Ben Sira 27:7

7 Never praise anyone before you hear him talk; that is the real test.

Ben Sira 27:7 In-Context

5 The way you think shows your character just as surely as a kiln shows any flaws in the pottery being fired.

6 You can tell how well a tree has been cared for by the fruit it bears, and you can tell a person's feelings by the way he expresses himself.

7 Never praise anyone before you hear him talk; that is the real test.

8 If you try to be honest, you can be, and it will improve your character as handsome clothing improves your appearance.

9 Birds come to roost with those of their own kind, and the habit of honesty comes to those who try to be honest.