor doeth as one that killeth the son before his father's eyes.

​​ 31:21 ​​ The bread of the needy is their life: he that defraudeth him thereof is a man of blood.

​​ 31:22 ​​ He that taketh away his neighbour's living slayeth him; and he that defraudeth the labourer of his hire is a bloodshedder.

​​ 31:23 ​​ When one buildeth, and another pulleth down, what profit have they then but labour?

​​ 31:24 ​​ When one prayeth, and another curseth, whose voice will Yahweh hear?

​​ 31:25 ​​ He that washeth himself after the touching of a dead body, if he touch it again, what availeth his washing?

​​ 31:26 ​​ So is it with a man that fasteth for his sins, and goeth again, and doeth the same: who will hear his prayer? or what doth his humbling profit him?

Sirach 32:1 (35 in NSRV) ​​ He that keepeth the law bringeth offerings enough: he that taketh heed to the commandment offereth a peace offering.

​​ 32:2 ​​ He that requiteth a good turn offereth fine flour; and he that giveth alms sacrificeth praise.

​​ 32:3 ​​ To depart from wickedness is a thing pleasing to Yahweh; and to forsake unrighteousness is a propitiation.

​​ 32:4 ​​ You shalt not appear empty before Yahweh.

​​ 32:5 ​​ For all these things are to be done because of the commandment.

​​ 32:6 ​​ The offering of the righteous maketh the altar fat, and the sweet savour thereof is before the Most High.

​​ 32:7 ​​ The sacrifice of a just man is acceptable. and the memorial thereof shall never be forgotten.

​​ 32:8 ​​ Give Yahweh His honour with a good eye, and diminish not the firstfruits of your hands.

​​ 32:9 ​​ In all your gifts shew a cheerful countenance, and dedicate your tithes with gladness.

​​ 32:10 ​​ Give unto the Most High according as He hath enriched you; and as you hast gotten, give with a cheerful eye.

​​ 32:11 ​​ For Yahweh recompenseth, and will give you seven times as much.

​​ 32:12 ​​ Do not think to corrupt with gifts; for such He will not receive: and trust not to unrighteous sacrifices; for Yahweh is judge, and with Him is no respect of persons.

​​ 32:13 ​​ He will not accept any person against a poor man, but will hear the prayer of the oppressed.

​​ 32:14 ​​ He will not despise the supplication of the fatherless; nor the widow, when she poureth out her complaint.

​​ 32:15 ​​ Do not the tears run down the widow's cheeks? and is not her cry against him that causeth them to fall?

​​ 32:16 ​​ He that serveth Yahweh shall be accepted with favour, and his prayer shall reach unto the clouds.

​​ 32:17 ​​ The prayer of the humble pierceth the clouds: and till it come nigh, he will not be comforted; and will not depart, till the Most High shall behold to judge righteously, and execute judgment.

​​ 32:18 ​​ For Yahweh will not be slack, neither will the Mighty be patient toward them, till He have smitten in sunder the loins of the unmerciful, and repayed vengeance to the heathen; till He have taken away the multitude of the proud, and broken the sceptre of the unrighteous;

​​ 32:19 ​​ Till He have rendered to every man according to his deeds, and to the works of men according to their devices; till He have judged the cause of His people, and made them to rejoice in His mercy.

​​ 32:20 ​​ Mercy is seasonable in the time of affliction, as clouds of rain in the time of drought.

Sirach 33:1 (36 in NSRV) ​​ Have mercy upon us, O Yahweh God of all, and behold us:

​​ 33:2 ​​ And send your fear upon all the nations that seek not after you.

​​ 33:3 ​​ Lift up your hand against the strange nations, and let them see your power.

​​ 33:4 ​​ As you wast sanctified in us before them: so be you magnified among them before us.

​​ 33:5 ​​ And let them know you, as we have known you, that there is no God but only you, O God.

​​ 33:6 ​​ Shew new signs, and make other strange wonders: glorify your hand and your right arm, that they may set forth your wondrous works.

​​ 33:7 ​​ Raise up indignation, and pour out wrath: take away the adversary, and destroy the enemy.

​​ 33:8 ​​ Sake the time short, remember the covenant, and let them declare your wonderful works.

​​ 33:9 ​​ Let him that escapeth be consumed by the rage of the fire; and let them perish that oppress the people.

​​ 33:10 ​​ Smite in sunder the heads of the rulers of the heathen, that say, There is none other but we.

​​ 33:11 ​​ Gather all the tribes of Jacob together, and inherit you them, as from the beginning.

​​ 33:12 ​​ A cheerful and good heart will have a care of his meat and diet.

Sirach 34:1 (31 in NRSV) ​​ Watching for riches consumeth the flesh, and the care thereof driveth away sleep.

​​ 34:2 ​​ Watching care will not let a man slumber, as a sore disease breaketh sleep (and a severe illness carries off sleep),

​​ 34:3 ​​ The rich hath great labour in gathering riches together; and when he resteth, he is filled with his delicates.

​​ 34:4 ​​ The poor laboureth in his poor estate (to make a meager living); and when he leaveth off (ever rests), he is still needy.

​​ 34:5 ​​ He that loveth gold shall not be justified, and he that followeth corruption shall have enough thereof (one who pursues money will be led astray by it). (Grk. 'one who pursues destruction will be filled.')

​​ 34:6 ​​ Gold hath been the ruin of many, and their destruction was present (has met them face to face).

​​ 34:7 ​​ It is a stumblingblock unto them that sacrifice unto it (are avid for it), and every fool shall be taken therewith.

​​ 34:8 ​​ Blessed is the rich that is found without blemish, and hath not gone after gold.

​​ 34:9 ​​ Who is he? and we will call him blessed: for wonderful things hath he done among his people.

​​ 34:10 ​​ Who hath been tried (tested) thereby, and found perfect? then let him glory. Who might offend, and hath not offended? or done evil, and hath not done it?

​​ 34:11 ​​ His goods (prosperity) shall be established, and the congregation shall declare his alms.

Table Etiquette

​​ 34:12 ​​ If you sit at a bountiful table, be not greedy upon it, and say not, There is much meat on it.

​​ 34:13 ​​ Remember that a wicked eye is an evil thing: and what is created more wicked than an eye? therefore it weepeth upon every occasion.

​​ 34:14 ​​ Stretch not your hand whithersoever it looketh (for everything you see), and thrust (crowd) it not with him into the dish.

​​ 34:15 ​​ Judge not your neighbour by yourself (Judge your neighbor's feelings by your own): and be discreet in every point.

​​ 34:16 ​​ Eat as it becometh a man (a well brought-up person), those things which are set before you; and devour not (do not chew greedily), lest you be hated.

​​ 34:17 ​​ Leave off first for manners' sake; and be not unsatiable, lest you offend.

​​ 34:18 ​​ When you sittest among many, reach not your hand out first of all.

​​ 34:19 ​​ A very little is sufficient for a man well nurtured, and he fetcheth not his wind short upon his bed (He does not breathe heavily when in bed).

​​ 34:20 ​​ Sound sleep cometh of moderate eating: he riseth early, and his wits are with him: but the pain of watching, and choler, and pangs of the belly, are with an unsatiable man.

​​ 34:21 ​​ And if you hast been forced to eat (are overstuffed with food), arise, go forth, vomit, and you shalt have rest.

​​ 34:22 ​​ My son, hear me, and despise me not, and at the last you shalt find as I told you: in all your works be quick (moderate), so shall there no sickness come unto you.

​​ 34:23 ​​ Whoso is liberal of his meat, men shall speak well of him; and the report of his good housekeeping will be believed (and their testimony to his generosity is trustworthy).

​​ 34:24 ​​ But against him that is a niggard (stingy) of his meat the whole city shall murmur; and the testimonies of his niggardness (stinginess) shall not be doubted of.

Temperance in Drinking Wine

​​ 34:25 ​​ Shew not your valiantness in wine; for wine hath destroyed many.

​​ 34:26 ​​ The furnace proveth the edge by dipping: so doth wine the hearts of the proud by drunkenness.

​​ 34:27 ​​ Wine is as good as life to a man, if it be drunk moderately: what life is then to a man that is without wine? for it was made (created) to make men glad.

​​ 34:28 ​​ Wine measurably drunk and in season bringeth gladness of the heart, and cheerfulness of the mind:

​​ 34:29 ​​ But wine drunken with excess maketh bitterness of the mind, with brawling and quarrelling.

​​ 34:30 ​​ Drunkenness increaseth the rage of a fool till he offend: it diminisheth strength, and maketh wounds.

​​ 34:31 ​​ Rebuke not your neighbour at the wine (banquet of wine), and despise him not in his mirth (merrymaking): give him no despiteful words, and press not upon him with urging him to drink.

Sirach 35:1 (32 in NRSV) ​​ If you be made the master of a feast, lift not yourself up, but be among them as one of the rest; take diligent care for them, and so sit down.

​​ 35:2 ​​ And when you hast done all your office (duties), take your place, that you mayest be merry with them, and receive a crown (toast) for your well ordering of the feast.

​​ 35:3 ​​ Speak, you that art the elder, for it becometh you (it is your right), but with sound judgment; and hinder (interrupt) not musick.

​​ 35:4 ​​ Pour not out words where there is a musician, and shew not forth wisdom (your cleverness) out of time.

​​ 35:5 ​​ A concert of musick in a banquet of wine is as a signet of carbuncle set in gold.

​​ 35:6 ​​ As a signet of an emerald set in a work of gold, so is the melody of musick with pleasant wine.

​​ 35:7 ​​ Speak, young man, if there be need of you: and yet scarcely when you art twice asked (but no more than twice, and only if asked).

​​ 35:8 ​​ Let your speech be short, comprehending much in few words; be as one that knoweth and yet holdeth his tongue.

​​ 35:9 ​​ If you be among great men, make not yourself equal with them; and when ancient men are in place, use not many words (babble).

​​ 35:10 ​​ Before the thunder goeth lightning; and before a shamefaced man shall go favour (and approval goes before one who is modest).

​​ 35:11 ​​ Rise up betimes, and be not the last; but get you home without delay.

​​ 35:12 ​​ There take your pastime (Amuse yourself), and do what you wilt: but sin not by proud speech.

​​ 35:13 ​​ And for these things bless Him that made you, and hath replenished you with His good things.

The Providence of Yahweh

​​ 35:14 ​​ Whoso feareth Yahweh will receive His discipline; and they that seek Him early shall find favour.

​​ 35:15 ​​ He that seeketh the law shall be filled therewith: but the hypocrite will be offended thereat.

​​ 35:16 ​​ They that fear Yahweh shall find judgment, and shall kindle justice (righteous deeds) as a light.

​​ 35:17 ​​ A sinful man will not be reproved, but findeth an excuse according to his will.

​​ 35:18 ​​ A man of counsel will be considerate; but a strange (alien) and proud man is not daunted (deterred) with fear, even when of himself he hath done without counsel.

​​ 35:19 ​​ Do nothing without advice (deliberation); and when you hast once done (acted), repent not (do not regret it).

Think before you act.

​​ 35:20 ​​ Go not in a way wherein you mayest fall, and stumble not among the stones.

​​ 35:21 ​​ Be not confident in a plain way (smooth road).

​​ 35:22 ​​ And beware of your own children (and give good heed to your paths).

​​ 35:23 ​​ In every good work trust your own soul (Guard yourself in every act); for this is the keeping of the commandments.

​​ 35:24 ​​ He that believeth in Yahweh taketh heed to the commandment; and he that trusteth in Him shall fare never the worse.